chapter 1

outline
Introduction to the Overview

World of Computers Computers in Your Life

Why Learn About Computers?
Computers in the Home
After completing this chapter, you will be Computers in Education
able to do the following: Computers on the Job
1. Explain why it is essential to learn about Computers on the Go
computers today and discuss several ways What Is a Computer and What
computers are integrated into our business Does It Do?
Data vs. Information
and personal lives. Computers Then and Now
2. Define a computer and describe its primary Hardware
operations. Software
Computer Users and Professionals
3. List some important milestones in computer Computers to Fit Every Need
evolution. Embedded Computers
4. Identify the major parts of a personal com- Mobile Devices
Personal Computers (PCs)
puter, including input, processing, output,
Servers
storage, and communications hardware. Mainframe Computers
5. Define software and understand how it is Supercomputers
used to instruct the computer what to do. Computer Networks and the
Internet
6. List the six basic types of computers, giv- What Are the Internet and the
ing at least one example of each type of World Wide Web?
computer and stating what that computer Accessing a Network or the Internet
might be used for. Surfing the Web
Searching the Web
7. Explain what a network, the Internet, and E-Mail
the World Wide Web are, as well as how Computers and Society
computers, people, and Web pages are Benefits of a Computer-Oriented
identified on the Internet. Society
Risks of a Computer-Oriented
8. Describe how to access a Web page and
Society
navigate through a Web site. Differences in Online
9. Discuss the societal impact of computers, Communications
including some benefits and risks related to The Anonymity Factor
Information Integrity
their prominence in our society.
 © Datacraft/Getty Images

INT
OVE RVI EW

C omputers and other forms of technology impact our daily lives in a multitude of
ways. We encounter computers in stores, restaurants, and other retail establish-
ments. We use computers and the Internet regularly to obtain information, experience
online entertainment, buy products and services, and communicate with others. Many
of us carry a mobile phone or other mobile device with us at all times so we can
remain in touch with others on a continual basis and can access Internet information
as we need it. We also use these devices to pay for purchases, play online games with
others, watch TV and movies, and much, much more.
Businesses also use computers extensively, such as to maintain employee and
customer records, manage inventories, maintain online stores and other Web sites,
process sales, control robots and other machines in factories, and provide business
executives with the up-to-date information they need to make decisions. The govern-
ment uses computers to support our nation’s defense systems, for space explora-
tion, for storing and organizing vital information about citizens, for law enforcement
and military purposes, and other important tasks. In short, computers and computing
technology are used in an endless number of ways.
Understanding Computers: Today and Tomorrow is a guide to computers and
TI P
related technology and how they are being used in the world today. It will provide you
with a comprehensive introduction to computer concepts and terminology and give you Most of the computer concepts
a solid foundation for any future courses you may take that are related to computers or introduced in this chapter are
their use in the world today. It will also provide you with the basic knowledge you need discussed in more detail in
to understand and use computers in school, on the job, and in your personal life, as well subsequent chapters of this text.
as give you an overview of the various societal issues related to technology, such as
security and privacy issues, ethical considerations, and environmental concerns.
Chapter 1 is designed to help you understand what computers are, how they
work, and how people use them. It introduces the important terms and concepts that
you will encounter throughout this text and in discussions about computers with oth-
ers, as well as includes an overview of the history of computers. It also takes a brief
look at how to use a computer to perform basic tasks and to access resources on the
Internet and the World Wide Web in order to provide you with the knowledge, skills,
and tools you need to complete the projects and online activities that accompany this
textbook. The chapter closes with an overview of the societal impact of computers. ■

COMPUTERS IN YOUR LIFE

Computers today are used in virtually every aspect of most individuals’ lives—at home,
at school, at work, and while on the go. The next few sections provide an overview of the
importance of computers and some of the most common computer-related activities that
individuals may encounter every day.

Why Learn About Computers?

Fifty years ago, computers were used primarily by researchers and scientists. Today, com-
puters are an integral part of our lives. Experts call this trend pervasive computing, in
which few aspects of daily life remain untouched by computers and computing technol-
ogy. With pervasive computing—also referred to as ubiquitous computing—computers are
 6 INTRODUCTION

found virtually everywhere and computing technology is integrated into an ever-increasing

number of devices to give those devices additional functionality, such as enabling them to
communicate with other devices on an ongoing basis. Because of the prominence of com-
puters in our society, it is important to understand what a computer is, a little about how a
computer works, and the implications of living in a computer-oriented society.
Prior to about 1980, computers were large and expensive, and few people had access to
them. Most computers used in organizations were equipped to do little more than carry out
high-volume processing tasks, such as issuing bills and keeping track of inventories. The
average person did not need to know how to use a computer for his or her job, and it was
uncommon to have a computer at home. Furthermore, the use of computers generally required
a lot of technical knowledge and the use of the Internet was reserved primarily for research-
ers and educational institutions. Because there were few good reasons or opportunities for
learning how to use computers, the average person was unfamiliar with them.
Beginning in the early 1980s, things began to change. Microcomputers—inexpensive
TI P
personal computers that you will read about later in this chapter—were invented and com-
More than half of all U.S. puter use increased dramatically. The creation of the World Wide Web (WWW) in the late
mobile phone users today are 1980s and the graphical Web browser in the early 1990s started the trend of individuals
smartphone users; that is, their buying and using computers for personal use. Today, portable computers and mobile phones
mobile phones include Internet have brought personal computing to a whole new level—nearly 90% of all U.S. households
capabilities and the ability to run have a computer or mobile phone, and most individuals use some type of computer on the
mobile programs or apps. job. Whether you become a teacher, attorney, doctor, engineer, restaurant manager, salesper-
son, professional athlete, musician, executive, or skilled tradesperson, you will likely use a
computer to obtain and evaluate information, to facilitate necessary on-the-job tasks, and to
communicate with others. Today’s computers are very useful tools for these purposes; they
are also taking on new roles in our society, such as delivering entertainment on demand.
In fact, computers and the traditional communications and entertainment devices that we
use every day—such as telephones, televisions, gaming devices, and home entertainment
FIGURE 1-1
systems—are converging into single units with multiple capabilities. For instance, you can
Convergence.
check your e-mail (electronic messages), watch videos, and view other Internet content on
Many devices today
your living room TV; you can make telephone calls via your personal computer; and you
include computing or
can view Internet content and watch TV on your smartphone or other mobile device (see
Internet capabilities.
Figure 1-1). As a result of this convergence trend, the computer is no longer an isolated pro-
ductivity tool; instead, it is an integral part of our daily lives.
Just as you can learn to drive a car with-
out knowing much about car engines, you can
Used with permission from Microsoft Corporation

learn to use a computer without understanding

the technical details of how a computer works.
However, a little knowledge gives you a big
advantage. Knowing something about cars
can help you make wise purchasing decisions
and save money on repairs. Likewise, knowing
Courtesy Netflix

something about computers can help you buy

the right one for your needs, get the most effi-
cient use out of it, be able to properly upgrade it
as your needs change, and have a much higher
TELEVISIONS SMARTPHONES
level of comfort and confidence along the way.
Can be used to access Web pages, e-mail, Can be used to access Internet
streaming movies, and other Internet content, content, play music and games, take Therefore, basic computer literacy—knowing
in addition to viewing TV content. photos, watch TV shows, and more, about and understanding computers and their
in addition to making phone calls. uses—is an essential skill today for everyone.

>Computer literacy. The knowledge and understanding of basic computer fundamentals.

 CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION TO THE WORLD OF COMPUTERS 7

Computers in the Home

Home computing has increased dramatically over the last few years as comput-
ers and Internet access have become less expensive and as a vast array of online

© tokyoimagegroups/Shutterstock.com

INT
consumer activities have become available. Use of the Internet at home to look
up information, exchange e-mail, shop, watch TV and videos, download music
and movies, research products, pay bills and manage bank accounts, check
news and weather, store and organize digital photos, play games, make vacation
plans, and so forth is now the norm for many individuals (see Figure 1-2). Many
individuals also use a computer at home for work-related tasks, such as to review
work-related documents or check work e-mail from home.
As the Internet, wireless technology, and devices such as computers, tele- REFERENCE
visions, mobile phones, digital video recorders (DVRs), and gaming consoles Retrieving information, obtaining news, viewing
continue to converge, the computer is also becoming a central part of home enter- recipes, shopping online, and exchanging
e-mail are popular home computer activities.
tainment. Wireless networking allows the use of computers in virtually any loca-
tion and both online and offline content to be sent wirelessly from one device to
another. Both voice and video telephone calls can be made over your Internet
connection, and your TV can display Internet content.
Computing technologies also make it possible to have smart appliances—
traditional appliances (such as refrigerators, thermostats, or ovens) with some type

© micro10x/Shutterstock.com
of built-in computer or communications technology that allows them to be con-
trolled by the user via a smartphone or the Internet, to access and display Internet
information, or to perform other computer-related functions. Smart homes—
homes in which household tasks (such as watering the lawn, turning the air condi-
tioning on or off, making coffee, monitoring the security of the home and grounds,
and managing home entertainment content) are controlled by a main computer
in the home or by the homeowner remotely via a smartphone—have arrived, and PRODUCTIVITY
they are expected to be the norm in less than a decade. Some believe that one pri- Home computers are frequently used for editing
mary focus of smart appliances and smart homes will be energy conservation—for and managing digital photos and home videos,
creating and editing work-related documents,
instance, the ability to perform tasks (such as running the dishwasher and watering paying bills, and other productivity tasks.
the lawn) during nonpeak energy periods and to potentially transfer waste heat
from one appliance (such as an oven) to another appliance (such as a dishwasher)
as needed.

Computers in Education

© iStockphoto.com/Ridofranz
Today’s youth can definitely be called the computing generation. From handheld
gaming devices to mobile phones to computers at school and home, most chil-
dren and teens today have been exposed to computers and related technology all
their lives. Although the amount of computer use varies from school to school and
from grade level to grade level, most students today have access to computers at
school—and some schools have completely integrated computers into the curricu-
lum, such as by adopting e-book (electronic) textbooks that run on school-owned ENTERTAINMENT
portable computers, or allowing students to bring in devices to use in class (referred Home computers and gaming consoles are
becoming a central hub for entertainment, such as
to as BYOD or Bring Your Own Device). Many schools (particularly college cam- the delivery of photos, videos, music, games,
puses) today also have wireless hotspots that allow students to connect their per- TV shows, instant messages, and social networking
sonal computers or mobile devices wirelessly to the Internet from anywhere on updates.
campus. Today, students at all levels are typically required to use a computer to
FIGURE 1-2
some extent as part of their normal coursework—such as for preparing papers, practicing
Computer use at
skills, doing Internet research, accessing Internet content (for instance, class Web pages or
home.
their campus YouTube channel), or delivering presentations—and some colleges require a
computer for enrollment.
Computers are also used to facilitate distance learning—an alternative to traditional class-
room learning in which students participate, typically at their own pace, from their current
location (via their computers and Internet connections) instead of physically going to class.
Consequently, distance learning gives students greater flexibility to schedule class time around
 8 INTRODUCTION

Denver Makle, 7th Army JMTC

© Goodluz/Shutterstock.com

© iStockphoto.com/sturti
COMPUTER LABS AND CLASSROOMS CAMPUS WIRELESS HOTSPOTS DISTANCE LEARNING
Many schools today have computers and Many students can access the Internet With distance learning, students—such as these
Internet access available in the classroom from anywhere on campus to do research, U.S. Army soldiers—can take classes from home
and/or a computer lab for student use. check e-mail, and more, via a campus hotspot. or wherever they happen to be at the moment.

FIGURE 1-3
Computer use in their personal, family, and work commitments, as well as allows individuals located in very
education. rural areas or stationed at military posts overseas to take courses when they are not able to
attend classes physically. Some examples of computer use in education are shown in Figure 1-3.

FIGURE 1-4 Computers on the Job

Computer use on Although computers have been used on the job for years, their role is continually evolving.
the job. Computers were originally used as research tools for computer experts and scientists and
then as productivity tools for office
workers. Today, computers are used
by all types of employees in all types
of businesses—including corporate
© Monkey Business Images/Shutterstock.com
executives, retail store clerks, trav-
eling sales professionals, artists and
musicians, engineers, police offi-
cers, insurance adjusters, delivery
© iStockphoto.com/sturti

workers, doctors and nurses, auto

mechanics and repair personnel, and
professional athletes. In essence, the
computer has become a universal
tool for on-the-job decision mak-
DECISION MAKING PRODUCTIVITY
ing, productivity, and communica-
Many individuals today use a computer to help Many individuals today use a computer to perform
them make on-the-job decisions. on-the-job tasks efficiently and accurately. tions (see Figure 1-4). Computers
are also used extensively for access
control at many businesses and
organizations, such as authentica-
tion systems that allow only autho-
rized individuals to enter an office
building, punch in or out of work,
or access the company network via
an access card or a fingerprint or
© iStockphoto.com/fstop123

hand scan, as shown in Figure 1-4

Courtesy Ingersoll Rand

and discussed in detail in Chapter

9. In addition to jobs that require
the use of computers by employ-
ees, many new jobs have been cre-
ated simply because computers
OFF-SITE COMMUNICATIONS AUTHENTICATION exist, such as jobs in electronics man-
Many individuals use portable computers or Many individuals are required to use authentication
ufacturing, online retailing, Internet
mobile devices to record data, access data, or systems to punch in and out of work, access
communicate with others when they are out of facilities, or log on to company computers. applications, and technology-related
the office. computer support.
 CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION TO THE WORLD OF COMPUTERS 9

T E C H N O L O G Y A N D YO U

INT
Restaurant iPad Ordering Systems More than 7,000 e-menu-enabled iPads are also arriving at
airport restaurants in three airports in North America. They will
You may have used your iPad or other device to place a pickup be used not only for placing orders but also for providing travel-
order at your local eatery; you may also have had a server use ers with free access to Facebook, Twitter, e-mail, games, news,
an iPad to take your order at a restaurant. Nice innovations, but and flight updates while they wait (for security purposes, all per-
guess what’s next? Placing your order yourself at a restaurant sonal information is wiped from the device as soon as the home
using an iPad. button is pressed).
This new trend of using iPads and e-menus to have cus- The two biggest risks for restaurants introducing iPad order-
tomers place their orders in restaurants is growing rapidly. In ing systems is customer acceptance (most offer assistance from
addition to enabling customers to place their orders at their servers if the customer desires to help alleviate any customer
convenience without waiting for a server, it also allows the res- concerns about using the devices) and technology issues. To
taurant to provide more resources to customers (such as pho- avoid network or Internet outage issues, some restaurants are
tographs of menu items, pairing suggestions for appetizers and implementing redundant systems, such as multiple routers that
drinks, and so forth). The overall goal is to allow customers to can be used if the main router goes down or a 4G Internet con-
control their dining experience from the time they are seated nection that the system can use to access the Internet via a cel-
until they choose to pay the check. And, yes, they pay via the lular connection if the main Internet source goes down.
iPad as well (see the credit card reader at the top right of the
iPad shown in the accompanying photo).
iPad ordering systems work especially well for restaurants
that offer customized menu items. For example, Stacked, one
of the first large-scale adopters of restaurant iPad ordering sys-
tems, offers typical American food (such as pizza, burgers, and
salads) at its Southern California restaurants but everything on
the menu is customizable—customers choose from a wide variety
of ingredients, toppings, and sauces. The iPad systems enable
customers to build their selections, adding or removing ingredi-
ents, until they are satisfied with the order (the price adjusts as

Courtesy of Square, Inc.

they change their selections). This allows customers to build their
orders at a comfortable pace without having to remember them
until a server arrives, or having to make that many decisions with
a server waiting.

Computers are also used extensively by military personnel for communications and
navigational purposes, as well as to control missiles and other weapons, identify terror-
ists and other potential enemies, and perform other necessary national security tasks. To
update their computer skills, many employees in all lines of work periodically take com-
puter training classes or enroll in computer certification programs.

Computers on the Go
In addition to using computers in the home, at school, and on the job, most people encounter
and use all types of computers in other aspects of day-to-day life. For example, it is common
for consumers to use consumer kiosks (small self-service computer-based stations that
provide information or other services to the public, including those used for ATM transac-
tions, bridal registries, ticketing systems, and more), point-of-sale (POS) systems (such as
those found at most retail stores to check customers out—see the Technology and You
box for a look at how you may soon be using iPads to order at restaurants), and self-
checkout systems (which allow retail store customers to scan their purchases and pay
 10 INTRODUCTION

for them without a salesclerk) while

in retail stores and other public loca-
tions. Individuals may also need
to use a computer-based consumer
authentication system to gain access
to a local health club, theme park,
or other membership-based facility
© iStockphoto.com/JohnnyGreig

(see Figure 1-5).

