UNIT 1

COMPUTER APPLICATONS
1.1 COMPUTER – BASIC CONCEPTS
• A computer is an electronic device that accepts data from the user,
processes it, produces results, displays them to the users, and stores the
results for future usage.
• Data is a collection of unorganized facts & figures and does not provide
any further information regarding patterns, context, etc. Hence data
means "unstructured facts and figures".
• Information is a structured data i.e. organized meaningful and processed
data. To process the data and convert into information, a computer is
used.
• A computer system primarily comprises a central processing unit (CPU),
memory, input/output devices and storage devices. All these components
function together as a single unit to deliver the desired output.
• A computer system comes in various forms and sizes. It can vary from a
high-end server to personal desktop, laptop, tablet computer, or a
smartphone.

1.2 FUNCTIONS OF COMPUTERS

A computer performs the following functions −
Input Data
• Data is fed into computer through various input devices like keyboard,
mouse, digital pens, etc. Input can also be fed through devices like CD-
ROM, pen drive, scanner, etc.
Processing the information
• Operations on the input data are carried out based on the instructions
provided in the programs.
Storing the information
• After processing, the information gets stored in the primary or secondary
storage area.
Information output
• The processed information and other details are communicated to the
outside world through output devices like monitor, printer, etc.

1.3 CHARACTERISTICS OF A COMPUTER

Speed:
• Computers can process data and execute instructions at incredibly high
speeds. They perform millions or billions of calculations per second,
allowing for rapid completion of tasks.
Accuracy:
• Computers are highly accurate in their operations, as long as they are
given correct instructions and data. They perform calculations and data
processing with precision, minimizing human error.
Storage:
• Computers have the ability to store vast amounts of data. They use
various storage media, such as hard drives, SSDs, and cloud storage, to
retain information for long periods.
Automation:
• Once programmed, computers can perform repetitive tasks automatically
without human intervention. This feature is crucial for tasks that require
consistency and reliability.
Versatility:
• Computers are highly versatile and can be used for a wide range of
applications, from word processing and gaming to complex simulations
and data analysis.
Diligence:
• Unlike humans, computers do not suffer from fatigue or loss of
concentration. They can perform repetitive tasks continuously without
experiencing decreases in performance or accuracy.
Connectivity:
• Computers can connect to networks and communicate with other devices
and systems. This connectivity enables functions such as internet
browsing, email communication, and data sharing.
Programmability:
• Computers can be programmed to perform a variety of tasks based on
user requirements. This allows them to run different software applications
and adapt to new tasks through programming.
Data Manipulation:
• Computers can process and manipulate data in various ways, including
sorting, filtering, and analysing. They can handle complex calculations
and data transformations efficiently.
Reliability:
• When maintained properly, computers are highly reliable. They can
perform tasks consistently and with high uptime, making them
dependable tools for personal and professional use.
Reproducibility:
• Computers can reproduce the same task multiple times with consistent
results. This reproducibility is essential for tasks that require
standardization and accuracy.
Cost-Efficiency:
• Although the initial cost of purchasing a computer can be high, they can
be cost-effective in the long run due to their efficiency, speed, and ability
to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.

