Fundamentals of a computer

2 system
After studying this chapter you will be able to understand;

² features of a computer,
² classification of computers,
² functions and devices of a computer system,
² basic components of a computer,
² computer ports and,
² computer network.

2.1 What is a computer?

First chapter described how computer systems can make day-to-day work
efficient.
A computer can be described as an electronic device, which accepts or
collects data, processes them according to the given instructions and produces the
desired output.
Computer has become an essential device in our lives. Some of these
features of a computer can be described as follows;

Speed A computer takes only a few seconds to perform calculations.

It executes more than one million instructions per second.
Accuracy A computer provides correct output when correct instructions
and data are given.
Efficiency A computer never gets tired. It can work round the clock with
the same level of accuracy.
Versatility A computer can be used to perform many tasks simultaneously.
This is one of the special features of a computer.
Storing and A computer is used to store large number of data and information
Retrieving in a relatively small unit and we can retrieve them easily and
quickly when needed.

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 2.2 Classification of computers

As described in the first chapter, a computer can be used to perform various

tasks such as prepare documents, control machineries or to check illnesses.

Hence, computers can be classified as follows;

computer

According to size According to technology

Figure 2.1 - Computer types

2.2.1 Classification according to size

(i) Super Computers

These computers have higher
computing power. They are large in size,
expensive and rare.(Figure 2.2) These
are used for scientific and engineering
functions and to solve complex
mathematical problems. For example,
these computers are used in institutes like
NAZA, large scale businesses and for
military purposes. Figure 2.2 - Super Computers

(ii) Mainframe Computers

These ahave reletively less computing power and less expensive than the
super computers. In mainframe computers, a number of users get connected to one
computer using a number of terminals sharing, saving and retrieving data. (Figure
2.3 and 2.4) These are used in large scale businesses and in e-business. This type of
computers are used even today in some large commercial institutions.

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 Terminals

Mainframe computer

Terminals

Figure 2.4 - Mainframe Computer

Figure 2.3 – Mainframe Computer Design

(iii) Mini Computers

These are slower, less powerful and less expensive than Mainframe
computers and are also called common purpose computers. These are easy to use.
A few users get connected to the central computer here through a few terminals to
share data and information. Some banking systems use mini computers. (Figure 2.5
and 2.6)

Terminals

Figure 2.6 - Mini Computer

Figure 2.5 – Mini Computer design

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(iv) Personal Computers/ Micro Computers
This is a small computer meant
for personal use. This consists of a small
memory capacity, is smaller in size, is less
speedy and is less expensive. Further, this
consumes little electricity (Figure 2.7).
Laptop computers and personal
computers are some examples for this
category
Figure 2.7 – Personal Computers

2.2.2 Classification according to technology

Computers can be classified according to the technology used. These are,

(I) Analog Computers
These computers use analog
signals such as environmental
parameters (speed, pressure, and
temperature). Speedometers, road
lamps with sensors, meteorological
machines can be given as examples.
(Figure 2.8)
Figure 2.8 - Analog signals

(II) Digital Computers

The computers used in
day-to-day life are called digital
computers. These computers use digital
signals, using electricity. (Figure 2.9)

Figure 2.9 - Digital signals

(III) Hybrid Computers
This is a combination of analog and digital computers. The ECG machine
used in hospitals to check the function of the heart is an example for hybrid
computers. This machine identifies the function of the heart beat which is an analog
signal. Then it is converted to a digital signal and these converted signals are printed
by this machine.

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 2.3 Function of a Computer System
The main functions of a computer system is to input data, process and store
data, and to produce information when needed. Several components are used for
such functions. The following is the function of a computer system;

Secondary
Memory

Primary
Input Memory Output

Memory
Registers

Arithmetic and
Logical Unit
(ALU)

Control Unit (CU)

Central Processing Unit

Figure 2.10 - A Computer System

Data and instructions fed to the computer via an input device are stored in
the primary memory. The data and instructions are used by the CPU for processing.
The processed data are stored in the Primary Memory as information and send
to the output device. The data and information which is to be stored are send to
Secondary Storage device. The stored information can be sent an output device
through Primary Memory. Control Unit sends the control signals to all the devices
attached to the computer system.
The flow of the data and instruction is indicated by a dotted line and the
control signals are indicated by a solid line in the diagram above.

