What is a computer? Definition of Computer: A Helpful Guide
Definition of computer:
A computer is an electronic device that has the ability to accept, process, store, and retrieve data and perform various tasks automatically. It performs calculations according to the instructions (predefined programs) given by the user (input) and provides results (output) in the form of information. The performance of computers is fast, accurate, and reliable, due to which they have become an integral part of our daily life, like education, health, business, and scientific research. Their basic units include processors, memory, input/output devices, and storage.
Importance of computers:
Today, computers play a very important role in human life. Life without them is impossible to imagine. Because it not only organizes information but also facilitates connections, communication, and creative work. Modern computers can also perform complex tasks such as AI (artificial intelligence), graphics designing, and large-scale data analysis. This device saves our time by doing more work in less time, which is why it has become an important pillar of developed societies.
A Brief History of Computers:
The history of computers goes back thousands of years, from the earliest counting devices to today’s modern supercomputers. The evolution of the computer from mechanical to digital is one of the most fascinating and revolutionary in human history. This evolution began with mechanical devices and reached today’s modern digital computer. Let’s look at the important stages of this evolutionary journey in detail.
About 2700 BCC, “Abacus” was the first tool that performed addition and subtraction. It is considered the world’s first calculator.
In the 19th century, a British mathematician and inventor, Charles Babbage, created the Analytical Engine, which is considered the predecessor of the modern computer. Babbage is called the “father of the computer” because his ideas laid the foundation for modern programming and data processing.
Computers developed rapidly in the 20th century. In the 1940s, the first electronic computers, such as ENIAC and Colossus, were built. They were the size of large rooms and could only perform simple calculations.
The invention of the transistor in the 1950s and 1960s made computers smaller and faster. In the 1970s, the advent of the microprocessor made personal computers (PCs) commonplace, after which companies like Apple and Microsoft brought computers to homes and offices.
Today, technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), Quantum Computing, and Cloud Computing have made computers even more powerful. In the future, computers will continue to change every aspect of human life, which proves that this invention is one of the most important discoveries in human history.
Types of Computers:
Generally computers are classified into three types: General-purpose, Special-purpose and Dedicated computers
1. General-Purpose Computers:
These are computers that can perform a variety of tasks. Different programs can be installed in them that enable them to perform different tasks. It has the ability to run different software, suitable for general users Examples: Personal computers (PCs), laptops
2. Special-Purpose Computers:
These computers are designed for a specific task. Their hardware and software are only for a specific task. It has limited functions, and is used in specific tasks such as ATM machines, medical diagnostic equipment, traffic control systems, industrial controllers, etc.
3- Dedicated Computers:
These computers are dedicated to a specific task but usually run on the hardware of general-purpose computers. It has specific software installed.
Examples: Gaming consoles (PlayStation, Xbox), POS systems (point of sale), Digital signage
Routers and network switches. They are used in gaming, retail sales, digital advertising, and network management.
Types of Computers on a Size Basis:
1. Desktop Computers:
Features:
- Large computers that are placed on a desk
- Used with a separate monitor, keyboard, and mouse
- More powerful hardware and upgradeability
- More performance at a lower price
Uses:
- Gaming
- Graphic designing
- Office work
- Home use
2. Laptop Computers:
Features:
- Portable design
- Battery-powered ability
- Monitor, keyboard, and touchpad in a single unit
- Less powerful than a desktop but more portable
Uses:
- For students
- Work while traveling
- Freelancing
- Presentations
3. Hybrid computers:
Features:
- Features of both laptops and tablets
- Touch screen
- Detachable or foldable design
- Ease of use with a stylus
Uses:
- Creative work (drawing, etc.)
- Need for portability
- Business meetings
- Entertainment purposes
4. Tablet Computers:
Features:
- Portable and lightweight
- Touch screen interface
- Long battery life
- Something between computers and smartphones
Uses:
- For reading books
- Playing games
- Watching videos
- Light tasks
5. Smartphones
Features:
- Most portable
- Touch screen
- Equipped with many sensors
- Apps for many tasks
Uses:
- Communication
- Social media
- Photography
- Small everyday tasks
Comparison table:
| Type | Portability | Power | Price | Primary Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Desktop | Low | High | Low | Gaming, Designing |
| Laptop | Average | Average | Average | Students, Business |
| Hybrid | Good | Average | High | Creative Professional |
| Tablet | Best | Low | Average | Entertainment, Education |
| Smartphone | Best | Low | Miscellaneous | Everyday Work |
Note:
Each type of computer has its own characteristics and uses. Desktops are great for power, laptops for balance, while tablets and smartphones are great for portability. Users can choose the best type according to their needs.
Parts of a Computer:
A personal computer is not a single component, but it consists of different parts. The following are the basic parts of a computer. It is generally referred to as the hardware.
- CPU (Central Processing Unit):
This is the main component of a computer. It is also known as the brain of the computer. All the programs (a list of instructions) are executed in this part. - RAM (Random Access Memory):
A primary memory that allows the computer to store (temporarily) the entire executing program. - Mass Storage Device (Hard Drive):
A secondary memory that allows the computer to store a large amount of data permanently and can retrieve it again and again. - Input Devices:
These are the devices that allow the user to feed data/instructions to the machine, i.e. keyboard, mouse, scanner and CD-ROM, etc. - Output Devices:
These are the devices that allow the users to see the final result (information). - Bus:
It is a communication system that transmits data from one component to another inside a machine. This refers to hardware (wires, optical fibers, etc.) as well as software (communication protocols).
How do computers process information?
Computers process all information by converting it into binary (0 and 1). This process consists of the following steps:
- Input
The computer converts the instructions given by the user (via the keyboard, mouse, touchscreen, etc.) into binary data.
Example: When you press the “A” key on the keyboard, it is converted into the binary code of 01000001 in the computer. - Processing
The CPU reads the binary instructions and performs calculations.
Logical Operations:
Binary operations such as AND, OR, NOT are used. Example: 1 AND 1 = 1, 1 AND 0 = Arithmetic Operations:
All mathematical operations, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, are performed in binary. Example: 10 (i.e. 2) + 11 (i.e. 3) = 101 (i.e. 5). - Memory
RAM: Temporarily stores data and instructions so that the CPU can access them quickly.
ROM: Stores permanent instructions (such as basic programs to run a computer).
- Output
Processed results are converted back into a form understandable to the user (text, image, sound, etc.). Example: The appearance of an “A” on a monitor or sound coming out of a speaker.
- Storage
The final results are stored on a hard disk, SSD, or other storage device.
Why is binary code necessary?
- Compatibility of electronic signals: All computer circuits (transistors, etc.) only understand the state of ON (1) or OFF (0).
- Accuracy: A clear division of 0 and 1 ensures the accuracy of data.
- Functionality: The binary system makes computers extremely fast.
- Practical example: Running a simple program. For example, you type “5 + 7” into a calculator:
- Input: 5 and 7 are converted to binary (5 = 0101, 7 = 0111).
- Processing: The CPU adds the binary numbers (0101 + 0111 = 1100, or 12).
- Output: 1100 is converted to decimal, and “12” is displayed on the screen.
I hope this information has been useful to you! It helps us in understanding the performance of these modern machines. If you have any questions or want more details on a particular topic, then stay with us. Also, if you liked this post, then share it with your friends so that more people can benefit from it.