In addition, many individuals
carry a portable computer or mobile

Courtesy RedBox
device with them on a regular basis
to remain electronically in touch with
others and to access information (such
PORTABLE DEVICES CONSUMER KIOSKS as stock quotes, driving directions, air-
Many people today carry a portable computer or Electronic kiosks are widely available to view con- line flight updates, movie times, news
smartphone with them at all times or when they ference or gift registry information, print photo- headlines, and more) as needed while
travel in order to remain in touch with others and graphs, order products or services, and more.
to access |nternet resources.
on the go. These portable devices
are also commonly used to watch
TV, download and listen to music,
access Facebook pages and other
social networking sites, and perform
other mobile entertainment options.
Smartphones can also be used to pay
for products and services (refer again
to Figure 1-5), as well as remotely
deposit checks, transfer money to
Courtesy Ingersoll Rand
others, pay bills electronicially, and
Courtesy Intel

perform other mobile banking applica-

tions. GPS (global positioning system)
capabilities are frequently built into
MOBILE PAYMENT SYSTEMS CONSUMER AUTHENTICATION SYSTEMS smartphones, cars, and other devices
Allow individuals to pay for purchases using a Allow only authorized members, such as theme to provide individuals with driving
smartphone or other device. park annual pass holders as shown here, access to directions and other navigational aids
facilities. while traveling or hiking.
FIGURE 1-5
Computer use while
on the go.
WHAT IS A COMPUTER AND WHAT DOES IT DO?
A computer can be defined as a programmable, electronic device that accepts data, per-
forms operations on that data, presents the results, and stores the data or results as needed.
The fact that a computer is programmable means that a computer will do whatever the
instructions—called the program—tell it to do. The programs used with a computer deter-
mine the tasks the computer is able to perform.
The four operations described in this definition are more technically referred to as
input, processing, output, and storage. These four primary operations of a computer can be
defined as follows:
➤ Input—entering data into the computer.
➤ Processing—performing operations on the data.

>Computer. A programmable, electronic device that accepts data input, performs processing operations on that data, and outputs and stores
the results. >Input. The process of entering data into a computer; can also refer to the data itself. >Processing. Performing operations on data
that has been input into a computer to convert that input to output.
 CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION TO THE WORLD OF COMPUTERS 11

2+5=7

© Tatiana Popova/Shutterstock.com; Copyright © 2015 Cengage Learning®

INT
2
5 7 7 7

INPUT PROCESSING OUTPUT STORAGE

User types in the Computer adds Computer displays Computer saves the
numbers 2 and 5. 2 and 5. the results (output). output for future use.

FIGURE 1-6
The information
processing cycle.
➤ Output—presenting the results.
➤ Storage—saving data, programs, or output for future use.
For example, assume that you have a computer that has been programmed to add two
numbers. As shown in Figure 1-6, input occurs when data (in this example, the numbers 2
and 5) is entered into the computer, processing takes place when the computer program
adds those two numbers, and output happens when the sum of 7 is displayed on the com-
puter screen. The storage operation occurs any time the data, a change to a program, or the
output is saved for future use.
For an additional example, look at a supermarket barcode reader to see how it fits this
definition of a computer. First, the grocery item being purchased is passed over the bar-
code reader—input. Next, the description and price of the item are looked up—processing.
Then, the item description and price are displayed on the cash register and printed on the
receipt—output. Finally, the inventory, ordering, and sales records are updated—storage.
This progression of input, processing, output, and storage is sometimes referred to as
the IPOS cycle or the information processing cycle. In addition to these four primary com-
puter operations, today’s computers almost always perform communications functions, such
as sending or retrieving data via the Internet, accessing information located in a shared com-
pany database, or exchanging data or e-mail messages with others. Therefore, communica-
tions—technically an input or output operation, depending on which direction the information
is going—is often considered the fifth primary computer operation.

Data vs. Information

As just discussed, a user inputs data into a computer, and then the computer processes it.
Almost any kind of fact or set of facts can become computer data, such as the words in a
letter to a friend, the numbers in a monthly budget, the images in a photograph, the notes in
a song, or the facts stored in an employee record. When data is processed into a meaningful
form, it becomes information.

>Output. The process of presenting the results of processing; can also refer to the results themselves. >Storage. The operation of saving data,
programs, or output for future use. >Communications. The transmission of data from one device to another. >Data. Raw, unorganized facts.
>Information. Data that has been processed into a meaningful form.
12 INTRODUCTION

Information is frequently generated to

AS K THE EXPERT answer some type of question, such as how
many of a restaurant’s employees work less than
Rob Bredow, CTO, Sony Pictures Imageworks 20 hours per week, how many seats are avail-
Courtesy Sony Pictures Imageworks

able on a particular flight from Los Angeles to

What position might a college student San Francisco, or what is Hank Aaron’s lifetime
graduating with a computer degree qualify for home run total. Of course, you don’t need a
at Sony Pictures Imageworks? computer system to process data into informa-
tion; for example, anyone can go through time
We employ a number of talented engineers (typically
cards or employee files and make a list of peo-
computer science or computer engineering majors) ple who work a certain number of hours. If this
at Sony Pictures Imageworks whose specialties work is done by hand, however, it could take
range from developing completely new computer a lot of time, especially for a company with a
graphics techniques to focusing on our high perfor- large number of employees. Computers, how-
mance networking and disk configurations. A recent ever, can perform such tasks almost instantly,
graduate with experience in computer graphics with accurate results. Information processing
rendering might, for example, help write shaders to (the conversion of data into information) is a
simulate the lighting in the surface of a new challeng- vital activity today for all computer users, as
ing material like skin or cloth used for both animated well as for businesses and other organizations.
and live-action films. We recently hired an engineer
who first joined us as an intern and, because of her Computers Then and Now
enthusiastic attitude and technical abilities, is now on The basic ideas of computing and calculating
the front lines of our Linux support team deploying are very old, going back thousands of years.
new hardware and supporting artists working on our However, the computer in the form in which it is
films. In summary, a great attitude—along with strong recognized today is a fairly recent invention. In
fact, personal computers have only been around
computer, math, and engineering skills—are qualities
since the late 1970s. The history of computers
we love to see in our technology teams at Sony
is often referred to in terms of generations, with
Pictures Imageworks. each new generation characterized by a major
technological development. The next sections
summarize some early calculating devices and
the different computer generations.

Precomputers and Early Computers (before approximately 1946)

Based on archeological finds, such as notched bones, knotted twine, and hieroglyph-
ics, experts have concluded that ancient civilizations had the ability to count and com-
pute. The abacus is considered by many to be the earliest recorded calculating device;
it was used primarily as an aid for basic arithmetic calculations. Other early computing
devices include the slide rule, the mechanical calculator, and Dr. Herman Hollerith’s
Punch Card Tabulating Machine and Sorter. This latter device (see Figure 1-7) was the
first electromechanical machine that could read punch cards—special cards with holes
punched in them to represent data. Hollerith’s machine was used to process the 1890 U.S.
Census data and it was able to complete the task in two and one half years, instead of
the decade it usually took to process the data manually. Consequently, this is considered
to be the first successful case of an information processing system replacing a paper-
and-pen-based system. Hollerith’s company eventually became International Business
Machines (IBM).

First-Generation Computers (approximately 1946–1957)

The first computers were enormous, often taking up entire rooms. They were powered
by thousands of vacuum tubes—glass tubes that look similar to large light bulbs—which
needed replacing constantly, required a great deal of electricity, and generated a lot of heat.
First-generation computers could solve only one problem at a time because they needed to
be physically rewired with cables to be reprogrammed (see Figure 1-7), which typically took
several days (sometimes even weeks) to complete and several more days to check before
 CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION TO THE WORLD OF COMPUTERS 13

the computer could be used. Usually paper

punch cards and paper tape were used for
input, and output was printed on paper.