1.4 ADVANTAGES OF COMPUTER

High Speed
One of the reasons for the improvement in the quality of life is the
personal computer's speed.
The modern computer offers great speed, helping us to do our tasks
within a matter of seconds.
Let's say you want to watch a video. You'll just go to YouTube and find
the required video within seconds.
Accuracy
Humans make errors. Hence, while performing complex calculations, we
check once with the calculator.
The fact that computers are extremely accurate makes them quite reliable.
You'll trust the information or answers that a calculator gives just due to its
accuracy.
Automation
A lot of tasks can be automated, saving a lot of time.
For example, instead of manually calculating some values like the mean
or median of a large dataset, we just use Excel. This saves a lot of time,
ensuring 100% accuracy.
Storage
The storage capacity of computers is usually in Giga-Bytes (GBs) or
more. We can store videos, images, games, etc., on our computers and access
them easily after downloading them.
Ease of Access
Let's say we have to search for a book in a library, and we don't know
anything except the name of the book.
It would be an arduous task. But, on a computer, just type the name of
the file, and voila! This ease of access provided by our personal computer
contributes towards saving our time and efforts.
Multitasking
Multitasking means working on multiple tasks simultaneously. Suppose
you read an article online and you need to write down the meanings of the
words that are unfamiliar. You can search on Google, note down the meaning on
a Word file, and continue reading the article. This is one example of
multitasking offered by computers.
Better understanding of data
A computer supports a lot of tools for data analysis and mining.
Organizations make use of the benefit of computers to support data analysis and
visualization helpful for decision making.
Reduced Cost for Online Ventures
Affordable computers and laptops with internet connectivity are a boon
for start-ups that function online. It lowers the cost by reducing infrastructure,
inventory, and rent expenses. All that they need is a team with laptops and
internet connectivity, along with a software license relevant to their industry.
1.5 LIMITATIONS OF COMPUTERS
1.Online Cyber-Crimes
As with any device, cybercrimes occur on computers. Data stealing is one of the
major threats in the world of computers. It may occur online or via an offline
removable device like a USB.
2. Health-Issues
Prolonged use of personal computers results in many health-related issues. Eye
strain, headache, back pain, etc. are some of them.
3. Fake News

Computers enable a wide array of data-sharing options. But this becomes a

medium for the spread of spurious news. Many cases are there when fake news
is shared among people using messaging apps.

4. E-waste
The use of computers is nothing but a form of e-waste. They contribute
negatively by releasing harmful toxic materials. Additionally, computers are not
easy to dispose of.

5. Lack of Concentration and Irritation

Multitasking makes our lives easier, but it comes with its disadvantages. We try
to focus on multiple tasks and notifications. This leads to a decrease in attention
span and a lack of concentration on one particular task. Also, addictive games
played on the computer contribute to irritability when not allowed to play.

1.6 TYPES OF COMPUTERS

Computers can be generally classified by size and power as follows, though
there is considerable overlap:
• Mainframe: A powerful multi-user computer capable of supporting many
hundreds or thousands of users simultaneously.
• Supercomputer: An extremely fast computer that can perform hundreds
of millions of instructions per second.
• Minicomputer: A multi-user computer capable of supporting up to
hundreds of users simultaneously.
• Workstation: A powerful, single-user computer. A workstation is like a
personal computer, but it has a more powerful microprocessor and, in
general, a higher-quality monitor.
• Personal computer: A small, single-user computer based on a
microprocessor
1. Supercomputer
• Supercomputer is a broad term for one of the fastest computers currently
available.
• Supercomputers are very expensive and are employed for specialized
applications that require immense amounts of mathematical calculations
(number crunching).
• For example, weather forecasting requires a supercomputer. Other uses of
supercomputers scientific simulations, (animated) graphics, fluid dynamic
calculations, nuclear energy research, electronic design, and analysis of
geological data (e.g. in petrochemical prospecting).
• Perhaps the best-known supercomputer manufacturer is Cray Research.
2.Mainframe
• Mainframe was a term originally referring to the cabinet containing the
central processor unit or "main frame" of a room-filling Stone Age batch
machine.
• After the emergence of smaller "minicomputer" designs in the early
1970s, the traditional big iron machines were described as "mainframe
computers" and eventually just as mainframes.
• Nowadays a Mainframe is a very large and expensive computer capable
of supporting hundreds, or even thousands, of users simultaneously.
• The chief difference between a supercomputer and a mainframe is that a
supercomputer channels all its power into executing a few programs as
fast as possible, whereas a mainframe uses its power to execute many
programs concurrently.
• In some ways, mainframes are more powerful than supercomputers
because they support more simultaneous programs. But supercomputers
can execute a single program faster than a mainframe.
3.Minicomputer
• It is a midsize computer.
• In the past decade, the distinction between large minicomputers and small
mainframes has blurred, however, as has the distinction between small
minicomputers and workstations.
• But in general, a minicomputer is a multiprocessing system capable of
supporting from up to 200 users simultaneously.
4.Workstation
• It is a type of computer used for engineering applications (CAD/CAM),
desktop publishing, software development, and other types of
applications that require a moderate amount of computing power and
relatively high-quality graphics capabilities.
• Workstations generally come with a large, high-resolution graphics
screen, at large amount of RAM, built-in network support, and a
graphical user interface.
• Most workstations also have a mass storage device such as a disk drive,
but a special type of workstation, called a diskless workstation, comes
without a disk drive.
• The most common operating systems for workstations are UNIX and
Windows NT. Like personal computers, most workstations are single-user
computers.
• However, workstations are typically linked together to form a local-area
network, although they can also be used as stand-alone systems.
• N.B: In networking, workstation refers to any computer connected to a
local-area network. It could be a workstation or a personal computer.
5. Personal computer:
• It can be defined as a small, relatively inexpensive computer designed for
an individual user.
• In price, personal computers range anywhere from a few hundred pounds
to over five thousand pounds.
• All are based on the microprocessor technology that enables
manufacturers to put an entire CPU on one chip.
• Businesses use personal computers for word processing, accounting,
desktop publishing, and for running spreadsheet and database
management applications.
• At home, the most popular use for personal computers is for playing
games and recently for surfing the Internet.
• Personal computers first appeared in the late 1970s.
• One of the first and most popular personal computers was the Apple II,
introduced in 1977 by Apple Computer.
 • Today, the world of personal computers is basically divided between
Apple Macintoshes and PCs.
• The principal characteristics of personal computers are that they are
single-user systems and are based on microprocessors.
• However, although personal computers are designed as single-user
systems, it is common to link them together to form a network. In terms
of power, there is great variety.
• At the high end, the distinction between personal computers and
workstations has faded.
• High-end models of the Macintosh and PC offer the same computing
power and graphics capability as low-end workstations by Sun
Microsystems, Hewlett-Packard, and DEC.

