COMPUTE

APPLICATIO
RN
COMP 111
Starter Questions
[Link] are
Characteristics of a
Computer?
uestions

[Link] are advantages

and disadvantages of
computers?
Classifications of
Computers
• By Generation
• By Size
• By Purpose
Generatio
n
Based on the data generated computers can be classified as
follows

1ST Generation (1945-1949)

They are made-up of electronic valves (Vacuum Tubes) for the

circuit. The vacuum tubes required greater amount of energy
and generated much heat and has the following:
• It has memory
• It occupies a large space
• It is slow
• It generates a lot of heat
Generatio
n
2nd Generation (1950-1960)

Were made to use transistors. They were smaller, faster, less

expensive and emitted less heat than vacuum tubes and it has
the following features:
• It was developed using transistors as the memory.
• It makes use of high level languages.
• It has high speed of operation than first generation
computer
Generatio
n
3rd Generation (1960s-1970s)

They were manufactured between the late 1960s and early 1970
with integrated circuit replacing transistors. It has the following
features:
• It was developed with integrated circuit (ICs).
• It gives rise to more developments in hardware technology.
• It is durable and faster than first generation of computer.
 Computer Type by
Size
Supercomputers
• Highest Performance: Supercomputers are at the top
tier of computer systems, capable of performing
hundreds of calculations per second.
• National Resources: Due to their cost and complexity,
only a few organizations worldwide own or operate
them.
• Evolving Uses: Originally developed for weapon design,
they are now widely used in weather forecasting,
biomedical research, and aircraft design.
 Computer Type of
Size
Limitations of Super Computers

• Extremely Expensive: Very high purchase and maintenance

costs.
• Massive Power Consumption: Require significant electricity to
run.
• Specialized Infrastructure: Need advanced cooling systems to
prevent overheating.
• Complex Operation: Require skilled personnel to manage and
operate.
• Limited Accessibility: Few organizations can afford or access
them.
 Computer Type By
Size
Mainframe Computers
• High Performance: More powerful than mini-computers,
operating at very high speeds with large storage capacities.
• Multi-User Support: Can handle hundreds or even thousands of
users simultaneously, making them ideal for large-scale data
processing in big organizations.
• Common Uses: Often used to manage employee records and
other extensive databases.
Limitations:
• Very expensive
• Not portable
• Produce a lot of heat during operation
 Computer Type of
Size
Minicomputers
Key Features
• Scaled-down versions of mainframe computers.
• More powerful and costly than personal computers (PCs).
• Can support up to 200 users simultaneously.
• Often used in medium-sized organizations for data processing
and departmental tasks.
Limitations
• More expensive than PCs
• Less powerful than mainframes or supercomputers
• Require specialized maintenance and setup
 Computer Type of
Size
Microcomputers (Personal Computers)
• The most recent type of computer, also called Personal
Computers (PCs).
• Designed for individual use at home, school, or office
environments.
Key Features
• Durable and portable
• Cheaper than other types of computers
• Generates less heat
• Fast performance based on input/output, memory size, and
processor speed
Types of Microcomputers
• Desktop
• Laptop
• Palmtop
 Computer Type of
Size
Limitations of Super Computers

• Extremely Expensive: Very high purchase and maintenance

costs.
• Massive Power Consumption: Require significant electricity to
run.
• Specialized Infrastructure: Need advanced cooling systems to
prevent overheating.
• Complex Operation: Require skilled personnel to manage and
operate.
• Limited Accessibility: Few organizations can afford or access
them.
 Computer Type by
Purpose
1. Special Purpose Computers
Designed for a specific task or restricted problem-solving.

Examples:
Air traffic control systems
Road traffic monitoring systems

2. General Purpose Computers

Can perform a wide range of tasks and solve different problems.

Examples:
Personal computers
Office workstations
Computer Types by Data (Device
Preparation
1. Analogue Computers
• Used in scientific and engineering applications.
• Measure continuous physical quantities (e.g., temperature,
pressure, voltage).
• Do not have memory facilities.
• Examples: Stopwatch, Thermometer, Speedometer, Electric
meter.

2. Digital Computers
• Used for commercial processing.
• Represent information in digital form (0s and 1s).
• Examples: Calculators, Handsets, Microcomputers.
Computer Types by Data (Device
Preparation

3. Hybrid Computers
• Combine features of analogue and digital
computers.
• Example: Robots in industrial environments,
modern TVs (digital channel selection +
analogue storage).
Main parts of a computer
(Computer Hardware);
Computer Monitor (Visual Display Unit - VDU)
Definition
• A monitor displays information from the CPU onto the screen
for the user to view.
• Also called Screen or Visual Display Unit (VDU).

