Lakhasly

Chapter 1 Computer Basics This chapter lays a foundation for one of the most influential forces available in modern times, the computer.A computer is an electronic device, operating under the control of instructions, which tells the machine what to do. It is capable of accepting data (input), processing data arithmetically and logically, producing output from the processing, and storing the results for future use.1.1 Introduction In the beginning of the civilization, people used fingers and pebbles for computing purposes.

Chapter 1
Computer Basics
This chapter lays a foundation for one of the most influential forces available in
modern times, the computer. A computer is an electronic device, operating under
the control of instructions, which tells the machine what to do. It is capable of accepting data (input), processing data arithmetically and logically, producing output
from the processing, and storing the results for future use. The chapter begins with
the characteristics, evolution, and various generations of computers. The discussion also explores the classification of computers and their features. The chapter
concludes with an overview on basic computer units and computer applications.
1.1 Introduction
In the beginning of the civilization, people used fingers and pebbles for computing
purposes. In fact, the word digits in Latin actually means finger and calculus
means pebble. This gives a clue into the origin of early computing concepts. With
the development of civilization, the computing needs also grew. The need for a
mechanism to perform lengthy calculations led to the invention of, first, calculator
and then computers.