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 2.4 Basic Components of a computer system
Certain devices are essential for the function of the computer system.
2.4.1 Input Devices

Data and instructions are fed to the computer system using input devices.
There are many input devices. The following are some of the input devices.
(») Keyboard
This is the most common input device. Though it is designed with the format
of a conventional type writer, it provides keys for additional functions.
Normally keyboards come in two sizes. That is from 101/102 keys to
104/108 keys. The functions of the keys in the keyboard are given below in Figure
2.11.

Typing keys Function keys

Special
keys

Numeric keys
Control keys

Figure 2.11 - Keyboard

(»») Pointing Devices

Example 1 - Mouse
This is the most popular pointing device used. Mouse provides input via
buttons. The mouse contains a left button and a right button. Mouse has a wheel to
roll up and down in the screen. Laptop computers use, a touch pad or a mouse is as
the pointing device. (Figure 2.12)

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 Wheel
Right
Left button
Touch Pad
button

Figure 2.12 - Mouse Figure 2.13 - Touch Pad

Example 2 - Touch screen

This is the input and
output device in the modern
computers and mobile
phones. Data is fed by
touching the screen. It also
acts as a pointing device.
(Figure 2.14) Figure 2.14 - Touch Screen

Example 3 - Joy Stick

This is also a pointing
device used in computer
games which can move the
cursor. (Figure 2.15)

Figure 2.15 - Joy Stick

Example 4 - Light pen

Light pen is used
to select menu items on the
screen or to draw/write on
the screen. (Figure 2.16)
The appearence is similar to
a normal pen. This is used
in Computer Aided Designs
(CAD).
Figure 2.16 - Light Pen

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(»»») Imaging and Video Input Devices

Example 1 - Digital Camera

This is the input device used to input
photographs and videos to the computer. Display
screen serves as the output device of the camera.
(Figure 2.17)
Figure 2.17 - Digital Camera

Example 2 - Webcam
The webcam is used to view a user
Webcam
connected to the computer through internet or
to capture videos. (Figure 2.18) It is positioned
on top of the laptop monitor, and for desktop
computers, can be connected externally.

Figure 2.18 - Webcam

Example 3 - Closed Circuit TV (CCTV)

The images or videos captured by
cameras are fed as input to the computers.
(Figure 2.19) CCTVs are commonly used
to maintain road safety and the security of
premises.

Figure 2.19 - CCTV

(»¼) Scanners

Example 1 - Flatbed Scanners

This is an input device which functions
like a photocopying machine. The scanned image
or document is captured by the laser beams and
converted to digital data. The scanned picture /
document can be saved in the computer. (Figure
2.20) Figure 2.20 - Flatbed Scanner

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Example 2 - Bar Code Reader
This device is used to read the
bar codes. (Figure 2.21) The bar code is
converted to an alphanumeric value by the
bar code reader and is fed to the computer
connected to it.

Figure 2.21 - Barcode Reader

Example 3 - Magnetic Ink Character Reader - MICR

This is available in banks. It is used
to check the accuracy of a cheque. This
device reads numbers printed at the bottom
of the cheque, its data such as bank code,
bank account number and feed them to the
computer. (Figure 2.22)

Figure 2.22 - MICR

Example 4 - Optical Character Recognition - OCR

This is used to capture text in a
document and to edit that captured text in the
document. (Figure 2.23) This is commonly
used in libraries and in government institutes.

Figure 2.23 - OCR

Example 5 - Optical Mark Recognition - OMR

This is an input device which
recognizes marks made using a pencil or
a pen. It is commonly used to check forms
filled in pen or pencil, correct MCQs of
exam papers. It can read the marks and feed
that data to the computer. (Figure 2.24)
Figure 2.24 - Optical Mark Recognition

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Example 6 - Automated Teller Machine - ATM
ATMs have made bank transactions
convenient for customers. (Figure 2.25) ATM
machine reads the numbers in the debit or credit
cards inserted into the machine and connect to the
computer. Once the bank account number is read
Figure 2.25 - Automated Teller
through the ATM, one system connects with the Machine (ATM)
bank's computer for processing the transaction.

