COMPUTER CONCEPT AND BASIC COMPUTER OPERATIONS

Desired learning Outcomes:

At the end of the unit, the participants must have:

1. identified the components of the computer system.

2. identified types of system software and their functions
3. demonstrated basic mouse actions
4. identified keys on the keyboard.
5. arranged and customized desktop display.
6. created file and folder.

Topics:

What Is a Computer?
Block Diagram of Computer System
The Components of a Computer
Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Computers
The Use of Mouse
The Computer Keyboard
The Desktop
Working with Files and Folders

Contents:

1.1. What Is a Computer?

A computer is an electronic device, operating under the control of instructions stored in its
own memory, that can accept data (input), process the data according to specified rules
(process), produce results (output), and store the results (storage) for future use. Generally,
the term is used to describe a collection of electric, electronic, and mechanical components
known as hardware. Figure 1 shows some common hardware components.

1
 Computers perform four basic operations — input, process, output, and storage.
These operations comprise the information processing cycle. Collectively, these
operations process data into information and store it for future use. All computer processing
requires data. Data is a collection of unprocessed items, which can include text, numbers,
images, audio, and video. Computers manipulate data to create information. Information
conveys meaning and is useful to people. During the output operation, the information that
has been created is put into some form, such as a printed report, or it can be stored on the
computer for future use. People who use the computer directly or use the information it
provides are called computer users, end users, or sometimes, just users. Users and
computer manufacturers can reduce the environmental impact of computers through green
computing. Green computing involves reducing the electricity consumed and
environmental waste generated when using a computer.

1.2. Block diagram of Computer System

A computer can perform following operations:

1. Accept the data and information supplied by the user.
2. Store data and information into the memory.
3. Process the data and information
4. Output the result of the processed data.
You can understand the working of a computer system with its block diagram, which is
shown in following figure:

A computer system consists of hardware and software both. The hardware has five
different types of functional units

1. Input Unit
2. Memory Unit
3. Control Unit
4. Arithmetic and Logic Unit
5. Output Unit

The input unit is used to accept the data and instructions. The memory unit is used to
store the data and instructions in the computer. The Central Processing Unit (CPU) has
two sections; one is Arithmetic and Logic Unit (ALU) and Control Unit (CU). CPU
2
processes the data and instructions and finally desired result is displayed with the help of
output unit.

1.3. The Components of a Computer System

A computer contains many electric, electronic, and mechanical components known as

hardware. These components include a system unit, input devices, output devices and
storage devices.

1.3.1. System Unit

The system unit is a case that contains the electronic components of the computer
that are used to process data. The circuitry of the system unit usually is part of or is
connected to a circuit board called the motherboard.

Two main components on the motherboard are the processor and memory.The
processor, also called a CPU (central processing unit), is the electronic component that
interprets and carries out the basic instructions that operate the computer.

A. Central Processing Unit

Each digital computer consists of a processing unit called as processor. Processor
processes the raw data into useful information. Processor is nothing but a chip of a
computer which is responsible to process the data and instructions received from the
input unit such as keyboard.

The Arithmetic and Logic Unit (ALU) and Control Unit (CU) are together
known as Central Processing Unit (CPU) or simple processor. CPU acts like a brain of
computer. It's a microprocessor chip that holds a complete computational engine. Its
primary function is to execute data/instruction and programs. Everything that a computer
does is overseen by the CPU.

B. Memory Unit

Memory consists of electronic components that store instructions waiting to be

executed and data needed by those instructions. Although some forms of memory are
permanent, most memory keeps data and instructions temporarily, which means its contents
are erased when the computer is shut off. Memory unit of the computer holds data and
instructions that are entered through the input unit, before they are processed.

Memory unit can be divided into two categories:

 Primary Memory
All the data/information is initially stored in primary memory of the computer.
Primary memory (main memory) is volatile in nature whereas secondary memory is
permanent. If data is available in main memory of the computer, it can be erased when the
computer power is switched off.

 Secondary Memory.

Hard disk is the best example of secondary memory, as the data available on
hard disk remains permanent.

1.3.2. Input Devices

An input device is any hardware component that allows you to enter data and
instructions into a computer. Following are some common examples of input devices:
3
  Keyboard
Keyboard is an input device in a computer system. It is the most common device
used to input both alphabets and numbers.

Keyboard

 Card Readers
Card reader is an input device that reads data from a memory card. Card is a storage
medium which can store the data, and can be used for transferring data from one
computer to another.

Card Reader

 Scanning Devices
Scanning devices are used as an input device. Scanning devices include:

a. Image scanner
An image scanner is the most common example of scanning device. It is helpful in
scanning characters and graphics both. It scans the image of a photograph or written
information and communicates it to the CPU.

Image Scanner
b. Bar Code Reader
A barcode reader is an electronic device that can read and output printed barcodes
to a computer. It is also known as barcode scanner.

Barcode Reader

4
 c. OCR
OCR stands for Optical Character Recognition. It is a common method of digitizing
printed texts so that they can be electronically searched, edited, displayed on-line and
stored in a compact form.

Optical Character Recognition Reade (OCR)

d. OMR
OMR stands for Optical Mark Recognition. OMR reader is an input device which is
used to read marks made by a pen or pencil on a printed sheet and then feed it into the
computer. It is generally used in multiple choice question (MCQ) based examination. It
is useful in collecting the answers of examinee in examinations of MCQ pattern.

