INTRODUCTION TO INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY

Introduction
The 20th century saw the birth of one of the most important widely tool used today
called a computer. Since then, there are dynamic changes in the way we behave, work,
communicate and relate to each other due to the use of this tool.

Definition of terms:

1. Computer-A computer is an electronic device that accepts data (user input), process
it under the influence of a set of instructions referred to as programs to produce the
desired output (information).

PROCESSING INFORMATION
User Keys in DATA

(programs) ( Output/
Storage)

2. Data-These are the raw facts that may include alphabets, numbers, symbols which
may not make meaning to the user.
3. Programs- These are set of computer instructions that enable the computer hardware
to accomplish tasks.
4. Information- This is the processed data which makes a meaning to the user and can
form bases of decision making.
5. Processing- It refers to the way data is processed to turn it into information.
6. Hardware- These are the physical and tangible parts of a computer.
7. Software- These are the set of computer instructions that assist a computer
accomplish a task. They are the intangible parts of a computer system.
8. ICT stands for information communication technology- This is an integration of all
the technologies for the manipulation of data and communication of information.

ADVANTAGES OF USING COMPUTERS

1. High speed- Computer is capable of performing calculations of large amount of data.

2. Accuracy- Computers performs all jobs 100% error free provided that the input
correct.
3. Storage capability- A computer has much storage capability than human beings. In
this way it can store any type of data may it videos, text, audio etc.
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4. Diligence-Computer is free monotony, tiredness and lack of concentration. It can
work continuously without getting error and boredom.
5. Versatility- Computers are very flexible in performing the jobs to be done. It can be
used to solve problems related to various fields.
6. Automation- Automation is the ability to perform given tasks automatically.
7. Reduction of paper work and cost- use of computers in data processing leads to
reduction in paper work and speeds up the process. Computers also reduce the cost
of each transaction and labor costs as well.
8. Large volumes of data- Large volumes of data can be handled simultaneously.
9. Job creation- The proliferation of computers in the organizations/ industry has
created jobs for the skilled people.

DISADVANTAGES OF USING COMPUTERS

1. No intelligent Quotient- Each instruction has to be given to the computer. This

means that a computer cannot take any decision on its own.
2. Dependency- Computer functions as per users instructions thus it fully depends on
human beings.
3. High initial cost- The cost of procuring computerized devices is quite prohibitive to
some organizations.
4. Unemployment-Lack of computer operational skills has rendered many workers
redundant. Likewise the use of robots in industries has replaced human labor
significantly.
5. No feelings-Computers have no emotions. It can make any decision based on taste,
experience and knowledge unlike human beings.
6. Computer breakdown-breakdown of any computerized system forces the
organization to stop the operations or turn into manual systems.
7. Cyber insecurity- Data stored, communicated using computerized systems and
networks can be listened, copied or tapped to un unauthorized people or unknown
destinations.
8. Computers pose health risks to the users-these health risks include;

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 a. Repetitive strain injury (RSI)-Computer users suffer from strain of the
tendons and ligaments in the arms and shoulders.
Solution: RSI can be prevented by using ergonomic keyboards with good
design or having wrist supporters.
b. Backache problems-Caused by poor posture when using computer equipment.
Solution:-Use adjustable screens and adjustable chairs (the chair should be of
relative height to the table). Sometimes footrests and back rests may be
required.
c. Eyestrain- caused by badly positioned screens or CRT Screen that produces
glares. Sunlight from windows or from overhead bulbs can cause glares.
Solution: Use adjustable screens, antiglare screens and if possible use flat
panel screens.
d. General fatigue and stress- Caused by prolonged sitting infront of the
computer.
Solution: take frequent breaks away from the computer to prevent general
health problems.

APPLICATION AREAS OF COMPUTERS/COMPUTER USES IN THE

SOCIETY

1. Retail stores- Computers are used in retail stores to perform stock management
and control.

2. Entertainment industry- Computers are used to create content and edit

computer graphics in movies and games.

3. Health care- computers are used in hospitals, laboratories and dispensaries in the
following ways;
Expert systems-which are programmed to suggest possible diagnosis, present
information that helps doctors to make decisions on causes and treatment.

Patient monitoring- Computers are used in ICU to monitor heart rates, blood
pressure at frequent intervals. The system displays required information in a
digital screen or print output.

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 Medical Imaging-medical scanning technology uses computers to display and
interpreat the digitized information gathered.