(v) Microphone
Microphone is used to feed sound to a
computer. (Figure 2.26)

Figure 2.26 - Microphone

2.4.2 Output Devices

There are several methods of producing the processed information by a

computer system. Some of them are,
(i) Soft copy
(ii) Hard copy
(iii) Sound

(i) Soft Copy

The output on the screen is called a soft copy. The soft copy output can be
provided on the following devices.

² Monitor/ Screen
This is also called Visual Display Unit (VDU). There are several types of
monitors available today.
Cathode Ray Tube

A - Cathode Ray Tube (CRT) Monitor

This type of monitor, is large in size and
consumes more electricity. (Figure 2.27)

Figure 2.27 - Cathode Ray

Tube with screen

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 B - Liquid Crystal Display - LCD
This is a flat screen type
technology. LCD displays utilize two
sheets of polarizing material with a
liquid crystal solution between them.
(Figure 2.28) LED consumes less
electricity.

Figure 2.28 - Liquid Crystal Display

C - Light Emitting Diode - LED

LED screens are designed using light
emitting diodes. (Figure 2.29) LED
displays have better brightness and
they are used for symbols, billboards
and name boards in common places
and roads. This has become a
popular medium today due to its low
electricity consumption.

Figure 2.29 - Light Emitting Diode

² Multimedia Projector
This is the device used to get
information output to a wide screen
so that several people can view it at
the same time. This can be used as
a visual aid by a teacher to display
presentations, to conduct business
meetings or to watch videos for
entertainment. (Figure 2.30)

Figure 2.30 - Multimedia Projector

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(ii) Hard Copy
Hard copies are tangible computer outputs. The following are devices which
provide hard copy output.
 Printers
There are two main types of printers. These are,
Printers

Impact Printers Non Impact Printers

 Dot Matrix Printer  Laser Printer

 Line Printer  Bubble Printer/Ink Jet Printer
 Thermal Printer

1' Impact Printers

Impact printers are a primary level device in the printing technology. Impact
printer refers to a class of printers that have a head or needle which strike against
an ink ribbon to make a mark on the paper. Its function it is noisy. However, since
the ink ribbon used is not expensive, this is used in banks and shops for printing
receipts etc. The following are some of the impact printers.

Example 1 - Dot Matrix Printer

Letters are printed on the
paper as small dots here when
the printer’s head strikes on the
inked ribbon with needle like tips.
(Figure 2.31) Figure 2.31 Dot Matrix Printer

Example 2 - Line Printer

This is a fast printer which prints one
row at a time. This can print about 3000 lines per
minute. (Figure 2.32)

Figure 2.32 - Line Printer

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 2' Non Impact Printers
Non impact printers does not operate by striking a head against a ribbon.
Hence, it is not noisy. The printouts are better quickly. Running cost of these printers
are more expensive than impact printers. The following are some of the non impact
printers.

Example 1 - Laser Printers

Laser printer utilizes a laser beam to produce an image (through a mirror)
on a drum. The light of the laser alters the electrical charge on the drum and apply
toner (dried ink) in the cartridge. (Figure 2.33 and 2.34)
There are laser printers which print about four A4 size papers per minute.
Both black and white, as well as colour laser printers are available. The laser printer
produces clear and quality printouts.

Laser Drum
beam Mirror

Toner cartridge
Figure 2.33 - Laser printer Figure 2.34 - Cartridge

Example 2 - Bubble/Ink Jet Printer

Liquid ink stored in tanks is kept in the
cartridge and ink is deposited on paper through small
nozzles and produce the print. (Figure 2.35)

Figure 2.35- Ink Jet Printer

Example 3 - Thermal printers

Heat is used to print the document. It is
commonly used in businesses to print receipts in
devices such as like ATM, and in printing labels (Figure
2.36).
Figure 2.36 - Thermal printers

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Example 4 - Plotter
This is commonly used
in computer based planning
(architectural designs, town
planning, designing sailing boats
etc). A plan is drawn by moving a
pen on the paper.
Figure 2.37- Plotter

(iii) Sounds
The device which gives
a sound output is called speaker.
Speaker devices are designed for
personal and common purpose.