OMR Sheet

e. MICR
MICR stands for Magnetic Ink Character Recognition. MICR reader is used as input
device. It uses special ink which contains iron particles that can be magnetized and then
read when the printed numbers pass through a MICR reader. MICR reader will only
recognize numbers printed in a standard font using the magnetic ink as shown in following
figure:

MICR MICR Character

5
  Pointing Devices
Pointing device is kind of an input device that allows user to control and provide data
to the computer using movement of a hand-held devices. The use of pointing devices is to
control the position of the pointer or cursor and allow the user to select options displayed on
the screen. Commonly used pointing devices are:

a. Mouse
A mouse is a computer input device used to move a cursor around the computer
screen. It is a kind of small hand held pointing device connected to the CPU with a
cable. It has two click buttons on the top. Mouse movements are converted into
electrical signals and the same is communicated to the CPU. These movements are
interpreted and displayed on the screen with the help of an arrow, which is known as
mouse pointer.

Mouse can be categorized into following two types:

 Mechanical Mouse
The mechanical mouse builds with a ball inside the mouse and it touches a surface
and rolls with the mouse. The distance and the speed of the ball inside the mouse
determine how far the mouse cursor moves on the screen.

Mechanical Mouse

 Optical Mouse
The optical mouse uses special chips to encode data for the computer. It uses Light
Emitting Diode (LED) to detect the underlying surface.

Optical Mouse

 Light Pen
A light pen is a pencil shaped light-sensitive pointing input device commonly used to

6
select text or data on a screen. It is useful in graphical applications.

Light Pen

 Touch Device
A touch device works as both input and output devices for a computer or an
information processing system. It is normally layered on the top of an electronic visual
display, where a user can give input or control it through simply touching the screen
with one or more fingers.

Touch Device

 Web Camera
Web camera is a small digital device connected to your computer which is capable of
taking pictures as well as high-definition videos and transmits them over the internet. It
is basically an input device that captures digital images/videos.

 Microphone Web Camera

A microphone is an audio input device. It captures audio by converting sound waves
into electrical signals and then these signals can be amplified as analog signals or may be
converted to digital signals, which can be processed by some digital audio devices or
computer.

Microphone

 Joystick
A joystick is an input device that enables its user to control a character or machine
with the help of a computer program. It looks like a control device such as flight simulator.
Joystick consists of a small rod known as stick or lever mounted on a rolling boll. This
stick is used to control the cursor on screen.
7
 In this diagram:
1. Stick
2. Base
3. Trigger
4. Extra Buttons
5. Auto-fire Switch
6. Throttle
7. Hat Switch
8. Suction Cup

Joystick

1.3.3. Output Devices

Output devices are the hardware components used to display the result to the user.
Following are some common examples of output devices:

 Printers
Printer is one of the most common output devices of a computer. It is an external
output device that receives data from a computer and generates output in the form of
graphics / text on a paper.

Impact & Non-impact printers

An impact printer makes contact with the paper. It usually forms the print image by pressing
an inked ribbon against the paper using a hammer or pins, whereas non-impact printers do
not use a striking device to produce characters on the paper; and these printers do not
hammer against the paper. These printers can print a complete page at a time, that’s why
they are also called as Page Printers.

Examples of printer

a. Dot Matrix
In this type of printers, a character is printed by striking pins against an ink ribbon. Each
pin makes a dot or selected number of dots from a matrix of dots. Pins are arranged in
the form of matrix and combinations of dots, form a character.

Dot Matrix Printer

Working Principle

When a print command is given by a computer, the printer is activated to print the
given data/information and then the print head starts moving from the leftmost column to
the rightmost column of a paper. You must know that an inked ribbon between the print
head and the paper is available to print. Look at the pattern of printing a character
through dot matrix printer:

8
 Character Pattern of a dot matrix printer

b. Laser

A laser printer uses a laser beam to produce an image on a photosensitive drum. It

directs a laser beam at a mirror which bounces the beam onto a drum. The drum has a
special coating on it to which toner (that is an ink powder) sticks. Using patterns of
small dots, a laser beam conveys information from the computer to a positively charged
drum to become neutralized.

Laser Printer
c. Inkjet

Inkjet printer uses the principle of the dot matrix printer, but instead of pins, it uses
an array of nozzles which spray jets of ink onto the paper in a series of dots that make the
characters and graphics. A print head scans the paper in horizontal strip, using a motor
assembly to move it from left to right and back. Another motor assembly rolls the paper
in vertical steps. A strip of the image is printed, and then the paper moves on, ready for
the next strip.

Inkjet Printer

d. Thermal Printers
Thermal Printer is a type of printer that produces a printed image by pushing heated
pins against heat-sensitive paper. When the paper passes over the thermal print head, the
coating turns black in the areas where it is heated and we get the printed image as a
result. Thermal printers are widely used in calculators and fax machines.

Thermal Printer

9
  Plotters
Plotter is an output device which is used to produce the graphical output. It is
basically a kind of printer that interprets commands from a computer to make line drawings
on paper with one or more automated pens. The plotter can draw continuous point-to-point
lines directly from graphics files or commands.

 Monitors
Computer Monitor is an output device. It is the most commonly used output device.
It is also called as a computer screen. It displays the video and graphics information (i.e.
images and text) generated by the computer.

Kinds of Monitors
a. CRT
CRT stands for Cathode Ray Tube. A CRT monitor contains millions of small red,
green, and blue phosphor dots that glow when struck by an electron beam that travels
across the screen to create a visible image.

