1.

0 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS
Specific objectives
By the end of the topic you should be able to:-
a).Define a computer
b).State the different parts that make up a computer
c).Explain how computers have developed
d).Classify the various types of computers
e).Identify areas where computers are stored used
f).State the safety precautions and practices in a computer laboratory
g).Demonstrate basic hands-on skills on the use of a computer

1.1 Definition of terms

A computer
▪ Is an electronic device that accepts user input (data) and processes it under the influence of a
set of instructions referred to as programs to produce desired output (information).
▪ Is an electronic device that uses instructions (programs) to accept and process data given to it
in a variety of forms in order to produce useful information.
▪ Is an electronic device that accepts user input (data) and transforms it under the influence of
sets of special instructions called programs to produce information.
A computer is said to be electronic because it utilizes electrical signals to process information.

The three key terms that define a computer are:- input, process and output.
Programs
Set of instructions written in computer language that directs the computer what task to perform
and how to perform it.

Data
Raw facts that do not have much meaning to the user. Includes alphabets, numbers and symbols.

Data processing
The varied activities performed to convert data into useful information.

Information
Processed data that is meaningful to the user and which can form a basis for decision making.

Information and Communication Technology (ICT)

Is the integration of computers and telecommunication facilities for the purpose of communication.
A computer is said to be electronic because it utilizes small electrical signals to process
information.

Computers come in different sizes and designs but the most common is Personal Computer (PC)
 1.2 Physical Parts of a Computer
A computer is made up of a collection of different components that are interconnected together in
order to function as a single entity. A computer is basically made up of four basic components and
other devices connected to the system unit called peripheral devices.

i).System unit
Looks like a box. A computer case (also known as a computer chassis, cabinet, box, tower,
enclosure, housing, system unit or simply case) is the enclosure that contains most of the
components of a computer (usually excluding the display, keyboard and mouse). This part houses
the brain of the computer called the Central Processing Unit (CPU), motherboard, main memory,
and the drives. The drive is used to store, record and read data. The two common types of system
units are Tower and desktop type. The below picture shows a tower style.
ii).Peripheral devices
Can be defined as:-
- Devices connected to the system unit via ports and controlled by the CPU; or
- hardware that is externally connected to the computer’s system unit
Most of the devices are connected using data interface cables . The interface cables carry data
and information to and from the devices. The cables are attached to the system unit using
connectors called ports.
Peripheral devices can be external -- such as a mouse, keyboard, printer, monitor, external Zip
drive or scanner -- or internal, such as a CD-ROM drive, CD-R drive , memory, motherboard,
hard drive, graphics card, floppy drive, cd/dvd drive
or internal modem. Internal peripheral devices are often referred to as integrated peripherals.

Some peripheral devices are:-

▪ Keyboard
Is a device that enables the user to enter data and instructions in the computer by pressing its keys.
▪ The mouse
Is a hand held device that enables the user to issue instructions to the computer and move items on
the screen by controlling a special mouse pointer displayed on the screen.
▪ The monitor
Is a TV like device that displays output. it is a called a monitor because it enables the user to
monitor or see what is going on in the computer.

1.3 Classification of Computers

Computers are classified according to:
▪ Physical size and processing power
▪ Purpose
 ▪ Functionality

1) Physical size and processing power

a).Supercomputers

Supercomputers are very expensive and are

employed for specialized applications that
require immense amounts of mathematical
calculations. For example, weather
forecasting requires a supercomputer. Other
uses of supercomputers include animated
graphics, fluid dynamic calculations, nuclear
energy research, and petroleum exploration.
Are very fast, largest in physical size, most
expensive, fastest processor speed and largest
memory capacity computers. Perform many
complex calculations and generate a lot of heat due to their huge processing power. Due to this the
whole CPU is immersed in a tank containing liquid fluorocarbon to provide cooling. Mainly used
for scientific research which requires enormous calculations. Applications that justify use of
supercomputers are:- space science, nuclear physics, aerodynamic design and simulation., defense
and weapon analysis. Are found in developed countries like USA and Japan.

b).Mainframe

Are less powerful, less expensive, smaller, slower,

lower memory capacity than supercomputers.
Handling all kinds of problems whether scientific
or commercial. Support a variety of peripheral
devices. Mostly found in government agencies,
big organizations and companies such as hospitals,
banks, airports etc, which have large information
processing needs and places where processing
automation is required.. They can also be used as
Network Servers in large businesses like in Banks
to provide online data of customer accounts to
branch offices.

c).Minicomputers
Also referred small scale mainframes. Slightly smaller, low memory, cheaper, and low processing
power than mainframe. Supports fewer peripheral devices and not as powerful and fast as the
mainframe. It was developed as a cheaper alternative to the mainframes for smaller organizations.
They are used in research institutions, scientific laboratories, manufacturing industries,
engineering plants, etc.

d).Microcomputers
Also called personal computers (PCs). Is the smallest, cheapest, slowest and least powerful type
of computers compared to supercomputer, mainframes and minicomputer. They are called
Microcomputers because their processor is very tiny (size of a thumbnail). They are mainly used
in training and learning institutions, small business enterprises, communication centres, etc. Today
powerful microcomputers have grown tremendously closing the gap that formerly existed and
reserved for minicomputers and mainframes.

Types of microcomputers
• Non-portable: Desktop computer which is not portable and designed to be placed on top of an
office desk.
• Portable

Laptop: Are small enough to rest on persons lap when using. Weigh about 1 to 3 kg each.

Advantages of laptops
o They are portable
o Are convenient to travel with
o Their screen show sharper and clear images which
prevent eye strain.
o Laptops have power batteries which serve as inbuilt
UPS

Note books: are even smaller and lighter than laptops. Small enough to fit in the pocket of a coat.
Cheaper than laptops and just as useful. When very small are called sub-
notebooks.
Palmtops: A small computer that literally fits in your palm. Compared to full-size computers,
palmtops are severely limited, but they are practical for certain functions such as phone books and
calendars. Palmtops that use a pen rather than a keyboard for input are often
called hand-held computers or PDAs.

Because of their small size, most palmtop computers do not include disk
drives. However, many contain PCMCIA slots in which you can insert disk
drives, modems, memory, and other devices.

Palmtops are also called PDAs, hand-held computers and pocket computers

Examples are: Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs), personal organizers or

pen computers.

2) Purpose (Use)
All computers falls into two broad groups according to the tasks they perform namely special and
general purpose.