Figure 2.38 - Speaker

2.4.3 Central Processing Unit - CPU

This is the main component of a computer system. It is also called the brain
of the computer as well as it functions according to the given commands. CPU
manages the operating system and application software. CPU consists of three main
components. The functions of those are as follows;

1. Arithmetic and Logical Unit (ALU) Perform all mathematical and logical
functions.
2. Control Unit (CU) Controls all devices of a computer
system.
3. Memory Registers Positioned in the Central Processing
Unit. Temporarily stores data needed for
the function of ALU.
Main Components of Central Processing Unit

Computer Speed
The unit used to measure clock speed of a computer is Hertz (Hz) and the
units used to measure computer speed are Megahertz (MHz) and Gigahertz (GHz).

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 2.4.4 Computer Memory
Several computer memory or storage devices are used to store data and
information and the functions of each are different. Computer memory can be
classified as follows.
Computer Memory

Primary Memory / Secondary

Main Memory Memory

Random Access Memory Read Only Memory Cache Memory

(RAM) (RAM)

Figure 2.39 – Computer Networks

(») Primary Memory
The memory that can be directly accessed by the Central Processing Unit is
called primary memory/storage. There are three types of Primary Memory.
∗ Random Access Memory (RAM)
This memory temporarily stores data.
(Figure 2.40) The data stored in RAM will be
deleted when the computer is switched off.
Therefore this is also called volatile memory.
Data coming from input devices as well as data
sent to output devices are held in RAM.
Figure 2.40 - Random Access
Memory

∗ Read Only Memory (ROM)

The data in Read Only Memory is not erased
when the computer is switched off. Therefore it is a
Non-volatile Memory. The commands required for
booting up a computer are stored in ROM.
These commands are called BIOS (Basic
Input Output System). Computer Manufacturing
companies store these commands in a ROM with
a smaller capasity and is connected to the mother Figure 2.41 - Read Only Memory
boars (Figure 2.41).

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∗ Cache Memory
Though this is smaller in capasity than other memory, it is faster. This is also
called CPU Memory. This acts as the mediator between CPU (Central Processing
Unit) and Primary Memory. The data frequently used by are stored here. (Figure
2.42)
The Central Processing Unit checks cache memory first to see whether
the required data is available for processing. However, if the required data is not
available then the data is fetched to cache memory from RAM for processing.

Primary memory
3. Checks Primary 4. Fetch data to Cache
Memory for data Memory from the Primary
Memory and then sends
these to the CPU.
Cache Memory

1. Checks Cache 2. If there data exists in,

Memory to see whether fetch from cache.
there is required data.
CPU

Figure 2.42 - Cache Memory

(»») Secondary Memory

Secondary Memory or the Secondary Storage is the device which stores
data and information permanently. This is also called External Storage. There are
internal storage devices as well as external portable secondary storage devices.
Secondary memory is called non-volatile memory since it does not erase when
electricity is not available. (Figure 2.43) These can be classified as follows.

Magnetic media • Hard Disk

devices • Floppy Disk
• Magnetic Tape

Secondary Optical media

• CD
Storage • DVD
devices
• Blu-ray

Solid state • USB flash drive

devices • Memory card

Figure 2.43 - Secondary Memory

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1' Magnetic Media Devices
Data is stored here by using magnetic field.

Example 1 - Hard disk Drive

The Hard Disk Drive (HDD), which is commonly used to store data and
information, is located inside the computer. However, there are external hard disks
as well. Today there are hard disks with large capacity due to the development of
the technology. The user can read and write the data stored in HDD. Therefore,
this medium is called Read / Write Memory. The capacity of a hard disk ranges
from 250 GB to 4 TB. The maximum capasity will increase with technological
development.

Hard Disk is made of several components.