CRT Monitor

b. Plasma
Plasma monitor is a display device in which each pixel on the screen is illuminated by
an ionized gas (a mixture of neon and xenon). In this type of monitor, a thin layer of
pixels exists between two transparent glass panels. Each pixel is composed of three gas
filled cells (one each of red, green and blue colour). A grid of tiny electrodes applies an
electric current to the individual cells, causing the gas in the cells to ionize. This ionized
gas is known as plasma.

Plasma

c. LCD monitor.

The LCD monitor uses a liquid crystal display to produce images on the
screen. The surface of the screen of an LCD monitor is composed of individual picture
elements called pixels. Resolution is the number of horizontal and vertical pixels in a
display device. Mobile computers such as notebook computers, including netbooks and
Tablet PCs, and mobile devices such as smartphones, portable media players, PDAs,
handheld game consoles, and digital cameras, have built-in LCD screens

LCD Monitor
10
 d. LCD Projector
An LCD projector is a type of projector based on Liquid Crystal Displays which can
display images, data or video. An LCD projector works on transmissive technology. A
standard lamp is the light source for an LCD projector. An LCD projector allows the
source light to pass through the LCD panels of three colors. The panels allow some
colors to pass through and block some colors to form the images on the screen.

LCD Projector

e. DLP Projector
A DLP projector is a type of projector based on Digital Light Processing chip. This
Digital Light Processing chip is called as Digital Micro mirror Device (DMD).
A DLP projector is consists of million tiny mirrors. Each mirror in this chip is capable of
independent adjustment, moving toward or away from the light source to create a dark
or light pixel, however, the image is in gray scale.

DLP Projector

 Speaker
Speakers are one of the most common output devices used with computer systems.
The purpose of speakers is to produce audio output that can be heard by the listener.

Speaker

1.3.4. Storage Devices

A storage device is the computer hardware that records and/or retrieves items to
and from storage media. A storage medium (media is the plural) is the physical material
on which a computer keeps data, instructions, and information. Three common types of
storage media are hard disks, flash memory, and optical discs.

A hard disk is a storage device that contains one or more inflexible, circular platters
that use magnetic particles to store data, instructions, and information. The system unit on
most personal computers contains at least one hard disk, sometimes called an internal hard
disk because it is not portable. Users store documents, spreadsheets, presentations,

11
databases, e-mail messages, Web pages, digital photos, music, videos, and software on
hard disks.

Hard Disk

Portable Hard Disks

Some hard disks are portable. An external hard disk is a separate freestanding
hard disk that connects with a cable to a port on the system unit or communicates
wirelessly. A removable hard disk is a hard disk that you insert and remove
from a drive. Both internal and external hard disks are available in miniature sizes to allow
users to transport their data easily.

Removable Hard Disk

Flash Memory Storage

Flash memory is a type of memory that can be erased electronically and rewritten.
Flash memory chips are a type of solid state media, which means they consist entirely of
electronic components and contain no moving parts. Types of flash memory storage include
solid state drives, memory cards and USB flash drives.
A solid state drive (SSD) is a storage device that typically uses flash memory to store
data, instructions, and information. SSDs are used in all types of computers, including
desktop computers, mobile computers, and mobile devices such as portable media players
and digital video cameras. Storage capacities of current SSDs range from 16 GB to 256 GB
and more.

A memory card is a removable flash memory device, usually no bigger than 1.5
inches in height or width, that you insert and remove from a slot in a computer, mobile
device, or card reader/writer. Memory cards enable mobile users easily to transport digital
photos, music, or files to and from mobile devices and computers or other devices.

12
 Variety of memory cards

Many types of computers and devices have slots for memory cards A
USB flash drive, sometimes called a thumb drive, is a flash memory storage device that
plugs into a USB port on a computer or mobile device. USB flash drives are convenient for
mobile users because they are small and lightweight enough to be transported on a

13
keychain or in a pocket. Current USB flash drives have storage capacities ranging from 512
MB to 64 GB.

A close-up of a the flash memory and circuitry inside a USB flash drive

Optical Discs

An optical disc is a flat, round, portable metal disc with a plastic coating.
CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray Discs are three types of optical discs. Nearly every personal
computer today has some type of optical disc drive installed in a drive bay. On some, you
push a button to slide out a tray, insert the disc, and then push the same button to close
the tray; others are slot loaded, which means you insert the disc in a narrow opening on the

A slot loaded optical disc drive

Many different formats of optical discs exist today. Figure below identifies a variety
of optical disc formats and specifies whether a user can read from the disc, write on the
disc, and/or erase the disc.

14
Cloud Storage

Cloud storage is an Internet service that provides hard disk storage to computer
users. Fee arrangements vary. For example, one cloud storage service provides 25 GB of
storage free to registered users; another charges $5 per month for 150 GB of storage. For
organizations, cloud storage services typically charge for storage on a per gigabyte basis.

1.4. Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Computers

Society has reaped many benefits from using

computers. A user is anyone who communicates with a computer or utilizes the information
it generates. Both business and home users can make well-informed decisions because they
have instant access to information from anywhere in the world. Students, another type of
user, have more tools to assist them in the learning process.

