CMSC Notes • E.g.

raw materials, energy, data, and human

effort must be secured and organized for
LECTURE 1
processing.
What is a System?
Processing
• Generic definition
• Involves transformation processes that convert
A group of interrelated multiple components or (input) into output.
subsystems that serve a common purpose • E.g. manufacturing process, human breathing
process or mathematical calculations.
• Computer-oriented definition
Output
A group of interrelated components working together
toward a common goal by accepting input and producing • Involves transferring elements that have been
outputs in an organized transformation process. produced by a transformation process to their
ultimate destination.
Two Big Groups • E.g. finished products, human services, and
Natural System and Man-Made System management information must be transmitted
to their human users.
Characteristics of a System
Storage function
• Common goal
• Integration Cybernetic System
• Interaction System with feedback and control components that is
• Inter-dependence self-monitoring and self-regulating system.
• Organization
• Feedback
Types of Systems o Data about performance of a system.
o E.g. data about sales performance is
• Natural and man-made system
feedback to a sales manager.
• Physical and abstract system
• Control
• Open and closed system o Involves monitoring and evaluating
• Probabilistic and deterministic system feedback to determine whether a system
• Parent and candidate system is moving toward achievement of its
Examples of Systems goal.
o Makes necessary adjustments to a
• Biological system’s input and processing
– cell components to ensure that it produces
– human body proper output.
• Mechanical
– water heater Why Study Information Systems (IS)?
– computer • Information technologies improve efficiency and
• Others effectiveness of business processes, managerial
– solar system decision-making, and workgroup collaboration
– mathematics o Strengthen competitive positions in
Three Basic Interacting Components of a System rapidly changing marketplace
according to Function • Internet-based systems nowadays have become
necessary ingredient for business success
Input • Information technologies are playing expanding
• Involves capturing and assembling elements that roles in business
enter the system to be processed.
 ensure
adoption.
What is an Information System? Fundamental Information System Concepts
An organized combination of people, hardware, • Computer networks are systems of information
software, communications networks, data resources, and processing components.
policies and procedures that stores, retrieves, • Business uses of Computer networks are really
transforms, and disseminates information in an interconnected business information systems.
organization. • Developing ways to use computer networks in
• People rely on modern information systems to business includes designing basic components of
communicate with one another using a variety of information systems.
physical devices (hardware), information • Managing information technology emphasizes
quality, business value, and security of an
processing instructions and procedures
(software), communications channels organization’s information systems.
(networks), and stored data (data resources). Fundamental Roles of IS in Business
Three Fundamental Types of IS (Examples and • Support of Business Processes and Operations.
Characteristics)
For example, most retail stores now use computer-based
Personal IS Group IS Enterprise IS information systems to help their employees record
Examples Personal Email, instant Transaction customer purchases, keep track of inventory, pay
productivity messaging, processing
employees, buy new merchandise, and evaluate sales
software, project systems,
decision- management enterprise trends
support system software systems,
• Support of Business Decision Making.
interorganizatio
nal systems For example, decisions about what lines of merchandise
Benefits Improved Increased Increased
need to be added or discontinued and what kind of
productivity collaboration standardization
and ability to investments they require are typically made after an
monitor work analysis provided by computer-based information
Organizati Does not bring At least some Full systems.
onal complements complements complements
compleme with it. Partial must be in must be in place • Support of Strategies for Competitive Advantage.
nts benefits can be place when IS when IS “goes
(including achieved “goes live”. live” For example, store management might make a decision
well- without all Allows users to to install touch-screen kiosks in all stores, with links to the
trained complements implement e-commerce Website for online shopping.
workers, being in place and modify
system complements Asynchronous:
support, over time.
redesigned • Concept of Information as Business Resource
processes, • Data vs. Information and Information vs.
and new Knowledge
decision
• IS vs. IT – What’s the difference?
rights)
Manager’s Ensure that Demonstrate Identify and put
LECTURE 2
role employees how into place the
understand and technology full set of Information System Model
connect to the can be used. organizational
change. Set norms for complements • A business is an organizational system where
Encourage use participation. prior to economic resources of (input) are transformed
Challenge adoption.
by various organization processes (processing)
workers to find Intervene
new uses forcefully and into goods and services (output).
continually to
 • Information Systems provide information Data (include knowledge base)
(feedback) on the operations of the system to
• Transformed by information processing activities
management for the direction and maintenance
into a variety of information products for end
of the system (control), as it exchanges inputs
users
and outputs with its environment.
• Procedure descriptions, customer records,
What is a Computer-based Information System (CBIS)? employee files, inventory Database

Single set of hardware, software, databases, networks, Network resources

people, and procedures that are configured to collect,
manipulate, store, and process data into information. • Include communications media and networks
• Information processing consists of input,
What is a Technology Infrastructure? processing, output, storage, and control
activities
Hardware, software, databases, networks, people, and
procedures that are configured to collect, manipulate, • Communications media, communicati ons
store, and process data into information. processors, network access and control software

Information Products
• Set of shared IS resources that form the
foundation of each CBIS. • Management reports, and business documents
using text and graphics displays, audio responses
What is a Procedure?
and paper forms
Set of steps that need to be followed to achieve specific
Major Capabilities of CBIS
end result, e.g. enter customer order, pay supplier
invoice, or request current inventory report. • Perform high-speed, high-volume, numerical
computations
• Good procedures describe how to achieve
• Provide fast, accurate, and inexpensive
desired end result, who does what and when,
what to do in the event something goes wrong. communication w/n and between organizations
• Automate both semiautomatic business
Basic Resources/Components of Computer-based processes and manual tasks
Information Systems (CBIS) • Store huge amounts of information in easy-to-
access, yet small space
People
• Allow quick and inexpensive access to vast
• End user (any one else who uses IS) amounts of information, worldwide
• IS specialists (system analyst, programmer, • Facilitate interpretation of vast amounts of data
computer operators) • Enable communication and collaboration
anywhere, anytime
Hardware
• Increase effectiveness and efficiency of people
• Machines (computers, video monitors, magnetic working in groups in one place or in several
disk drive, printers, output scanners) locations, anywhere
• Storage Media (floppy disk, magnetic tape, • Facilitate work in hazardous environments
optical disks, paper forms, plastic card)
Peer Discussions #1 (5-10 minutes)
Software
• In what way the aforementioned CBIS major
• Programs (operating system, spreadsheet capabilities
programs, word processing programs, payroll • support the following 5 general business
program) objectives:
• Procedures (data entry procedures, error o Improving productivity
correction procedures, paycheck distribution o Reducing costs
procedures) o Improving decision making
o Enhancing customer relationships
 o Developing new strategic applications (and software) investments for their areas of
business
What is System Failure?
o Marketing, sales, and human resources
• An information system: often help IS specialists assess
o that does not perform as expected opportunities to apply computer
o is not operational at a specified time hardware (and software) and evaluate
o that cannot be used the way it was various options and features
intended o Finance and accounting must keep an
• Usually accompanied by multiple, parallel eye or guard against overspending, yet
manual procedures be willing to invest in computer
hardware (and software) when and
Causes of IS Success or Failures (late, parallel process) where business conditions warrant it
• Recognize that systems are developed in the first Three (3) Major Interrelated Factors in Deciding about
place because of: Hardware
o powerful external environment
o powerful internal forces • Capability
• Organizations with similar environments and o Computational power and
institutional features, one succeeds and other appropriateness for the task
fails in the same IS innovation. • Speed
o Why? • Cost
o Different patterns of implementation
Major Categories of Computers According to Size
Asynchronous:
• Supercomputers
• The Digital Revolution • Mainframes
• Digital Convergence • Mini-/Midrange computers
• Digital Economy • Microcomputers
o Desktop PC (includes PC Workstations)
LECTURE 3 o Portable PC (Notebook/Laptop,
Computer Hardware Netbook, Tablet)
o Information Appliance (PDA/Palmtop,
Physical equipment used for input, processing, output, Smartphone)
and storage activities of computer system
Types of Computer
Why Learn About Hardware (and Software)?
Supercomputer
Organizations invest in computer and software
• World’s fastest computer at time it is built
• Improve work productivity • Can perform tasks that would not be practical for
• Increase revenue (by reduce costs) other computers
• Provide better customer service, speed up time o Breaking codes
to market o Modelling worldwide weather systems
• Facilitate collaboration among employees
Mainframe computer
Role of Managers
• Large and expensive computer capable of
• Regardless of their career field and educational simultaneously processing data for hundreds or
background - expected to help define business thousands of users
needs that hardware (and software) must meet • Generally used by businesses, universities, or
• Must be able to ask relevant questions and governments to provide centralized storage,
evaluate options when considering hardware processing, and management of large amount of
 data where reliability, data security, and substantive Intel Xeon processor
centralized control are necessary Core i7 or two
A graphics card graphics Almost always
Personal computer is usually an aftermarket
included, and option,
• Designed to meet computing needs of individual
will power and workstations
for home, school, or small business use
play high end can usually
• Typically provides access to wide variety of games support SLI
software architecture for
o Word processing more than one
o Photo editing card
o Budgeting and financial management Usually includes storage PCI-e SSD
o Email a hefty 1TB hard storage is
o Internet access drive or 256- making its way
512GB SSD. into base
Personal computer Consider RAID if systems. Super-
• Desktop computers you have lots of fast, and super
data useful for
o System unit can be housed in vertical
content creation
case (tower) or horizontal case work, including
o Some manufacturers create all-in-one VR.
unit Usually starts at RAM Many
• Portable computers 4GB and inches workstations
o Notebook/laptop computers up. For mid- start with high
o Netbooks range loadouts, as
o Tablet computers performance, much as 16-
o Handheld computers you can operate 32GB of RAM
with
Workstations somewhere
between 4-8GB
• Usually powerful desktop computers designed
of RAM
for specialized tasks that require lot of processing These come in design You’re pretty
speed different shapes much looking at
o Medical imaging and sizes, a tower or a box.
o Full-motion video graphics including sleek- No one buys a
o Computer-aided design (CAD) all-in-ones and workstation to
• Most are designed for creating and displaying 3D fashion-first impress the
and animated graphics laptops eyes.
Web surfing, usage Creative
Desktop PC vs Workstation gaming, professionals,
Budget friendly, price You pay for spreadsheets, high-end
although a power. mid-range graphic design
higher end Configurations illustration, work, VR and
processor and can jump into animation and gaming content
graphics option the thousands. design, financial creation,
approaches a compiling, resource hungry
low-end general usage power
workstation. crunching usage
From a processor Starting with an
consumer Intel Core i7, but
appropriate should include
Intel Core i3 up at least an Intel
to a more
Notebook Computer vs. Netbook Byte