Types of Monitors
[Link] Monitors (Black & White)
• Display text and images in only black and white.
[Link] (Colour) Monitors
• Display images in colour as well as black and white.
• Common categories:
⚬ CGA (Colour Graphic Array)
⚬ EGA (Enhanced Graphic Array)
⚬ SVGA (Super Video Graphic Array)
Main parts of a computer
(Computer Hardware);
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The brain of the computer that reads and carries out instructions.
Also called Processor, Central Processor, or System Box.

Main Components of CPU

MU (Memory Unit) – Provides fast access to data and instructions.
CU (Control Unit) – Retrieves and manages instructions from
memory.
ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit) – Performs arithmetic and logical
calculations.

Functions of CPU
Holds and executes program instructions.
Processes input data based on given commands.
Updates master files after processing data.
Sends processed data to output devices for display or storage.
Main parts of a computer
(Computer Hardware);
Keyboard
• A rectangular hardware device with keys for numbers,
letters, symbols, and commands.
• When a key is pressed, the character or command appears
on the screen via the CPU.

Mouse
• A hand-held pointing device connected to the computer
(wired or wireless).
• Used to move the pointer and execute commands with
buttons (e.g., right-click, left-click).
Main parts of a computer
(Computer Hardware);
Printer
It is a device or machine which allows you to transfer, copy
text and graphics from your computer to hard copy (paper).

The different types of printers are:

1. Deskjest (print colour, black and white)

2. Laserjet (print only black and white)
Main parts of a computer
(Computer Hardware);
Drives

Devices that read and write data to/from CDs, floppy disks, tapes,
and hard drives.

Common types: CD drives, floppy drives, hard drives.

Modern Storage Examples

• USB Flash Drives – Portable, high-capacity storage.

• Solid State Drives (SSD) – Fast and reliable internal/external
storage.
• Cloud Storage – Online storage accessible from any device (e.g.,
Google Drive, Dropbox).
Main parts of a computer
(Computer Hardware);
Storage Devices

CD-ROM (Compact Disc Read-Only Memory)

• A compact disc used to store large amounts of data such as sound,
text, and graphics.
• Data on a CD-ROM cannot be modified (read-only).
Diskette (Floppy Disk)
• A small, flat magnetic storage device used to store text and graphics.
• Inserted into a diskette drive to read or write data.
Drives
• Hardware devices used to read and write data to/from CDs, floppy
disks, tapes, or hard drives.
• Common types: CD drives, floppy drives, hard drives.
Main parts of a computer
(Computer Hardware);
Components of a
Computer
Software - a set of instructions or commands given to a
computer to perform specific tasks.
It directs the computer on what to do and how to do it.

Types of Software
• Application Software – Programs designed by skilled
programmers to meet users’ specific needs or solve
specific problem. For example. Word Processing ,
spreadsheet packages, databases or accounting.
• System Software – Manages and operates the
computer hardware usually comes preinstalled . Utility
Software (e.g. file management, antivirus tools.
Language Software (e.g. compilers, interpreters).
• Computer Viruses – Malicious software that can harm or
disrupt computer operations.
 BASIC
COMPUTER
NETWORKS

COMP 111
What is a Computer
Network
A computer network is a collection of
interconnected devices (computers,
servers, printers, etc.) that communicate
and share resources like files, internet, or
applications using communication
channels (wired or wireless).
Advantages of
Networking
• Enables easy communication
• Allows data, information and file
sharing
• Resource sharing
• Increases storage capacity
• Aids in cost reduction
• Saves times
 Types of Computer
a.
Networks
Point to Point:

b. Multipoint:
 Types of Computer
a.
Networks
Local Area Network (LAN)
• Covers a small area, such as a home, office, or
school.
• Uses Ethernet cables or Wi-Fi.
• Example: Office network connecting computers
and printers.
b. Wide Area Network (WAN)
• Covers large geographical areas.
• Internet is the largest example of a WAN.
• Connects multiple LANs using routers.
 Types of Computer
Networks
c. Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
• Covers a city or town.
• Used by ISPs or large organizations.

d. Personal Area Network (PAN)