4.1. Advantages of Using Computers

• Speed: When data, instructions, and information flow along electronic circuits in a
computer, they travel at incredibly fast speeds. Many computers process billions or trillions
of operations in a single second. Processing involves computing (e.g., adding, subtracting),
sorting (e.g., alphabetizing), organizing, displaying images, recording audio, playing music,
and showing a movie or video.

• Reliability: The electronic components in modern computers are dependable and reliable
because they rarely break or fail.

• Consistency: Given the same input and processes, a computer will produce the same
results — consistently. A computing phrase — known as garbage in, garbage out — points
out that the accuracy of a computer’s output depends on the accuracy of the input. For
example, if you do not use the flash on a digital camera when indoors, the resulting pictures
that are displayed on the computer screen may be unusable because they are too dark.

• Storage: A computer can transfer data quickly from storage to memory, process it, and
then store it again for future use. Many computers store enormous amounts of data and
make this data available for processing anytime it is needed.

• Communications: Most computers today can

communicate with other computers, often wirelessly. Computers with this capability can
share any of the four information processing cycle operations — input, process, output, and
storage — with another computer or a user.

4.2. Disadvantages of Using Computers

Some disadvantages of computers relate to health risks, the violation of privacy, public
safety, the impact on the labor force, and the impact on the environment.

• Health Risks: Prolonged or improper computer use can lead to injuries or disorders of
the hands, wrists, elbows, eyes, neck, and back. Computer users can protect themselves
from these health risks through proper workplace design, good posture while at the
computer, and appropriately spaced work breaks. Two behavioral health risks are computer
addiction and technology overload. Computer addiction occurs when someone becomes
obsessed with using a computer. Individuals suffering from technology overload feel
distressed when deprived of computers and mobile devices. Once recognized, both
computer addiction and technology overload are treatable dis orders.

15
Violation of Privacy: Nearly every life event is stored in a computer somewhere . . . in

medical records, credit reports, tax records, etc. In many instances, where personal and
confidential records were not protected properly, individuals have found their privacy
violated and identities stolen.

• Public Safety: Adults, teens, and children around the world are using computers
to share publicly their photos, videos, journals, music, and other personal
information. Some of these unsuspecting, innocent computer users have fallen victim to
crimes committed by dangerous strangers. Protect yourself and your dependents from these
criminals by being cautious in e-mail messages and on Web sites. For example, do not share
information that would allow others to identify or locate you and do not disclose
identification numbers, passwords, or other personal security details.

• Impact on Labor Force: Although computers have improved productivity in many ways
and created an entire industry with hundreds of thousands of new jobs, the skills of millions
of employees have been replaced by computers. Thus, it is crucial that workers keep their
education up-to-date. A separate impact on the labor force is that some companies are
outsourcing jobs to foreign countries instead of keeping their homeland labor force
employed.

• Impact on Environment: Computer manufacturing processes and computer

waste are depleting natural resources and polluting the environment. When computers are
discarded in landfills, they can release toxic materials and potentially dangerous levels of
lead, mercury, and flame retardants.

Green computing involves reducing the electricity consumed and environmental waste
generated when using a computer. Strategies that support green computing include
recycling, regulating manufacturing processes, extending the life of computers, and
immediately donating or properly disposing of replaced computers. When you purchase a
new computer, some retailers offer to dispose of your old computer

Computer Software
Software, also called a program, consists of a series of related instructions,
organized for a common purpose, that tells the computer what tasks to perform and how to
perform them. You interact with a program through its user interface. The user interface
controls how you enter data and instructions and how information is displayed on the
screen. Software today often has a graphical user interface. With a graphical user
interface (GUI pronounced gooey), you interact with the software using text, graphics,
and visual images such as icons. An icon is a miniature image that represents a program, an
instruction, or some other object. You can use the mouse to select icons that perform
operations such as starting a program. The two categories of software are system
software and application software.

System Software

System software consists of programs that control the operations of the computer
and its devices. Two types of system software are operating systems and utility programs.

Operating System
An operating system is a set of programs that coordinates all the activities among
computer hardware devices. It provides a means for users to communicate with the
computer and other software. When a user starts a computer, portions of the

16
operating system are copied into memory from the computer’s hard disk. These parts of the
operating system remain in memory while the computer is on. Many of today’s computers
use Microsoft’s Windows, or Mac OS, Apple’s operating system.

Today’s system software and application software usually have a graphical

user interface.

Utility Program

A utility program allows a user to perform maintenance-type tasks usually related

to managing a computer, its devices, or its programs. For example, you can use a utility
program to burn digital photos on an optical disc. Most operating systems include several
utility programs for managing disk drives, printers, and other devices and media. You also
can buy utility programs that allow you to perform additional computer management
functions.

Installing and Running Programs

When purchasing software from a retailer, you typically receive a box that includes
an optical disc(s) that contains the program. If you acquire software from a Web site on the
Internet, you may be able to download the program; that is, the program transfers from the
Web site to the hard disk in your computer. The instructions in software are placed on
storage media, either locally or online. To use software that is stored locally, such as on a
hard disk or optical disc, you usually need to install the software. Web applications that are
stored online, by contrast, usually do not need to be installed. Installing is the process of
setting up software to work with the computer, printer, and other hardware. When you buy
a computer, it usually has some software pre installed on its hard disk. This enables you to
use the computer the first time you turn it on. To begin installing additional software
from an optical disc, insert the program disc in an optical disc drive and follow the
instructions to begin installation. To install downloaded software, the Web site typically
provides instructions for how to install the program on your hard disk.