(a) Special purpose computers

They are designed to serve/ perform only one specialized task. These computers cannot perform
other task except the one they were meant to do. The set of instructions which drive the a special
purpose computer are limited in number at the time of manufacturer. Examples are: robots used in
manufacturing industry, mobile phones for communication, electronic calculators for calculations,
watches, oven etc. they can perform the task very fast and very efficiently since they are dedicated
to a single task. Are relatively cheap.

(b) General purpose

Are designed to be able to perform a variety of tasks when loaded with the appropriate programs.
Are quite flexible to be applied in a wide range of applications like document processing,
performing calculations, accounting, data and information management etc.

(c) Embedded computers

Are inbuilt within machines that they control. They have hidden inputs originating from the
machines they are controlling. Embedded computers are found in microwaves, digital cameras,
digital watches and air conditioners.

3) Functionality
In this class computers are classified according to the type of data they can process.

o Analog computers
Process data that is analog in nature which is continuous. They solve mathematical operations and
logical comparison by measuring the amount of change in physical magnitude e.g. speed,
temperature, etc. are dedicated to a single task. Are used in manufacturing process control like
monitoring and regulating furnace temperatures, speed, pressures, weather, etc, stations to record
and process physical quantities e.g. wind, cloud speed, temperature, etc. in addition to PCs, most
modern home appliances such as digitals TVs, microwaves, wall clocks are digital in nature.
Continuous data is represented using a continuous waveform.
+

- Digital signal Draw manually

o Digital computers
They process digital data only which is discrete in nature and their operations are based on two
states namely “on” and “off” or “1” and “0”.

- Analog signal {Draw manually}

o Hybrid computers
`They are computers build with the characteristics of both analog and digital, thus process both
analog and digital data.

1.4 Development of Computers

Non-electronic computing devices
Included Abacus, Napiers bones and Analytical engine
Before 1900, most data processing was done manually. Abacus was a special counting instrument
/ calculating tool used to calculate large figures developed by Asian merchants.
Napiers Bornes was developed by John Napier a scotish mathematician to help in multiplication
and division. The first machine after the abacus was Analytical Engine developed by Charles
Babbage who was an English Mathematician in 1822 -1871. Mark I was the first computer like
machine designed by professor Howard Aken of Horrand University in 1939. Mark I became
operational in 1943. It weighed 5 tons and was 16 metres long. Since then rapid advancements in
computing have been realized and can be categorized into five generations.

Each generation of computer is characterized by a major technological development that

fundamentally changed the way computers operate, resulting in increasingly smaller,
cheaper, more powerful and more efficient and reliable devices.
The history of computer development is often referred to in reference to the different generations
of computing devices. Each generation of computer is characterized by a major technological
development that fundamentally changed the way computers operate, resulting in increasingly
smaller, cheaper, more powerful and more efficient and reliable devices. Read about each
generation and the developments that led to the current devices that we use today.

Key Terms: computer, magnetic drums, binary, integrated circuit, semiconductor,

nanotechnology

First Generation (1940-1956) Vacuum Tubes

The first computers used vacuum tubes for circuitry and magnetic drums for memory, and were
often enormous, taking up entire rooms. They were very expensive to operate and in addition to
using a great deal of electricity, generated a lot of heat, which was often the cause of malfunctions.

First generation computers relied on machine language, the lowest-level programming language
understood by computers, to perform operations, and they could only solve one problem at a time.
Input was based on punched cards and paper tape, and output was displayed on printouts.

The UNIVAC and ENIAC computers are examples of first-generation computing devices. The
UNIVAC was the first commercial computer delivered to a business client, the U.S. Census Bureau
in 1951.

Second Generation (1956-1963) Transistors

Transistors replaced vacuum tubes and ushered in the second generation of computers. The
transistor was invented in 1947 but did not see widespread use in computers until the late 1950s.
The transistor was far superior to the vacuum tube, allowing computers to become smaller, faster,
cheaper, more energy-efficient and more reliable than their first-generation predecessors. Though
the transistor still generated a great deal of heat that subjected the computer to damage, it was a
vast improvement over the vacuum tube. Second-generation computers still relied on punched
cards for input and printouts for output.

Second-generation computers moved from cryptic binary machine language to symbolic, or

assembly, languages, which allowed programmers to specify instructions in words. High-level
programming languages were also being developed at this time, such as early versions of COBOL
and FORTRAN. These were also the first computers that stored their instructions in their memory,
which moved from a magnetic drum to magnetic core technology.

The first computers of this generation were developed for the atomic energy industry.

Third Generation (1964-1971) Integrated Circuits

The development of the integrated circuit was the hallmark of the third generation of computers.
Transistors were miniaturized and placed on silicon chips, called semiconductors, which
drastically increased the speed and efficiency of computers.

Instead of punched cards and printouts, users interacted with third generation computers through
keyboards and monitors and interfaced with an operating system, which allowed the device to run
many different applications at one time with a central program that monitored the memory.
Computers for the first time became accessible to a mass audience because they were smaller and
cheaper than their predecessors.

Fourth Generation (1971-Present) Microprocessors

The microprocessor brought the fourth generation of computers, as thousands of integrated circuits
were built onto a single silicon chip. What in the first generation filled an entire room could now
fit in the palm of the hand. The Intel 4004 chip, developed in 1971, located all the components of
the computer—from the central processing unit and memory to input/output controls—on a single
chip.

In 1981 IBM introduced its first computer for the home user,
and in 1984 Apple introduced the Macintosh. Microprocessors
also moved out of the realm of desktop computers and into
many areas of life as more and more everyday products began
to use microprocessors.

As these small computers became more powerful, they could

be linked together to form networks, which eventually led to the development of the Internet.
Fourth generation computers also saw the development of GUIs, the mouse and handheld devices.

Fifth Generation (Present and Beyond) Artificial Intelligence

Fifth generation computing devices, based on artificial intelligence, are still in development,
though there are some applications, such as voice recognition, that are being used today. The use
of parallel processing and superconductors is helping to make artificial intelligence a reality.
Quantum computation and molecular and nanotechnology will radically change the face of
computers in years to come. The goal of fifth-generation computing is to develop devices that
respond to natural language input and are capable of learning and self-organization.