1.7 APPLICATION OF COMPUTER IN BUSINESS

1. Inventory Management
• Inventory management is the first area where computer application is
essential. As an owner or manager, record keeping becomes quite
important to prevent loss.
2. Accounting
• Accounting is the second function where accuracy is very important.
Whenever you perform any kind of accounting task– and you have got
nothing that a paper and a pen – and you are relying completely on your
brainpower, hence there are higher chances of making an error.
Accounting software will help to prevent this from happening.
• This software allows the business to accurately and quickly get small and
large-scale pictures of the company’s financial condition. All employees
have to input their financial information in the software and – just with
some clicks –employees know everything about the financial health of
their business operations.
3. Customer Relationship Management (CRM)
• Customer Relationship Management is an important Computer
Application in business that helps you to manage customer data.
 • CRM plays an important role for a big and small organizations. In the real
environment, Customer Relationship Management is an amazing
contribution for any business.
• Suppose you have ordered any product online, and you call their call
center anytime, the agent will help you and give all information in a
minute.
• It is because of Customer Relationship Management that you can
information within minutes.
4. Document Processing
• Another important aspect where computer applications for business are
essential is document processing.
• This involves converting the specific document from different forms. It
can be the handwritten note to Microsoft Word format and Word Format
to pdf.
5. Logistic & Supply Chain
• Computers can be used for managing the logistics & supply chain in an
organization.
• This helps to keep a record of outward and inward logistics and this helps
an organization to track down their consignment or shipment across the
world.
6. Graphics and Design
• You do not have to hire a professional graphic artist for creating
professional-looking graphics and design for your business.
• Certain tools like desktop publishing and image editors and applications
will help beginners to create Web buttons or banners, create marketing
materials, draw logos, improve photos and make newsletters.
• Some programs like Open Office Impress and PowerPoint will help you
to create powerful business presentations just by clicking the buttons &
dragging your mouse.
• The video editing programs give you the power to create your company
videos, which you may use for marketing and advertising. Computers can
connect you to the Internet where you may download the free graphics,
which you may customize easily.
7. Business Communication
• It is one obvious fact that communication is one important part of
business management.
• Effective communication with your suppliers, colleagues, clients and
managers helps your entire business to run efficiently as well as helps to
know their needs and interests for the business well-being.
• Computers can be used where communication is no longer restricted to
the location of communicating with people.
• It is very important for the big organizations that might have branches not
just in various parts of a city but in other states and countries.
8. Sales Analysis
• For any business, sales play a very important role and decide the real
growth of a company.
• With help of the computer, you may do the sales analysis. You will be
able to calculate how much of sales happened in the financial, expense or
how far and ahead of the last financial year.
• You can install a lot of software on your computer as well as produce the
right sales analysis of the business. Some popular software includes-
Sharp spiring active campaign, Looker, Groove, Microsoft Office, and
more.
9. Budgeting & Forecasting
• Computers are used for preparing detailed budgets as well as corporate
forecasts.
• The accounting software allows people with limited computer know-how
to develop budgets that can help to keep their company on the proper
track.
• They will be used for forecasting future sales as well as business
expansions. The spreadsheet programs like Excel can be used in
budgeting or forecasting.
1.8 HARDWARE
• Definition: Hardware refers to the physical components of a computer
system that you can touch and see.
• Examples:
o Central Processing Unit (CPU): The "brain" of the computer that
performs calculations and executes instructions.
o Memory (RAM): Volatile memory used for temporary storage of
data and instructions that the CPU needs while performing tasks.
o Storage Devices: Hard drives (HDDs) or solid-state drives (SSDs)
used for long-term data storage.
o Input Devices: Devices like keyboards, mice, and scanners that
allow users to input data into the computer.
o Output Devices: Devices such as monitors and printers that
display or output data from the computer.
o Motherboard: The main circuit board that connects all hardware
components and facilitates communication between them.