Once installed, you can run the program. When you instruct the computer to run an
installed program, the computer loads it, which means the program is copied from storage
to memory. Once in memory, the computer can carry out, or execute, the instructions in the
program so that you can use the program.

This figure shows how to install and

run a computer program.

17
 Application Software

Application software consists of programs designed to make users more productive

and/or assist them with personal tasks. These include personal information management,
note taking, project management, accounting, document management, computer-aided
design, desktop publishing, paint/image editing, audio and video editing, multimedia
authoring, Web page authoring, personal finance, legal, tax preparation, home
design/landscaping, travel and mapping, education, reference, and entertainment (e.g.,
games or simulations). Software is available at stores that sell computer products and at
many Web sites.

Computer users regularly use application software. Some of the more commonly
used programs are word processing, presentation, spreadsheet, database, and e-
mail. These programs often are sold together as a unit, called a business suite. When you
purchase a collection of programs as a suite, the suite usually costs significantly less than
purchasing them individually. Suites also provide ease of use because the programs in the
suite normally use a similar interface and share features.

Word Processing Software

Word Processing Word processing software is used to create, edit, format, and
print documents. A key advantage of word processing software is that users easily can make
changes in documents, such as correcting spelling; changing margins; and adding, deleting,
or relocating words, sentences, or entire paragraphs.

Word processing software is used to create letters, memos, newsletters,

and other documents.

Presentation Software

Presentation software is application software that allows users to create visual

aids for presentations to communicate ideas, messages, and other information to a group
The presentations can be viewed as slides, sometimes called a slide show, that are displayed
on a large monitor or on a projection screen.

Presentation
software allows the user to
produce
professional-looking
presentations.

18
 Spreadsheet Software

Spreadsheet software allows users to organize data in rows and columns and
perform calculations on the data (Figure 34). These rows and columns collectively are called
a worksheet. Most spreadsheet software has basic features to help users create, edit, and
format worksheets. With spreadsheet software, you create worksheets that contain data
arranged in rows and columns, and you can perform calculations on the data in the
worksheets.

.
With spreadsheet software, you create worksheets that contain data arranged in
rows and columns, and you can perform calculations on the data in the worksheets .

3.4.4. Database Software

Database A database is a collection of data organized in a manner that allows

access, retrieval, and use of that data. Database software is application software that
allows users to create, access, and manage a database. Using database software, you can
add, change, and delete data in a database; sort and retrieve data from the database; and
create forms and reports using the data in the database.

Database software
allows the user to enter,
retrieve, and update data in
an organized 19
and efficient
manner.
Software Development

A programmer, sometimes called a computer programmer or developer, is someone

who develops software or writes the instructions that direct the computer to process data
into information. When writing instructions, a programmer must be sure the program works
properly so that the computer generates the desired results. Complex programs can require
thousands to millions of instructions. Programmers use a programming language or
program development tool to create computer programs. Popular programming languages
include C++, Java, JavaScript, Visual C#, and Visual Basic.

The keyboard and mouse

You interact with a computer mainly by using the keyboard and mouse, or
a trackpad on laptops. Learning to use these devices is essential to learning to use a
computer. Most people find it comfortable to place the keyboard on the desk directly in front
of them and the mouse to one side of the keyboard.

The mouse controls the pointer on the screen. Whenever you move the mouse
across the desk, the pointer will move in a similar manner. A mouse usually has two
buttons, which are referred to as the left button and the right button. You will often interact
with the computer by moving the mouse pointer over something on the computer screen,
then clicking one of the buttons.

On laptops, you can use the trackpad, located below the keyboard, instead of a
mouse. Simply drag your finger across the trackpad to move the pointer on the screen.
Some trackpads do not have buttons, so you'll either press or tap the trackpad to click.

The keyboard allows you to type letters, numbers, and words into the computer. Whenever
you see a flashing vertical line—called the cursor—you can start typing.

20
 Note that the mouse pointer is also called a cursor, but it is shaped differently.
The keyboard cursor is also called the insertion point.

Using the Mouse

A mouse is a handheld device that lets you point to objects on the screen, click them, and
move them. Take a look at the diagram below to learn the different parts of a typical
mouse.
To scroll through this lesson, you can use your keyboard's down arrow key or your
mouse's scroll wheel.

Holding the mouse

There is a proper technique for holding the mouse, allowing you to make use of all its
features while also feeling comfortable. Follow the directions below and learn how!
 Place your thumb on the desk or the tabletop on the left side of the mouse.
 Your index finger (pointer) should rest on the left button of the mouse.
 Place the middle finger on the right button of the mouse.
 Your ring finger and little finger (pinkie) should rest on the right side of the
mouse.
 Your palm should cup the end of the mouse gently.
 The base of your wrist should rest on the mouse pad or the desktop.

For better or worse, most computer programs depend upon the mouse. The
activities below will help you to practice the various tasks you can perform with a mouse.

Clicking
Let's start off with clicking. When you click, you're interacting with the computer,
telling it what to do. In order to click, press and release the left mouse button with your
index finger.

Rollover

21
 In many instances, when you place the cursor over an icon, it will change its
appearance. This is called a rollover effect. It might mean that you can interact with the
icon, or maybe it's just highlighting where you cursor currently is.

Double clicking
A double click is when you quickly click the mouse button twice. This can be used
to open folders, files, or start programs on your desktop.