In the fifth generation are characterized by:-

- computers have very high processing power and speed
- Size is increasingly becoming smaller because of superior hardware and software products
that are small in size.
- Emit negligible heat
- Have special instruction sets that allow them to support complex programs that mimic human
intelligence referred to as Artificial Intelligence (AI). Therefore the circuit technology is AI,
parallel architectures, three Dimensional circuit design and super-conducting materials.
- Use advanced hard disks and optical disks for storage e.g. DVDs
 - Perform multiprocessing
- Use multi-user operating systems and advanced application programs
- Massive connectivity to Internet and intranet.

NB: Internet refers to global interconnection of computer networks for the purpose of
communication and resource sharing.
Computer Network is collection of computers linked together using transmission media for the
purpose of communication and resource sharing.
Intranet – is a private network.

DID YOU KNOW...?

An integrated circuit (IC) is a small electronic device made out of a semiconductor material. The
first integrated circuit was developed in the 1950s by Jack Kilby of Texas Instruments and
Robert Noyce of Fairchild Semiconductor.

1. 5 Areas Where Computers Are Used

Supermarkets
- Provides quick way of checking out customers purchases through EPOSS
- Provides opportunity to customers to purchase goods without hard cash through EFT.
- to help in management of daily stock control, for production of receipts and can be used as a
barcode reader

Banks
- Manage financial transactions through the use of special cash dispensing machines called
ATMs used for cash deposit and withdrawal services
- Processing of cheques
- For preparation of payrolls
- Better record keeping and processing of documents
- Provide electronic money transfer facilities

Homes
- Entertainment e.g. watching movies, playing music, playing computer games
- For storing personal information / documents
- For calculating and keeping home budgets

Industries
- To monitor and control industrial processes through the use of robots
- For management control i.e. to keep track of orders, bills and transactions
- For advertisement purposes, which enable an industry to attract more customers
- CAD {Computer Aided Design} allows accurate, quick and easy designs of products on
computer screen.

Law enforcement agencies

- For matching, analyzing and keeping database of fingerprints
- For taking photographs and other identification details
- For record keeping
 - For face recognition, scene monitoring and analysis, which help the police carry out criminal
investigations speedily.

Transport industry
- Airports; to control the movement of aircrafts, their take off and landing using radar equipment
- For making reservations (Booking purposes)
- Storing flight information
- Automobile traffic control i.e monitoring vehicle traffic in busy towns
- In Railway corporations to coordinate the movement of goods and wagons
- In shipping control for efficient management of fleets, cargo handling and communication

Offices
- For receiving and sending of information through e-mails, fax , etc
- Production of documents
- Keeping records

Hospitals
- For keeping patient records
- Keeping records of purchases and stock of medicine
- Analysis data obtained from X-rays
- Maintaining the booking system of scarce resources such as operation theaters.
- Control of life support machines in intensive care unit
- Used by physicians to get proper diagnosis of the affected part of body through cross sectional
view
Education
- Access internet through email to link different schools and to exchange knowledge
- Communication through email to link different schools and exchange knowledge
- For teaching and learning purposes e.g. computer practical
- Administration –storing information about students, processing grades and teachers salaries.

Library services
- Enables library personnel to easily access and keep updated records of books and other library
materials i.e. to keep electronic catalogues and track book circulation.
- Library users can also use computers to search for titles instead of using the manual card
catalogue

Entertainment industry – to generate and edit computer graphics in movies and games.
Military to design weapons and control flight.
Research institutions to process and analyze data.
Impaired persons
- converts speech to text for the deaf
- converts spoken language to sign language for the deaf.
- Converts text to speech for the blind using speech synthesizer
 1.6 The Computer Laboratory
Definition
- Is a room that has been specially prepared to facilitate installation of computers and to provide
a safe conducive environment for teaching and learning of computer studies; or
- A room where practical computer studies lessons are conducted where resources such as
printers, disks and manuals can be shared.

Factors to consider when preparing a computer laboratory

i).Security of computer programs and other resources
ii).Reliability of the source of power
iii).The number of computers to be installed and the available floor space
iv).The maximum number of users that the laboratory can accommodate.

Safety precautions and practices in the computer laboratory

Computer systems are expensive to acquire and maintain, and should therefore be handled with
great care. Most computer system malfunctions are caused by failure to follow correct instructions
on use of equipments, carelessness and neglect. We need to observe the safety precautions, rules
and practices to avoid accidental injury, damage of devices or lack of conducive learning and
teaching environment. Some safety precautions are made to protect computers while others protect
users.

Measures that protect the computers

❖ Behaviour in the computer laboratory
The following should be followed in and out of the computer laboratory
- Avoid smoking or exposing computers to dust by entering in shoes. Smoke and dust particles
can damage the computer components and cause wearing to moving parts.
- Never take any eatables (food or beverage). Food particles may fall in moving computer like
keyboard and clog them while liquids may pour into electrical circuits causing rusting,
electrical faults, or short circuits..
- Avoid unnecessary movements because you may accidentally knock down peripheral devices.
- See that no waste materials (paper bits, etc) are inside the room. If any, collect them and put
them into the dustbin.
- Follow the correct procedure for starting and shutting down the computer.

- When in doubt ask. Students should always remember the principle of: “It is not stupid to ask
a sincere question”, to ensure that no damage is caused due to lack of proper knowledge. If
you are not sure of how to handle or operate any piece of equipment in the laboratory please
ask for assistance.

❖ Burglar proofing
Computer equipment is expensive and it is therefore important to protect the investment against
theft by implementing the following controls:
i).Fit strong metallic grills and locks on doors, windows
ii).Do not welcome strangers to computer room
iii).Install intrusion detection alarm system at strategic access points to alert security personnel incase
of break in.

❖ Protection against fire

Fire in laboratories is either caused by inflammable chemicals used for cleaning and servicing
computer equipment or electrical faults due to open wires or cables and sometimes cigarette
smokers. Install fire prevention and control equipment such as smoke detectors, a gaseous fire
extinguisher filled with carbon dioxide and should be non-liquid or non-power based. The reason
is that liquids may cause rusting and corrosion of computer components while powder particles
may increase friction and wear off moving parts and/or cause disks to crash

❖ The room should be well laid out

There should be enough space for movement and the computers should be placed on stable
wide desks to avoid accidentally knocking them down. The cables should be laid out in
trunks away form the from user paths to avoid stumbling on them.

❖ Cables and power sockets should be well insulated to avoid short circuits that can cause
damage to computer components.