Notebook • 8-bit string of data

• Needed to represent any one alphanumeric
• Ability to move computer from place to place
character or simple mathematical operation
such as from home to school
• Clamshell design (i.e. open-close on hinge) Computers Use Binary System to Store and Compute
Numbers
Netbook

• Offers more portability than standard notebook

computer
o Typically only 7/8 in. wide and weigh ~2
lbs.
• Scaled-down versions of standard clamshell-
style notebook computers

Summary Types of Computers

Different Types of Computer The Alphabet in Binary Code

Super Computer Fundamentals (Storage Capacity)

• PARAM 10000 which was developed in India by • Kilobyte (KB): approximately 1000 bytes
C-DAC, Pune • Megabyte (MB): approximately 1M bytes
• IBM Deep Blue which was specially designed for (1,048,576 bytes, or 1,024 x 1,024).
playing chess • Gigabyte (GB): actually 1,073,741,824 bytes
• Tianhe-Z was developed in China (1,024 x 1,024 x 1,024 bytes)
• Terabyte: 1 trillion bytes
Mainframe Computer
• Petabyte: Approximately 1015 bytes
• IBM Z890 • Exabyte: Approximately 1018 bytes
• Hitachi’s Z800
Units of Computer Memory Measurements
Mini Computer
• 1 Bit = Binary Digit
• VAX • 8 Bits = 1 Byte
• Texas Instrument TI-990 • 1024 Bytes = 1 KB (Kilo Byte)
• 1024 KB = 1 MB (Mega Byte)
Micro Computer
• 1024 MB = 1 GB (Giga Byte)
• Desktop Computers (PC) • 1024 GB = 1 TB (Terra Byte)
• Laptop • 1024 TB = 1 PB (Peta Byte)
• PDA | Paimtop • 1024 PB = 1 EB (Exa Byte)
• Tablet PC • 1024 EB = 1 ZB (Zetta Byte)
• 1024 ZB = 1 YB (Yotta Byte)
Computer Storage Fundamentals
• 1024 YB = 1 (Bronto Byte)
Bit • 1024 Brotobyte = 1 (Geop Byte)

• Short for binary digit (0s and 1s) Geop Byte is the highest memory
• Only data that CPU can process
Data Storage

What is a data storage system?

• Made up of two main parts: storage device and

storage medium
o Storage device is equipment that stores
and retrieves data from its storage
medium (e.g. hard drives, card readers,
tape drives, flash drives, CD drives, DVD
drives, and solid-state card readers)
o Storage medium is technology that holds
data (hard disk, tape, memory cards,
flash drives, CDs, and DVDs)

Examples of Storage Devices and Storage Media

Types and Usage of Computer Memory

Types of Storage

Primary (for system use)

• Internal to CPU
• Temporarily stores data and program
instructions during processing
• E.g. RAM, Cache

Secondary (for end-users) Storage Media

• External to CPU Cost, Speed, and Capacity Trade-offs

• Stores data and programs permanently (until
deleted or uninstalled) for future use
• E.g. hard drives, flash drives, CDs, DVDs
Sequential vs. Direct Access Storage • Targeting amount of basic instructions
programmed into chip
Direct Access (also called Random Access)
General Trends in Hardware Technology
• Ability of device to jump directly to requested
data Cost-performance ratio of chips: Improvement by factor
• Access any piece of data in non-sequential of at least 100
manner by locating it using data’s address
• Computer will cost the same as it costs today in
• E.g. hard drives (HDs), solid-state drives (SSDs),
~10 years, but will be over 50 times more
CD/DVD drives
powerful (in terms of processing, speed,
Sequential Access memory, storage, etc)
• At the same time, labor costs could double, so
• Access data in sequence to locate particular
cost- performance ratio of computers vs. manual
piece of data – from beginning to end of medium
work will improve by factor of 100
• E.g. tape drive (reel or cartridge medium)
o Computers will have increasingly greater
comparative advantage over people in
performing certain types of work

Storage

• Devices are becoming much smaller and storing

increasing amount of information

Self-healing Computers

• Computers that have ability to repair themselves

Asynchronous and keep running without human intervention
• E.g. Bluesky – supercomputer at National Center
• Types of Networks and Network Devices for Atmospheric Research, USA that performs
• Which is better: Wired or wireless network? over 6 teraflops
• What is the difference between hub, switch, and
Sensor Webs
router network devices?
• Modem vs. Router network devices – what is the • Group of pods (small metal boxes) set up to
difference? collect various kinds of information,
• Storage Area Network (SAN) vs. Network communicate with nearby pods, and in some
Attached Storage (NAS) vs. Direct Attached cases, communicate wirelessly with outside
Storage (DAS) – which storage option to choose devices
for your business need? o Each pod contains microprocessor,
• Supplementary materials cellular communications technology, and
various sensing components (e.g. to
LECTURE 4
sense temperature, moisture, motion,
Moore’s Law pressure, etc)
• Collect information and interact with
Prediction made by Gordon Moore, Intel Corp. co- environment based on what it detect
founder, in 1965 that microprocessor complexity would
double every two years resulting from following changes:

• Increasing miniaturization of transistors

• Making physical layout of chip’s components as
compact and efficient as possible
• Using materials for chip that improve
conductivity (flow) of electricity
Nanotechnology Quantum Computing Classical Computing
Calculates with qubits, Calculates with
• Creation of materials, devices, and systems at which can represent 0 transistors, which can
scale of 1 to 100 nanometers (billionths of a and 1 at the same time represent either 0 or 1
meter) Power increases Power increases in a 1:1
• In near future, still-experimental computers will exponentially in relationship with the
be constructed on nanotechnology scale that proportion to the number number of transistors
require very little power, yet will have huge of qubits
storage capacities and be immune to computer Quantum computers have Classical computers have
viruses, crashes, and other problems high error rates and need low error rates and can
to be kept ultracold operate at room temp
Quantum Computing Well suited for tasks like Most everyday processing
optimization problems, is best handled by
• Uses basic quantum states of matter as
data analysis, and classical computers
fundamental unit of computing simulations
• If successful, quantum computers will be
hundreds of times faster than today ’s
supercomputers Strategic Hardware Issues

Wireless Sensor Networks for Water Quality Monitoring • What the hardware enables?
• How it is advancing?
• How rapidly it is advancing?

• In many industries, exploiting computer

hardware is key to competitive advantage

Considerations for Successful Hardware Exploitation

(Peer Discussions: 10 minutes)

How do organizations keep up with the rapid

price/performance advancements in hardware?

• How often should an organization upgrade its

computers and storage systems
• Will upgrades increase personal and
Application of Nanotechnology in Medicine organizational productivity?
• How organizations measure such increases?

Portable computers and advanced communicati on

technologies have enabled employees to work from
home or from anywhere

• Will these new work styles benefit employees

and the organization?
• How do organizations manage such work styles?

Asynchronous

• Current Trends in Computer Hardware Platform

• Choosing computer hardware for your business
• Supplementary materials
LECTURE 5 o Run your computer and all programs on
it
Significance of Software
o Diagnose problem w/ hard drive, printer,
• Computer hardware is only as effective as the or Internet connection
instruction (i.e., contained in software) we give • Application Software helps carry out tasks such
it. as sending email, getting street-by-street driving
• Software comprises a much larger percentage of directions, editing photo, or working a report
the cost of modern computer systems.
Graphical User Interface (GUI)
• Complexity and price of software have
dramatically increased. Give computer commands using pointing devices and
• Overall trends in software: graphics such as menus, buttons, icons, links, and more
o increased complexity
Summary
o increasing number of defects
o increased cost,
o increased usage of open source
software.

Software (or Computer Programs)

Gives computer instructions and data necessary to carry

out tasks

• Used to create documents or graphics

• Used to help schedule classes or to listen to
music
• Makes it possible to communicate using
Computers

Are there different types of software?

YES!

Software usually categorized as either system software or

application software

• System Software used by computer for tasks that

help computer work
Relationship between Major Types of Software and Software Selection Factors
User

Software Selection Factors Priority (Peer Discussions #6:

10-15 minutes)

• Arrange the factors according to your priority in

Is there software specifically designed to analyze data?
considering for a software purchase
YES, Mathematical modeling software (e.g. MathCAD and • Justify why your group has chosen such hierarchy
Mathematica) • Let somebody present your group’s choice of the
priority
• Provides tools for solving wide range of math,
science, and engineering problems Asynchronous
• Students, teachers, mathematicians, and
engineers use it to see patterns that can be • How do Operating Systems (OS) work?
difficult to identify in columns of numbers • What is a utility software?
• Supplementary materials
Statistical software
LECTURE 6
• Use to analyze large data sets in order to discover
relationships and pattern What is a Spreadsheet?
• Helpful tool for summarizing survey results, test Application software program that displays data (text &
scores, experiment results, or population data numbers) in table (format) called worksheet
Open Systems • E.g., MS Excel
Refers to a model of computing products that work What Uses of MS Excel Spreadsheet to You?
together.
• Prepare budgets
• Can be achieved through the use of same OS with
• Create financial statements
compatible software on all different computers
• Create graphs
that would interact with one another in an
• Manage inventory
organization.
• Create flat databases
• Complimentary approach is to produce
• And, more ...
application software that will run across all
computer platforms (e.g., using the Java
language).

If hardware, OS, and application software are designed as

open systems, the user would be able to purchase the
best software for the job without worrying whether it will
run on particular hardware.
MS Excel’s GUI • Alt+Page Down: moving active cell right one
page
• Alt+Page Up - moving active cell left one page
• Ctrl+Home - moving the active cell to cell A1
• Ctrl+End - moving active cell to last used cell in
worksheet

Navigating between Excel’s Worksheets

Interacting w/ Excel’s GUI (1)

Worksheet

• Grid w/ columns & rows

• Term worksheet used interchangeably w/
spreadsheet

Worksheet Tab

• Tab that identifies each open worksheet located

@lower left corner of screen

Cell

• Intersection of a row and column

Moving Around in Excel’s Worksheets
Active Cell
Use mouse and scroll bars to scroll through the
worksheet in any direction • Cell w/c one is currently working – normally
surrounded by black border
Use ff. keyboard navigational keys on the keyboard:
• Current cursor location in worksheet cell
• Down arrow or Enter - moving active cell one cell
3 Types of Input in a Cell
down
• Up arrow or Shift+ Enter - moving active cell one Label
cell up
• Words, letters, or in combination w/ numbers
• Right arrow or Tab - moving active cell one cell to
• E.g., “CMSC 101”, “9-10:30 morning”
the right
• Left arrow or Shift+Tab - moving active cell one Value
cell to the left Page Down - moving active cell
down one page • Numbers (as constant values)
• Page Up - moving active cell up one page • E.g., 143, 747
Formula 4. Division

• Statement that performs calculation 5. Addition

• E.g., =143+747, =143*2+747, =143+B4
6. Subtraction
Cell Range
Examples
• Group of contiguous cells, or cells close together
• =5+2*7
in sequence
Result = 19
o E.g., A1:A5, B1:F1
• =(5+2)*7
Cell Address (Reference) Result = 49

• Column letter Row number combination such as Formula Example – Single Argument
A1, B2...
• Refers/returns content (in cell address)

Function

• Built-in formula that is shortcut for common

calculations such as
o Addition = SUM =SUM(A1:A10)
o Arithmetic Mean = AVERAGE Common Formula Errors
o And, more ...
#######
Mathematical Operation Symbols
• Column isn’t wide enough to display all cell data
• Addition (+)
• Subtraction (-) #NAME?
• Multiplication (*) • Text in formula isn’t recognized
• Division (/)
• Exponent (^) #VALUE!

Parts of Formula • Error with one or more formula arguments

#DIV/0

• Formula trying to divide value by 0

#REF!

Formula references cell that no longer exists

Relative Referencing in Formula

How do you input a formula?

Combine numbers, cell addresses (references), operation

symbols and/or functions preceded by “=” sign

• E.g., =1+4+3, =A1*B1

Order of Operation in Formula

1. Parentheses

2. Exponents

3. Multiplication
Absolute Referencing in Formula • What navigation keys you have found helpful in
working w/ worksheets with these experiences?
• When keying-in an active cell, which input type
you often committed errors?
• When working w/ formula, which mathematical
operators you have used often in these
experiences? If you did change the order of its
calculation in some instances, how did you do it?
• Have you tried Relative, Absolute, and Mixed
Referencing in inputting a formula from these
experiences? What realizations did you make?

Asynchronous

Mixed Referencing in Formula • MS Excel Number Formats

• Supplementary materials

LEARNING MATERIALS

WEEK 2

1.1. WHAT IS A SYSTEM AND ITS CHARACTERISTICS?

• System is a collection of different components

which work together to achieve a goal.