• Very small range (a few meters).
• Connects personal devices like phones,
Bluetooth headsets, laptops.
Key Components of
Networks
[Link] – Connects networks and directs
data.
[Link] – Connects multiple devices within
a LAN.
[Link] – Simple device to connect devices
(less common today).
[Link] Point (AP) – Provides wireless
connectivity.
[Link] – Physical medium for wired
networks (Ethernet, fiber optic).
 Types of
Connections
• Wired Networks – Use Ethernet cables; faster
and more secure.
• Wireless Networks – Use Wi-Fi or Bluetooth;
convenient and mobile.
Networking Terms
• Host (network host): a computer or other
device connected to a computer network. It may
offer information resources, services, and
application to users or other nodes on the
network
• Workstation:
⚬ is a computer dedicated to user or group
users engaged in business or professional
work.
⚬ It includes 1 ore more high resolution
displays and faster processor than a personal
computer.
⚬ Different from PC: faster and more capable
Networking Terms
• Client and Server:
⚬ A server is a computer program that accepts
and responds to requests made by another
program, know as a client.
• Node: can be a computer or some other device
i.e. a printer that can receive, create, store or
send data along.
 Types of
Connections
• Wired Networks – Use Ethernet cables; faster
and more secure.
• Wireless Networks – Use Wi-Fi or Bluetooth;
convenient and mobile.
 Network
• Criteria
Performance
⚬ Transit Time
⚬ Response Time
• Reliability
⚬ Recovery time from
failure
• Security
⚬ Protecting data from:
￭ Unauthorized Users
￭ Damage
Network Topology
[Link] is Network Topology?
a. The arrangement of devices and connections
in a computer network.
b. Describes how data flows between devices.
[Link] is it Important?
a. Determines performance, scalability, and
reliability of a network.
b. Helps in planning and troubleshooting.

There are two types of Typology:

• Physical Topology: the physical layout of the
cable
• Logical Topology: How the data actually travels
through the network.
 1. Bus
Topology
Structure: All devices are connected to a single
central cable, called the bus or backbone.

Use Case: Small home or temporary office

networks.
 1. Bus
Topology
Advantages:
Easy and inexpensive to set up for small
networks.
Requires less cable than other topologies.

Disadvantages:
If the main cable fails, the entire network goes
down.
Performance decreases with more devices.
Difficult to troubleshoot.
2. Star Topology
Structure: All devices are connected to a central
device (hub or switch).
How it works:
Each device communicates with the central device,
which forwards data.

Use Case: Most common in modern homes and

offices.
2. Star Topology
Advantages:
• Easy to install and manage.
• Easy to add or remove devices.
• Failure in one cable doesn’t affect the others.
Disadvantages:
• If the central hub/switch fails, the whole network
goes down.
• Requires more cables.
3. Ring Topology
Structure: Devices are connected in a circular loop,
with each device having two connections (to the next
and previous devices).
How it works:
• Data travels in one direction (or two in a dual ring).
• Each device acts as a repeater.

Use Case: Some WANs and specialized networks (like

fiber rings).
3. Ring Topology
Advantages:
• Performs well under heavy network load.
• Predictable data flow.
Disadvantages:
• Failure in any one device or link can disrupt the
whole network (unless a dual ring is used).
• Adding or removing devices disrupts the network.
4. Mesh Topology

Structure: Every device is connected to every

other device.
How it works:
• Data can be transmitted on multiple paths.
• Can be full mesh (all devices interconnected)
or partial mesh (some devices connected).

Use Case: Military, banking systems, critical

communication systems.
4. Mesh Topology
Advantages:
Very reliable and fault-tolerant.
High data privacy and security.
Disadvantages:
Expensive due to the number of cables and
ports.
Complex to install and maintain.
5. Tree Topology
Structure: A combination of star and bus topologies.
Devices are connected in a parent-child hierarchy.
How it works:
• Central backbone cable connects to hubs/switches
which connect to other devices.

Use Case: Large organizations, schools, or university

networks.
5. Tree Topology
Advantages:
• Scalable and easy to manage.
• Fault isolation is easier than in a bus.
Disadvantages:
• If the backbone line breaks, sections of the network
can fail.
• More cabling than bus or star alone.
6. Hybrid Topology
Structure: A combination of two or more topologies
(e.g., star-bus, star-ring).
How it works:
• Designed to meet specific needs of the network.

Use Case: Enterprise networks, data centers.

