Introduction to Computers Unit 1

Objectives Identify types of computers common in medical environments Identify components of personal computers Explain data processing cycle and how it applies to computer tasks (continued)

Objectives Differentiate between software and hardware Discuss common software used in medical workplace and its function(s) Identify common hardware devices and their function(s) (continued)

Objectives Demonstrate basic skills for using Microsoft® Windows Explain how to manage files in Windows environment

Important Terms Applications software Systems software Workstation Desktop Interface Input Output Active window Document window Network

Introduction Begin with basics: Review computer terminology Learn fundamental skills Always allow ample time to spend on computer exercises Practice often and be patient

Networking versus Stand-Alone Computers in medical office often networked (interconnected or linked) Allows many users to share same programs, files, and equipment Types: Local area network (LAN) Wide area network (WAN) Stand-alone unit or single computer

Types of Computers Mainframes Large and powerful Used in government offices, hospitals, and large businesses Well equipped to secure patient records and data Electronic health records (continued)

Types of Computers Mainframes Allows storage and viewing of large image files e.g., MRIs, CT scans (continued)

Types of Computers Servers Computer accessible to other computers in a network Provides data storage, access to programs/files, and firewall Dedicated or shared Workstations Computers networked to servers (continued)

Types of Computers Personal computer Central processing unit (CPU) “Brain” of computer Allows computer to run programs Desktop and laptop computers

Data Processing Cycle Input Processing Data (information) goes into computer e.g., keyboard, mouse, scanner, digital camera Processing Computer uses software programs to manipulate or perform operations on data (continued)

Data Processing Cycle Output Anything that comes out of computer Can appear in many forms: On screen/monitor Printed hard copy Through speakers (audio)

Software Software programs Two types: Give instructions to computer Tell computer to function in certain manner Two types: Applications Systems

Applications Software Allows user to perform specific tasks e.g., Word processing (Word, WordPerfect), Spreadsheets (Excel), Database management (Access), Medical Practice Management Software

Systems Software Refers to operating system that enables computer to communicate between its components From computer to printer, keyboard, etc. Allows application software to run e.g., Windows XP/Vista, MAC OS X

Hardware Physical parts of computer Drives Random access memory (RAM) Hard drive, CD-ROM, or DVD drives Random access memory (RAM) Ports e.g., USB, serial, parallel

Devices for Internet Access Modem Allows computers to connect to each other and communicate over phone wires DSL Uses phone wires to connect, but does not interfere with voice services Can use telephone and Internet at same time (continued)

Devices for Internet Access Cable modem Allows access using cable TV wires Can use TV and Internet at same time WiFi technology Allows access without physical connection Computers must have wireless capability to connect

Connecting and Installing Hardware Most devices require software to be installed Always save software in case hardware needs to be re-installed Some software may require registration codes, keys, or other information Always keep in safe place for future use

Using the Computer Booting Now, Let’s Try It! When computer is turned on Every computer lab and office is different Be sure to follow established protocols Now, Let’s Try It! Follow the instructions in Let’s Try It! 1-1 in your text to boot and shut down the computer.

Desktop Interface that allows users to manage resources on computer Icons Shortcuts to programs and files

Application and Document Windows Application window Contains actual software program Document windows Within application window Appears when new document created Active windows

Using Windows Title bar Maximize Minimize Close Drop-down menus Toolbars

Drop-down Menus Ellipsis Arrows and arrowheads Underlined letters Shortcut keys

Dialog Boxes Command buttons OK Cancel Tabs Check boxes (continued)

Dialog Boxes Drop-down boxes Increment boxes Radio buttons

Taskbar Bottom of desktop Start button/menu In Windows Vista, Start appears as round icon in lower-left corner with Windows logo in it Use to properly shut down computer

Navigating Windows Exercise Now, Let’s Try It! Follow the instructions in Let’s Try It! 1-2 in your text to start exploring Windows.

Storing Files and Windows Explorer When file is ready to be saved, Save dialog box appears Always look where document is being saved to find it later Always give document name Now, Let’s Try It! Follow the instructions in Let’s Try It! 1-3 in your text to learn about Windows Explorer.

Opening and Saving Files To open file: File > Open To save file: File > Save As… when first saving file File > Save when re-saving file Big difference between Save and Save As (continued)

Opening and Saving Files Now, Let’s Try It! Follow the instructions in Let’s Try It! 1-4 in your text to learn about opening and saving files.