Chapter 2: Hardware Basics Section I: Preparing to Use Technology

Chapter 2: Hardware Basics Learner Objectives At the completion of study, learners will be able to: –identify a computer system and its components –explain the relationship between the sectors of the central processing unit (CPU) and the flow of information during processing –identify the purpose of input, output and storage devices, and give examples of those that are appropriate for use in education settings –identify the role of software –discuss major considerations for purchasing a computer for home or classroom use –identify methods for adapting and using computer systems with special learners

Section I: Preparing to Use Technology Chapter 2: Hardware Basics Frameworks: What we know... Computers provide unique learning opportunities for students... if teachers realize the potential and need for their use. Technology integration is dependent on –access to hardware (physical components) –teacher who is capable of facilitating learning using these components. Access to technology... varies significantly nationwide. –One or more standalone computers –Computer learning centers –Computer workstations (consisting of several computers networked to a scanner and/or printer) –Centrally located school computer lab –Mobile technology (i.e. COWs – computers on wheels)

Section I: Preparing to Use Technology Chapter 2: Hardware Basics Basics: Computer System A computer system consists of the computer and its peripheral devices that 1) receives the data as it is input 2) processes that data 3) outputs the data in a useable form Central Processing Unit (CPU) –Referred to as “the processor” –Consists of three sectors –Let’s take a closer look

Section I: Preparing to Use Technology Chapter 2: Hardware Basics Basics: CPU Sectors Control unit, Arithmetic logic unit (ALU), Memory unit

Section I: Preparing to Use Technology Chapter 2: Hardware Basics Basics: Understanding Memory Computers work with as binary coding system called the ASCII code (pronounced ask-ee) Binary Coding System - series of zeros (0) and ones (1) Bit –Smallest unit of binary information –Single binary character –Zero or one Byte –Composed of 8 bits (combination of 0s or 1s) –Can represent one alphabetic or one numeric character of information such as “A” or “a” –The alphabet in binary codeThe alphabet in binary code

Section I: Preparing to Use Technology Chapter 2: Hardware Basics Basics: Memory Conversions The amount of information that computer memory or storage devices can hold is measured in... Kilobyte (K or KB) = 1024 bytes Megabyte (M or MB) = 1024 kilobytes Gigabyte (G or GB) = 1024 megabytes Terabyte (T or TB) = 1024 gigabytes

Section I: Preparing to Use Technology Chapter 2: Hardware Basics Basics: Processor Speed Conveys how fast data can be moved in and out of memory... Processor speeds are measured in….. –Megahertz (MHz)… a 1 MHz processor (CPU) can execute one million cycles per second. –Gigahertz (GHz) Generally, the faster the processor’s speed, the faster the CPU can execute instructions.

Section I: Preparing to Use Technology Chapter 2: Hardware Basics Basics: Input Devices Devices that “input” data into the computer Keyboards & Mice Scanners Digital cameras Microphones Personal digital assistants (PDA) Tablet Computers Graphics tablets Touch screens Electronic Whiteboards Classroom Response systems (clickers)

Section I: Preparing to Use Technology Chapter 2: Hardware Basics Basics: Output Devices Devices that “output” the data into a usable form after it has been processed Computer monitors (screens or displays) Printers Speakers Projectors Document Cameras

Section I: Preparing to Use Technology Chapter 2: Hardware Basics Basics: Storage Devices Devices that allow storage of data for later use Hard Disk Drives (internal, external) Floppy Disks - becoming obsolete Zip Disks - drives not on new computers Optical disk technology –CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW –DVD-ROM, DVD-R, DVD-RW USB drives

Section I: Preparing to Use Technology Chapter 2: Hardware Basics Connecting to the Computer Connections are made through openings called ports... Serial Ports (becoming obsolete) Universal Serial Bus (USB) Ports –becoming the universal connection for most peripherals Ethernet Ports –Used for connecting to the Internet Firewire (IEEE 1394) Ports –Used for fast transfer of data such as movies

Section I: Preparing to Use Technology Chapter 2: Hardware Basics Purchasing a Computer System Major considerations for purchases... What are the expectations for use? –Types of tasks, the programs used Who are the users? –Skill levels? –Portability needs? Laptops ?? What is the available budget? –Budget dictates many decisions. What memory capacity and processor speed is needed? –RAM –HD What is included with base price? –How will be computer be hooked to the Internet?

Section I: Preparing to Use Technology Chapter 2: Hardware Basics Software Software is needed to operate the hardware Operating system software Both PC and MAC use Graphic User Interface (GUI…pronounced gooey) –Windows –Macs »Apple Operating System (OS) More about software in Chapter 3

Section I: Preparing to Use Technology Chapter 2: Hardware Basics Adapting for Special Learners Given appropriate hardware adaptations, most students with special needs can access technology... Basic adaptations are provided for –computer monitors –keyboards –mice

Section I: Preparing to Use Technology Chapter 2: Hardware Basics Monitor Adaptations Monitor adaptations –Screen magnifier –Speech-output software –Anti-glare filters –Refreshable Braille display

Section I: Preparing to Use Technology Chapter 2: Hardware Basics Keyboard Adaptations Keyguards Pointing or typing aid Moisture guards Alternative labels Touch screen Switches

Section I: Preparing to Use Technology Chapter 2: Hardware Basics Mouse Adaptations Ways to adapt the mouse to provide easier input. –Joysticks –Trackballs Go to On the Web: Hardware to access more adaptive products.On the Web: Hardware

Section I: Preparing to Use Technology Chapter 2: Hardware Basics Questions???