6. Hybrid Topology
Advantages:
• Flexible and scalable.
• Can be optimized for performance and fault
tolerance.
Disadvantages:
• Complex design and maintenance.
• Can be costly.
Protocols
Protocols are rules and standards that govern how
data is transmitted, formatted, and received across a
network. They ensure devices can communicate
smoothly, regardless of differences in hardware or
software.
1. TCP/IP (Transmission Control
Protocol/Internet Protocol)

• Purpose: Foundation of internet communication;

defines how data is packaged, addressed,
transmitted, and received.
• How it works:
⚬ IP: Handles addressing and routing data to the
correct destination.
⚬ TCP: Ensures reliable delivery, error-checking,
and data reassembly.
• Use Case: Every internet activity (web browsing,
emails, streaming).
2. HTTP / HTTPS (Hypertext
Transfer Protocol / Secure)

• Purpose: Used for transferring web pages

between browsers and servers.

• HTTP: Transmits data in plain text.

• HTTPS: Encrypts data using SSL/TLS for
secure communication.

• Use Case: Accessing websites; HTTPS is

standard for secure e-commerce or banking.
3. FTP (File Transfer Protocol)

• Purpose: Used to transfer files between computers

over a network.

• Features:
⚬ Supports uploading and downloading files.
⚬ Can require username/password authentication.
• Modern Variant: SFTP (Secure File Transfer
Protocol) encrypts transfers for security.

• Use Case: Website maintenance, file backups.

[Link](Simple Mail Transfer Protocol)
• Purpose: Protocol for sending emails from a client
to a mail server or between mail servers.
• Limitations: Does not retrieve or store emails.

5. IMAP (Internet Message Access Protocol)

• Purpose: Used for retrieving and managing emails
from a server.
• Features:
⚬ Emails stay on the server.
⚬ Supports syncing across multiple devices.
6. POP3 (Post Office Protocol version 3)

• Purpose: Used for downloading emails from a

server to a single device.
• Features:
⚬ Once downloaded, emails are usually removed
from the server.
• Difference from IMAP: POP3 is good for offline
access, while IMAP is better for multi-device access.
Other Notable Protocols
• DNS (Domain Name System): Converts domain
names (e.g., [Link]) into IP addresses.

• DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol):

Automatically assigns IP addresses to devices.

• SNMP (Simple Network Management

Protocol): Manages network devices (routers,
switches).
Why Protocols Matter?

• Ensure interoperability between different devices.

• Provide security (e.g., HTTPS, SFTP).
• Enable reliable and efficient data exchange.
NUMBE
SYSTEM
RS
COMP 111
Learning Outcomes
[Link] of different number systems
[Link] of number systems decimal, binary,
octal, hexadecimal
[Link] of number systems decimal to
binary and vice versa, decimal to
hexadecimal and vice versa, binary to
hexadecimal and vice versa
Why Do Computers
Need Number
Systems?
• Computers cannot understand human languages.
• They rely on number systems to process and store data.
• Essential for calculations, programming, and data
representation.
 The Four Main Number
Systems
• Binary (Base 2): Uses 0 and 1

• Octal (Base 8): Uses digits 0–7

• Decimal (Base 10): Uses digits 0–

9

• Hexadecimal (Base 16): Uses

digits 0–9 and A–F
Decimal (Base 10)
• Uses digits 0 to 9
⚬ 0,1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9
• Most common system for human use
(daily life calculations)
• Computers often convert between
decimal (human-readable) and binary
(machine-readable)
Binary (Base 2)

• Uses two digits: 0 and 1

⚬ 0 = OFF
⚬ 1 = ON
• The language of computers; all
data is stored and processed in binary
form
• Example: 1010 (binary) = 10
(decimal)
Octal (Base
8)
• Uses digits 0 to 7
⚬ 0,1,2,3,4,5,6,7
• Shorter representation of binary
numbers (3 binary bits = 1 octal
digit)
• Example: Binary 110010 = Octal
62
Hexadecimal (Base 16)

• Uses digits 0 to 9 and letters A–F (10–

15)
• Compact representation of binary;
widely used in programming, memory
addressing, and color codes (e.g.,
#FF5733)
• Example: Binary 11111111 =
Hexadecimal FF
Decimal to Binary
Conversion
1.55 =
2.147 =
3.227 =
4.235 =
5.217 =
6.252 =
7.122 =
8.105
9. 215 =
10. 41 =