Medical training- computer simulation to teach students how to operate and

carry out medical procedures.

Billing- Modern health care are using computerized systems in billing, receiving
payments and settling patients health insuarance claims.

Patient’s records management- Todays health care institutions are using

computers to manage patients records for both in patient and outpatients.

4. Police and defence- The police crime investigation department keeps databases of
finger prints of criminals through biometric systems. The use of computers face
recognition and scene monitoring by use of CCTVs. In defence computers are
used in electronic news gathering, communication, tracking and warning
systems.

5. Insurance firms- The insuarance firms use computers to keep records of a

customers assets and details, invoicing, receiving payments, settling claims,
literacy and for communication.

6. Education and research- Computers are used as teaching aids and digital
education programmes by many institutions. Teaching through use of computers
is referred to as Computer Aided Teaching (CAT) while learning through use of
computers is known as Computer Aided learning(CAL). In aviation computers
are used in teaching pilots.

7. Multimedia applications-Business presentations are done using overhead

projectors. The images can be mixed with diagrams, audio etc. Multimedia is
used to add digital video clips that makes games interesting.

8. Banking- Modern banks have computerized all operations right from customers
deposits, withdrawals, overdrafts, loans application and disbursement, money
transfer, shares and communication services.

9. Transport industry- Computers are used in vehicle tracking, cargo tracking, route
mapping, digital licensing, booking, payments and monitoring of traffic on the
highways and roundabout.

10. Engineering design- Computer Aided Design (CAD) provides creation and
modification of images.

PHYSICAL PARTS OF A COMPUTER

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 A typical computer, commonly referred to as Personal Computer(PC) or desktop
computer consists of:
i). System Unit
ii). Peripheral devices

SYSTEM UNIT
This is the part that houses the brain of the computer (CPU), Mother Board, main
memory and the drives.
There are two system unit form factors;
1) Tower type- the system unit is placed vertically with the screen on its side.

Screen

System unit

Table surface

2. Desktop type-The system unit is placed horinzotally on the table surface with screen
base at the top.

Screen

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 System unit table surface

PERIPHERAL DEVICES

These are devices that connect externally to the system unit through ports. Examples of
peripheral devices include; Speakers, Mouse, Keyboard, drives etc.

CLASSICATION OF COMPUTERS

Computers can be classified into four major ways;

1) Physical size and processing power

2) Purpose
3) Functionality
4) Generations
1. PHYSICAL SIZE AND PROCESSING POWER

When classified in this computers can either be;

 Super computers
 Main frame computers
 Mini computers
 Micro computers

Super Computers

Characteristics;

a. Largest in physical size

b. Greatest processing power
c. Fastest processor speed.
d. Largest memory capacity
e. They used vacuum tubes to process data.
f. They produced a lot of heat.
g. They were very expensive.
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 h. Required cooling mechanisms.
i. They do not support pheripherals.
Super computers are used to control complex calculations and operations in large
research stations like Weather forecasts stations, space science, nuclear physics,
petroleum researchetc.

Main frame computers

Characteristics
- Smaller than super computers
- Slower than super computers
- Smaller memory capacity than super computers.
- Cheaper than super computers.
- Can support a variety of peripherals.
- They used magnetic cores, magnetic tapes and disks to store data.
- They used transistor technology.
- Generate less heat compared to super computers.

Main frame computers are used as network servers in large organizations. Example is in
banking industry that has branches to provide online data for customers’ accounts.

Mini-computers
They are also referred to as small scale main frame.

Characteristics

- Cheaper than main frame.

- Smaller in size than main frame.
- Low processing power than main frame computers.
- Low memory capacity than main frame computers
- They used integrated circuits (IC).

Mini computers are used to automate processes in manufacturing industries in the

production line.
Mini computers are also used in auto pilots.

Micro computers
They are also known as personal computers.

Characteristics
- Smallest size compared to mini, main and super
- Slowest compared to mini, main and super.
- They use micro processor technology- this is a microchip etched on a silicon
board.

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 Classification of Micro computers

Desktop computers
- Cheaper than other micro-computers.
- They are suitable for use on top of the office desk.

Lap top and Notebook computers

- They are easily portable.
- Laptops are more expensive compared to other micro-computers.

Palm Note and pocket computers

- They are smallest in size.
- They are easily portable.
Examples of palm note and pocket computers are Modern smart phones and personal
digital assistants.

