Computer Basics: What Is A Computer?

Computer Basics
Goals:
 Give the students a general understanding of the fundamentals of image analysis and
computer vision.
 Introduce the student to analytical tools which are currently used for image analysis and in
computer vision applications and research.
 Develop the students ability to apply image analysis tools and methods in solving computer
vision problems.
What is a computer?
A computer is an electronic device that manipulates information, or data. It has the ability to
store, retrieve, and process data. You may already know that you can use a computer to
type documents, send email, play games, and browse the Web. You can also use it to edit
or create spreadsheets, presentations, and even videos.
About This Tutorial

This tutorial will help you understand how computers work and how to use them. We'll talk
about how to set up a computer, the difference between hardware and software, and the
types of computers you can use. We'll also explore operating systems, applications, the
cloud, and a whole lot more.
Whether you're getting started with your first computer or are just looking to learn more
about how they work, you'll find all of the information you need in our written lessons,
videos, and interactives. When you're done, you'll have a fundamental understanding of how
to use a computer. You'll also be ready to learn even more about computers with some of our
other tutorials.
So what are you waiting for? Let's get started!
What is a Computer Mouse?

The computer mouse is considered an input device. With a click of a button, the mouse sends
information to the computer. The computer mouse is an interesting device that offers an
alternative way to interact with the computer beside a keyboard.
A typical mouse has two buttons. At the top of the device you will find a left and right button
which allows for “clicks”. There is a scrolling wheel between the two buttons.
What does a computer keyboard?

In computing, a computer keyboard is a typewriter-style device which uses an arrangement
of buttons or keys to act as a mechanical lever or electronic switch. Following the decline of
punch cards and paper tape, interaction via teleprinter-style keyboards became the main
input device for computers.
What is a computer monitor?
A computer monitor is an electronic device that shows pictures for computers. Monitors often look
similar to televisions. The main difference between a monitor and a television is that a monitor does
not have a television tuner to change channels. Monitors often have higher display resolution than
televisions.
What is a computer system unit?

A typical desktop computer consists of a computer system unit, a keyboard, a mouse, and a monitor.
The computer system unit is the enclosure for all the other main interior components of a
computer. It is also called the computer case, computer chassis, or computer tower.
What is a computer speaker?

Speakers are one of the most common output devices used with computer systems. Some speakers
are designed to work specifically with computers, while others can be hooked up to any type of
sound system. Regardless of their design, the purpose of speakers is to produce audio output that
can be heard by the listener.
What is a computer printer?

In computers, a printer is a device that accepts text and graphic output from a computer and
transfers the information to paper, usually to standard size sheets of paper. Printers are sometimes
sold with computers, but more frequently are purchased separately.
Computer Basics
Basic Parts of a Computer

Introduction
The basic parts of a desktop computer are the computer case, monitor, keyboard, mouse,
and power cord. Each part plays an important role whenever you use a computer.
Watch the video below to learn about the basic parts of a desktop computer.
Computer case
The computer case is the metal and plastic box that contains the main components of the
computer, including the motherboard, central processing unit (CPU), and power supply. The
front of the case usually has an On/Off button and one or more optical drives.
Computer cases come in different shapes and sizes. A desktop case lies flat on a desk, and
the monitor usually sits on top of it. A tower case is tall and sits next to the monitor or on the
floor. All-in-one computers come with the internal components built into the monitor, which
eliminates the need for a separate case.
Monitor
The monitor works with a video card, located inside the computer case, to display images
and text on the screen. Most monitors have control buttons that allow you to change your
monitor's display settings, and some monitors also have built-in speakers.
Newer monitors usually have LCD (liquid crystal display) or LED (light-emitting diode)
displays. These can be made very thin, and they are often called flat-panel displays. Older
monitors use CRT (cathode ray tube) displays. CRT monitors are much larger and heavier,
and they take up more desk space.
Keyboard
The keyboard is one of the main ways to communicate with a computer. There are many
different types of keyboards, but most are very similar and allow you to accomplish the same
basic tasks.
Click the buttons in the interactive below to learn about the different parts of the keyboard.
Reference:
http://www.gcflearnfree.org/computerbasics/
pc.net/glossary/definition/speakers
study.com/.../what-is-a-computer-system-unit-function-components-definition.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer_monitor
If you want to learn how to type or improve your touch-typing skills, check out our free
Typing Tutorial.
Mouse
The mouse is another important tool for communicating with computers. Commonly known
as a pointing device, it lets you point to objects on the screen, click on them, and move
them.
There are two main mouse types: optical and mechanical. The optical mouse uses an
electronic eye to detect movement and is easier to clean. The mechanical mouse uses a
rolling ball to detect movement and requires regular cleaning to work properly.
Peripherals you can use with your computer
The most basic computer setup usually includes the computer case, monitor, keyboard, and
mouse, but you can plug many different types of devices into the extra ports on your
computer. These devices are called peripherals. Let's take a look at some of the most
common ones.
 Printers: A printer is used to print documents, photos, and anything else that
appears on your screen. There are many types of printers, including inkjet, laser, and
photo printers. There are even all-in-one printers, which can also scan and copy
documents.
 Scanners: A scanner allows you to copy a physical image or document and save it
to your computer as a digital (computer-readable) image. Many scanners are
included as part of an all-in-one printer, although you can also buy a separate flatbed
or handheld scanner.
 Speakers/headphones: Speakers and headphones are output devices, which means
they send information from the computer to the user—in this case, they allow you to
hear sound and music. Depending on the model, they may connect to the audio port
or the USB port. Some monitors also have built-in speakers.
Front of a computer case
Back of a computer case
The back of a computer case has connection ports that are made to fit specific devices. The
placement will vary from computer to computer, and many companies have their own special
connectors for specific devices. Some of the ports may be color coded to help you determine
which port is used with a particular device.
 Microphones: A microphone is a type of input device, or a device that receives

information from a user. You can connect a microphone to record sound or talk with
someone else over the Internet. Many laptop computers come with built-in
microphones.
 Web cameras: A web camera—or webcam—is a type of input device that can
record videos and take pictures. It can also transmit video over the Internet in real
time, which allows for video chat or video conferencing with someone else. Many
webcams also include a microphone for this reason.
 Game controllers and joysticks: A game controller is used to control computer
games. There are many other types of controllers you can use, including joysticks,
although you can also use your mouse and keyboard to control most games.
 Digital cameras: A digital camera lets you capture pictures and videos in a digital
format. By connecting the camera to your computer's USB port, you can transfer the
images from the camera to the computer.
 Mobile phones, MP3 players, tablet computers, and other devices: Whenever you
buy an electronic device, such as a mobile phone or MP3 player, check to see if it
comes with a USB cable. If it does, this means you can most likely connect it to your
computer.

Computer Basics: What Is A Computer?

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Computer Basics: What Is A Computer?

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Computer Basics

About This Tutorial

So what are you waiting for? Let's get started!

What is a Computer Mouse?

What does a computer keyboard?

What is a computer system unit?

What is a computer speaker?

What is a computer printer?

Basic Parts of a Computer

Back of a computer case

 Microphones: A microphone is a type of input device, or a device that receives

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