❖ Dust and dump control

Dust can be controlled by fitting good window curtains and an air conditioning system that filters
dust particles from the air entering the room. Also computers should be covered with dust covers
when not in use. Humidity should be regulated by using dehumidifiers in the room to remain an
optimum of 50%. Humidity lower than this allows static electricity to built up and cause damage
to computer components. High humidity of over 70% may cause rusting of metallic parts.

❖ Stable power supply

Computers require a stable source of power. Momentary power interruptions or fluctuations often
cause computers to crash, damage data storage devices or loss of information that had not been
saved prior to the power disruptions. Power from main supply is not always stable.

There are two types of power protection devices:

A surge protector and Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)

a) A surge protector
- A surge protector is a power protection device that protects the computer against electrical
surges. Surges are large amounts of electricity which exceed the maximum level device is
capable of holding. Surges can damage or destroy computer components.
b) Uninterruptible power supply (UPS)
- Protects a computer from loss of power. It charges when mains power is on and has power
surge and brownout protection capabilities. When the main’s
power goes off, it beeps to alert the user.
- The UPS has a power plug to connect from Main power
supply and Power sockets for the computer and other hardware
to tap power from.

Function of UPS
- It regulates power from unstable power source to the required clean stable voltage
- It temporarily provides power to the computer incase of a sudden power failure.
- It beeps to alert the user when the main Power goes off.

In summary stable power supply must be applied and adhered to by installing surge protectors,
power extension cables, for each computer and a power backup generator.

A computer connected to a UPS

Types of UPS
Standby Ups – which is a power conditioner with the ability to generate its own power when there
is a power failure

Online UPS (single conversion)

Operates like standby UPS but idles at very low power during standby operation.
True on-line UPS (Double conversion)
Is always on even during normal operation thus eliminating the need for any switching incase of
power failure. It is used for critical applications e.g in Banks where loss of power for few seconds
may result in file corruption.

- Installing lighting arrestors on the computer lab.

- The room should be well laid out with enough space for movement.

- Providing antiglare screens (light filters and adjustable screens to avoid eye strain and fatigue
caused by over bright CRT monitors.

Measures that protect the user

❖ The walls of the computer room should not be painted with over bright reflective oil paints
and the screens should face away from the window to avoid glare caused by bright
backgrounds.

❖ Cables insulation
All power cables must be properly insulated and laid away from busy pathways in the computer
laboratory. They can be laid along the wall in trunks or use special computer tables designed to
hide all the cables by running under.

❖ Standard furniture
The table on which a computer is placed must be strong and wide enough to hold the weight and
accommodate all peripheral devices. The user’s seat must be comfortable and have a straight back
rest that allows someone to sit upright to avoid muscle pains and back aches. The sit must be high
enough relative to the table to enable comfortable use of hands on the keyboard as shown in the
diagram below:
The eye must be at the same level as the top of the screen (monitor) when user is seated upright as
show in the figure below:

❖ Providing antiglare screens like Light filters and adjustable screens to avoid eye strain and
fatigue caused by over bright CTR monitors. Alternatively you use LCD monitors.

❖Ventilation
There must be good air circulation to avoid suffocation or dizziness caused by lack of oxygen and
to allow computers to cool hence avoid damage to electronic parts. A computer laboratory should
be fitted with a HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system. This system controls
the temperature, air flow and humidity within a room, ensuring that the computer equipment does
not get over-heated, and the occupants of the laboratory are comfortable.
❖ Overcrowding in the computer laboratory should be avoided others users will suffocate.
❖ Lighting: Computer room should be well lit to avoid eyestrain that leads to headaches, stress
and fatigue. The monitor should be positioned such that glare or bright reflections on the
display are minimized. Radiation filter screens may be fitted as shown below:.

Computer layout
 - Should be such that an instructor (tutor) can teach from the front. There should be enough
room between rows so that a person can easily move about the room. This can be attained by
using the two popular patterns for laying desks in a computer laboratory namely classroom
pattern and conference pattern. Figures below shows these layouts.

Whiteboard

Fig.1.1 Classroom pattern layout

White board

Fig. 1.2 Conference pattern layout

There should be a central printer where students can print their work. If possible the instructors
computer should be connected to a projector to magnify the screen on a white board

1.7 Practical Hands on Skills

Computer booting (starting – up)
Definition of booting
Process by which a computer loads system files into the main memory. i.e. the operating system
is read from hard disk and loaded to the maim memory.

Computer booting (starting-up) process

- Make sure that all components are properly connected. Turn on the switch at the source of the
power supply. If the computer is connected to the UPS turn on this after switching the Main
supply. Switch on the monitor and the system unit.
- The computer once switched on, you hear the sound of a cooler fan running. After a view
seconds, lines of text start to scroll on the screen as the computer goes through a process of
Power-On Self Test (POST), before it starts in preparation for use. POST is directed by a
special firmware called Basic Input Output System (BIOS) which is held in ROM chip
mounted on the motherboard. The POST checks whether existing storage, all basic Input/Output
devices and system components are working properly. If any of the devices has a faulty or is
missing, the process may stop or halt then an appropriate error message is displayed on the
screen.
- After POST, the computer reads some instructions such as the current time and date from
special memory known as the complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS). CMOS is
a special memory where instructions for current date and time are contained. CMOS is
powered by a dry cell that resembles that of a digital watch. If the cell is down, the computer
would always require the user to enter the current time and date. Lastly, after the checks the
operating system is read from the hard disk and loaded to the memory (RAM) in a process
called booting. Once the operating system is successfully loaded, a user-interface called
desktop is displayed.
- The entire process that makes the computer ready for use is called Booting up.

Types of booting
i) Cold booting {bootup}
Process of switching on a computer that has been off completely by pressing the power button.

ii) Warm booting

This happens when the computer, originally on, is forced to restart by pressing the restart button
on the system unit or using the restart command on Start menu

Shutting down a computer

Turning a PC on and off several times a day is harmful. If the correct procedure is not followed
then loss of data, damage of programs and computer components may occur. It is therefore
advisable to shutdown the computer only after the sessions for the day.

Procedure for shutting down a computer

1. Save the work done on the computer before you turn it off
2. Close all programs that may be currently running.
3. Remove the floppy disks if you have inserted any.

4. if your computer is running on Microsoft Windows XP or Windows 7

a). click the Start button
b). on the Start menu, click Turn Off Computer or Shut Down
 c). On the message box that appears(see figure below), click Turn Off. The computer will
undergo the shut down process.

NB: Pressing the Power key on the keyboard shuts down the computer.
5. Switch off your printer / or any other output devices.