2. PURPOSE
Computers can be classified as either;
i. Special purpose/ dedicated
ii. General Purpose

Special purpose/ dedicated- These are computers designed to perform a specific task or
a few related tasks. Examples Routers, calculators, Robots etc.

General Propose- These are computers that can be programmed by the user to perform
a variety of tasks such as word processing, publishing, accounting, multimedia
applications etc.

3. FUCTIONALITY

Computers can be classified according to the type of data they can process. There are
three types of computers when classified in functionality.

i. Analogue computers
ii. Digital computers
iii. Hybrid computers

Analogue computers
Analogue computers process data that is discrete in nature. This type of data is called
analogue data. Examples of analogue data include speed, temperature, volume and
weight.

Digital computers

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Digital computers process data that is discrete in nature. This data is called digital data
and vary from one value to another without transition. Digital data is usually
represented in two states the on represented by value 1 and off represented by value 0.

Hybrid computers
Hybrid computers process both analogue and digital data.

4 .GENERATIONS

Historical development of computers started with Abacus, napier bones, the analytical
engine and then electronic computers.

Abacus was a Chinese counting instrument that used bead like parts that move along
rods. Each bead above middle bar represents five units. Each bead below stands for one
unit.

Napier bones- This was developed by John Napier, a Scottish mathematician. The
device helped in multiplication and division.

Analytical engine-This was designed byCharles Babbage an English mathematician.

The engine is recognized as the first real computer and Babbage the father of computing.

Electronic computers-It took several years for Babbage to come up with an electronic
computer. Electronic computers can be tracked back to 1951. Electronic computers are
classified into five generations depending on the technology used to develop them.

 First generation computers

 Second generation computers
 Third generation computers
 Fourth generation computers
 Fifth generation computers

FIRST GENERATION COMPUTERS ( 1940-1958)

Characteristics

- They used vacuum tubes to process data

- Biggest in size
- They were very expensive.
- Produced a lot of heat.
- Required cooling mechanism.
- They used punched cards as an input device.

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 - Their operational speed was 40,000 instructions per second.
- Required an expert for the operation.

SECOND GENERATION COMPUTERS (1958-1964)

Characteristics

- They were more reliable than first generation computers.

- Use transistor technology as the electronic devices.
- Smaller is size than 1st generation.
- Less expensive than 1st generation.
- Used magnetic cores, magnetic tapes and magnetic disks.
- Their operational speed is 200,000 instructions per second.
- They produced a lot of heat.

THIRD GENERATION COMPUTERS (1964-1970)

Characteristics

- They were more reliable than 1st and 2nd generation computers.
- Smaller in size than 1st and 2nd generation computers.
- They used integrated circuits (IC) technology.
- They supported multitasking- Multi tasking is a concept of a single processor
ability to handle more than one job/process at the same time.
- They had higher internal storage capacity.

FOURTH GENERATION COMPUTERS (1964-1970)

Characteristics

- Cheaper compared to 3rd,2nd and 1st generations.

- They contain more complex electronic devices.
- They used Very Large Scale Integration.
- They used real time, time sharing and distributed operating system ( this will be
handled in topic)
- Smallest compared to 3rd,2nd and 1st generations.
- Had higher processor speed.
- They are easily portable.
- Internet and networking was introduced in this generation of computers.

FIFTH GENERATION COMPUTERS (1980-DATE)

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-They used ultra large Scale integration.
-They use microprocessor chips technology.
-They have more user friendly interfaces.
-They are based on Artificial Intelligence.
Artificial Intelligent-is a branch of computer ---science that attempts to means and
methods of making computers that behaves like human -beings in terms of manual
skills and intelligence. Artificial intelligence includes Robotics, game Playing, Neural
networks and expert systems.

COMPUTER LABORATORY

A computer laboratory is a room with special facilities for safe installation of computers
and safe use of computers.

The following factors must be considered when preparing a computer laboratory:

I. Security of computer hardware and software.

II. Reliability of source of power.
III. Number of computers to set up.
IV. Maximum number of users.

Computer Laboratory Safety precautions

These are measures that should be put in place to protect the computer and the
immediate users in the computer laboratory. They are dived into two;

MEASURES THAT PROTECT THE COMPUTERS

Burglar proofing the room

This involves fitting grills on doors, windows, the roof and use of strong security
padlocks.

Physical guard over the computer laboratory

Computer laboratory should be physically guarded by an employed security personnel to
protect people stealing the devices.