Main characteristics of a system:

1. common goal

2. integration - different components put together

Keying-in Relative, Absolute, and Mixed References and work together
• Absolute cell reference contains ($) in both Row 3. Interaction - these components communicate
and Column references with each other, send and receive messages to
• Type $ (dollar sign) before Row and/or Column each other so that the system can work.
references
4. interdependence - these components are
• Examples
dependent to one another. if there is a change in
o A1 Relative
one, the others are affected.
o A$1 Column is relative; Row is Constant
o $A1 Row is relative; Column is absolute 5. Organization - right component on the right
o $A$1 BOTH are Absolute place.
Fill Handle Tool 1.2. SYSTEM AND ITS COMPONENTS
• AutoFill feature can be used to create series of All the systems have common components:
numbers, dates, or text based on a pattern
1. Input, processors, output
Reflection Questions
2. Environment - are the factors under which a
• Which uses of MS Excel you have experienced a system works
lot as student?
a. internal - the environment under the control of the
• Which of MS Excel’s basic features have you
system
encountered in these experiences?
b. external - the environment outside the control of the 2.1. THE CONCEPT OF INFORMATION AS A RESOURCE
system https://ecomputernotes.com/mis/decision-
making/information-as-a-resource
3. boundary - separates the internal from the
external environment In earlier times, the main levels of business capability
and change were strategy, structure, processes and
4. interface - points in the system boundary.
people but in today’s time another level has been added
Internal environment can interact with the
to the four that already exist. This invisible asset works as
external, vice-versa.
a key resource for the organization.
5. Feedback and control - we measure the
In today’s competitive business environment, the key
performance of the system to ensure whether
differentiator is the way organizations leverage the
the system can achieve the goal. We take steps
power of information. Material resources, human
so the system can reach its goal (control).
resources, monetary resources can only be utilized to the
1.3. WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT SYSTEM TYPES? full if information is managed. Business organizations
have therefore started looking at MIS beyond just as a
1. Physical and Abstract System support function. Information is now being used to
• Physical: systems which we can touch and see provide insights to decision-makers so that better and
informed decisions can be taken. Entire subject areas like
• Abstract: systems which we know are there but data mining, data warehousing and business intelligence
cannot touch physically have been developed on this premise of information as a
2. Open and Closed Systems resource. More and more organizations are now digging
into their own data to make predictions about the future.
• Open: can take input from the external Decision-making techniques have vastly evolved as well
environment and can modify itself, lasts for and rely more on analytics for support rather than just
longer duration since they keep on changing. ex: judgment and experience as was the case in the past.
Samsung Today the modern manager has the luxury of scenario
analysis, what if analysis, business dashboard, etc., to
• Closed: do not interact with their external
visualize the effects of his decisions on the various
environment, not taking input, do not change
simulated scenarios. Scenarios can now be built so that
according to the change in the external.
managers not only have a single plan of action but
ultimately collapses. ex: Nokia
multiple plans to suit multiple other likely scenarios. This
3. Probabilistic and Deterministic System has helped to reduce uncertainty and therefore improve
the bottom line.
• Probabilistic: systems in which we cannot predict
the output Some important concepts need to be defined here
before we move forward. Concepts like information,
• Deterministic: systems in which we can predict,
management, information systems and information
run in routine
technology are used often to describe information
4. Natural and Man-Made System related concepts and issues used in an organization. They
are defined below:
• Natural: exists naturally, made by nature. ex:
seasons Information Management is a business and process
driven concept in which the focus is on leveraging
• Man Made: made by man. ex: car information for using it to take decisions, on the quality
5. Parent and Candidate System of such information that is provided and the integrity of
the information. it is the scientific organization of data
• Parent: Old system already working, current (by capturing storing, analyzing, retrieving and
• Candidate: New system which will replace the disseminating) and information for use within an
old system organization.
3.1. DATA-INFORMATION-KNOWLEDGE • Diverse Expertise Levels: Knowledge varies
greatly among individuals; some may have basic
Summary
understanding, while others possess deep,
Explore the distinctions between data, information, and intuitive insight that comes from years of
knowledge, highlighting their roles in understanding and experience.
business contexts.
• Problem-Solving: The application of knowledge is
Highlights essential for resolving challenges and improving
processes, making it a critical asset in any field.
• Data: Unstructured facts and figures without
organization. • Future Knowledge Management: Gaining
insights into different types of knowledge will be
• Information: Organized data that conveys explored further, emphasizing the importance of
specific meaning and purpose. managing knowledge effectively for
• Knowledge: Deep understanding based on organizational success.
experience and context. -experience, values,
contextual information, insight, intuition

• Contextual Understanding: Knowledge is rooted

in real-world applications and insights.

• Experience Levels: Knowledge varies from basic

to expert levels.

• Application: Knowledge enables problem-solving

and decision-making.
3.2. IS VS IT
• Knowledge Management: Future discussions will
dive into types of knowledge and their The difference between Information Technology (IT) and
implications. Information System (IS)

Key Insights Information Systems (IS)

• Data as Foundation: Data serves as the base layer • A set of interrelated components that collect,
of understanding; without organization, it and disseminate data and information and
remains meaningless. It’s crucial to recognize provide feedback to meet an objective
that raw data must be processed to gain value. • Technology, People, Process
• Transforming Data into Information: Organizing Elements of Information System (IS)
and contextualizing data turns it into actionable
1. Hardware
information, making it vital for informed
2. Software
decision-making in businesses.

• Knowledge vs. Information: Knowledge involves Technology

not only facts but also the ability to apply them 3. People
effectively, indicating that it’s not just about
having information but understanding how to People
use it. 4. Data Collection
• Context Matters: Knowledge is enhanced by 5. Information Generation
context, meaning experiences and environments Process
shape how we interpret information and apply it
in real-life situations.
Information Technology (IT) • Companies often misapply IT investment
strategies to big data solutions.
The hardware and software that make Information
Systems possible • Business intelligence emerges from collaborative
data interpretation, not just technology.
Relationship/Confusion
• The amount of data generated will continue to
grow, necessitating new approaches.

• Employees play a crucial role in creating business

intelligence through experience and
collaboration.

Key Insights
Confusion
• Complexity of Data: Organizations have always
-People may not distinguish between IS and IT, as they
struggled with data management, but big data
assume all information systems are computer-based
amplifies these issues, requiring a different
systems
approach to exploitation rather than mere
Distinguish between IT and IS management.

Information Technology (IT) Information Systems (IS) • Technological Limitations: The belief that
technology can single-handedly resolve big data
Focuses on the selection, Business oriented and challenges is misleading. Companies need to
integration and deployment focus on the business reassess their strategies beyond just purchasing
of computing technology domain tools.