1. Platter – This is a metallic, aluminum

or ceramic disk and data can stored
on both sides using magnetic media.
There can be several platters in a hard
disk.

2. Spindle – Holds the platter and rotates

it.
Figure 2.44 - Hard Disk
3. Head – Reads the magnetic data in the
platter and writes on the platter. There
are two heads for a platter; one on top
A hard disk with
and one on bottom. several platters

4. Actuator arm – Moves the head.

Enables reading and writing data
anywhere in the platter.

5. Power connector – Connects the Hard

Disk to power which is needed for
External
its function. hard disk

6. IDE connector – Transmits data to the

platter

7. Actuator – An electronic device which moves the arm connected to it. This is
operated by a motor.

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Example 2 - Magnetic Tape
Used mostly in sever computers for
back up due to its larger storage capasity. But
tape is not used in day today life as it is slow
in reading and writing (Figure 2.45).

Example 3 - Optical media Figure 2.45 - Magnetic Tape

Since data stored digitally on a disk is read and written by laser beam, it is
called optical media. Optical media is commonly used to carry data and information
and there are several types. The followings are some of them;
Device Type Size Image
CD-ROM Used only to read data and information
^Compact Disc -
Read Only Memory&
CD-R Can be used to write data and information
^Compact Disc once until the capacity is filled. 650 - 900
-Write once& MB
CD-RW (Compact Data which is written on the disk can be
Disc erased and re-written.
Re-Writable)
DVD-ROM Digital Used only to read data and information.
Versatile Disc - Read
Only Memory
DVD-R Can be used to write data and information
4.7 - 9.4
(Digital Versatile once until the capacity is filled.
GB
Disc - Write Once)
DVD – RW Data which is written on the disk can be
(Digital Versatile erased and re-written.
Disc - Rewritable)
Blue ray (BD) R Can be used to write data and information ‍
(Recordable) once until the capacity is filled.
Blue-ray RE More data can be re-written many times
(Recordable until the capacity is filled. 25 - 128
Erasable) GB
Blue - ray 3D Used to record vedio.

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3. Solid State Devices
Since these devices contain solid parts and does not contain moving parts
they are called Solid State Devices. They are used to read and write data and
information.

Example 1 - USB Flash Drive

This has become a very
popular secondary storage device due
to its easy portability and the ability
to read and write data fast.

Figure 2.46 - USB Flash Drive

Example 2 - Memory Card

This has the same function
of USB flash drive. However,
the method of connecting to the
computer is different and it is smaller
in physical size. This is used in
digital cameras, mobile phones and
computer gaming devices.

E.g. - SD Card (Secure Digital Card)

Figure 2.47 - Memory Card

Activity
Write advantages and disadvantages of Magnatic media, Optical
madia and Solid state media.

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 2.5 Computer Ports
The interfaces which connect computer with its devices or with other
computers are called ports. (Figure 2.48) Ports are positioned in the front or back of
the computer. There are symbols to identify posts. All the ports are connected to the
motherboard.

Figure 2.49 - How ports are connected to the

Motherboard
1. PS/2 ports 5. Audio ports
2. Parallel port 6. USB port
3. HDMI port 7. Video port
4. RJ 45 port 8. Serial ports
Figure 2.48 - Ports

1. PS/2 Port
Used to connect the keyboard and the
mouse to the computer system. The purple
port is for the keyboard and the green port
is for the mouse. (Figure 2.50) However,
USB port is mostly used today to connect
the keyboard and the mouse to the computer Figure 2.50 -PS/2 Ports
system.

