Computer information - Term Paper Example

Computer Information A computer is a machine that is programmable and designed to chronologically and automatically carry out a series of arithmetic and logical operations. The series of operations are defined by the user and can be changed at any one moment to allow the user solve more than one problem. Computers are composed of the processor which carries out all the operations of the computer, the memory unit that stores data and instructions, the peripheral devices that send information outside the computer to other devices, the hardware elements which are the tangible physical parts of a computer and the software which are the intangible parts of the computer also called programs that enable the user to use the computer.

Computers have evolved over time in terms of size and processing capabilities. The modern computers are capable of handling complex operations at a faster rate as compared to the early computers (Rajmohan, 2006).The physical components of the computer also called the hardware parts comprise of all the tangible parts of the computer both internal and external. They include the central processing unit, the monitor, mouse, keyboard, printers and scanners. These devices help in the feeding of instructions to the computer and in producing output from the computer.

The mouse is the basic input device for a computer. The printer and the monitor are the output devices of the computer and provide hardcopy and soft copy output (Rajmohan, 2006).Software refers to the intangible parts of a computer. They are programs that are used to run the computer. The computer cannot function without programs. There are two categories of software, the system software and the applications software. The system software is the set of programs on which other programs run on in the computer.

These include the operating system software such as windows XP and windows seven. The applications software helps the user to use the computer in doing day to day tasks. These include Microsoft office suit and other tailor made software (Shearman, 2006).Computers have various uses depending on the environment in which they are used. Computers are used to carry out general office work that includes processing, storing and transfer of information. Computers are also used for entertainment purposes where they can play music, movies and many other media.

They are used in monitoring weather patterns in weather stations. These are special purpose computers that are designed to monitor changes in weather patterns and report to the base station. Computers are also used to communicate as in the exchange of information between people who are located in distant places. They are used for education purpose such as in E-learning where students can access the same information at the same time with the rest in class. They are also used in the medical industry to store patient’s information and for diagnosing patients.

They are also used in astronomy to study stars and other space bodies (Shearman, 2006).Information technology is the use of computers and associated technologies to acquire process store and disseminate information. Information technology has changed the way we carry out tasks with most of the tasks being done over a connection link. The internet is part of information technology and has changed people’s lives in so many ways as we are able to get information at the click of a button. It has also influenced our cultures positively and negatively (Shearman, 2006).

ReferencesRajmohan Joshi (2006), Introduction to Computers. Isha books: Delhi. IndiaShearman Jonathan (2006), Information Technology. Career FAQS.Ultimo: Australia.