1.9 FIRMWARE:
• Definition: Firmware is a specialized type of software that is embedded
directly into hardware components to control and manage their
operations. It is stored in non-volatile memory, meaning it remains even
when the computer is turned off.
• Examples:
o BIOS/UEFI: Basic Input/Output System or Unified Extensible
Firmware Interface that initializes hardware during the booting
process and provides runtime services for operating systems and
programs.
o Embedded Systems: Firmware in devices like routers, printers,
and cameras that controls their functions and features.
 • Characteristics:
Firmware is usually less frequently updated than regular software
and is often updated to fix bugs, improve functionality, or add new
features.

1.10 LIVEWARE:
• Definition: Liveware refers to the human element in computing—the
users who interact with the computer and its systems.
• Examples:
o End Users: Individuals who use computers for various tasks, from
personal computing to professional work.
o IT Professionals: Technicians, developers, and system
administrators who manage and maintain computer systems.
• Characteristics:
Liveware encompasses the skills, knowledge, and interactions of
people with technology, emphasizing the importance of human input in
the effectiveness of computer systems.

1.11 SOFTWARE
• Definition: Software is a collection of programs, data, and instructions
that tell the hardware how to perform specific tasks. It is intangible and
exists as code written by programmers.
• Examples:
o Operating System (OS): The software that manages hardware
resources and provides services for other software. Examples
include Windows, macOS, and Linux.
o Applications: Programs designed for end-users to perform specific
tasks, such as word processors (e.g., Microsoft Word), web
browsers (e.g., Chrome), and games.
o Utilities: Software tools that help manage and tune the computer
system, such as antivirus programs, disk cleanup tools, and backup
software.
 • Characteristics:
Software is flexible and can be updated, modified, or replaced to
improve functionality or adapt to new needs. It’s essential for making
hardware usable and performing desired tasks.

1.12 OPERATING SYSTEM AND ITS OVERVIEW

• The operating system (OS) is a crucial software component that manages
a computer’s hardware and software resources and provides various
services for computer programs.
• An Operating System acts as a communication bridge (interface) between
the user and computer hardware.
• The purpose of an operating system is to provide a platform on which a
user can execute programs conveniently and efficiently.

