Computer Application [ COM 113]

by Sir Raymond Trinidad

Lesson 5: Inside a Computer

Inside a computer

Have you ever looked inside a computer case, or seen pictures of the inside of one? The small parts may look
complicated, but the inside of a computer case isn't really all that mysterious. This lesson will help you master
some of the basic terminology and understand a bit more about what goes on inside a computer.

Watch the video below to learn about what's inside a desktop computer.

Looking for the old version of this video? You can still see it here: 

Motherboard

The motherboard is the computer's main circuit board. It's a thin plate

that holds the CPU, memory, connectors for the hard drive and optical
drives, expansion cards to control the video and audio, and connections
to your computer's ports (such as USB ports). The motherboard
connects directly or indirectly to every part of the computer.

CPU/processor

The central processing unit (CPU), also called a processor, is located inside
the computer case on the motherboard. It is sometimes called the brain of the
computer, and its job is to carry out commands. Whenever you press a key, click
the mouse, or start an application, you're sending instructions to the CPU.

The CPU is usually a two-inch ceramic square with a silicon chip located

inside. The chip is usually about the size of a thumbnail. The CPU fits into the motherboard's CPU socket,
which is covered by the heat sink, an object that absorbs heat from the CPU.

A processor's speed is measured in megahertz (MHz), or millions of instructions per second; and gigahertz

(GHz), or billions of instructions per second. A faster processor can execute instructions more quickly.
However, the actual speed of the computer depends on the speed of many different components—not just the
processor.

RAM (random access memory)

RAM is your system's short-term memory. Whenever your computer performs

calculations, it temporarily stores the data in the RAM until it is needed.

This short-term memory disappears when the computer is turned off. If you're working on a document,
spreadsheet, or other type of file, you'll need to save it to avoid losing it. When you save a file, the data is
written to the hard drive, which acts as long-term storage.

RAM is measured in megabytes (MB) or gigabytes (GB). The more RAM you have, the more things your
computer can do at the same time. If you don't have enough RAM, you may notice that your computer is
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sluggish when you have several programs open. Because of this, many people add extra RAM to their
computers to improve performance.

Hard drive

The hard drive is where your software, documents, and other files are stored. The hard
drive is long-term storage, which means the data is still saved even if you turn the
computer off or unplug it.

When you run a program or open a file, the computer copies some of the data from
the hard drive onto the RAM. When you save a file, the data is copied back to
the hard drive. The faster the hard drive, the faster your computer can start
up and load programs.

Power supply unit

The power supply unit in a computer converts the power from the wall

outlet to the type of power needed by the computer. It sends power through
cables to the motherboard and other components.

If you decide to open the computer case and take a look, make sure
to unplug the computer first. Before touching the inside of the computer,
you should touch a grounded metal object—or a metal part of the computer
casing—to discharge any static buildup. Static electricity can be transmitted through the computer circuits,
which can seriously damage your machine.

Expansion cards

Most computers have expansion slots on the motherboard that allow you to add various types of expansion
cards. These are sometimes called PCI (peripheral component interconnect) cards. You may never need to
add any PCI cards because most motherboards have built-in video, sound, network, and other capabilities.

However, if you want to boost the performance of your computer or update the capabilities of an older
computer, you can always add one or more cards. Below are some of the most common types of expansion
cards.

Video card

The video card is responsible for what you see on the monitor. Most computers
have a GPU (graphics processing unit) built into the motherboard instead of
having a separate video card. If you like playing graphics-intensive games, you
can add a faster video card to one of the expansion slots to get better
performance.

Sound card

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The sound card—also called an audio card—is responsible for what you hear in the speakers or headphones.
Most motherboards have integrated sound, but you can upgrade to a dedicated sound card for higher-quality
sound.

Network card

The network card allows your computer to communicate over a network and

access the Internet. It can either connect with an Ethernet cable or through
a wireless connection (often called Wi-Fi). Many motherboards have built-in
network connections, and a network card can also be added to an expansion slot.

Bluetooth card (or adapter)

Bluetooth is a technology for wireless communication over short distances. It's often used in
computers to communicate with wireless keyboards, mice, and printers. It's commonly built
into the motherboard or included in a wireless network card. For computers that don't have
Bluetooth, you can purchase a USB adapter, often called a dongle.

Lesson 6: Laptop Computers

What is a laptop computer?

A laptop is a personal computer that can be easily moved and used in a variety of locations. Most laptops are
designed to have all of the functionality of a desktop computer, which means they can generally run the
same software and open the same types of files. However, laptops also tend to be more expensive than
comparable desktop computers.

How is a laptop different from a desktop?