Keyboarding ands mouse skills

Keyboard layout

Activity: Identify keys on the keyboard that could be used for entering
- Alphabetic characters
- Numbers and arithmetic operators

Keys on the keyboard can be categorized into five groups as follows:

1. Alphanumeric (typing) keys
2. Function keys
3. Cursor movement and editing keys
4. Special PC operation keys
5. Numeric keypad keys

1) Alphanumeric keys (typing keys)

Are keys labeled A-Z, numbers arranged in a line 1, 2, …0 respectively and symbols like !, @, %,
^, >, [, } etc as well as keys like Enter, Caps Lock, Tab, space bar, back space.
▪ Caps Lock
Lets then user switch between uppercase(CAPITAL Letters) and lowercase (small letters) by
pressing it. When its ON Caps Lock diode lights which is above Numeric keypad keys. Just press
it again to switch to lower case.
▪ Enter key(return key)
If pressed it forces the text cursor to move to the beginning of the next line.
Definition of cursor: Is a blinking underscore ( _ ) or a vertical beam ( I ) that shows where the
next character to be typed will appear.
Apart from cursor movement, the other function of enter key is to execute a selected command and
in spreadsheets when pressed it moves the cell pointer from one cell to another downwards.

▪ Space bar
It is the longest key on the keyboard and creates a space between words during typing.

▪ The backspace key

This key is like an eraser. It has backward arrow marked on it. When pressed it erases characters
to the left of the cursor position (insertion pointer) i.e. from right to left.
▪ Tab key
Moves the text cursor at set intervals on the same line. Its also used in setting Tab stops during
typing and moving from one cell to another or option to option.

2) Function keys
These keys are located on top of the keyboard. They are labeled F1, F2 …. F12. each of these keys
is used for a special function or job. Example pressing F1 invokes the on-line help, Pressing F7
starts Spelling and Grammar Checker

3) Cursor movement(navigation) and editing keys

Cursor movement(navigation) keys: are used to move the cursor on the screen. They include:
Home, End, Pageup / Pagedown and Arrow keys.
▪ Arrow keys
They are four in number and have arrow marked on them showing the four directions. They are
used to;
- Move the cursor where we want it to be e.g. pressing the right or left arrow key moves the
cursor one character to right or left respectively. Pressing the Upward or Downward arrow key
move the cursor one line up or down respectively.
- Move the selected text or object to the desired place on the screen
▪ Page Up and Page Down
- Page Up moves the cursor up one page incase the document has many pages. Page Down
moves the cursor down one page incase the document has many pages.
▪ Home and End keys
Home key moves the cursor to the beginning of the current line while End key moves the cursor
to the end of the current line.

Editing keys
Editing keys are used to erase (delete) or insert characters in a document.
These are:
▪ Insert key
Helps the user to insert or replace a character at the cursor position i.e. switch between Insert and
Typeover (Overwrite) mode.
▪ Delete (Del) key
Is used to delete the text or any part therefore from the right of the cursor position

4) Special PC Operation keys

 These keys are rarely used singly but in combination with other keys. They give special
instructions to the computer. They include SHIFT, CTRL, ALT, and ESC keys.
Ctrl key:
- used for shortcuts in combination with other keys e.g. holding down Ctrl + S activates Save
command,

Shift Key
- used for typing alternative characters for keys that represent more than one character e.g. Shift
+ 5 types operator %.
- Changing cases i.e. if the Caps Lock light is not illuminated and you hold down the shift key
and press a letter key, the upper case version of the character will be generated. The opposite
will happen if the Caps Lock light is illuminated.
- If you hold down Shift key as you delete folders/files from hard disk they will bypass recycle
bin folder and get deleted (discarded) completed.

5) Numeric keypad keys

They are located on the rightmost part on the keyboard. They have digits marked on the in rows
from bottom upwards. They have numbers in compact form and helps in rapid entry of numeric
data. Apart from the digits the numeric keypad has some mathematical symbols also marked on
its key e.g /, +,\, -, *.
Note: that the numbers on the numeric keypad can only be used when the Num Lock key is turned
on. The key is situated on the numeric pad.
They can also be used as cursor movement keys and editing keys when Num Lock key is turned
off. Some portable computers lack numeric keypad due to size limitations.
The Num Lock used to switch between numbers, editing and navigation keys on the numeric
keypad.
NB: Caps Lock, Num Lock and Scroll Lock act in ON and OFF states.

Practical Keyboard Skills

The following typing rules should be observed when using keyboard:
I. Sit upright with both feet firmly on the ground maintaining an alert posture
II. Place the material to be typed on your right in a position you can read without strain if possible
using copy holder as shown in diagram below:
III. Rest both hands on the keyboard with fingers resting on the home keys. Home keys are keys
on which fingers rest during typing in readiness to press other keys. Home keys for the hand
are: A, S, D, F with the thumb on the Spacebar. For the right hand are: semicolon (;), L, K,
J with the thumb on spacebar. NB: Some authors state Home keys for right hand starting
with apostrophe i.e. ‘,(;), L, K and Space bar.
IV. Start typing text slowly, making sure you are using all the 10 fingers and you press the key
nearest to the home keys with the closest finger e.g. to press Q, use the small finger on the
left hand while to J, use the index finger on the right hand.

Mouse skills
The mouse got its name from shape and long interface cable which makes it look like the biological
mouse, although this is vanishing because of wireless technology.
The mouse is an input device with sensor buttons and a ball that slides it on a flat surface. When
it is made to slide, it controls a pointer on the screen, which is called a mouse pointer or a cursor.
The movement of a mouse is mirrored by a pointer on the screen. To make a selection the pointer
should be on the item that is to be selected, then manipulate the item by pressing the mouse button.
A typical mouse has a ball at its bottom that rotates when the mouse is moved.
Mouse come in various shapes, colours and sizes even there are cordless mouse this is does not
have a connection cable. A mouse has two buttons at the top and an optional scroll wheel which
can be used to scroll up the screen in an application.

Rules to observe when using the mouse

1. Place the mouse on a flat smooth surface
2. Gently hold the mouse with your right hand, using the thumb and the two right most fingers
3. The index finger should rest on the left button while the middle finger rests on the right
button. See diagram below.

