Comp 1
Comp 1
Comp 1
Types of Computers
The four basic types of computers are supercomputers, mainframes, minicomputers, and microcomputers.
o Supercomputers – fastest, most expensive, large and powerful computers for specialized tasks
such as mathematical calculations, weather tracking, satellite monitoring, etc
o Mainframe – large computers that multitask and often found in business and colleges
o Minicomputers – may be used in medium-sized businesses with smaller data storage
requirements
o Microcomputers – the smallest category of computers that range in size from servers to handheld
devices
Some of the most common types of microcomputers include desktops, laptop/notebook,
personal digital assistants (PDAs).
Ports
A port is where all the peripheral devices connect to the computer to enable data exchange. Types of ports
include: serial ports, parallel ports, universal serial bus (USB) ports, FireWire ports, and connectivity ports.
Introduction to Windows
Windows Fundamentals
Operating System - set of computer instructions (computer programs) that control the allocation of
computer hardware.
Windows (uppercase “W”) – an operating system (developed by Microsoft Corporation) with versions
such as Windows 3.x, 95, 98, NT, 2000, XP, Vista, and 7.
Interface – provides the means for dialogue between the user and the computer.
Graphical User Interface (GUI) – uses graphics or pictures to represent commands and actions.
Windows Screen Elements
Desktop – basic screen (GUI) from which Windows and applications are run. Consists of icons, a taskbar,
a Start button, and a mouse pointer.
o Icon – graphical representation used to run a program.
My Computer icon – an icon that provides access to files and folders on the computer.
Recycle bin – storage area for files that have been deleted.
o Taskbar – A bar that contains the Start button and other buttons that will activate programs.
Start button – used to navigate program functions on the desktop.
Quick launch toolbar – an area to the right of the Start button that contains icons for
commonly used programs.
System tray – notification area on the right side of the taskbar that keeps you informed
about processes occurring in the background, and displays the time.
o Mouse pointer – the arrow, I-beam, or other symbol that indicates a location, on your screen.
o window (lowercase “w”) – a rectangular area on the screen that is used to display files or
documents.
Parts of a Window
Title bar – line at the top of a window that contains the name of the application and document, along with
the Minimize, Maximize/Restore Down, and Close buttons.
o Minimize – removes a window from the screen and represent it as a button on the taskbar.
o Maximize/Restore Down – enables a window to take up the whole screen or takes a window back
to the original size before being maximized.
o Close – closes a window from the screen.
Menu bar – a bar, directly beneath the title bar, that contains commands in words.
o Menu – list of associated commands available from a command in a menu bar or from a list
opened by right-clicking an object (shortcut menu).
Screen tip – a small box containing the name of a button that pops up when you pause the mouse pointer
over it.
Toolbar – a bar, directly beneath the menu bar, that contains command buttons with icons.
Horizontal/vertical scroll bars – helps to move left/right and up/down respectively to view information
that extends beyond the screen.
Task pane – used to display commonly used tools.
Status bar – a bar at the bottom of a window that gives additional information about the window.