1.Assembler
• The input to an assembler is an assembly language program.
• The output is an object program plus information that enables the loader
to prepare the object program for execution.
• At one time, the computer programmer had at his disposal a basic
machine that interpreted, through hardware, certain fundamental
instructions.
• He would program this computer by writing a series of ones and Zeros
(Machine language), place them into the memory of the machine.
2.Compiler
• The High-level languages- examples are FORTRAN, COBOL, ALGOL,
and PL/I are processed by compilers and interpreters.
• A compiler is a program that accepts a source program in a “high-level
language “and produces a corresponding object program.
• An interpreter is a program that appears to execute a source program as if
it was machine language.
3.Loader
• A Loader is a routine that loads an object program and prepares it for
execution.
• There are various loading schemes: absolute, relocating, and direct-
linking.
• In general, the loader must load, relocate and link the object program.
• The loader is a program that places programs into memory and prepares
them for execution.
• In a simple loading scheme, the assembler outputs the machine language
translation of a program on a secondary device and a loader places it in
the core.
• Since the loader program is much smaller than the assembler, those make
more core available to the user’s program.
4.Interactive processing
• An interactive processing system is where the tasks on the computer
system require a continual exchange of information between the user and
the computer system. It can be seen as the opposite of batch processing.
5.Multi-tasking
• This isn't just about running more than one application at the same time.
Multi-tasking allows multiple tasks to run concurrently, taking turns using
the resources of the computer.
• This can mean running a couple of applications, sending a document to
the printer and downloading a web page.
6.Multi-access or multi-user
• Modern personal computers can allow multi-user access.
 • A multi-access (or multi-user) system is one where several users can use
the same system together via a LAN.
• The CPU deals with users in turn; clearly the more users, the slower the
response time.
• Generally, however, the processor is so fast that the response time at the
most is a fraction of a second and the user feels they are being dealt with
immediately.
7.Multi-programming
• Multi-programming is a method of operating such that several programs
appear to be running at once.
• The operating system switches jobs in and out of processor time
according to priority.
• For example, while one job is being allocated printer time, another will be
being processed in memory. The processor is so fast that it seems that
many jobs are being processed at the same time.
8.Batch processing
• A batch processing system is where programs or data are collected
together in a batch and processed in one go.
• Typically, the processing of payrolls, electricity bills, invoices and daily
transactions are dealt with this way.
• This method of operation lends itself to jobs with similar inputs,
processing and outputs where no human intervention is needed.
• Jobs are stored in a queue until the computer is ready to deal with them.
Often batch processed jobs are done overnight.
1.13 FUNCTION OF OPERATING SYSTEM
1.Process Management:
• Definition: Manages the execution of processes, which are programs in
execution.
• Functions:
o Process Scheduling: Determines the order in which processes are
executed and allocates CPU time to them.
 o Process Creation and Termination: Handles the creation and
termination of processes.
o Process Synchronization: Manages the coordination of processes
to ensure proper execution order and avoid conflicts.
2. Memory Management:
• Definition: Manages the computer’s memory, including RAM and cache.
• Functions:
o Allocation: Allocates memory space to processes as needed.
o Deallocation: Frees memory when processes are finished.
o Virtual Memory: Uses disk space to extend RAM, allowing for
larger applications and more efficient memory usage.
3. File System Management:
• Definition: Manages files and directories on storage devices.
• Functions:
o File Creation and Deletion: Manages the creation and removal of
files and directories.
o File Access: Handles reading and writing data to files.
o File Organization: Organizes files in a hierarchical structure
(directories and subdirectories).
o File Permissions: Controls access to files and directories, ensuring
security and privacy.
4. Device Management:
• Definition: Manages and controls hardware devices connected to the
computer.
• Functions:
o Device Drivers: Uses drivers to communicate with hardware
devices like printers, disk drives, and keyboards.
o Input/Output Operations: Handles input from input devices and
output to output devices.
o Device Scheduling: Manages the order and timing of device
operations.
5. User Interface (UI):
• Definition: Provides an interface for users to interact with the computer.
• Functions:
o Graphical User Interface (GUI): Provides windows, icons, and
menus to make interaction user-friendly (e.g., Windows, macOS).
o Command-Line Interface (CLI): Allows users to interact with the
system through text-based commands (e.g., Unix/Linux shells).
6. Security and Access Control:
• Definition: Ensures that the computer system and its data are protected
from unauthorized access and threats.
• Functions:
o Authentication: Verifies user identity through login credentials.
o Authorization: Controls user access to resources and files based
on permissions.
o Encryption: Protects data by converting it into a secure format that
is readable only with the correct decryption key.
7. Networking:
• Definition: Manages network connections and communication between
computers.
• Functions:
o Network Protocols: Implements protocols for data transmission
over networks (e.g., TCP/IP).
o Network Configuration: Manages network settings and
connections, including IP addresses and network interfaces.
o Data Transfer: Facilitates data exchange between the computer
and other devices over a network.
8. System Performance Monitoring:
• Definition: Monitors and manages the performance of the computer
system.
• Functions:
o Resource Usage: Tracks CPU, memory, disk, and network usage.
 o Performance Metrics: Provides tools and utilities to monitor
system performance and diagnose issues.
9. Application Support:
• Definition: Provides an environment in which application programs can
run.
• Functions:
o API (Application Programming Interface): Provides a set of
functions and routines for applications to interact with the OS.
o Application Management: Manages the execution and
termination of applications, including handling multitasking.