Technical skills such as • Paradigm Shift: There is a need to shift from

Business skills and learn viewing information as a corporate asset to
planning and deploying
enough about understanding it as a product of human
networking infrastructure or
technology to make interaction and meaning-making, which changes
integrates DBs or build Web
decisions how IT projects are implemented.
sites
• Business Intelligence Creation: True business
In summary, (IS) deals with the business side of
intelligence is not found in data warehouses; it
technology as (IT) deals with technical side.
emerges from collaborative efforts where
BIG DATA: EXPLOITING THE INFORMATION EXPLOSION employees combine data with their experiences
to generate insights.
Summary
• Future Data Growth: As data generation
Big data’s growing complexity poses challenges for
continues to rise, businesses must adapt and
businesses, shifting focus from data management to its
evolve their strategies to effectively handle and
exploitation for insights.
leverage this influx of information.
Highlights
• Role of Employees: Employees are vital in the
• The volume, variety, and velocity of data are business intelligence process, as their
increasing dramatically. interpretations and collaborative efforts lead to
meaningful insights.
• Big data highlights the complexity of managing
and exploiting information. • Evolving Insights: The way businesses approach
data will need to evolve continuously, ensuring
• Technology alone won’t solve big data they remain competitive and insightful in a data-
challenges; a paradigm shift is needed.
driven world.
Two approaches in addressing the big data issue: 6. Evaluation: Explain the importance of these uses
of computers for an enhancing students’
1. viewing information as a company resource
computer capabilities.
2. understanding data/information as a product of
Capabilities of Computer:
human interaction and meaning-making
A computer is capable of many things. It’s fast, efficient
WEEK 3 and accurate. You can add as much functionality in a
FUNCTIONS AND CAPABILITIES OF COMPUTER computer as good as you write a program for it. There is
much application software which is making things easy
Five basic functions done by computer: for us. Internet has made this world a global village.
1. Input or inserting data and instruction: 1. Accuracy
transferring of information into the system. 2. Speed
2. Processing: where the computer does the ‘work’ 3. Automatic
- manipulate and control data over the entire 4. Self-checking
system 5. Repetitiveness
3. Output or retrieving data or information: giving 6. Wide Range of Application
the processed data and information to the 7. Store and Recall Information
external forces.
4. Storing data or information: Data and COMPUTER-BASED INFORMATION SYSTEM
information are stored in a way that they can be Information system is a set of interrelated elements or
reused later as required. components that collect, manipulate, store, and
5. Controlling: the functions of a computer system disseminate data and information, and provide a
and its various devices should be controlled corrective reaction to meet an objective.
properly. Under controlling, the controlling
activities done by computer system are Components of Information System
considered.
• Input, process, storage, output, feedback
Other functions of computer:
Computer-based information systems
1. Information Tool: Computers provide vast
It takes technology, hardware, software, databases, and
amount of information in various forms, such as
networks with appropriate procedures to make a
text, graphics, sound and video.
computer-based information system useful to people.
2. Communication Tool: The way to become a
better listener is to practice “active listening”. Components of CBIS: (mainly Hardware & Software)
This is where you make a conscious effort to hear
• Hardware - is consisted of computer equipment
not only the words that another person is saying
but, more importantly, try to understand the used to perform input processing and output
activities.
complete message being sent.
3. Constructive Tool: The computer itself can be • Network - are computers and equipment that are
connected in a building around the country or
used for manipulating information, visualizing
one’s understanding, and building new around the world to enable electronic
knowledge. communications.
4. Co-constructive Tool: student can use co- • Database - an organized collection of facts and
constructive tools to work cooperatively and information typically consisting of two or more
construct a shared understanding of new related data files.
knowledge. • Software - is consisted of computer programs
5. Situating Tool: By means of virtual reality (RS) that govern the operation of the computer and is
extension systems, the computer can create 3-D needed for computers of all sizes from small
images on display to give the user the feeling that handheld computers to large supercomputers.
are situated in a virtual environment.
Four Basic Types Of CBIS can now be found in one device that is easy to
move around, then it means that there is now no
• Transaction Processing Systems
excuse as to why people wouldn’t work from
• Management Information Systems home and thus many do. This can potentially
• Decision Support Systems cause issues with family and friends.
• Executive Support Systems • It also reinforces some digital addictions such as
Transaction Processing Systems gaming addictions and social media addictions.

is a way of computing that divides work into individual, COMPUTER BASED IS (CBIS)
indivisible operations, called transactions. A transaction https://informationsystemis.wordpress.com/computer-
processing system (TPS) is a software system, or based-is-cbis/?authuser=0
software/hardware combination that supports
transaction processing. In transaction processing systems COMPUTER BASED INFORMATION SYSTEM.
they record day-to-day transactions such as customer
– A CBIS is an organised integration of hardware and
orders and inventories. It also helps the supervisors by
software technologies and human elements designed to
generating databases needed for other information
produce timely, integrated, accurate and useful
systems.
information for decision making purposes.
However, summarizing the detailed data of the
For any given application the following features must be
transaction processing system, drawing on the detailed
present:-
data of the transaction processing system, presenting
information in a very highly summarized form, and Easy to use interactive (two way) interfaces
combining the internal data from TPS and MIS with
▪ Touch screen
external data are part of the Management Information
Systems, Decision Support System, and Executive ▪ GUI
Support Systems.
▪ Menu Driven Interface
DIGITAL CONVERGENCE
▪ Colour Screen
Digital Convergence refers to the convergence of digital
▪ Buttons
tools such as computers, phones, watches and many
other being combined and ready to use in one single ▪ Labels
device.
▪ Voice Activated
Ex.: Smart phone – contains hundreds of functions from
other devices ▪ Tones, on phones

Positive Impacts: Use of advanced technologies

• Facilitates access to different functions, helpful in ▪ Phone (inc WAP)

cases of emergencies. ▪ digital television
• Helps save money as instead of buying many
different devices, there’s only need to buy one. ▪ Teleconferencing (audio, video and computer)
• Facilitates mobility as there is only one device to ▪ Integration of voice, data and images through
carry. ISDN’s (integrated services digital networks)
Negative Impacts: ▪ Image transfer systems through facsimile
• In case there is an accident and damage is done Fast processing
to the device, then it would imply more than one
function being lost. ▪ Searching (Google gives you search times)
• Digital convergence tends to interfere a lot with ▪ Looking up name in a database
people’s work/life balance, given that most tools
Rapid responses ▪ Irrelevant location of either party – WAP
phones
▪ To input
A WAP enabled mobile can use its WAP browser to access
▪ To requests
pages coded in WML (Wireless Mark up Language) – a
What is COMPUTER BASED INFORMATION SYSTEM language designed to take account of the limitations of
(CBIS) ? mobile networks and phones.

Computer(-Based) Information System is essentially an ▪ Video Conferencing

IS using computer technology to carry out some or all of
▪ Distance, time, jet lag – all irrelevant
its planned tasks. The basic components of computer
based information system are: ▪ E-mail

▪ Hardware– these are the devices like the ▪ Global, not dependent on location
monitor, processor, printer and keyboard, all of
▪ Attachments
which work together to accept, process, show
data and information. ▪ Group Working ie Ofice Suite. Each application
works easily within the same suite due to the
▪ Software– are the programs that allow the
engine that’s employed.
hardware to process the data.
▪ Software – editing changes, combined
▪ Databases– are the gathering of associated files
with other technologies – e-mail, WAP,
or tables containing related data.
digital TV
▪ Networks– are a connecting system that allows
THE DIGITAL REVOLUTION| TRANSFORMATION AND
diverse computers to distribute resources.
DISRUPTION
▪ Procedures– are the commands for combining
Summary
the components above to process information
and produce the preferred output. Catherine Hammon discusses the evolution of industrial
revolutions, focusing on the digital revolution's
The first four components (hardware, software, database
transformation and disruption across various sectors.
and network) make up what is knows as the information
technology platform. Information technology workers Highlights
could then use these components to
create information systems that watch over safety ▪ Industrial revolutions transformed societies from
measures, risk and the management of data. These agrarian to industrial.
▪ The second revolution introduced electrification
actions are known as information technology services.
and mass production techniques.
Advantages of Utilizing Modern Technology for Given ▪ The internet revolutionized connectivity, leading
Applications to the rise of big data.
▪ The digital revolution is marked by rapid
Need to consider 5 points
technological changes and disruptions.
▪ Internet ▪ Technologies like Uber illustrate how disruption
can redefine industries.
▪ Up to date and accessible from different
▪ The entertainment sector saw new opportunities
sources
with recorded media and streaming.
▪ Interactivity – Easy to interact with the ▪ Future advancements hold unpredictable
internet potential for new businesses and lifestyles.