Drag and drop

You may sometimes need to drag and drop icons to move them around. This can
be used to place files in new folders, delete them, and more.

Using the Keyboard

The keyboard is one of the main ways to communicate with a computer. There are
many different types of keyboards, but most are very similar and allow you to accomplish
the same basic tasks.

Whether you're writing a letter or calculating numerical data, your keyboard is the
main way to enter information into your computer. But did you know you can also use your
keyboard to control your computer? Learning a few simple keyboard commands (instructions
to your computer) can help you work more efficiently.

How the keys are organize

The keys on your keyboard can be divided into several groups based on function:

 Typing (alphanumeric) keys. These keys include the same letter, number,
punctuation, and symbol keys found on a traditional typewriter.
 Control keys. These keys are used alone or in combination with other keys to perform
certain actions. The most frequently used control keys are Ctrl, Alt, the Windows logo
key , and Esc.
 Function keys. The function keys are used to perform specific tasks. They are labeled
as F1, F2, F3, and so on, up to F12. The functionality of these keys differs from
program to program.
 Navigation keys. These keys are used for moving around in documents or
webpages and editing text. They include the arrow keys, Home, End, Page Up, Page
Down, Delete, and Insert.
 Numeric keypad. The numeric keypad is handy for entering numbers quickly. The
keys are grouped together in a block like a conventional calculator or adding
machine.

22
The following illustration shows how these keys are arranged on a typical keyboard. Your
keyboard layout might be different.

Typing text
Whenever you need to type something in a program, e-mail message, or text box,
you'll see a blinking vertical line ( ) called the cursor or insertion point. It shows where the
text that you type will begin. You can move the cursor by clicking in the desired location
with the mouse, or by using the navigation keys (see the "Using navigation keys" section of
this article).

In addition to letters, numerals, punctuation marks, and symbols, the typing keys
also include Shift, Caps Lock, Tab, Enter, the Spacebar, and Backspace.

Key name How to use it

Press Shift in combination with a letter to type an uppercase letter. Press
Shift Shift in combination with another key to type the symbol shown on the
upper part of that key.
Press Caps Lock once to type all letters as uppercase. Press Caps Lock
Caps Lock again to turn this function off. Your keyboard might have a light indicating
whether Caps Lock is on.
Press Tab to move the cursor several spaces forward. You can also press
Tab
Tab to move to the next text box on a form.
Press Enter to move the cursor to the beginning of the next line. In a
Enter
dialog box, press Enter to select the highlighted button.
Spacebar Press the Spacebar to move the cursor one space forward.
Press Backspace to delete the character before the cursor, or the selected
Backspace
text.

Using keyboard shortcuts

Press this To do this
Windows logo key
Open the Start menu

Alt + Tab Switch between open programs or windows

23
 Alt + F4 Close the active item, or exit the active program
Ctrl + S Save the current file or document (works in most programs)
Ctrl + C Copy the selected item
Ctrl + X Cut the selected item
Ctrl + V Paste the selected item
Ctrl + Z Undo an action
Ctrl + A Select all items in a document or window
F1 Display Help for a program or Windows
Windows logo key
Display Windows Help and Support
+ F1
Esc Cancel the current task
Open a menu of commands related to a selection in a program.
Application key
Equivalent to right-clicking the selection.

Keyboard shortcuts are ways to perform actions by using your keyboard. They're
called shortcuts because they help you work faster. In fact, almost any action or command
you can perform with a mouse can be performed faster using one or more keys on your
keyboard.

In Help topics, a plus sign (+) between two or more keys indicates that those keys
should be pressed in combination. For example, Ctrl + A means to press and hold Ctrl and
then press A. Ctrl + Shift + A means to press and hold Ctrl and Shift and then press A.

Using navigation keys

The navigation keys allow you to move the cursor, move around in documents and
webpages, and edit text. The following table lists some common functions of these keys.

Press this To do this

Left Arrow, Right Arrow, Move the cursor or selection one space or line in the direction of
Up Arrow, or Down Arrow the arrow, or scroll a webpage in the direction of the arrow
Move the cursor to the end of a line or move to the top of a
Home
webpage
Move the cursor to the end of a line or move to the bottom of a
End
webpage
Ctrl + Home Move to the top of a document
Ctrl + End Move to the bottom of a document
Page Up Move the cursor or page up one screen
Page Down Move the cursor or page down one screen
Delete the character after the cursor, or the selected text; in
Delete
Windows, delete the selected item and move it to the Recycle Bin
Turn Insert mode off or on. When Insert mode is on, text that you
Insert type is inserted at the cursor. When Insert mode is off, text that
you type replaces existing characters.

24
Using the numeric keypad

The numeric keypad arranges the numerals 0 though 9, the arithmetic operators +
(addition), - (subtraction), * (multiplication), and / (division), and the decimal point as they
would appear on a calculator or adding machine. These characters are duplicated elsewhere
on the keyboard, of course, but the keypad arrangement allows you to rapidly enter
numerical data or mathematical operations with one hand.

Numeric Keyboard

To use the numeric keypad to enter numbers, press Num Lock. Most keyboards have
a light that indicates whether Num Lock is on or off. When Num Lock is off, the numeric
keypad functions as a second set of navigation keys (these functions are printed on the keys
next to the numerals or symbols).

Three odd keys

So far, we've discussed almost every key you're likely to use. But for the truly inquisitive,
let's explore the three most mysterious keys on the keyboard: PrtScn, Scroll Lock, and
Pause/Break.