INT
Two of the most significant examples
of first-generation computers were ENIAC
and UNIVAC. ENIAC, shown in Figure 1-7,
was the world’s first large-scale, general-
purpose computer. Although it was not com-
pleted until 1946, ENIAC was developed
during World War II to compute artillery-
firing tables for the U.S. Army. Instead of
the 40 hours required for a person to com- PRECOMPUTERS AND EARLY COMPUTERS FIRST-GENERATION COMPUTERS
Dr. Herman Hollerith’s Punch Card Tabulating First-generation computers, such as ENIAC
pute the optimal settings for a single weapon Machine and Sorter is an example of an early shown here, were large and bulky, used
under a single set of conditions using man- computing device. It was used to process vacuum tubes, and had to be physically wired
ual calculations, ENIAC could complete the the 1890 U.S. Census data. and reset to run programs.
same calculations in less than two minutes.
UNIVAC, released in 1951, was initially
built for the U.S. Census Bureau and was
used to analyze votes in the 1952 U.S. pres-
idential election. Interestingly, its correct
prediction of an Eisenhower victory only
45 minutes after the polls closed was not
publicly aired because the results were not
trusted. However, UNIVAC became the first
computer to be mass produced for general
commercial use.
SECOND-GENERATION COMPUTERS THIRD-GENERATION COMPUTERS
Second-generation computers, such as Third-generation computers used integrated
Second-Generation Computers the IBM 1401 mainframe shown here, circuits, which allowed the introduction of
(approximately 1958–1963) used transistors instead of vacuum smaller computers such as the IBM System/
The second generation of computers began tubes so they were smaller, faster, 360 mainframe shown here.
when the transistor—a small device made and more reliable than first-generation

Courtesy IBM Corporate Archives, Courtesy U.S. Army; Courtesy of IBM Corporation
of semiconductor material that acts like computers.
a switch to open or close electronic cir-
cuits—started to replace the vacuum tube.
Transistors allowed second-generation
computers to be smaller, less expensive,
more powerful, more energy-efficient, and
more reliable than first-generation com-
puters. Typically, programs and data were
input on punch cards and magnetic tape,
output was on punch cards and paper print-
outs, and magnetic tape (see Figure 1-7)
was used for storage. Hard drives and pro- FOURTH-GENERATION COMPUTERS FIFTH-GENERATION COMPUTERS
Fourth-generation computers, such as Some aspects of fifth-generation computers,
gramming languages (such as FORTRAN
the original IBM PC shown here, are such as the natural language input and artificial
and COBOL) were developed and imple- based on microprocessors. Most of intelligence used by the IBM Watson computer
mented during this generation. today’s computers fall into this category. shown competing on Jeopardy! here, already exist.

FIGURE 1-7
Third-Generation Computers (approximately 1964–1970) A brief look
The replacement of the transistor with integrated circuits (ICs) marked the beginning of at computer
the third generation of computers. Integrated circuits incorporate many transistors and generations.
electronic circuits on a single tiny silicon chip, allowing third-generation computers to be
even smaller and more reliable than computers in the earlier computer generations. Instead
of punch cards and paper printouts, keyboards and monitors were introduced for input and
output; hard drives were typically used for storage. An example of a widely used third-
generation computer is shown in Figure 1-7.
 14 INTRODUCTION

TI P
Fourth-Generation Computers (approximately 1971–present)
A technological breakthrough in the early 1970s made it possible to place an increas-
For a more detailed timeline ing number of transistors on a single chip. This led to the invention of the micropro-
regarding the development of cessor in 1971, which ushered in the fourth generation of computers. In essence, a
computers, see the “Computer microprocessor contains the core processing capabilities of an entire computer on one
History Timeline” located in single chip. The original IBM PC (see Figure 1-7) and Apple Macintosh computers,
the References and Resources and most of today’s traditional computers, fall into this category. Fourth-generation
Guide at the end of this book. computers typically use a keyboard and mouse for input, a monitor and printer for
output, and hard drives, flash memory media, and optical discs for storage. This gen-
eration also witnessed the development of computer networks, wireless technologies,
and the Internet.

Fifth-Generation Computers (now and the future)

Fifth-generation computers are most commonly defined as those that are based on artifi-
cial intelligence, allowing them to think, reason, and learn (see one example in Figure 1-7).
Some aspects of fifth-generation computers—such as voice and touch input and speech
recognition—are being used today. In the future, fifth-generation computers are expected
to be constructed differently than they are today, such as in the form of optical computers
that process data using light instead of electrons, tiny computers that utilize nanotechnol-
ogy, or as entire general-purpose computers built into desks, home appliances, and other
everyday devices.

FIGURE 1-8 Hardware

Common hardware The physical parts of a computer (the parts you can touch and discussed next) are called
listed by operation. hardware. The instructions or programs used with a computer—called software—are
discussed shortly. Hardware components can be internal (located
inside the main box or system unit of the computer) or external
INPUT PROCE SSI NG (located outside the system unit and connected to the system
unit via a wired or wireless connection). There are hardware
Keyboard CPU
devices associated with each of the five computer operations
Mouse OUTPUT previously discussed (input, processing, output, storage, and
Microphone Monitor/display screen communications), as summarized in Figure 1-8 and illustrated
in Figure 1-9.
Scanner Printer

Digital camera Speakers

Digital pen/stylus Headphones/headsets

Input Devices
An input device is any piece of equipment that is used to input
Touch pad/touch screen Data projector data into the computer. The input devices shown in Figure 1-9 are
Gaming controller STORAGE a keyboard, mouse, and microphone. Other common input devices
Fingerprint reader Hard drive
include scanners, digital cameras, digital pens and styluses, touch
pads and touch screens, fingerprint readers, and gaming control-
COM M UNICATION S
Copyright © 2015 Cengage Learning®

CD/DVD/Blu-ray disc lers. Input devices are discussed in more detail in Chapter 4.
Modem CD/DVD/Blu-ray drive

Network adapter Flash memory card

Processing Devices
Router Flash memory card reader The main processing device for a computer is the central process-
USB flash drive ing unit (CPU). The CPU is located inside the system unit and
performs the calculations and comparisons needed for processing;

>Hardware. The physical parts of a computer system, such as the keyboard, monitor, printer, and so forth.
 CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION TO THE WORLD OF COMPUTERS 15

FLASH MEMORY DVD DRIVE HARD DRIVE SYSTEM UNIT MONITOR PRINTER
CARD READER Reads and Located inside the Case that contains the CPU, memory, Lets you see your Produces printed
Reads and writes writes CD and system unit; stores power supply, storage devices, and work as you go; the copies of computer
flash memory cards. DVD discs. programs and most data. all other internal hardware. primary output device. output.

INT
MICROPHONE
Captures
spoken
input.

Courtesy, Hewlett-Packard Company; Courtesy of Logitech; Courtesy Clear; Courtesy of Kingston

Courtesy of Gateway, Inc.; National Park Service nps.gov screen shot; www.nps.gov/index.htm;
SPEAKERS
Produce audio ROUTER
output. Connects devices so they

Technology Company, Inc.; © Nomad_Soul/Shutterstock.com

can share an Internet
connection and data.
USB PORTS
Connect external MODEM
devices that use the Connects the computer
USB interface. to the Internet.

KEYBOARD CD AND DVD DISCS MOUSE FLASH MEMORY CARDS USB FLASH DRIVE
Used to type Used to deliver programs Used to make on- Used to store digital photos, Used to store documents,
instructions into the and store large screen selections; music files, and other content. digital photos, music files, and
computer; a primary multimedia files. a primary input other content to be moved
input device. device. from one PC to another.

FIGURE 1-9
it also controls the computer’s operations. For these reasons, the CPU is often considered Typical computer
the “brain” of the computer. Also involved in processing are various types of memory that hardware.
are located inside the system unit and used to store data and instructions while the CPU is
working with them, as well as additional processors such as the graphics processing unit
(GPU). The CPU, GPU, memory, and processing are discussed in detail in Chapter 2.

Output Devices
An output device accepts processed data from the computer and presents the results
to the user, most of the time on the display screen (monitor), on paper (via a printer),
or through a speaker. Other common output devices include headphones and headsets
(used to deliver audio output to a single user) and data projectors (used to project com-
puter images onto a projection screen). Output devices are covered in more detail in
Chapter 4.