Mouse terminologies and meaning

Terminology Meaning
Point Move the mouse until the mouse pointer on the screen points on the item
Click Position tip of the mouse pointer over specified element, then press and
release the left mouse button once. Selects an object/icons, files in a list
and dialog box options.
 Double clicking Pressing the left mouse button twice in quick/rapid succession. Expands
icons, starts applications, opens a file and chooses items from a list .
Right clicking Pressing the right hand side mouse button once. It displays a shortcut
menu or context sensitive menu, which apply to the right clicked text /
item.
Drag and Drop Press and hold down the mouse button as the mouse is moved. Release
once the destination is reached. Through drag and drop, user drags an
item from one location on the screen to another, move windows, icons
and resizes windows.

Selecting items using the mouse

Item Using the mouse
Single item Click
Multiple sequential items Click first item, hold SHIFT key and click the last
item.
Multiple non-sequential items Hold CTRL and click.

The figure below emphasizes on mouse terminologies and actions:

 2.0 COMPUTER SYSTEMS
Specific objectives
By the end of the topic, the learner should be able to;
a) Describe a computer system
b) Explain the functional organization of the elements of a computer system
c) Describe input devices of a computer system
d) Describe the Central Processing Unit (CPU)
e) Describe the output devices of a computer system
f) Describe the types of secondary storage devices and media
g) Distinguish between power and interface cables
h) Explain basic computer setup and cabling
i) Distinguish between system software and application software
j) Evaluate the criteria for selecting a computer system.

Introduction
Computer systems will include the computer along with any software and peripheral devices that
are necessary to make the computer function.A computer is made up of two main components
Hardware and Software while a computer system has three namely: Hardware, software and liveware
(computer user).A system is a collection of different entities that collectively work together to achieve
a desired goal. Examples of systems are human body, social system, school system etc.
A computer system is a collection of three components namely hardware, software and liveware
entities that work together to receive, process, manage and present information in a meaningful format
using computers.

2.1 Components of Computer System

The computer system consists of three major parts namely
i).Hardware
These are the physical or tangible components of a computer system, which one can touch and feel/see.
They consist of the mechanical , electrical and electronic parts of the system e.g monitor, system unit,
keyboard and mouse, etc.

ii).Software
Is a set of instructions that direct a computer on what to do. They guide the computer in each and every
activity that happens inside the computer during data processing. The programs are also written to help
the computer users perform various tasks using the computer. The software is intangible, flexible and
changeable in nature. They are mainly classified into two categories namely system software and
application software.

iii).Liveware (computer user)

Refers to users who have computer knowledge and hence can properly utilize the computer hardware
and software as well as in participation in hardware and software selection.
 Computer Hardware
The computer hardware is classified into four categories namely input devices, central processing unit,
output devices and storage devices.

2.2 Input devices

These are devices which accept data and send it to the CPU. The input devices have two tasks to
perform:
i).Read data from the medium from which it is stored
ii).Code it into a form that can be understood by the computer

Input devices are classified according to how they are used to enter data as follows:
1) Keying devices i.e. keyboard, keypad
2) Pointing devices i.e. mouse, joy stick, light pen, track ball.
3) Scanning and other data capture devices
4) Speech recognition or voice input devices
5) Touch screen, digitizer and digital cameras

Keying devices

Keying or typing is the most common way to input data. A keying device converts typed numbers,
letters and special characters into machine readable form before processing takes place.

Keyboard and keypad

They enter into a computer by typing (pressing its keys). A keypad is a tiny keyboard which is mostly
used on small portable computers, calculators, mobile phones etc.

Common types of keying devices include:

Standard keyboard: It is a full sized rigid keyboard as discussed in Chapter 1 of the Handout.
 Flexible / Rollup Keyboard: It is a more portable type of keyboard that can be folded and
packed into a bag. Rollup computer keyboards are extremely good for traveling. Simply roll them
up and then unroll them when you need them again. Typically the material is either silicone or
polyurethane. These devices are meant to be rolled up, rather than folded, as folding can damage
the circuitry.

. Ergonomic Computer Keyboards

Ergonomic computer keyboards is a computer keyboard designed with ergonomic considerations

to minimize muscle strain and a host of related problems. An ergonomic keyboard is designed to
make typing easier and lessen the strain that your hands may suffer, such as "Carpal Tunnel
Syndrome".
 Keypad : is a miniature keyboard used on portable devices such as PDAs, laptops, palm
notes, calculators and mobile phones, etc. keypad is a set of buttons
arranged in a block or "pad" which usually bear digits, symbols and
usually a complete set of alphabetical letters.
If it mostly contains numbers then it can also be called a numeric
keypad. Keypads are found on many alphanumeric keyboards and on
other devices such as calculators, push-button telephones, combination
locks, and digital door locks, which require mainly numeric input.
A computer keyboard usually has a small numeric keypad on the side, in addition to the other
number keys on the top, but with a calculator-style arrangement of buttons that allow more efficient
entry of numerical data. This number pad (commonly abbreviated to "numpad") is usually
positioned on the right side of the keyboard because most people are right-handed.[1]

Many laptop computers have special function keys which turn part of the alphabetical keyboard
into a numerical keypad as there is insufficient space to allow a separate keypad to be built into
the laptop's chassis. Separate external plug-in keypads can be purchased.[1]

Braille keyboard: is an accessibility option for the blind. It consists of keys identified by raised
dots.

Advantages of keyboard
- Its very reliable compared to other methods of text input (voice input)
- Is very cost effective, since every computer comes with a keyboard and there are no additional costs
.
-

Pointing devices

Enter data or instructions by controlling a pointer or cursor on the screen. Some examples pointing
devices include:- mouse, trackball, joystick, light pen, and stylus.
i).A mouse
Enter data or instructions by controlling a pointer on the screen. Generally there are three types of mice
available in the market today namely mechanical, optical and cordless.

Mechanical mouse
It has a ball underneath, two buttons and an optional scroll wheel located between the left and right
buttons.
The optical mouse

An optical mouse uses a light-emitting diode and photodiodes to detect movement relative to the
underlying surface, unlike wheeled mice which use a set of one
rolling ball and two chopper wheels for motion detection. It does not
have any moving parts.

Laser mouse
A laser mouse is a type of computer mousing device that uses a laser beam rather than a ball to
track the movement of the user's hand. Laser mice are becoming increasingly common because
they are perceived to have better tracking ability

Distinguish between mechanical mouse, optical mouse and laser mouse.

Optical mice make use of one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and an imaging array of
photodiodes to detect movement relative to the underlying surface, rather than internal moving
parts as does a mechanical mouse. A Laser mouse is an optical mouse that uses coherent (Laser)
light.