2. Parallel Port
Used to connect the printer to the
computer system. This consists of 25 holes.
(Figure 2.51) However, USB port is mostly
used today to connect printers to computer
systems. Figure 2.51- Parallel Port

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3. HDMI (High - Definition Multimedia
Interface) port
This port can be seen especially in
laptops. (Figure 2.52) It connects the monitor,
multimedia projector, digital TVs, and digital
speakers to the computer.
Figure 2.52 - HDMI Port

4. RJ 45 Port
This port connects computer of a computer
network to the network router, network switch.
(Figure 2.53)
Figure 2.53 - RJ 45 port

5. Audio Ports/ Jacks

This port connects audio media like
microphones, speakers and head phones to the
computer system. (Figure 2.54)

Blue – Line In Figure 2.54 - Audio Ports/ Jacks

Green – Line Out, Head Phone
Pink – Microphone

6. USB (Universal Serial Bus Port)

This port is used to connect many types
of input and output devices to the computer.
(Figure 2.55)
Figure 2.55 - Universal Serial Bus
Port

7. Video port - VGA (Video Graphics

Adaptor)
This is also called the Graphic Port. This
connects the monitor, or multimedia projector
to the computer system. (Figure 2.56) The
port consists of 15 holes. Figure 2.56 - Video port

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8. Serial port
This port connects devices such as
modem to the computer. Today, USB port is
used instead of the serial port. (Figure 2.57)

Figure 2.57 - Serial Port

Activity
Observe and identify the ports in the computer in the laboratory.

2.5 Data Communication

Transmitting data and information is called data communication. Data
transmission can be carried out between two or more computers or devices such
as printers.Data transmission needs a connection between a sender and a receiver.
Creating such a connection is called networking.

2.5.1 Basic components required for data communication

The following are the basic components that are needed for data communication.

Figure 2.58

• Sender / Source – the person or the object which sends data

• Medium – medium used to transmit data (telephone wires / wireless)
• Receiver/ destination – the person or the object which receives data

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 2.5.2 Data Transmission Modes

There are several modes of data transmission between sender and receiver.
1& Simplex Mode

Data is transmitted from the sender to the receiver only. Getting print outs,
watching television, and listening to radio can be given as examples

Figure 2.59 - Simple mode communication

2& Half- duplex Mode

Here, data is transmitted to one direction at a time. This means after data is
transmitted from sender / source to the receiver, the receiver can transmit data back
to the sender / source. Browsing internet to get information and walkie-talkie used
by security forces can be given as examples.

Medium

Figure 2.60 – Willkie –

Talkies Half duplex mode
communication

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3& Full Duplex Mode
Data is transmitted to both sides at the same time is called Full duplex.
Telephone conversation is an example for full duplex mode communication.

Medium

Figure 2.61 - Full Duplex Mode communication

2.5.3 Data Transmission Media

This is another important feature when creating connections among systems.

There are two types of data transmission medium. Those are called Guided/Wired
and Unguided/Wireless. The following are some examples. (Figure 2.62)

Figure 2.62 - Data Transmission Mediums

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^i& Guided / Wired
If the medium used for data transmission is a physical medium, it is called
guided or wired.
Example 1 - Twisted Pair
Pairs of twisted copper wire are used for data
transmission. There are two types.

1. Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP)

The twisted copper wire pairs used for
telephone connections. These are very flexible and
low-priced. However, it is difficult to transmit data Figure 2.63 - Unshielded Twisted
for a long distance through UTP wires. It is suitable Pair
for maximum of 100 meters.

2. Shielded Twisted Pair (STP)

STP is a better quality and secure data
transmission medium. However it is expensive.
(Figure 2.64)
Figure 2.64 - Shielded Twisted
Pair
Example 2 - Coaxial Cable
This consists of an electronic cable pair. The
outer cable which is like a braided copper net produces
electromagnetic field around the central cable. These
two cables are separated by a plastic shield. These
cables are expensive and used for TV antenna and
CCTV.

Figure 2.65 - Coaxial Cable

Example 3 - Fiber Optics cable
Fiber Optics cable consists of a pair of an
cables. There is a plastic jacket to separate the two
cables. Core is a glass tube and there is glass cladding
around it. (Figure 2.66). The data transmission is
carried out by while reflecting light. These are used
in modern telephone networks. The cable is reletively
more expensive.
Figure 2.66 - Fiber Optics

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 Activity
Write down advantages and disadvantages of copper wire and optical
fiber.
(ii) Unguided/Wireless Media
Data is transmitted as signal through
the air without using physical medium is
called unguided/wireless media.