Storage Devices
Storage devices (such as DVD drives and flash memory card readers) are used to
store data on or access data from storage media (such as DVD discs and flash memory
cards). Some storage hardware (such as a hard drive or a USB flash drive) includes
both a storage device and storage medium in a single piece of hardware. Storage
devices are used to save data, program settings, or output for future use; they can
be installed inside the computer, attached to the computer as an external device, or
accessed remotely through a network or wireless connection. Storage is discussed in
more detail in Chapter 3.
16 INTRODUCTION

Communications Devices
Communications devices allow users to communicate electronically with others and to
access remote information via the Internet or a home, school, or company computer
network. Communications hardware includes modems (used to connect a computer to
the Internet), network adapters (used to connect a computer to a computer network),
and routers (used to create a small network so a variety of devices can share an Internet
connection and data). A variety of modems and network adapters are available because
there are different types of Internet and network connections—a modem used to connect
to the Internet via a wireless connection and that also contains a built-in wireless router
is shown in Figure 1-9. Communications hardware and computer networks are discussed
in more detail in Chapter 7; connecting to the Internet is covered in Chapter 8.

Software
The term software refers to the programs or instructions used to tell the computer hard-
ware what to do. Software is traditionally purchased on a CD or DVD or is downloaded
from the Internet; in either case, the software typically needs to be installed on a computer
before it can be used. Software can also be run directly from the Internet (via Web pages)
without being installed on your computer; this is referred to as cloud software, Web-based
software, Software as a Service (SaaS), and cloud computing and is discussed in more
detail in Chapter 6.
Computers use two basic types of software: system software and application software.
The differences between these types of software are discussed next.

System Software
The programs that allow a computer to operate are collectively referred to as system soft-
ware. The main system software is the operating system, which starts up the computer and
controls its operation. Common operating system tasks include setting up new hardware,
allowing users to run other software, and allowing users to manage the documents stored
on their computers. Without an operating system, a computer cannot function. Common
desktop operating systems designed for personal computers are Windows, Mac OS, and
Linux; these and other operating systems (such as Android, iOS, and other mobile operat-
ing systems used with mobile phones and other mobile devices) are discussed in detail in
Chapter 5.
To use a computer, first turn on the power to the computer by pressing the power
button, and then the computer will begin to boot. During the boot process, part of
the computer’s operating system is loaded into memory, the computer does a quick
diagnostic of itself, and then it launches any programs—such as security software—
designated to run each time the computer starts up. You may need to supply a password
to log on to your computer or a computer network to finish the boot process.
TI P Once a computer has booted, it is ready to be used and waits for input from the user.
While the original release of Most software today uses a variety of graphical objects (such as icons, buttons, and tiles)
Windows 8 did not include the that are selected with the mouse (or with a finger or stylus for a computer that supports
traditional Windows Start button, touch or pen input) to tell the computer what to do. For instance, the Windows desktop
it was reinstated in Windows 8.1 (the basic workspace for computers running the Windows operating system; that is, the
but displays the Start screen place where documents, folders, programs, and other objects are displayed when they are
instead of the Start menu. being used), along with some common graphical objects used in Windows and many other
software programs, is shown in Figure 1-10.

>Software. The instructions, also called computer programs, that are used to tell a computer what it should do. >Operating system. The main
component of system software that enables a computer to operate, manage its activities and the resources under its control, run application
programs, and interface with the user. >Boot. To start up a computer. >Windows desktop. The background work area displayed on the screen
for computers running Microsoft Windows.
 CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION TO THE WORLD OF COMPUTERS 17

TOOLBAR ICONS WINDOWS MENU BAR DIALOG BOX

Contains buttons Represent folders, Rectangular areas containing Opens menus Displayed when needed to
or icons that can documents, or other programs, documents, or other that can be used request information from
be used to issue items that can be data. The active window is the to issue commands. the user.

INT
commands. opened. one currently being used.

SIZING BUTTONS
Resize or close a
window.

CHARMS
Allow you to search,
change your settings,
shut down the device,

Used with permission from Microsoft Corporation

and more.

WINDOWS DESKTOP
Provides the backdrop for
windows and other
objects.

TASKBAR
Usually located at the
bottom of the desktop.

START SCREEN PINNED PROGRAMS TASKBAR BUTTONS NOTIFICATION AREA

THUMBNAIL Represent programs Correspond to open windows; Shows the clock and
Opens the Start that can be opened can be used to preview other indicators.
screen that is directly from the thumbnails of open windows FIGURE 1-10
used to launch taskbar. as well as to change the The Windows
programs. active window. desktop.

Application Software
Application software (see Figure 1-11) consists of programs designed to allow people to
perform specific tasks using a computer, such as creating letters, preparing budgets, manag-
ing inventory and customer databases, playing games, watching videos, listening to music,
scheduling appointments, editing digital photographs, designing homes, viewing Web pages, TI P
burning DVDs, and exchanging e-mail. Application software is launched via the operating Application software programs are
system, such as by using the Windows Start screen for Windows 8 computers (or the Windows also referred to as apps.
Start menu for older versions of Windows), and is discussed in greater detail in Chapter 6.
There are also application programs that help users write their own programs in a form
the computer can understand using a programming language like BASIC, Visual Basic,
COBOL, C++, Java, or Python. Some languages are traditional programming languages
for developing applications; others are designed for use with Web pages or multimedia
programming. Markup and scripting languages (such as HTML, XHTML, and JavaScript)
used to create Web pages are covered in Chapter 10; traditional programming languages
are discussed in detail in Chapter 13.

Computer Users and Professionals

In addition to hardware, software, data, and procedures (the predetermined steps to be
carried out in particular situations), a computer system includes people. Computer users,
or end users, are the people who use computers to perform tasks or obtain information.

>Application software. Programs that enable users to perform specific tasks on a computer, such as writing letters or playing games; also
called apps.
18 INTRODUCTION

Used with permission from Microsoft Corporation

Used with permission from Microsoft Corporation

WORD PROCESSING PROGRAMS MULTIMEDIA PROGRAMS
Allow users to create written documents, Allow users to play music or videos and transfer content to
such as reports, letters, and memos. and from CDs, DVDs, and portable devices.
National Park Service nps.gov screen shot; www.nps.gov/index.htm

Used with permission from Microsoft Corporation

WEB BROWSERS E-MAIL PROGRAMS
Allow users to view Web pages and Allow users to compose, send, receive, and manage electronic
other information located on the Internet. messages; some also include calendars, to-do lists, and
other features.

FIGURE 1-11
Examples of
application
software.
Anyone who uses a computer is a computer user, including an accountant electronically
preparing a client’s taxes, an office worker using a word processing program to create
a letter, a supervisor using a computer to check and see whether or not manufacturing
workers have met the day’s quotas, a parent e-mailing his or her child’s teacher, a college
student researching a topic online, a doctor updating a patient’s electronic medical record,
a child playing a computer game, and a person shopping online.
Programmers, on the other hand, are computer professionals who write the programs
that computers use. Other computer professionals include systems analysts (who design
computer systems to be used within their companies as discussed in Chapter 12), com-
puter operations personnel (who are responsible for the day-to-day computer operations
at a company, such as maintaining systems or troubleshooting user-related problems), and
security specialists (who are responsible for securing the company computers and net-
works against hackers and other intruders who are discussed in more detail in Chapter 9).
Computer professionals are discussed in more detail in Chapter 12.
 CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION TO THE WORLD OF COMPUTERS 19

COMPUTERS TO FIT EVERY NEED

The types of computers available today vary from the tiny computers embedded in con-

INT
sumer products, to the mobile devices that do a limited number of computing tasks, to the
powerful and versatile desktop and portable computers found in homes and businesses, to
the superpowerful computers used to control the country’s defense systems. Computers are
generally classified in one of six categories, based on size, capability, and price.
➤ Embedded computers—tiny computers embedded into products to perform specific
functions or tasks for that product.
➤ Mobile devices—mobile phones, small tablets, and other small personal devices that
contain built-in computing or Internet capabilities.
➤ Personal computers—fully functioning portable or desktop computers that are
designed to be used by a single individual at a time.
➤ Servers—computers that host data and programs available to a small group of users.
➤ Mainframe computers—powerful computers used to host a large amount of data and
programs available to a wide group of users.
➤ Supercomputers—extremely powerful computers used for complex computations
and processing.
In practice, classifying a computer into one of these six categories is not always easy
or straightforward. For example, some high-end personal computers today are as powerful
as servers, and some personal computers today are the size of a mobile phone or smaller FIGURE 1-12
(see the Trend box). In addition, new trends impact the categories. For example, small Embedded
tablet devices (often called mobile tablets, media tablets, or just tablets) are typically con- computers. This car’s
sidered mobile devices because they are only slightly larger than a mobile phone, are typi- embedded computers
cally used primarily for viewing Web content and displaying multimedia content instead of control numerous
general-purpose computing, and usually run a mobile operating system. However, larger, features, such as
more powerful tablet computers running a desktop operating system are typically consid- notifying the driver
ered personal computers. So even though the distinction between some of the categories when a car enters his
(particularly mobile devices and personal computers) is blurring, these six categories are or her blind spot.
commonly used today to refer to groups of computers designed for
similar purposes.