The difference between a regular optical mouse and a laser mouse is the light used to track
movement. A regular optical mouse uses an LED light in the optical engine, while a laser mouse
uses a laser to track movement. The more dots per inch (dpi) a mouse can track, the more sensitive
and accurate it is. A typical optical mouse tracks between 400dpi and 800dpi, while laser mice
track more than 2,000dpi.
 Neither is really better; it all depends on your needs and preferences. Unless you're a gamer or a
graphic artist with a need for precise movement, you'll probably find a 2,000dpi laser mouse too
sensitive. Many gaming mice, however, allow you to switch sensitivity levels so that you have
precision when you need it but can revert to 400dpi or 800dpi for regular mousing.

Besides their tracking speeds, laser mice work on nearly every surface, whereas optical mice may
experience trouble tracking on black or shiny surfaces.

Cordless ( wireless) mouse

Cordless or wireless mouse is a battery powered mouse that uses radio or infrared waves instead of
being physically connected to the system unit.

Uses of a mouse
- To select options from menus or from a set of icons by clicking the mouse button.
- To position the cursor when editing text or using design package
- To select an object in a drawing or a piece of text to be copied, moved or deleted.

Advantages of using a mouse

- Is easy and convenient to use
- It is inexpensive
- Most modern software includes an option to use it
- It selects a position on screen much more quickly than a keyboard
Disadvantages
- Cannot be used to input text easily, you need a keyboard to do that.
- It is relatively slow for selecting menu options
- Requires a flat surface to operate
- It is not accurate for drawing purposes

ii).Track ball
 A track ball is like a mouse that has been turned upside down. The ball is on top, and the user moves
the ball without moving the mouse. The track ball does not require a flat surface to operate. Question:
State one advantage of using a track ball over a mouse. Answer: It does not require flat surface or
extra space to operate.

ii).Joystick
Is a hand held device used for playing computer games and video games. It allows the fast interaction
needed in games. The user controls game actions by varying the pressure, speed and direction of the
joystick. Just like mouse, it has a button which is used for
selecting an item, issue commands or trigger actions.

iii).Light pen and stylus

A light pen is a computer input device in the form of a light-sensitive wand used in
conjunction with a computer's CRT TV set or monitor. It allows the user to point to
displayed objects, or draw on the screen, in a similar way to a touch screen but with greater
 positional accuracy. A light pen is a pen-like light-sensitive device, held in the hand. It
operates by sensing to the presence and absence of light through a light sensitive cell at its end.
A stylus on the other hand is used on touch sensitive devices such as PDA screens that
recognize commands or handwritten text.

Uses of light pen

- Are used as design aids
- Used to read bar codes and to indicate a point on the a screen or pad

Advantages
- Provide a direct mode of input
- More precise than using a mouse
Disadvantages
- Can only detect the presence and absence of light
- Can only be used in conjunction with a graphic VDU, which is able to sense special hardware
and software.

Touch pad
 Scanning devices (Document readers)

Scanning means capturing data from an object and converting it into digital format. Scanning devices
are devices that capture data into the computer directly and are classified according to the technology
they use to capture data namely optical and magnetic scanners.
A).Optical scanners
Capture data using optical or light technology. A light beam passes over an object and the image is
analysed by a specialized software.

They are of three types

i).Optical Mark Reader (OMR)
OMR detect marks made on a piece of paper using ink or soft pencil, by passing an infrared beam of
light over them.. The documents are pre-printed with predefined data positions. The OMR converts the
marks into computer readable data. The reader detects the presence and absence of a mark on a form
by sensing reflected infrared light.

Uses of
OMR

- Are used to mark multiple choice questions, e.g. KCPE or aptitude test.
- analyzing responses to structured questionnaires
- Insurance premium collection
- Selecting correct number combinations from lottery tickets.
- Supermarkets for stock recording
- Payroll data entry
- Market research questionnaires
- Voter’s registration process
 Advantages
- Has low error rate
- Conspicuous errors are easily corrected
- Economical where the volume of data is large
- Data captured at source, hence no data entry errors

ii.Optical Bar Reader (OBR)

These scanners are used to capture data coded as lines of varying thickness known as bar codes or
universal product code (UPC). Scan and translate a bar code into machine understandable mode. Bar
codes are lines of different thickness and are common on consumer products and contain item
information such as country of manufacture, manufacturer and the product code. Bar codes do not have
the price details because prices vary from one place to another.

The two types of bar code scanners are the hand held wand and desktop bar code reader.

Uses
- On labels and on shelves for stock taking
- Printed on shop goods e.g. supermarkets
- In libraries

iii.Optical Character Reader (OCR) or Image scanners

Is the most advanced type of scanner that works like the human eye. It is used to read typewritten,
computer printed, or handwritten characters and transforms the images into a softcopy that can be
manipulated using a word processor.
Today OCR comes as integrated feature of more advanced scanners called flat-bed scanners. Flat- bed
scanners are used to capture pictures and real objects.
 Advantages
i).Data is captured at source hence errors are limited
ii).Its an easier method to use
iii).Document design is less complicated
iv).Characters can be read by people

Disadvantages of OCR
- Some optical scanners are expensive
- Handling precaution necessary e.g. document should not be folded or creased for accurate reading

Uses
- Sale order forms
- Stock taking sheets

B).Magnetic Scanners
These scanners use the principle of magnetism to sense the document characters that have been written
using magnetized ink or coded onto magnetic strip. They can also be said to use magnetic technology
to capture data.

Examples of magnetic scanners are:-

i).Magnetic-Ink Character Reader (MICR)
The MICR is also known as magnetic reader. MICR recognizes characters formed from magnetic ink.

The document characters are typed or printed in ink containing Iron II Oxide that gives them magnetic
property. MICR is used in banks to read cheques, credit cards etc.
Advantages of MICR
- Its fast, accurate and automatic
- The codes are both machine and human readable.
- Reduces forgery i.e. its difficult to forge
Disadvantages
- MICR system is limited to only 14 characters
- MICR system is based on magnetism and can easily be damaged.
ii). Magnetic stripe recognition (magnetic card reader)
A magnetic card reader is used to read data coded on a magnetic strip on a plastic card such as the one
used on an automated teller machine (ATM) and credit card reader.
A magnetic stripe is a thin magnetic tape, often at the back of a plastic card e.g. ATM card. The stripe
contains coded information of the holder.
A magnetic stripe card is a type of card capable of storing data by modifying the magnetism of
tiny iron-based magnetic particles on a band of magnetic material on the card. The magnetic stripe,
sometimes called swipe card or magstripe, is read by physical contact and swiping past a
magnetic reading head.