Example 1 - Radio waves

Data transmission is performed
using radio waves. Wifi and Bluetooth
are examples for radio waves based
Figure 2.67 - Radio waves
communication.

Example 2 - Microwaves
Microwaves travel in a linear
mode. Figure 2.68) Transmission center is
positioned facing each other. The distance
between centers are decided based on Figure 2.68 - Micro waves
geographical factor of the area.
Microwaves are used in Satellite
communication to transmit data as
transponders. (Figure 2.69) Satellite centers,
which are positioned in the sky above 36000
km, capture data transmitted as microwaves
through satellite towers positioned in the
Earth and then transmit the data back to the
required tower. Using this method, data can Figure 2.69 - Satellite Communication
be transmitted to any distance. This is also
used in internet communication.

Example 3 - Infrared
Infrared data transmission
is used in TV remote controllers,
wireless keyboards and mouse etc.
Figure 2.70 - Infrared

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 2.5.4 Computer network devices
There should be two or more computers to build a computer network.
Connection devices used to connect computers with each other.

Figure 2.71

(i) Network Interface Card (NIC)

NIC has an RJ45 port and is built into the mother board in modern computers.
In the port NIC was a seperate code to be pluged to the mother board.

Figure 2.72 - Network interface card Figure 2.73 - RJ 45

connector

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(ii) Switch/Hub
Switch/Hub acts as the mediator to build
a connection between two or more computers.
(Figure 2.74) A guided/wired transmission
media is used. One end is connected to port in
the computer and the other end is connected to
the port in the Switch / Hub.
Figure 2.74 - Switch / Hub

Differences between the switch and hub

• The main difference is the data transmission speed. Hub sends the transmitted
data to all computers but switch sends data to the relevant computer only. Here
hub may create an unnecessary network data congestion.

• In data transmission, hub uses half duplex mode and the switch uses full duplex
mode.

(iii) Wireless Fidelity - Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi adapter has become the most
popular media in computer networking. This
allows the users to build a computer network
easily and internet connections for mobile
phones and laptop computers using radio
waves.
Figure 2.75 - Wi – Fi

(iv) Router
Router is the device used to build a
connection between two or more computer
networks. It is also called a Gateway. This
finds out the most suitable ports for data
transmission in network communication.

Figure 2.76 - Router

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(v) Modem
The modem is used to connect the
computers of a computer network or a personal
computer at home to the internet. The modem acts
as a data translator. Digital signals sent from the
computer is translated to analog signals and the
analog signals send to the computer from the
internet is translated to digital signals. This is Figure 2.77 – Internal Modem
called MOdulation and DEModulation. Hence,
‘MODEM’ is a combination of these two words.
There are different types of MODEMs. Those are
internal, external and wireless modems. Todays
routers have a modem inbuilt in the device.

Figure 2.78 – External Modem

Modulation - Demodulation

Figure 2.79 – Wireless Modem

(vi) Firewall
Firewall is a network security. Instructions to control the data and instruction
transmission between internet and computer network are built into the system.
A firewall operates
as a secured barrier Firewall
Computer network
between internet and Internet
network. Firewalls
exist in both forms
as software and
hardware. Data and Information
Figure 2.80 - Firewall

Activity
Briefly explain the importance of a firewall.

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 2.5.5 Client/Server network

Figure 2.81 – Client / Server Network

A server computer responds to the client computer connected to the server.

A network operating system is installed to the server. The one who requests data or
information via internet or from an area network is called a client and the one who
provides data and information is called the server.

2.5.6 Types of Computer Network

• Computer Networks
Computer networks can be classified according tgeographical distribution
of computers in the network.

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(i) Local Area Network (LAN)
A LAN connects computers inside a room or
several rooms in a building. (Figure 2.83) A computer
network built in a school, university, a small scale
business or an office can be given as examples.

Figure 2.83 - LAN

(ii) Metropolitan Area Network

- (MAN)
MAN is a combination
of several Local Area Networks
which covers less than 16
miles. Examples include
banking networks, institutes and
universities with branches. (Figure
2.84)
Figure 2.84 - MAN

(iii) Wide Area Network - WAN

These networks cover a wide area. This can
be within or outside a country. The best example for
WAN is the Internet. (Figure 2.85)
Figure 2.85 - WAN

Activity
Provide two examples for LAN, MAN and WAN.