Embedded Computers
An embedded computer is a tiny computer embedded into a product
designed to perform specific tasks or functions for that product. For

Courtesy Volvo Cars of North America

example, computers are often embedded into household appliances
(such as dishwashers, microwaves, ovens, coffeemakers, and so forth),
as well as into other everyday objects (such as thermostats, answer-
ing machines, treadmills, sewing machines, DVD players, and televi-
sions), to help those appliances and objects perform their designated
tasks. Typically, cars also use many embedded computers to assist
with diagnostics, to notify the user of important conditions (such as
an underinflated tire or an oil filter that needs changing), to control the A camera located under the A light indicates that a
use of the airbag and other safety devices (such as cameras that alert mirror detects moving vehicles moving vehicle is in the
a driver that a vehicle is in his or her blind spot—see Figure 1-12—or in the driver’s blind spot. driver’s blind spot.

>Embedded computer. A tiny computer embedded in a product and designed to perform specific tasks or functions for that product.
 20 INTRODUCTION

TRE ND

Tiny PCs to another computer or an HDTV via its built-in HDMI and USB
ports, to peripheral devices via USB or Bluetooth, and to the
Computers have shrunk again. Forget tiny notebooks or even Internet via Wi-Fi.
media tablets if you want portability—today’s newest tiny PCs The flexibility of these devices and the apps that can be used
are the size of a USB flash drive. with them vary from device to device, based on the operating
Some of these new computers actually do look just like a system used (most use a version of Linux or Android, though
USB flash drive; others are just a small circuit board, some- Chromecast uses Chrome) and the amount of storage available
times enclosed in a case. Whatever their appearance, the idea (devices with a USB port typically support USB flash drives or
is similar—you connect them to a display device and an input hard drives for additional storage if needed). But for turning a
device (if needed) and you are good to go. TV at any location into your own personal computer, gaming
These emerging tiny PCs are designed to connect in differ- device, or video player, tiny PCs are definitely the way to go.
ent ways and have different capabilities. For example, Google’s
Chromecast (shown in the accompanying photo) plugs directly
into an HDTV using its built-in HMDI connector. After connect-
ing Chromecast, you can stream online content (such as videos,
movies, and music) via Wi-Fi from your smartphone, tablet, or

© Tony Avelar/Bloomberg via Getty Images

laptop to that HDTV. The Raspberry Pi tiny PC can connect
to an HDTV via HDMI, as well as to a standard TV via RCA
jacks. Instead of being used in conjunction with another device
like Chromecast, however, the Raspberry Pi is a stand-alone
computer that can be used with USB input devices (such as
a keyboard and mouse) and connects to the Internet via an
Ethernet port. Another tiny stand-alone PC is the Cstick Cotton
Candy. This device, the size of a USB flash drive, can connect

auto braking systems that engage when a front collision is imminent, as discussed in the
Chapter 5 Technology and You box), to facilitate the car’s navigational or entertainment
systems, and to help the driver perform tasks. Embedded computers are designed for spe-
TI P cific tasks and specific products and so cannot be used as general-purpose computers.

More than half of all U.S. adults

carry an Internet-enabled mobile Mobile Devices
device with them to provide A mobile device is loosely defined as a very small (typically pocket-sized) device that has
Internet access while on the go. built-in computing or Internet capability. Mobile phones are the most common type of mobile
device and can typically be used to make telephone calls, send text messages (short text-based
messages), view Web pages, take digital photos, play games, download and play music, watch
TI P TV shows, and access calendars and other personal productivity features. Mobile phones
Larger smartphones that can that include computing and Internet capabilities (such as the one in Figure 1-13) are called
also function as small tablets smartphones (less capable mobile phones are sometimes referred to as feature phones).
are sometimes referred to as Handheld gaming devices (such as the Nintendo 3DS), portable digital media players (such
phablets. as the iPod Touch), smart watches, and other personal devices that include Internet capabilities
can also be referred to as mobile devices. As previously mentioned, media tablets (such as the

>Mobile device. A very small device that has built-in computing or Internet capability. >Smartphone. A mobile device based on a mobile phone
that includes Internet capabilities and can run mobile apps. >Media tablet. A mobile device, usually larger than a smartphone, that is typically
used to access the Internet and display multimedia content.
 CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION TO THE WORLD OF COMPUTERS 21

one shown in Figure 1-13) designed for Web browsing, playing mov-
ies and other multimedia content, gaming, and similar activities are
also typically considered mobile devices. Mobile devices are almost

INT
always powered by a rechargeable battery system and typically
include wireless connectivity to enable the device to connect to a wire-
less hotspot or to a cellular provider for Internet access.
Today’s mobile devices typically have small screens and some,
but not all, have keyboards. Because of this, mobile devices are most
appropriate for individuals wanting continual access to e-mail, brief
checks of Web content (such as doing a quick Web search, check-
ing movie times or weather forecasts, looking up driving directions,
or getting updates from Web sites like Facebook), and music collec-
tions rather than for those individuals wanting general Web browsing
and computing capabilities. This is beginning to change, however,

Courtesy Amazon
as mobile devices continue to grow in capabilities, as wireless com-

Courtesy HTC
munications continue to become faster, and as mobile input options
(such as voice and touch input, and mobile keyboards) continue to
improve. For instance, many mobile devices can perform Internet SMARTPHONES MEDIA TABLETS
searches and other tasks via voice commands, some can be used to
pay for purchases while you are on the go, many can view virtually any Web content, and FIGURE 1-13
some can view and edit documents stored in a common format, such as Microsoft Office docu- Mobile devices.
ments. For a look at how tech clothing can be used to organize your mobile devices while you
are on the go, see the Inside the Industry box.
TI P
Personal Computers (PCs)
For tips on buying a personal
A personal computer (PC) or microcomputer is a small computer designed to be
computer, see the “Guide to Buying
used by one person at a time. Personal computers are widely used by individuals and
a PC” in the References and
businesses today and are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, as discussed next.
Resources Guide located at the end
of this book.

Because many mobile devices and personal computers today are continually connected to the
Internet, securing those devices against computer viruses and hackers—as introduced later in this
chapter and discussed in detail in Chapter 9—is essential for both individuals and businesses. FIGURE 1-14
Desktop computers.

Desktop Computers
Conventional personal computers that
are designed to fit on or next to a desk
(see Figure 1-14) are often referred to
as desktop computers. Desktop com-
Courtesy Dell Inc.; Courtesy Lenovo

puters can use a tower case (designed

to sit vertically, typically on the floor),
a desktop case (designed to be placed
horizontally on a desk’s surface), or
an all-in-one case (designed to incor-
porate the monitor and system unit
into a single piece of hardware). TOWER COMPUTERS ALL-IN-ONE COMPUTERS

>Personal computer (PC). A type of computer based on a microprocessor and designed to be used by one person at a time; also called a
microcomputer. >Desktop computer. A personal computer designed to fit on or next to a desk.
 22 INTRODUCTION

I N S I D E T H E I N D U S T RY

Tech Clothing are safe from thieves as long as you are wearing the garment. If you
are traveling by air, a tech garment can simplify your airport security
The extreme popularity of mobile phones, portable digital media experience and prevent you from losing or forgetting items at the
players, media tablets, and other mobile devices has led to the security checkpoint because you can just take off the garment and
need to easily and securely carry these devices with you while have it examined as a single item. So, with tech clothing, at least in
on the go. While a single device can typically just go in your the area of mobile devices, you can take it with you.
pocket, individuals carrying multiple devices may find it easier to
use tech clothing.
Similar to the way many backpacks today have built-in pockets
for portable digital media players along with internal channels to
run earbud cords, clothing manufacturers are increasingly design-
ing products with mobile devices in mind, such as including clear
pouches for storing and using devices while on the go. The jacket
shown in the accompanying illustration goes a step further—it has
24 pockets, including some clear pockets to hold devices as they
are being used and a pocket large enough to hold an iPad, as well as
a wire management system to organize earbuds and other cords. To
use this jacket, first put your devices in the appropriate pockets and
then run your cables through the appropriate internal channels—
the devices then can be used in the normal fashion. Other items,
such as keys, a wallet, a digital camera, or airline tickets, can also be
Scottevest

stored securely in a pocket. In addition to just helping you carry your

devices, using a tech jacket or vest also has additional advantages. X-RAY VIEW
For instance, your devices cannot be accidentally dropped and they REGULAR APPEARANCE

Desktop computer systems typically cost between $300 and $1,500 and usually con-
form to one of two standards or platforms: PC-compatible or Mac. PC-compatible comput-
ers (sometimes referred to as Windows PCs or
IBM-compatible PCs) evolved from the original
AS K THE EXPERT IBM PC—the first personal computer widely
accepted for business use. They are made by
Michael Verdesca, Vice President and Chief companies such as Dell, Hewlett-Packard,
Courtesy of Jack in the Box, Inc.