1.14 TRANSLATOR, INTERPRETER AND COMPILER

Translators, interpreters, and compilers are essential tools in
programming that help convert high-level code written by programmers into a
form that a computer can execute. Here’s an explanation of each:
1. Compiler:
A compiler is a program that translates the entire source code of a high-
level programming language into machine code (binary code) or an intermediate
code all at once before execution.
Characteristics:
• Pre-Execution: The entire program is compiled before execution,
resulting in a separate executable file.
• Performance: Compiled programs generally run faster since the
translation is done beforehand.
• Examples: C, C++, and Rust use compilers.
2. Interpreter:
An interpreter translates high-level source code into machine code line-by-
line or statement-by-statement, and executes it immediately.
Characteristics:
• Real-Time Execution: Translates and executes code simultaneously,
which can be useful for debugging and testing.
 • Performance: Generally slower than compiled code since it translates
each line at runtime.
• Examples: Python, Ruby, and JavaScript use interpreters.
3. Translator (General Term):
In programming, a translator is a broad term that refers to any tool that
converts code written in one programming language into another. This includes
both compilers and interpreters.

1.15 APPLICATION SOFTWARE

Application software refers to programs designed to perform specific
tasks or solve particular problems for the user. It is built to help users
accomplish tasks ranging from word processing to data analysis and
entertainment.
Characteristics:
• Specific Functions: Designed for various user tasks, such as word
processing, spreadsheets, and web browsing.
• User Interaction: Provides interfaces and tools that enable users to
perform specific activities.
• Variety: Includes a wide range of software types, each designed for
different purposes.
Examples:
• Productivity Software: Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint),
Google Workspace.
• Media Software: Adobe Photoshop (graphic design), VLC Media
Player (video playback).
• Web Browsers: Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox.
• Communication Software: Slack, Zoom.
1.16 GENERAL-PURPOSE PACKAGED SOFTWARE
General-purpose packaged software is pre-developed, off-the-shelf
software designed to handle a broad range of tasks that are common to
many users. It is not customized for specific needs but is versatile enough to
be useful to a wide audience.
Characteristics:
• Standard Features: Comes with a set of standard features and
functions that cater to common needs.
• Cost-Effective: Typically less expensive due to economies of scale in
development and distribution.
• Availability: Readily available for purchase or download from
various sources.
• Ease of Use: Often comes with user documentation and support
resources.
Examples:
• Office Suites: Microsoft Office, Google Workspace (includes word
processors, spreadsheets, and presentation software).
• Email Clients: Microsoft Outlook, Mozilla Thunderbird.
• Web Browsers: Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox.
• Media Players: VLC Media Player, Windows Media Player.

1.17 TAILOR-MADE SOFTWARE

Tailor-made software, or custom software, is specially developed to
meet the unique requirements of an individual organization or user. It is
designed from scratch or extensively customized to fit specific business
processes or needs.
Characteristics:
• Customization: Built to meet the precise needs of the user or
organization, including custom features and functionalities.
• Flexibility: Can be modified and extended as requirements change
over time.
• Higher Cost: Typically involves higher costs due to the bespoke
development process.
• Longer Development Time: Requires more time to design, develop,
and implement compared to off-the-shelf software.
Examples:
• Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems: Custom solutions for
managing business operations like finance, supply chain, and human
resources.
• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Systems: Tailored
systems for managing customer interactions and sales processes.
• Healthcare Management Systems: Custom-built software for
managing patient records, appointments, and medical history.
• E-Commerce Platforms: Custom online stores with unique features
and integrations specific to the business’s needs.