Because laptops are designed for portability, there are some important differences between them and desktop
computers. A laptop has an all-in-one design, with a built-in monitor, keyboard, touchpad (which replaces
the mouse), and speakers. This means it is fully functional, even when no peripherals are connected. A laptop is
also quicker to set up, and there are fewer cables to get in the way.

You'll also have to the option to connect a regular mouse, larger monitor, and other peripherals. This
basically turns your laptop into a desktop computer, with one main difference: You can easily disconnect the
peripherals and take the laptop with you wherever you go.

Here are the main differences you can expect with a laptop.

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 Touchpad: A touchpad—also called a trackpad—is a touch-sensitive pad that lets you control
the pointer by making a drawing motion with your finger.
 Battery: Every laptop has a battery, which allows you to use the laptop when it's not plugged in.
Whenever you plug in the laptop, the battery recharges. Another benefit of having a battery is
that it can provide backup power to the laptop if the power goes out.
 AC adapter: A laptop usually has a specialized power cable called an AC
adapter, which is designed to be used with that specific type of laptop.
 Ports: Most laptops have the same types of ports found on desktop
computers (such as USB), although they usually have fewer ports to save
space. However, some ports may be different, and you may need an adapter
in order to use them.
 Price: Generally speaking, laptops tend to be more expensive than a desktop
computer with the same internal components. While you may find that some basic laptops cost
less than desktop computers, these are usually much less powerful machines.

Lesson 7: Mobile Devices

What is a mobile device?

A mobile device is a general term for any type of handheld computer. These devices are designed to be
extremely portable, and they can often fit in your hand. Some mobile devices—like tablets, e-readers,
and smartphones—are powerful enough to do many of the same things you can do with a desktop or laptop
computer.

Tablet computers

Like laptops, tablet computers are designed to be portable. However, they provide a

different computing experience. The most obvious difference is that tablet computers don't
have keyboards or touchpads. Instead, the entire screen is touch-sensitive, allowing you to
type on a virtual keyboard and use your finger as a mouse pointer.

Tablet computers can't necessarily do everything traditional computers can do. For many people, a traditional
computer like a desktop or laptop is still needed in order to use some programs. However, the convenience of a
tablet computer means it may be ideal as a second computer.

E-readers

E-book readers—also called e-readers—are similar to tablet computers, except they are

mainly designed for reading e-books (digital, downloadable books). Notable examples include
the Amazon Kindle, Barnes & Noble Nook, and Kobo. Most e-readers use an e-ink display,
which is easier to read than a traditional computer display. You can even read in bright
sunlight, just like if you were reading a regular book.

You don't need an e-reader to read e-books. They can also be read
on tablets, smartphones, laptops, and desktops.

Smartphones
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A smartphone is a more powerful version of a traditional cell phone. In addition to the same basic features—
phone calls, voicemail, text messaging—smartphones can connect to the Internet over Wi-Fi or a cellular
network (which requires purchasing a monthly data plan). This means you can use a smartphone for the same
things you would normally do on a computer, such as checking your email, browsing the Web, or shopping
online.

Most smartphones use a touch-sensitive screen, meaning there isn't a physical keyboard on the device. Instead,
you'll type on a virtual keyboard and use your fingers to interact with the display. Other standard features
include a high-quality digital camera and the ability to play digital music and video files. For many people, a
smartphone can actually replace electronics like an old laptop, digital music player, and digital camera in the
same device.

Lesson 8: Understanding Operating Systems

What is an operating system?

An operating system is the most important software that runs on a computer. It manages the

computer's memory and processes, as well as all of its software and hardware. It also allows you
to communicate with the computer without knowing how to speak the computer's language. Without an
operating system, a computer is useless.

Looking for the old version of this video? You can still view it here.

The operating system's job

Your computer's operating system (OS) manages all of the software and hardware on the computer. Most of
the time, there are several different computer programs running at the same time, and they all need to access
your computer's central processing unit (CPU), memory, and storage. The operating system coordinates all
of this to make sure each program gets what it needs.

Types of operating systems

Operating systems usually come pre-loaded on any computer you buy. Most people use the operating system
that comes with their computer, but it's possible to upgrade or even change operating systems. The three most
common operating systems for personal computers are Microsoft Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Modern operating systems use a graphical user interface, or GUI (pronounced gooey). A GUI lets you use
your mouse to click icons, buttons, and menus, and everything is clearly displayed on the screen using a
combination of graphics and text.

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Each operating system's GUI has a different look and feel, so if you switch to a different operating system it
may seem unfamiliar at first. However, modern operating systems are designed to be easy to use, and most of
the basic principles are the same.