Information Officer, Jack in the Box Inc. NEC, Acer, Lenovo, Fujitsu, and Gateway and
typically run the Microsoft Windows operat-
How long will it be until paying for fast-food ing system, although some run an alternative
purchases by mobile phone is the norm? operating system (such as Linux). Mac com-
puters are made by Apple and use the Mac OS
The technology exists today to allow for the pay-
operating system. Windows, Linux, and Mac
ment of fast-food purchases by mobile phone and computers all use different software. Although
it’s being used in Europe and Japan. Though it’s PC-compatible computers are by far the most
being tested in the United States, there are still some widely used in the United States, the Mac is
hurdles, primarily the adoption of the technology by traditionally the computer of choice for artists,
cell phone providers and retailers, and consumers’ designers, and others who require advanced
willingness to use it. Another hurdle is consumers’ graphics capabilities. Extra powerful desktop
concerns about the technology being secure. It will computers designed for computer users running
likely be a few years before there is widespread use. graphics, music, film, architecture, science,
and other powerful applications are sometimes
referred to as workstations.
 CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION TO THE WORLD OF COMPUTERS 23

INT
Courtesy Dell Inc.

Courtesy Lenovo
Courtesy Google
NOTEBOOKS TABLETS HYBRID NOTEBOOK-TABLETS

FIGURE 1-15
Portable computers.
Portable Computers
Portable computers are fully functioning computers designed to be carried around eas-
ily. This portability makes them very flexible. They can be used at home or in the office;
they can also be used at school, while on vacation, at off-site meetings, and other loca-
tions. Like mobile devices, portable computers are designed to be powered by recharge-
able batteries so they can be used while on the go. While portable computers are essential
for many workers, such as salespeople who need to make presentations or take orders
from clients off-site, agents who need to collect data at remote locations, and managers
who need computing and communications resources as they travel, they are typically also
the computer of choice today for students and for individuals buying a new home com- TI P
puter. In fact, portable computers now outsell desktop computers in the United States. Tablets are expected to outsell
Portable computers are available in a variety of configurations, as discussed next and laptops by 2016.
shown in Figure 1-15.
➤ Notebook computers (also called laptop computers) are about the size of a
paper notebook and open to reveal a screen on the top half of the computer and a
keyboard on the bottom. They are typically comparable to desktop computers in TI P
features and capabilities. Very thin and very light notebooks are often referred to as
subnotebooks or ultraportables; ultraportables conforming to Intel’s standards can Computers that allow pen or touch

be marketed as Ultrabooks. input—such as tablet computers—are

convenient in crowded situations, as
➤ Tablet computers are typically about the size of a notebook computer and are designed well as in places where the clicking
to be used with a digital pen/stylus or touch input. Unlike notebooks, they don’t have of a keyboard would be annoying to
a physical keyboard but they typically can use an on-screen or attached keyboard as others.
needed.
➤ Hybrid notebook-tablet computers (also called convertible tablets) can function as
either a notebook or a tablet computer. Some (such as the one in Figure 1-15) have a
display screen that folds shut to resemble a tablet; others are designed to separate the
display from the keyboard when a tablet is needed.
➤ Netbooks are similar to notebook computers but are smaller and have more limited TI P
features, such as relying on cloud software and external DVD drives.
Portable computers (typically
It is important to realize that while a portable computer offers the convenience of netbooks) that run the Chrome
mobility, it typically isn’t as comfortable to use for a primary home or work computer operating system are often referred
as a desktop computer is, without additional hardware. For instance, many individu- to as Chromebooks.
als find it more convenient to connect and use a conventional monitor, keyboard, and

>Portable computer. A small personal computer, such as a notebook or tablet, that is designed to be carried around easily.
>Notebook computer. A fully functioning portable computer that opens to reveal a screen and keyboard; also called a laptop computer.
>Tablet computer. A portable computer about the size of a notebook that is designed to be used with a digital pen. >Hybrid notebook-tablet
computer. A portable computer designed to function as both a notebook and a tablet PC. >Netbook. A computer that is smaller and has more
limited features than a notebook computer.
24 INTRODUCTION

mouse when using a notebook computer at a

AS K THE EXPERT desk for a long computer session. This hard-
ware can be connected individually to many
Martin Smekal, President and Founder, TabletKiosk portable computers via a wired or wireless
Courtesy of TabletKiosk

connection; there are also docking stations

Will tablet computers ever replace notebooks? and USB hubs that can be used to connect
While we have seen a tremendous rise in awareness a portable computer easily to the hardware
and popularity of the tablet computer, we believe devices that are attached to the docking sta-
tion or USB hub. Docking stations and other
that traditional notebook PCs will still have a place in
ergonomic-related topics are discussed in
the mobile device market going forward. Tablets and
more detail in Chapter 16.
tablet PCs are incredibly effective and ergonomically
advantageous for mobility purposes, but there will
still be certain applications where a more traditional Thin Clients and Internet
computer with an integrated keyboard makes sense. Appliances
In the end, it will come down to what is the right Most personal computers today are sold as
tool for the application. That said, there will likely be stand-alone, self-sufficient units that are
applications where it makes sense to replace today’s equipped with all the necessary hardware
notebook with a more mobile-friendly tablet comput- and software needed to operate indepen-
ing solution. We see some portion of market share dently. In other words, they can perform
held today by notebooks shifting in favor of the tablet input, processing, output, and storage with-
out being connected to a network, although
and tablet PC market over time.
they can be networked if desired. In con-
trast, a device that must be connected to a
network to perform processing or storage
tasks is referred to as a dumb terminal. Two
types of personal computers that may be able to perform a limited amount of indepen-
dent processing but are designed to be used with a network are thin clients and Internet
appliances.
A thin client is designed to utilize a company network for much of its processing
TI P
capabilities. Instead of using local hard drives for storage, programs are typically accessed
Virtually any device (such as from and data is stored on a network server. The main advantage of thin clients over desk-
a smartphone) being used to top computers is lower cost because hardware needs to be replaced less frequently, and
access a company network costs are lower for computer maintenance, power, and air conditioning. Additional benefits
or cloud resource can also be include increased security (because data is not stored on the computer) and easier mainte-
referred to as a “thin client” while nance (because all software is located on a central server). Disadvantages include having
it is being used for that purpose. limited or no local storage (although this is an advantage for companies with highly secure
data that need to prevent data from leaving the facility) and not being able to function as
a stand-alone computer when the network is not working. Thin clients are used by busi-
nesses to provide employees with access to network applications; they are also used in
school computer labs (such as the one shown in Figure 1-16).
Ordinary devices that can be used for accessing the Internet can be called
Internet appliances (sometimes referred to as Internet-enabled devices). Some Internet
appliances (such as smart TVs and the smart refrigerator shown in Figure 1-16) use
apps to deliver news, sports scores, weather, music, and other Web-based information.
Gaming consoles (such as the Nintendo Wii, the Xbox 360 shown accessing a Web page
in Figure 1-16, and the Sony PlayStation 3) that can be used to view Internet content, in
addition to their gaming abilities, can also be classified as Internet appliances when they
are used to access the Internet.