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2.5.7 Network Topology

Network topology is the pattern of connection in designing computer

network. There are different types of network topologies. Those are,

i) Star Topology
This is a commonly used design and built
by centralizing a switch/hub and computers.
(Figure 2.86)

Figure 2.86 - Star Topology

ii) Bus Topology
Here, all the connections are
established through a main cable. (figure
2.87) This cable is called the backbone
because any issue with the network affects
all the computers in the network. This design
is easy in networking and fewer cables are
required. However, a limited number of
computers can be connected. Figure 2.87- Bus Topology

ii) Ring Topology

Here, computers are positioned in a
ring/bangle and connected through cables.
Data or information move in a circular
manner. The breakdown of one computer
or cable can lead to the breakdown of the
entire network.
Figure 2.88 – Ring Topology

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iv) Tree Topology
Tree topology has characteristics of both
bus and star topologies. In this design several star
topologies are connected to a bus backbone cable.
(Figure 2.89) One of the advantages of this is the
ability to control each network individually.

Figure 2.89 - Tree Topology

v) Mesh Topology
All the computers in the network are
connected with each other. (Figure 2.90) Since
this is a complex connection pattern, it is costly
and difficult to control. However, a breakdown of
one computer does not affect the connections in
the network. Mesh networking can be found on
internet.
Figure 2.90 - Mesh Topology

2.5.8 Benefits of Networkings

Data and information can be shared The main advantage of networking is

between computers. sharing data and information between
computers. Data and information in
a server, can be accessed by clients
connected to the server.

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Less storage space
This saves space as well because the same
data is not stored in several computers
unnecessarily.

Ability to share resources The devices like printer, scanner and

modem can be connected to network and
shared by multiple users.

Ability to control central software Software can be installed on a server

computer and shared by many users
through client computers.

Ability to connect at any where and at By connecting to internet, a user can

any time access his / her documents and data at
any where and any time (24×365).

Security Only the authorized clients can access the

server computer. Data and information in
a network can be made secure.

Electronic mail E-mail is a convenient method of sharing

information between computers.

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2.5.9 Disadvantages of Networking

Possible security issues

One major disadvantage of networking
is the difficulty in securing data. Server
can be accessed through any computer
connected to the network. Hence it is
difficult to secure it from the hackers
(people who try to gain access to data
without permission).
Breakdown of network
In some topologies, breakdown of a
computer or a cable can affect the function
of the other computers of the network.

Virus
If one of the computes in the network gets
a virus attack, this can spread to other
computers as well.

Computer break downs

Due to defects or breakdown of the server,
the other the clients can be affected.

Training requirements
The need for a person who is specialized
in network administration.

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 Summary

• A computer is an electronic device which accepts or collects data, processes

them according to the instructions given and produces desired output.
• Characteristics of a computer are speed, accuracy, efficiency, versatility and
storing and retrieving ability.
• Classification of computers
According to size - Super Computers, Mainframe computers, Mini computers,
Personal Computers / Micro Computers / Mini Computers

According to technology - Analogue Computers, Digital Computers, Hybrid

Computers

• Basic components of a computer

• Input devices
• Output devices
• Central Processing Unit : Arithmetic and Logical Unit (ALU), Control
Unit, Memory Registers
• Primary Memory / Main Memory
• Secondary storage

• External devices are connected to a computer through ports.

• Basic components of data transmission are sender/source, media, receiver/
destination.
• Modes of data transmission
• Simplex–mode
• Half–duplex mode
• Full muplex mode
• Data transmission medium
• There are two types – guided and unguided / wireless
• Connectivity devices such as switches, routers, modems are necessary to build
a network.
• Types of computer networks – LAN, MAN, WAN
• Computer network topology includes
• Star topology
• Bus topology,
• Ring topology
• Tree topology
• Mesh topology
• There are advantages as well as disadvantages of computer networking.

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