Microsoft Windows

Microsoft created the Windows operating system in the mid-1980s. There have been many different versions of
Windows, but the most recent ones are Windows 10 (released in 2015), Windows 8 (2012), Windows
7 (2009), and Windows Vista (2007). Windows comes pre-loaded on most new PCs, which helps to make it
the most popular operating system in the world.

Check out our tutorials on Windows Basics and specific Windows versions for more information.

macOS

macOS (previously called OS X) is a line of operating systems created by Apple. It comes preloaded on all
Macintosh computers, or Macs. Some of the specific versions include Mojave (released in 2018), High
Sierra (2017), and Sierra (2016).

According to StatCounter Global Stats, macOS users account for less than 10% of global operating systems
—much lower than the percentage of Windows users (more than 80%). One reason for this is that Apple
computers tend to be more expensive. However, many people do prefer the look and feel of macOS over
Windows.

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Check out our macOS Basics tutorial for more information.

Linux

Linux (pronounced LINN-ux) is a family of open-source operating systems, which means they can be

modified and distributed by anyone around the world. This is different from proprietary software like
Windows, which can only be modified by the company that owns it. The advantages of Linux are that it is free,
and there are many different distributions—or versions—you can choose from.

According to StatCounter Global Stats, Linux users account for less than 2% of global operating systems.
However, most servers run Linux because it's relatively easy to customize.

To learn more about different distributions of Linux, visit the Ubuntu, Linux Mint, and Fedora websites, or
refer to our Linux Resources. For a more comprehensive list, you can visit MakeUseOf's list of The Best
Linux Distributions.

Operating systems for mobile devices

The operating systems we've been talking about so far were designed to run
on desktop and laptop computers. Mobile devices such as phones, tablet computers, and MP3 players are
different from desktop and laptop computers, so they run operating systems that are designed specifically for
mobile devices. Examples of mobile operating systems include Apple iOS and Google Android. In the
screenshot below, you can see iOS running on an iPad.

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Operating systems for mobile devices generally aren't as fully featured as those made for desktop and laptop
computers, and they aren't able to run all of the same software. However, you can still do a lot of things with
them, like watch movies, browse the Web, manage your calendar, and play games.

To learn more about mobile operating systems, check out our Mobile Devices tutorials.

Lesson 9: Understanding Applications

What is an application?

You may have heard people talking about using a program, an application, or an app. But what exactly does
that mean? Simply put, an app is a type of software that allows you to perform specific tasks. Applications for
desktop or laptop computers are sometimes called desktop applications, while those for mobile devices are
called mobile apps.

When you open an application, it runs inside the operating system until you close it. Most of the time, you will
have more than one application open at the same time, which is known as multi-tasking.

App is a common term for an application, especially for simple applications that can be

downloaded inexpensively or even for free. Many apps are also available for mobile devices and even
some TVs.

Watch the video below to learn more about applications.

Looking for the old version of this video? You can still view it here.

Desktop applications

There are countless desktop applications, and they fall into several categories. Some are more full
featured (like Microsoft Word), while others may only do one or two things (like a clock or calendar app).
Below are just a few types of applications you might use.

 Word processors: A word processor allows you to write a letter, design a flyer, and create
many other types of documents. The most well-known word processor is Microsoft Word.

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 Web browsers: A web browser is the tool you use to access the Internet. Most computers
come with a web browser pre-installed, but you can also download a different one if you prefer.
Examples of browsers include Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome,
and Safari.

 Media players: If you want to listen to MP3s or watch movies you've downloaded, you'll need
to use a media player. Windows Media Player and iTunes are popular media players.

 Games: There are many types of games you can play on your computer. They range from card
games like Solitaire to action games like Halo. Many action games require a lot of computing
power, so they may not work unless you have a newer computer.

Mobile apps

Desktop and laptop computers aren't the only devices that can run applications. You can also download apps for
mobile devices like smartphones and tablets. Here are a few examples of mobile apps.

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 Gmail: You can use the Gmail app to easily view and send emails from your mobile device. It's
available for Android and iOS devices.

 Instagram: You can use Instagram to quickly share photos with your friends and family. It's
available for Android and iOS.
 Duolingo: With a combination of quizzes, games, and other activities, this app can help you
learn new languages. It's available for Android and iOS.
GCFLearnFree.org offers a variety of mobile apps. You can go to our Mobile Apps page to download them for
free.

Installing new applications

Every computer and mobile device will come with some applications already built in, such as a web browser
and media player. However, you can also purchase and install new apps to add more functionality. You can
review our lessons on Installing Software on Your Windows PC, Installing Software on Your Mac,
and Free Software to learn more.

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