>Thin client. A personal computer designed to access a network for processing and data storage, instead of performing those tasks locally.
>Internet appliance. A device that can be used to access the Internet.
 CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION TO THE WORLD OF COMPUTERS 25

Used with permission from Microsoft Corporation

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Courtesy Spoon River College

© Ethan Miller/Getty Images

THIN CLIENTS SMART FRIDGES INTERNET-ENABLED GAMING CONSOLES

FIGURE 1-16
Thin clients and
Servers Internet appliances.
A server—also sometimes called a midrange server, minicomputer, or midrange com-
puter—is a computer used to host programs and data for a small network. Typically larger,
more powerful, and more expensive than a desktop computer, a server is usually located in
an out-of-the-way place and can serve many users at one time. Users connect to the server
through a network, using their desktop computer, portable computer, thin client, or a dumb
terminal consisting of just a monitor and keyboard (see Figure 1-17). Servers are often
used in small- to medium-sized businesses (such as medical or dental offices), as well as in
school computer labs. There are also special home servers designed for home use, which
are often used to back up (make duplicate copies of) the content located on all the comput-
ers in the home automatically and to host music, photos, movies, and other media to be FIGURE 1-17
shared via a home network. Servers. Servers are
One trend involving servers (as well as the mainframe computers discussed next) used to host data and
today is virtualization—creating virtual (rather than actual) versions of a computing programs on a small
resource. Server virtualization uses separate server environments that, although physi- network, such as a
cally located on the same computer, function as separate servers and do not interact with school computer lab or
each other. For instance, all applications for an organization medical office network.
can be installed in virtual environments on one or more physi-
The user connects to the
cal servers instead of using a separate server for each applica-
server using a computer, thin
tion. Using a separate server for each application often wastes client, or dumb terminal.
resources because the servers are typically not used to full
capacity—one estimate is that only about 10% of server capa-
bility is frequently utilized. With virtualization, companies
can fulfill their computing needs with fewer servers, which The server is typically
results in lower costs for hardware and server management, as stored in a nearby closet or
well as lower power and cooling costs. Consequently, one of other out-of-the way place.
the most significant appeals of server virtualization today is
increased efficiency.
Courtesy Ergotron Inc.; Courtesy Dell Inc.

With the wide use of portable computers and mobile

devices in the workplace, desktop virtualization is a growing
trend. Desktop virtualization separates the user’s desktop envi-
ronment from his or her physical computer so that each user’s
desktop (stored on a central server) can be delivered to that
individual via any authorized device; the user interacts with the
virtual desktop in the same way he or she would interact with

>Server. A computer used to host programs and data for a small network. >Virtualization. Creating virtual (rather than actual) versions of a
computing resource, such as several separate environments that are located on a single server but function as different servers.
 26 INTRODUCTION

a physical desktop. Desktop virtualization adds flexibility to where and how each worker
performs daily tasks. Virtualization is also used in other computing areas, such as network-
ing and storage.

Mainframe Computers
A mainframe computer is a powerful computer used by many large organizations—
such as hospitals, universities, large businesses, banks, and government offices—that
need to manage large amounts of centralized data. Larger, more expensive, and more
powerful than servers, mainframes can serve thousands of users connected to the main-
frame via personal computers, thin clients, or dumb terminals, in a manner similar to
FIGURE 1-18 the way users connect to servers. Mainframe computers are typically located in climate-
Mainframe controlled data centers (see Figure 1-18) and are connected to the rest of the company
computers. computers via a computer network. During regular business hours, a mainframe typi-
Mainframes are used cally runs the programs needed to meet the different needs of its wide variety of users.
to perform large At night, it commonly performs large processing tasks, such as payroll and billing.
processing tasks for Today’s mainframes are sometimes referred to as high-end servers or enterprise-class
businesses. servers and they usually cost at least several hundred thousand
dollars each.
One issue facing businesses today is the high cost of elec-
tricity to power and cool the mainframes, servers, and personal
computers used in an organization. Consequently, making the
computers located in a business—particularly mainframes
and servers—more energy efficient is a high priority today.
Virtualization is often used today to utilize a company’s main-
frames more efficiently. Another current focus for mainframes
today is ensuring they can handle new and emerging needs (such
Courtesy of IBM Corporation

as having the computational power to process data from smart

meters and other new technology and having the ability to run
mobile and social networking applications) for businesses that
want to offer these apps but want to have the power and security
of a mainframe.

Supercomputers
Some applications require extraordinary speed, accuracy, and processing capabili-
ties—for example, sending astronauts into space, controlling missile guidance systems
and satellites, forecasting the weather, exploring for oil, breaking codes, and designing
and testing new products. Supercomputers—the most powerful and most expensive
type of computer available—were developed to fill this need. Some relatively new
supercomputing applications include hosting extremely complex Web sites (such as
search sites and social networking sites) and three-dimensional applications (such as
3D medical imaging, 3D image projections, and 3D architectural modeling). Unlike
mainframe computers, which typically run multiple applications simultaneously to
serve a wide variety of users, supercomputers generally run one program at a time, as
fast as possible.
Conventional supercomputers can cost several million dollars each. They tend to be
very large and contain a large number of CPUs. For example, the Titan supercomputer
shown in Figure 1-19 occupies 4,352 square feet of floor space and contains 299,008

>Mainframe computer. A computer used in large organizations (such as hospitals, large businesses, and colleges) that need to manage large
amounts of centralized data and run multiple programs simultaneously. >Supercomputer. The fastest, most expensive, and most powerful type of
computer.
 CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION TO THE WORLD OF COMPUTERS 27

CPUs. This supercomputer is being installed at the U.S.

Department of Energy Oak Ridge National Laboratory and
is expected to be used for a variety of scientific research,

INT
including climate change and astrophysics; its speed is
expected to give researchers unparalleled accuracy in their

Courtesy of Oak Ridge National Laboratory

simulations and facilitate faster research breakthroughs.
At 17.59 petaflops (quadrillions of floating point operations
or calculations per second) at the present time and expected
to surpass 20 petaflops when completed, Titan is one of the
fastest computers in the world.

COMPUTER NETWORKS AND THE

INTERNET FIGURE 1-19
The Titan
A computer network is a collection of computers and other devices that are connected supercomputer.
together to enable users to share hardware, software, and data, as well as to communi- Supercomputers are
cate electronically with each other. Computer networks exist in many sizes and types. For used for specialized
instance, home networks are commonly used to allow home computers to share a single situations in which
printer and Internet connection, as well as to exchange files. Small office networks enable immense processing
workers to access company records stored on a network server, communicate with other speed is required.
employees, share a high-speed printer, and access the Internet (see Figure 1-20). School
networks allow students and teachers to access the Internet and school resources, and large
corporate networks often connect all of the offices or retail stores in the corporation, creat-
ing a network that spans several cities or states. Public wireless networks—such as those
available at some coffeehouses, restaurants, public libraries, and parks—provide Internet
access to individuals via their portable computers and mobile devices; mobile telephone
networks provide Internet access and communications capabilities to smartphone users.
Most computers today connect to a computer network. Chapter 7 discusses networks in
greater detail.

What Are the Internet and the World Wide Web?

The Internet is the largest and most well-known computer network in the world. It is tech-
nically a network of networks because it consists of thousands of networks that can all
access each other via the main backbone infrastructure of the Internet. Individual users
connect to the Internet by connecting their computers or other devices to servers belonging
to an Internet service provider (ISP)—a company that provides Internet access, usually
for a fee. ISPs (which include conventional and mobile telephone companies like AT&T,
Verizon, and Sprint; cable providers like Comcast and Time Warner; and stand-alone ISPs
like NetZero and EarthLink) function as gateways or onramps to the Internet, providing
Internet access to their subscribers. ISP servers are continually connected to a larger net-
work, called a regional network, which, in turn, is connected to one of the major high-
speed networks within a country, called a backbone network. Backbone networks within a
country are connected to each other and to backbone networks in other countries. Together
they form one enormous network of networks—the Internet. Tips for selecting an ISP are
included in Chapter 8.
Millions of people and organizations all over the world are connected to the
Internet. The most common Internet activities today are exchanging e-mail messages

>Computer network. A collection of computers and other hardware devices that are connected together to share hardware, software, and data, as
well as to communicate electronically with one another. >Internet. The largest and most well-known computer network, linking millions of computers
all over the world. >Internet service provider (ISP). A business or other organization that provides Internet access to others, typically for a fee.