▪ Mobile Communications via satellites Key Insights

▪ Global coverage ▪ Transformation vs. Disruption: Both concepts are

interrelated, as seen in how technologies
 reshape traditional industries, like transportation ▪ organizational structure
with Uber. This illustrates that change often leads ▪ lack of expertise to lead digitalization initiatives
to new business models and practices. ▪ lack of overall digitalization strategy
▪ The Speed of Change: The velocity of ▪ limited budget
technological advancements has accelerated
The Challenges of Digital Economy:
dramatically, posing challenges for individuals
and industries to adapt, especially in legal ▪ inadequate access to latest technology
frameworks. ▪ sophisticated telecommunications infrastructure
▪ Big Data's Role: The emergence of big data has ▪ low computer literacy
become a significant factor in driving ▪ cultural and social economic factors
innovations, influencing decision-making
processes across sectors. WEEK 4
▪ Future of Work: Automation and technologies TYPES OF COMPUTER
like driverless cars may redefine employment, as
skills once essential may become optional Computers are classified based on size and speed.
hobbies.
Super Computers - fastest and most expensive, can
▪ Entertainment Evolution: The entertainment
handle many instructions.
industry has evolved drastically, moving from live
performances to diverse digital platforms, Uses:
highlighting the possibilities of new content
▪ Weather Forecasting
forms.
▪ Nuclear Science
▪ Interconnected Technologies: Diverse
▪ Rocket Launching
technologies are not isolated; they can be
integrated in innovative ways, leading to unique Examples:
applications across various industries.
▪ Summit
▪ Unpredictable Future: While we can anticipate
▪ Sierra
new opportunities, the specific nature of future
▪ Deep Blue
innovations remains uncertain, emphasizing the
need for adaptability. Mainframe Computers
WHAT IS DIGITAL ECONOMY? ▪ designed to handle huge volumes of data and
Also known as Internet Economy/New Economy/Web information.
Economy ▪ Perform multiple instructions for multiple uses,
have multiple processors hence, are fast and
The advent of the digital computer technology had, and expensive.
still has, a great impact on how businesses are run and ▪ Typically used by large organizations for bulk data
trade is being done. Digital workplace allows easier processing.
access to actual meetings and remove the barriers of
time, location, devices, and network connections. It Examples:
provides employees greater work-life balance, while ▪ IBM Z
increasing productivity and agility for the organization. ▪ UNIVAC
Examples: e-commerce, digital banking, and even Mini Computers
traditional sectors like agriculture, or cryptocurrency
mining, or manufacturing, that are being affected by the ▪ They lie somewhere between mainframe and
application of emerging technology. micro computers
▪ Typically multi-user system
Top Five Challenges of Digital Economy Workforce that ▪ have more memory and larger storage capacity
Companies Often Experience than micro computers
▪ employee pushback Uses:
 ▪ Web Servers ▪ The devices today have an embedded small
▪ Database computer like smart TVs, watches, cars,
▪ Gaming servers microwaves.
▪ Typically programmed to perform some set task
Examples:
required.
▪ MAGNUM
STORAGE DEVICES
▪ VAX’

Micro Computers

▪ Single CPU, single user system

▪ Used at home, schools, shops

Types:

▪ Personal
▪ Workstation
▪ Laptops
▪ Mobiles
Computer Memory
▪ Embedded computers
is the storage area of the computer. It is any kind of
Personal/Desktop PCs
hardware which stores data and instructions for the
▪ Most common computers with monitor, computer.
keyboard, and mouse, typically kept on our desk
Types of Memory:
▪ Used for gaming, browsing, learning, business
▪ Primary or Internal Memory
Workstations
o accessed directly by CPU
▪ Are like desktop computers with more powerful ▪ Secondary or External Memory
CPU and higher memory and processing power o long-term storage of data
▪ More expensive
Secondary Memory
▪ Used for doing niche work like:
▪ Designing ▪ slower than the primary memory
▪ Animation ▪ data stored is permanent, so it is used for storage
▪ complex calculations and back
▪ it helps in transferring data from one computer
Laptops
to another
▪ Portable computers which integrate all
Types Of Storage Devices
components of a computer into a size of a
notebook (sometimes called as notebook ▪ floppy drive
computer). ▪ CD drives
▪ Tape drives
Mobile/Tablets
History of Storage Devices
▪ Can easily be carried anywhere
The earliest computer storage device was actually punch
Used for:
card made of paper
▪ Gaming
Storage Devices
▪ Video
▪ high-end cameras ▪ Magnetic Drive
▪ Optical Drive
Embedded Computers
▪ Flash Drive/Flash Memory Devices
Magnetic devices ▪ data can be written only once and then can be
read multiple times
▪ include hard disks and floppy disks
CD-RW or CD Rewritable
Hard Disks
▪ the data can be written multiple times
▪ typically installed inside the computer, though
▪ also known as a Erasable CD
portable hard disks are also available.
▪ inside the hard disk, there is a spindle which Types of DVDs
holds one or more rotating disks called platters.
DVD-R or DVD Recordable
▪ these disks are coated with magnetic material.
▪ have a magnetic head which is used to read or ▪ Data written only once and then can be read
write data on the disk. multiple times
Floppy Disk DVD RW or DVD Rewritable
▪ used to transfer data between computers ▪ data can be written multiple times
▪ the computers have floppy drives into which the
floppy is inserted Flash Storage
▪ comes in 2 sizes: they used to come in 5 1/4 inch ▪ USB flash drives
or 3 and a half inch size ▪ memory cards
▪ as their data capacity is less, pen drives have now ▪ SD cards
become more popular.
They are:
Optical Drive
▪ popular
it uses laser and light to store data ▪ cheaper
▪ efficient
includes:
▪ reliable
▪ CDs
o stands for Compact Disks USB
o Portable ▪ USB flash drive or pen drive is a portable memory
o can store up to 700 MB store device which is the size of a human thumb,
▪ DVDs and connect to computer wire or USB port.
o stand for Digital Versatile Disc ▪ store data up to 1TB
o storage capacity almost 10 times that of ▪ compact, fast, and convenient, so it is typically
CD used to store and transfer files
o 20 times faster than CD
▪ Blu-Ray Memory Card
o the name comes from Blue Laser which ▪ is used to store photos and videos in:
reads from and writes to the disc rather o cameras
than the red laser of DVD o smartphones
o store more data o gaming console
o 25 GB of data per layer ▪ they can store images up to 128 GB
o dual layer
o triple layer SD or Secure Digital Card

Types of CDs ▪ comes in micro SD or mini SD size

CD-ROM or CD Read-Only Memory Nowadays, storing data online and in cloud is becoming
popular as people need to access their data from more
▪ read data than one device however it is nothing but touring on a
CDR or CD recordable
network of remote servers which are either magnetic or • is a device that routes or forwards data from one
optical. network to another based on their IP address.

HUB, SWITCH, & ROUTER EXPLAINED - WHAT'S THE • Routers act as gateways, determining if data is for
DIFFERENCE? their network or another.

Summary Hubs and switches operate within local networks, while

routers connect to the internet.
Hubs, switches, and routers connect devices but differ in
data handling. Hubs broadcast data, switches direct it Key Insights
intelligently, and routers manage network-to-network
• Hubs are basic connection devices: They can
communication.
connect many devices but lack the intelligence to
Hubs (cheaper) filter data, leading to inefficiencies. This can
cause security vulnerabilities and bandwidth
• the purpose of a hub is to connect all of your
waste.
network devices together on an internal
network. • Switches improve network efficiency: By
learning MAC addresses, switches send data only
• It's a device that has multiple ports that accepts
to the intended recipient. This targeted
Ethernet connections from network devices.
communication minimizes network congestion
• is considered not to be intelligent because it does and improves performance.
not filter any data or has any intelligence as to
• Data flooding in hubs: The broadcasting nature
where the data is supposed to be sent.
of hubs means that all devices receive every data
• the only thing a hub knows is when a device is packet, which can slow down the network and
connected to one of its ports. When a data create privacy issues.
packet arrives at one of the ports, it is copied to
• Routers are essential for internet access: Unlike
all of the other ports. A data packet comes into
hubs and switches, routers read IP addresses to
one port then the hub will just rebroadcast that
direct data outside of local networks, making
data to every port that has a device connected to
them critical for internet connectivity.
it.
• Gatekeeping role of routers: Routers determine
• Hubs create unnecessary network traffic and
whether incoming data packets are for their
security concerns by broadcasting data.
specific network, effectively acting as
Switch (more expensive) gatekeepers to maintain network integrity.