PrtScn (or Print Screen)

A long time ago, this key actually did what it says—it sent the current screen of text to your
printer. Nowadays, pressing PrtScn captures an image of your entire screen (a "screen
shot") and copies it to the Clipboard in your computer's memory. From there you can paste
it (Ctrl + V) into Microsoft Paint or another program and, if you want, print it from that
program.

More obscure is SYS RQ, which shares the key with PrtScn on some keyboards. Historically,
SYS RQ was designed to be a "system request," but this command is not enabled in
Windows.

ScrLk (or Scroll Lock)

In most programs, pressing Scroll Lock has no effect. In a few programs, pressing Scroll
Lock changes the behavior of the arrow keys and the Page Up and Page Down keys;
pressing these keys causes the document to scroll without changing the position of the
cursor or selection. Your keyboard might have a light indicating whether Scroll Lock is on.

Pause/Break
This key is rarely used. In some older programs, pressing this key pauses the program or, in
combination with Ctrl, stops it from running.

Other keys

25
Some modern keyboards come with "hot keys" or buttons that give you quick, one-press
access to programs, files, or commands. Other models have volume controls, scroll wheels,
zoom wheels, and other gadgets. For details about these features, check the information
that came with your keyboard or computer, or go to the manufacturer's website.

Tips for using your keyboard safely

Using your keyboard properly can help avoid soreness or injury to your wrists, hands, and
arms, particularly if you use your computer for long periods. Here are a few tips to help
improve keyboard use:

 Place your keyboard at elbow level. Your upper arms should be relaxed at your sides.
 Center your keyboard in front of you. If your keyboard has a numeric keypad, you can
use the spacebar as the centering point.
 Type with your hands and wrists floating above the keyboard, so that you can use your
whole arm to reach for distant keys instead of stretching your fingers.
 Avoid resting your palms or wrists on any type of surface while typing. If your keyboard
has a palm rest, use it only during breaks from typing.
 While typing, use a light touch and keep your wrists straight.
 When you're not typing, relax your arms and hands.
 Take short breaks from computer use every 15 to 20 minutes.

The Desktop
The main screen you'll start from is the desktop. This is sort of like a main menu or
a table of contents. From here, you can access the programs and features you need to use
your computer.
Icons are used to represent the different files, applications, and commands on your
computer. An icon is a small image that's intended to give you an idea at a glance of what it
represents, like a logo. Double-clicking an icon on the desktop will open that application or
file.

A button is a command that performs a specific function within an application. The

most commonly used commands in a program will be represented by buttons.

26
 Menus are organized collections of commands and shortcuts. Click a menu to open
it and display the commands and shortcuts within. Then click an item in the menu to
execute it.

When you open an application or folder, it is displayed in its own window.

A window is a contained area—like a picture within a picture—with its own menus and
buttons specific to that program. You can rearrange multiple windows on the desktop and
switch between them.

How to customize your desktop background

Want your computer to feel a bit more like, well, your computer? You might want to
consider changing your wallpaper.

The wallpaper is the image that appears behind the icons on your computer's desktop—
that's why it's usually called a desktop background. On most computers, you can change
your background by right-clicking the desktop and selecting Personalize.

27
Then select Desktop Background. By default, you'll see the images that were included
with your computer.

Select the desired background of your desktop.

Working with Files and Folders

Understanding how to work with files and folders is an important part of using your
computer. Once you understand how files and folder work, you'll use them all the time.

What is a file?
There are many different types of files you can use. For example, Microsoft Word
documents, digital photos, digital music, and digital videos are all types of files. You might
even think of a file as a digital version of a real-world thing you can interact with on your
computer. When you use different applications, you'll often be viewing, creating, or
editing files.

Files are usually represented by an icon. In the image below, you can see a few different
types of files below the Recycle Bin on the desktop.

28
Understanding file extensions

Your computer has many different types of files on it, and each one has its own file
extension. A file extension is a three- or four-letter identifier found at the end of a file
name and following a period. These extensions tell you about the characteristics of a file
and its use. In this lesson, we'll go over some examples of these extensions, as well as how
to determine a particular file's extension.

Examples of file extensions

 A JPEG uses the .jpg or .jpeg extension (for example, image.jpg).
 A Word document uses the .docx extension, or .doc for older versions (for
example, CoverLetter.docx).
 An MP3 audio file uses the .mp3 extension (for example, rhyme_rap.mp3).
 An Excel spreadsheet uses the .xlsx extension, or .xls for older versions (for
example, budget.xls).

PDF File

Adobe PDF files—short for portable document format files—are one of the most
commonly used file types today. If you've ever downloaded a printable form or document
from the Web, such as an IRS tax form, there's a good chance it was a PDF file. Whenever
you see a file that ends with .pdf, that means it's a PDF file.

Why use PDF files?

Let's say you create a newsletter in Microsoft Word and share it as a .docx file,
which is the default file format for Word documents. Unless everyone has Microsoft Word
installed on their computers, there's no guarantee that they would be able to open and view
the newsletter. And because Word documents are meant to be edited, there's a chance that
some of the formatting and text in your document may be shifted around.
By contrast, PDF files are primarily meant for viewing, not editing. One reason they're so
popular is that PDFs can preserve document formatting, which makes them more
shareable and helps them to look the same on any device. Sharing the newsletter as a PDF
file would help ensure everyone is able to view it as you intended.