Applications
- On credit cards
- On bank cards e.g. ATM
- As tags on clothes
- As a phone card
- Production control where punched cards holds data in a factory like employee’s details
- Access control for security reasons in many offices to control access to buildings or rooms
- Car parks where badges are used to raise car barriers, allowing entry or exit from a car park.

Advantages
- Simple to produce
- Not easily damaged
- Stores fairly large number of characters
- Disadvantage
- Data can be changed or erased by magnetic fields
4) Speech Recognition devices
Data is entered directly into a computer using voice input devices such as microphones. A microphone
is attached to a sound card which has an analog-digital converter. Speech recognition software allows
the user to issue commands using natural language. The device recognize a limited standard of spoken
words via a microphone linked to a computer system. A user must train the system to recognize his/her
voice by repeating each word in the vocabulary several times.

An emerging trend in voice input is the inclusion of voice tag in cell phones that allows the user to
simply store and dial contacts.

Uses of speech input/recognition devices

- For people with special needs (disabilities)
- In language translator programs
- Voice tags for voice dialing
- Quality control and automation in factories i.e. speech input used to order robots e.g in Japan
- Automated material handling whereby in airports, handlers speak the commands to direct
luggage on conveyor belts.
- House / car security using voice activated locks
- Electronic fund transfer
- Security and access control e.g. office security for room access, house / car security

Advantages
- No keyboards is necessary useful in situations where hands or eyes are busy handling documents
etc
- People are moving around, since wireless microphone can be used.
- Can be used from remote locations via the telephone

Disadvantages
 - Homophones: some words sound the same e.g. Fair & Fare
- Recognition is low
- Speaker variability
- Limited vocabularies
- Background noise can disrupt the data entered

Other input technologies

a).Touch screen
A touch screen is an electronic visual display that can detect the presence and location of a touch
within the display area. The term generally refers to touching the display of the device with a finger
or hand in order write or select an item. The screen consists of infrared light crisscrossing behind it.
When the user touches a location on the screen, the finger interrupts the infrared light and the command
touched is executed.

Touch screens can also sense other passive objects, such as a stylus. Touchscreens are common
in devices such as all-in-one computers, tablet computers, and smartphones.

The touchscreen has two main attributes. First, it enables one to interact directly with what is
displayed, rather than indirectly with a pointer controlled by a mouse or touchpad. Secondly, it lets
one do so without requiring any intermediate device that would need to be held in the hand. Such
displays can be attached to computers, or to networks as terminals. They also play a prominent
role in the design of digital appliances such as the personal digital assistant (PDA), satellite
navigation devices, mobile phones, and video games.
b).Digital cameras

A digital camera (or digicam) is a camera that takes video or still photographs, or both,
digitally by recording images via an electronic image sensor. It is the main device used in the
field of digital photography. Most 21st century cameras are digital.

Digital cameras can do things film cameras cannot: displaying images on a screen immediately
after they are recorded, storing thousands of images on a single small memory device, and deleting
images to free storage space. The majority, including most compact cameras, can record moving
video with sound as well as still photographs. Some can crop and stitch pictures and perform other
elementary image editing. Some have a GPS receiver built in, and can produce Geotagged
photographs.
Capture the same way as other cameras do but stores image in digital form. Pictures are stored on a
memory card instead of a film. The digital image taken can be streamed directly into a computer,
uploaded to internet using a webcam or directly printed using a special photo printer. Are used to take
electronic pictures of an object. They are of two types:
1. still digital camera one that can take still images i.e. photographs and another
2. a video digital camera that takes motion pictures.

c).Digitizers
A graphics tablet (or digitizer, digitizing tablet, graphics pad, drawing tablet) is a computer
input device that allows one to hand-draw images and graphics, similar to the way one draws
images with a pencil and paper. These tablets may also be used to capture data or handwritten
signatures. It can also be used to trace an image from a piece of paper which is taped or otherwise
secured to the surface. Capturing data in this way, either by tracing or entering the corners of linear
poly-lines or shapes is called digitizing.

A digitizer input by drawing using a sty

A graphics tablet (also called pen pad or digitizer) consists of a flat surface upon which the user
may "draw" or trace an image using an attached stylus, a pen-like drawing apparatus. [In
computing, a stylus (or stylus pen) is a small pen-shaped instrument that is used to input
commands to a computer screen, mobile device or graphics tablet. With touchscreen devices a user
places a stylus on the surface of the screen to draw or make selections by tapping the stylus on the
screen.[1]

Pen-like input devices which are larger than a stylus, and offer increased functionality such as
programmable buttons, pressure sensitivity and electronic erasers, are often known as digital
pens.[1]]The image generally does not appear on the tablet itself but, rather, is displayed on the
computer monitor. Some tablets, however, come as a functioning secondary computer screen[1]
that you can interact with images[2] directly by using the stylus
A digitizer also known as graphic tablet, is made up of a flat surface and allows the user to draw an
image using a stylus. The image drawn does not
appear on the tablet but on the computer screen. The
stylus moves on the tablet and the drawing is directly
reflected on the screen. Digitizers are used for tracing
highly detailed engineering and architectural
drawings and designs.

Interactive whiteboard (smartboard)

An interactive whiteboard (IWB), is a large interactive display that connects to a computer and
projector. A projector projects the computer's desktop onto the board's surface where users control
the computer using a pen, finger, stylus, or other device. The board is typically mounted to a wall
or floor stand.
They are used in a variety of settings, including classrooms at all levels of education, in corporate
board rooms and work groups, in training rooms for professional sports coaching, in broadcasting
studios and others.

Is a large interactive display that connects to a computer.

The computer display is projected onto the board’s
surface, where users control the computer and write
using a pen or a finger. The board is typically mounted
to a wall or on a floor stand.
Smart boards are used in places such as classrooms,
seminars, corporate broad broadcasting studios

Factors to consider when selecting an input device

- Device cost
The initial cost and recurrent cost to be weighed against
the expected benefits and /or operational characteristics
of the facility
- Device speed
- Data volume: It should cope with that data volume to
be input with appropriate timing.
- Device accuracy
- Device reliability
- Mode of operation: This will depend on the nature of the system i.e. data processing system.
- Appropriateness: weigh out the merits and demerits of the device in relation to where it is
applied/used.