Installing fire prevention and control equipment

This involves fitting of gaseous based fire extinguishers at strategic places near the
computer laboratory.

Provision of stable power supply equipments

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This involves installing a stand by generator, high quality power extension cables and
Uninterruptable power supply (UPS) for each computer.
An UPS System consists of a battery that connects between the electrical system to
ensure consistent electrical wattage into computer and incase of power failure it
continues to provide power to the computer for a certain length of time.
Functions of UPS
 Prevents sudden power surges that might destroy the computer.
 It supplies power to the computer during blackouts and brownouts.
 It provides stable (clean power) supply.
 Alerts the user of power loss by use of sounds beeps.
 Allows the user to save work and then swith off the computer using the correct
procedure.

Proper layout
Computer laboratory room should be well laid out with enough space for movement.

Dusting and dumping proofing the room

Dusting involves setting computer laboratory away from dusty places, regular wiping of
the computers, blowing and covering computers when not in use. Dust deposited on
electronic components causes clogs on the moving parts and prevents the cooling on the
electron parts thus results to overheating.
Dumping proofing the room involves fitting dehumidifiers.

Proper cabling insulation

Cabling and sockets that a computer is connected to should be well insulated to avoid
short circuit.

Foods and drinks should be kept away from computer laboratory.

Food particles dropped into computers clogs moving parts while spilled drinks causes
rusting and short circuit.

Computer laboratory controller personnel

The management should employ computer laboratory qualified technician to control
movement of devices and maintain the computers.

MEASURES THAT PROTECT THE USERS

Use of standard furniture

As we pointed out earlier that there are health risks associated with use of computers.
The furniture should be standard to give the user proper posture.
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Cabling and sockets should be well insulated to protect users against dangers of short
circuitry.

User training ethics

Computer laboratory users should be trained on care to exercise while in the computer
Eg. Running and playing in the computer laboratory is not allowed.

Well ventilated room

Computer lab’ should be well ventilated to avoid dizziness caused by lack of enough
oxygen.

POSITIVE IMPACTS OF COMPUTERS IN THE SOCIETY

a. Fast access to learning materials from educational institutional and different
writers.
b. Computers have enabled fast communication between different geographical
locations.
c. Greater efficiency which has resulted to mass output in labor.
d. Fast way of making and processing business transactions.
e. High, quality and improved medical services as discussed in the application areas
of computers.
f. Computer has enabled many workers work at remote locations away from offices
which creates flexibility.
g. Automated production in the manufacturing industries.

NEGATIVE IMPACTS OF COMPUTERS IN THE SOCIETY

i. Job insecurity- Increased automation and computer technology poses a high risk
that take over jobs that were reserved for humans.
ii. Computers compromise moral ethics of the society.
iii. Use of computers in communication has created physical boundary since people
are at a distance away.
iv. The use of technology creates fear for the illiterate and some religious groups.
v. Computers fraud is on the rise due to technological advancement.

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vi. The cost of procuring, training, re-skilling and employing computer trainers in
quite high.
vii. High cost of coping up with the first moving technology.

COMPUTER START UP OPERATIONS

Cold booting
This is the automatic process of a computer once you switch it on through a process of
self test and preparation for use.
First is the sound of a fan running and after a few seconds, lines of text starts scrolling
on the screen. This is known as Power On Self Test (POST). During post the computer
checks for existing connected drives and basic input and out put devices. If a problem is
encountered the process is stopped and an error message is displayed on the screen.
POST is accomplished by a special firm ware program called Basic Input Output System
(BIOS) which is held in a ROM chip in the motherboard.
After POST the computer reads some instructions such as date and time from a special
memory known as Complimentary metal Oxide Semi conductor (CMOS) . CMOS is
powered by a dry cell that resembles digital watch battery. If the cell polarity is down the
computer requires the user to set current date and time every time you power on.
Lastly as special type of computer program use d to manage a computer is loaded called
Operating system.

Warm booting
Warn booting is restarting a computer that was on. Reasons for warm booting are in
case of unresponsive program, trouble shooting, newly installed software or device
detection.

Log off- Terminates the current user session.

Logging In -This is a security measure that restricts un authorized users from accessing
computer resources.

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Turn off-Lets the user to shut down the computer correctly.

Hibernate-Saves contents in memory on disk and turns off the computer.

Stand by- Makes the computer consume less power in idle mode but remains available
for immediate use.

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