• a device that has multiple ports that accepts • Local vs. external communication: Hubs and
Ethernet connections from network devices. But switches facilitate communication within a local
unlike a hub, a switch is intelligent. area network (LAN), while routers enable
communication across different networks and
• Switches intelligently direct data packets to the internet.
specific devices based on MAC addresses.
• Network structure and
• Switches reduce traffic and enhance network efficiency: Understanding the distinct roles of
efficiency compared to hubs. hubs, switches, and routers is vital for designing
hubs and switches are used to exchange data within a efficient network architectures that optimize
local area network. Hubs and switches do not read IP data flow and security.
addresses.

Router
LEARN BASIC NETWORKING… Two types of Network: Wireless Network and Wired
Network
Essential Components of the Computer Network
Wired Network
End Device
Uses cables to connect devices such as laptop or desktop
is a device that sends or receives the data or service in
computers to the Internet or another network.
the network.
Advantages:
Example:
• Ethernet ports are found on almost all laptops,
• Desktop
PCs, and netbooks. If an ethernet port is not
• Laptop
available in the system, then ethernet cable can
• Printer be connected through a USB ethernet adapter.
• Mobile
• generally faster than wireless networks
Network Devices • are considered more secure than wireless
networks
Provide connectivity between the end devices
Disadvantages:
Modem
• Network cables are expensive
can be used as a dial up for the local area networks to
• Not supported on mobile phones and tablets
connect to an internet service provider
Wireless Network
Switch, Router, Wireless
Is a computer network that uses wireless data
• through them, devices connected to your connections between network nodes.
network can communicate with one another, and
with other networks like the Internet Advantages:
• Switch
• Generally easier to set up
o Allow devices on your network to
• If PC or laptop does not come with a wireless
communicate with each other as well as
connection then USB wireless adapter can be
with other networks
used
• Routers
• It can be used both on home and public networks
o Connect multiple networks together.
• No cables required
They also connect computers on those
• It can be used with mobile phones and tablets
networks to the Internet.
COMPUTER SKILLS COURSE: BITS, BYTES, KILOBYTES,
Access Point
MEGABYTES, GIGABYTES, TERABYTES
Allows devices to connect to the wireless network
Digital Storage
without cables.
uses the binary system where everything is saved as 1s
Repeater
and 0s (called bit).
Regenerates the signal over the same network before the
Bit
signal becomes too weak or corrupted so as to extend the
length to which the signal can be transmitted over the • short for binary digit
same network. • the smallest unit of data in a computer
Hub • are used to store all kinds of information
from text documents, to the digital photos, that
Is basically a multi-port repeater. A hub connects multiple you take to the sounds that come out of your
wires coming from different branches. speakers.
Networking Types and Structures
 • to store this information, we use a whole bunch MODEM VS ROUTER - WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE?
of bits put together. The number of bits we
Modem
have determines how much data we can store.
• is what brings the internet into your home or
WHICH IS BETTER: WIRED OR WIRELESS?
business.
So which one should you choose? Well, the answer • establishes and maintains a dedicated
depends on a couple of factors. connection to your internet service provider to
give you access to the internet.
Convenience
• Now the reason why you have to have a modem
• With modern devices like smartphone and is because of the two different types of signals
tablets, wireless is your only choice. that are used on a computer and on the internet.
• A computer only reads digital signals, while
And with portable devices like your laptop, which signals out on the internet are analog. As analog
have the capability to go wired or wireless, you data comes in from the internet, the modem
may find that you prefer the freedom of roaming demodulates the incoming analog signals into a
around your house with your device rather than digital signal so that a computer can understand
be tethered down with a wire. it.
• also modulates outgoing digital signals from a
Physical Location
computer into an analog signal as it goes out on
• Since a wired device requires a physical Ethernet the internet.
cable connected to your Internet router, And this is where we get the word 'modem'.
your device will need to be physically located • The word modem means modulator
close to your router. A common example of this demodulator which is exactly what a modem
is a home office where the Internet router sits on does. It modulates outgoing data from a
the same desk as the desktop computer. computer and demodulates incoming data from
• On the other hand, if your desktop computer is the internet
100 feet away from your Internet router, you'll Router
have to rely on in-wall wiring... or a really long
Ethernet cable! • there are different types of routers:
o used in businesses and larger
Speed organizations
While wireless speeds are getting faster and faster every
o used in homes and small businesses
year, they still can't keep pace with a wired connection.
• is what routes or passes your internet connection
Wired connections are also more reliable because there
to all of your devices in your home or business. It
is a direct one-to-one connection between your device
directs it to all of your computers, tablets,
and your Internet router. With a wireless connection, you
phones and so on, so that those devices can
may have to deal with wireless traffic from your
access the internet.
neighbors who may be operating on the same frequency
• A typical small office/home office router will
and channel as you.
have a built-in switch with multiple ports so that
Advice: you can connect multiple devices using an
When it's feasible to wire your device to your Internet ethernet cable connection
router, do it. When it's not feasible, be confident with • it also functions as a wireless access point so that
your wireless connection and enjoy the freedom of wireless devices such as tablets and laptops can
surfing the Internet with no wires. have internet access.
• you really don't need a router if you only want
one of your devices to access the internet. You
can just plug that device's network cable directly
into the modem, and then you'll be able to
access the internet. However, like most homes
 and businesses, you're going to have multiple will directly attach to a switch or router so that
devices that need access to the internet, and the data can be accessed over a network, then
that's where you would need a router. once it's on the network, it can be accessed from
other devices such as desktops, laptops, and
Different Types Of Modems
servers.
Two of the most common types are cable and DSL • it can be accessed as a shared drive
modems. • typically used in homes and they are also used in
small to medium-sized businesses.
Cable Modems
Disadvantages:
are connected to your home using a coaxial cable. Cable
is typically provided by the same company that provides • it has a single point of failure.
you with cable television. • Example: Let's say if a component fails such as if
the power supply fails on the NAS, then all of the
DSL Modems
other devices will not be able to access its data.
are connected using a typical phone line.
SAN or Storage Area Network
Modem/Router Combination
• is a special high-speed network that stores and
a modem with a built-in wireless router in one physical provides access to large amounts of data
device. • a dedicated network that's used for data storage
and this network consists of multiple disk
arrays, switches, and servers.
Most routers will have a built in switch inside of them. So • a SAN is fault tolerant
there's no need to have a switch if you already have a • the data is also shared among several disk arrays,
router that has a switch built into it. The only time may so if a switch or disk array or if a server goes
need to add a switch to this network is if you needed down, the data can still be accessed.
more wired connections for your devices. You can just • recognized as a local attached hard drive rather
connect a switch to your router and then add more than a shared network drive like in a NAS.
connections to the switch. • highly scalable because adding more storage
space can easily be done without an interruption
So just to clear things up even more, over here we have
on the network
the internet with all of its routers. Then as the internet is
• in a SAN, all the devices are interconnected.
routed into this private network, it first reaches the
Meaning that all of the devices are connected to
modem, then it goes from the modem to its router with
each other and they are interconnected using
its integrated switch and then it's passed to all of its
fiber channel which is a standard for SANs.
computers.
Fiber channel
NAS VS SAN - NETWORK ATTACHED STORAGE VS
STORAGE AREA NETWORK • is fiber optics and it has speeds between 2
NAS or Network Attached Storage gigabits per second all the way up to 128
gigabytes per second.
• If you wanted to store data in a centralized • is extremely fast and it's also very expensive
location, where it can be accessed from all of • most SANs today use fiber channel but also as an
your devices on your network alternative, some SANs use iSCSI instead, which
• is a storage device that is used for storing data, is a cheaper alternative to fiber channel, but it's
and it doesn't do anything else besides storing also not as fast as fiber channel
data.
Now one of the main reasons for using a SAN is because
• typically, is a box that will have multiple hard
SANs are not affected by network traffic such as
drives in a RAID configuration for redundancy
bottlenecks that can happen in a local area network. This
and it'll also have a network interface card that
is because SANs aren't really a part of a local area
network. SANs are partitioned off. It's basically a network Consumerization of IT
all by itself
• Technology emerging from consumer use
SANs come at a very high cost which is why they are spreads into businesses.
mainly used by large companies and large organizations • Includes personal devices and consumer
software services.
WEEK 5
Quantum Computing
MOORE'S LAW
• Boosts processing power using quantum physics.
Computers' Core Components
• Allows multiple simultaneous operations, solving
• Built from integrated circuits (chips) containing problems faster.
numerous transistors and tiny conducting lines
Virtualization
for electric current.
• Allows access to computer resources without
Transistors' Function
physical or geographic limitations.
• Manipulated to allow or block electric current, • Reduces hardware and power costs by making
enabling binary encoding and calculations. one physical resource appear as multiple logical
resources.
Moore's Law
Cloud Computing
• Observation by Gordon Moore in 1965 that the
number of transistors on integrated circuits • Use of remote servers via the Internet to store,
doubles every 2 years, predicting rapid manage, and process data.
development in computing power. • Offers infrastructure, platform, and software
services (public or private).
Moore's Law's Accuracy
Green Computing
• The prediction held from 1965 to 2013, later
slowing to doubling every 3 years, leading to a • Focuses on eco-friendly practices for designing,
30-million-fold increase in transistor density by manufacturing, and using computing hardware.
2015. • Encourages energy-efficient practices like using
Energy Star devices and power-saving modes.
Impact on Chip Speed
COMPUTER HARDWARE FOR BUSINESS
• Doubling transistors increases chip speed,
influenced by clock speed, heat emission, and Choosing computer hardware for your business
size.
With so many options available, choosing computer
CURRENT TRENDS IN COMPUTER HARDWARE hardware for your business can be difficult. You will have
PLATFORM to keep in mind:

Mobile Digital Platform • your current and future hardware needs

• Alternative to larger computers. • potential compatibility issues

• Includes smartphones, tablets, netbooks, and
• security concerns
wearable devices.
• your long-term IT strategy
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD)
Your new IT systems should support your business goals
• Employees use personal mobile devices for work.
and objectives, and align with your business strategy.
• Driven by useful applications for smartphones
and tablets. How to assess computer hardware needs
To assess your needs, look at how you intend to use Life expectancy for some computer hardware parts is
computers in your business. Think about, for example: three to five years. At some point, your hardware may fail
or it may become too old to perform adequately for your
• the tasks you plan to computerize - eg record-
needs. Many businesses work on a hardware
keeping, payroll, invoicing, advertising
replacement cycle of about three to four years for
• your basic requirements - eg networking desktop PCs and five years for servers.
equipment, operating systems or software
Disposal of old hardware
• your business-specific requirements - eg web
Before you dispose of old computer hardware, it is
servers for e-commerce businesses
important to delete any confidential or sensitive data.
Different types of businesses will generally have different You can do this by either:
computer hardware needs. A personal computer may be
• securely wiping the data
enough for a small start-up, but a growing business may
need more advanced equipment to meet its changing • removing and physically destroying the storage
needs. drives that hold this data

Your staff may also require training if you purchase new You should dispose of old hardware in an
equipment that you expect them to use. You can carry environmentally friendly way. In some cases, the
out an IT training and learning needs analysis to manufacturer can arrange a free collection from you.
determine what type of training, if any, your staff might Retailers or suppliers may charge you to dispose of the
need. equipment.

Compatibility TYPES OF SOFTWARE CLASS-5

When choosing hardware, make sure that any new or Hardware cannot work by itself. It needs step-by-
replacement components are compatible with your step instructions. Software is a set of instructions or
existing computer equipment. Consider the overall costs, programs that tells the hardware what to do and how to
including if it might be cheaper to install a new system do.
rather than upgrade the existing components.
A program that runs on the computer is called a software.
Security
Examples of Software:
Hardware theft or loss is a potential business risk.
• MS Office antivirus
Whether by accident or malicious intent, loss of a laptop,
• Windows Media Player
a mobile device or storage devices (such as hard drives)
can put your business' data security at risk. You should • computer games
take steps to manage IT risk in your business to protect Two Types of Software
both hardware and data against a potential breach.
1. System Software
Long-term IT strategy Examples: Windows 10, Ubuntu, Linux, Mac OSX
Your IT strategy should take into account any future 2. Application Software
changes in your market, your employees and your Examples: Windows Media Player, PowerPoint,
products or services. If possible, integrate hardware notepad, paint
refresh and software rollout strategies in your business. System Software
When choosing new hardware for your business, it's • Set of programs controlling the operation of a
good practice to keep a list of purchase dates and costs computer.
of hardware for accountancy, tax, warranty and insurance
purposes. • Operating System (OS): Manages hardware and
software, examples include Windows, Ubuntu,
Hardware life expectancy Linux, and macOS.
Operation Support System (OSS) • Graphics Software - Used for creating and editing
drawings, e.g., Paint, Photoshop, Corel, Paint.
• Hardware and software used by service providers
to manage network infrastructure. • Desktop Publishing Software - Combines text and
images in a presentable format, e.g., CorelDraw,
• Functions:
PageMaker.
1. network management
2. service delivery • Multimedia Software - Enables creation and
3. service fulfillment, including the network editing of images, audio, and video, e.g., Adobe
inventory, activation and provisioning Flash, Adobe Premiere, Nuendo
4. service assurance
WHAT IS UTILITY SOFTWARE?
5. customer care
Utility Program
Utility Software
• Is system software
• Helps analyze, configure, optimize, or maintain a
• Designed to help analyze, configure, optimize or
computer.
maintain a computer
• Examples: antivirus software, backup software, • Usually focuses on how the computer
disk tools. defragmentation, scanning tools. infrastructure operates

Backup Software Examples:

• Creates copies of data and restores it in case of • Anti-virus – computer software used to prevent,
failure or accidental deletion. detect and remove malicious software. It
provides protection from other computer
Types:
threats, browser hijackers, keyloggers and
• full backup - a copy of all selected data computer viruses.
o Ex: Norton, AVG, McAfee Avira
• differential backup - a copy of the data that has
• Archivers – a program that combines a number
changed being added since the last full backup of files together into one archive file for easier
• incremental backup - a copy of the data that has transportation or storage
changed since the last backup, whether that was o Ex.: Winrar, 7-zip
full backup or incremental. • Disk cleaner – used to find and delete potentially
unnecessary or unwanted files from the
Antivirus Software computer. By deleting files, it can free up disk
• Detects and removes computer viruses. space, eliminate clutter and protect privacy.
• File manager (file browser) – is a program that
Disk Fragmentation provides a user interface to manage files and
folders. The most common operations
• Organizes scattered file contents on a hard disk
performed include creating, opening, renaming,
to improve efficiency.
moving or copying, deleting and searching for
Application Software files.
• Backup software, cryptographic, debuggers, etc.
• Designed for specific tasks or user needs, acting
as a tool for easy operations. HOW DO OPERATING SYSTEMS WORK?

• Customized Software: Tailored for specific Operating System (OS)

businesses or organizations, e.g., Sampoorna for
• Brings together different hardware and software
school management.
components of a computer.
• Word Processors: Helps in writing and editing • Manages hardware resources and allocates them
documents, e.g., Microsoft Word, Notepad. to programs.
• Provides an interface for the user.
Historical Development

• Early computers used punch cards for batch

processing.
• Problem: Programming was specific to different
machines due to varying resources.
• Solution: Operating Systems

Operating System

• Responsible for common tasks

o Control hardware
o Manages and allocates resources
o Provides and Interface
• One of the first programs that run when the
computer is turned on
• Holds the collection of all the common
commands and segments them like putting them
into a library from which the other regular
programs can borrow codes