Opening PDF files

Opening and viewing a PDF file is pretty simple. Most modern web browsers will
open PDF files directly in your browser window instead of downloading them to your
computer. If your browser can't do this, it should prompt you to download the file instead.

If you need to view a PDF file just once, it's usually easiest to open it in your web
browser. If you need to access the PDF later, you'll want to save a copy to your computer.
This process will vary depending on your web browser, but in the example below the Save
PDF button can be found near the upper-right corner.
29
 If the PDF file is already on your computer, you can simply double-click to open
it with the default PDF application.

If your computer uses Windows 7 or earlier, you may need to download a free PDF
viewer (such as Adobe Reader) before you can view PDF files.

Editing PDF files

As we mentioned earlier, PDFs are primarily meant for viewing, not editing. However,
there may be times when you encounter a PDF that allows you to enter certain information,
like name and address. These PDFs use a special feature called form fields, which allow
you to type new information into the document and save your changes. For example, this
PDF contains several form fields for entering your name, address, and other information.

30
 This feature is not supported in all web browsers, so you may need to download the
PDF before you can use form fields to add your information.
There may also be times when you want to make small edits to PDF files, like adding a
comment or highlighting text.

Creating PDF files

There are several ways to create PDF files, but the method will largely depend on
the device you're using. For example, if you're using Windows 10 you can go to the Print
dialog box, then select PDF from the list of printers at the top. This allows you to
create a PDF of anything you would normally be able to print, including documents, emails,
and webpages.

Creating PDF File Using Microsoft Office Application

1. Open a Microsoft Word, Excel or PowerPoint file.

2. Click on File tab.
3. Click Save As.
4. Click on the drop-down menu in the Save As Type.
5. Click on PDF.
6. Enter a filename and click Save.

All about your computer's file system

No matter which operating system you use, your computer uses folders to organize
all of the different files and applications it contains. Folder icons on your computer are
designed to look like file folders full of documents or pictures.

31
 Each operating system has its own file system, which helps you find your folders and
files. If you have a Windows PC, you'll use the File Explorer (also known as Windows
Explorer). If you have a Mac, you'll use Finder. Here, we'll talk about the basic functions
that are common to all computer file systems.

What is a folder?

Windows uses folders to help you organize files. You can put files inside a folder, just like
you would put documents inside a real folder. In the image below, you can see some folders
on the desktop.

To create a new folder:

1. Within File Explorer, locate and select the New folder button. You can also right-
click where you want the folder to appear, then select New > Folder.

2. The new folder will appear. Type the desired name for the folder and press Enter.
In our example, we'll call it School Documents.

3. The new folder will be created. You can now move files into this folder.

32
To rename a file or folder:

You can change the name of any file or folder. A unique name will make it easier to
remember what type of information is saved in the file or folder.
1. Click the file or folder, wait about one second, and click again. An editable text
field will appear.
2. Type the desired name on your keyboard and press Enter. The name will be
changed.

You can also right-click the folder and select Rename from the menu that appears.

To delete a file or folder:

If you no longer need to use a file, you can delete it. When you delete a file, it is moved to
the Recycle Bin. If you change your mind, you can move the file from the Recycle Bin back
to its original location. If you're sure you want to permanently delete the file, you will need
to empty the Recycle Bin.
1. Click and drag the file to the Recycle Bin icon on the desktop. You can also click
the file to select it and press the Delete key on your keyboard.

2. To permanently delete the file, right-click the Recycle Bin icon and select Empty
Recycle Bin. All files in the Recycle Bin will be permanently deleted.

33
Note that deleting a folder will also delete all of the files within that folder.

Opening your computer's file system

Whether you're using a PC or a Mac, the file system icon will be in the bottom-left
part of the screen. On a PC, the File Explorer icon looks like a folder, as in the image
below.

On a Mac, the Finder icon looks like a face on the Dock, as in the image below.

In both operating systems, you can also open the file system by clicking a
folder from your desktop.

Opening files and applications

Each application on your computer has a group of file types—or formats—it is able
to open. When you double-click a file, your computer will automatically use the correct
application to open it. In our example, we're opening a Microsoft Word document (Chicago
Trip Details), which will open in Microsoft Word.

34
However, there may be times you may want to open an application directly, instead of just
opening a file.
 To open an application in Windows, click the Start button, then select the
desired application. If you don't see the one you want, you can click All
Programs/All Apps to see a full list, or simply type the name of the
application on your keyboard to search for it. In the example below, we're
opening Internet Explorer.

 To open an application on a Mac, click the application's icon on the Dock. If

you don't see the one you want, click the Spotlight icon in the top-right
corner of the screen, then type the name of the application on your
keyboard to search for it. In the example below, we're opening Safari.

Other Learning Resources:

Click the link below to watch the video and learn additional knowledge .
https://youtu.be/Cu3R5it4cQs

References:

Goodwill Community Foundation, Inc. (Aug 3, 2020) Computer Basics.

Retrieved from https://edu.gcfglobal.org/en/computerbasics/

Sinhal,A et. al. (2018) Computer Fundamentals and Its Application. Lambert Academic
Publishing. pp 3-32

35
Introduction to Computers
Retrieved from http://web.cse.ohio-state.edu/cse1111/Electronic Chapters/Shelly
Cashman/Electronic File/Intro to Computers/Introduction to Compters-COM1.pdf

36