Information communication

technology
Nakasongola Ekitangaala
representative

Monday, April 18, 2016

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INTRODUTION TO ICT
S850/1
ICT refers to all means used to collect, process, store and
distribute information.
Examples of ICT devices include: computers, laser cameras,
TVs, radios, Telephones, Printers, ATMs, Speakers, etc.
Computer studies on the other hand is a component of ICT that
deals with the use of a computer system.
NB.ICT is an umbrella term that includes any communication device or application, around us:

radio, television, cellular phones, computer and network hardware and software, satellite
systems and so on, as well as the various services and applications

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You need to know this

Content of paper 1 & 2 What you do after
1. Computer Programmers

Its subsidiary subject which comprises of

paper 1 (theory) and paper 2 (practical)
S850/1 structured questions ,
time(2:30)hours all compulsory marked-out
of 40
S850/2 questions 5 3 hours marked-pout
of 60

2. Computer/Information Systems Analysts

3. Technicians
4. Mobile Application Developers
5. Network and System Security Specialists
6. Network Managers and Administrators
7. Software Engineers
8. Technical Sales Specialists
9. Technical Trainers
10. Technical Writers
11. Telecom Managers
12. Telecommunications Line Installers
13. Website Developers
14. Soft ware developer

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INFORMATION COMMUNICATIONS
TECHNOLOGY/ ICT
DEFINITION OF KEY TERMS
Telecommunication: The use of electromagnetic devices and
systems for communicating over long distances. Such devices
include; radios broadcast TVs, telephones and cable TVs.
Information: This refers to processed data.
Communication: Electronic transfer of data from one place to
another
Technology: Methods/modes of doing things
IT: Information Technology: IT (information
technology) This is a term that comprises all forms of
technology used to create, store, exchange, and use information
in its various forms.
Therefore, ICT/IT relates to all means, which facilitates
information or data capture, processing, storage, and
communication or output.
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Technology is a method/mode of doing things or solving a

problem.
OLD TECHNOLOGIES
Some common examples of old technologies include:
1. Newspaper
2. Recordings
3. Radio

4. Paper Printed Photographs

5. Film
6. Televisions

NEW TECHNOLOGIES
1. Satellites
2. Fiber optic cables (for communication media)
3. Cellular phones
4. Fax machines
5. Compact disk
6. Computers
7. E-mail
8. Internet
9. Data warehouses or data bases
10.Video conferencing
NB; ICT/IT concept is quite different from Computer Studies. Computer
studies is simply a+256777169712
small section of IT.

IMPACT OF IT/ICTs ON SOCIETY

ICTs have had both positive and negative contributions to society.

BENEFITS/ADVANTAGES OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY.

1. Increased communication /collaborations through e-mails, chat rooms,
video conferencing, etc
2. Increased sharing and access to common databases within and outside
organizations through networking.
3. Increased access to information through DBMS. Huge amounts of material
on all subjects now exist which ease research work.
4. Increased inventions and innovations.
5. Improved and sustained quality goods and services.
6. Increased efficiency and effectiveness leading to increased productivity
(hence less wastages & more efficient use of resources).

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BENEFITS/ADVANTAGES OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY.

1. Increased investment opportunities in commercial tele-

centers, Internet cafes, chart rooms, etc.

2. More leisure as people get shorter working hours. Increased
use of ICTS implies higher standards of living.
3. Highly skilled jobs are being created like programming,
systems analysis. Software engineering, etc.
4. Reduced costs of production through less demanding ICTs
5. Improved corporate image.

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Disadvantages

1.

2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.

Widens the gap between the rich and the poor as the rich
producing with the help of ICTs produce faster and flood the
markets.
Isolate older people since it is not very easy for them to cope with
the many IT changes.
Bombards (internet) people with too much information- (good
and bad)
Increased instability as people get compelled to learn new things
every now and then.
Health problems e.g. eye sight losses, repetitive strain injury, etc
Moral problem through access of pornographic materials on the
net.
Erosion of individual privacy as more data about people is stored
on databases and can be accessed any time.

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1. Unemployment as less skilled people get

2.
3.
4.
5.
6.

retrenched and their roles taken over by more

effective ITs.
Addictions to computer games plus surfing by
young people
IT isolate man and also erode the social
aspect of work as some people opt for
executing their office duties from their homes.
Initial, maintenance and on-line IT costs are
very high.
Virus threats make data stored on computers
very insecure.
Increased crime through forgeries, piracy, etc.
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AREAS OF APPLICATION FOR INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

1.

Education and training.

Many Universities, Colleges, schools and
public libraries are on line with websites for
purposes of making easy access to
educational information..
Education references soft ware e.g. the
encyclopedia, Encarta, etc are programs used
for helping people with English usage.

(2) Information/data storage.

IT has got immense internal and external
storage devices for storage of huge volumes
Data. Hence the common paperless society

(3) Word Processing

Word processor programs e.g. Microsoft
word, word star, etc are used to produce
professional looking documents like, letters,
invoices, orders etc.
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4. Business
E-Business and E-commerce facilitate the buying and

selling of goods, services and works on line.

For instance Web sites like: - www. CD-Now for buying
music CDs, DVDs & VCDs
Other businesses include;
Computer Secretarial Bureau.
Internet cafes.
Commercial computer schools.
On-line banking

5. Entertainment and Leisure.

ICT offers lots of leisure and entertainment activities in

form of;
Computer games
Computer audio music and video players
Games on line
Leisure centers on line.
Leisure websites etc.
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6.Health & Medicine.

ICTs are now being used for;

Medical tests for instance blood, cancer, Brain damage etc

Carrying out sensitive operations on sensitive body parts like
the brain, heart, kidney, etc.
Drug mixing and prescriptions.

7. Transport & communication

ICTs are also being used for;
Units of carriage surveyance in logistics management.
Sending and receiving of messages like short message

Service (sms) via phones,E-mail,sms over the internet etc

Reservations for units of carriage and hotels.

8. Accounting and Finance.

Software/programs are now available for producing
financial reports like income statements, Balance
sheets, and cash flow statements. Such programs
aid financial planning plus management.
Such application/programs include Pastel, Tally,
Sand systems, Excels, etc
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(9) . Climate and Weather:

Programs have now been developed to accurately
predict and report changes in climate and weather to
aid travelers and farmers.
(10). Security and military.
IT Laser guided cameras and satellites are now used
for national and domestic security. Business like
Banks, supermarkets etc also use IT Laser guided
cameras for customer monitoring in the business hall.
Information technologies are also used in the military
to fly and direct combat planes, locate enemy
positions and hit them with minimal civilian and
property losses.
11.Manufacturing:In many large manufacturing and production
processes robots are being used to handle tasks,
which cannot be efficiently handled by humans.

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Introduction to Computers
what is a computer?
A computer is an electronic device which,
when its Hardware combines with Software,
can capture, Process, Store and Output
information according to prescribed
instructions of the user.
A computer converts data into
information that is useful to people.

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Uses of computers in
Facilitate e-learning
education

Contain study materials and programs such as

Microsoft Encarta, Britannia encyclopedia,

Webopedia, and the internet.
Facilitate the running of virtual institutions
Storage of data in institutions
Entertainment in institutions
Increased efficiency and effectiveness leading to
increased productivity
Increased interaction /collaborations through emails, chat rooms, video conferencing, etc
Increased access to information through DBMS.

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CHARACTERISTICS OF COMPUTERS

1. Speeds:
Computers are relatively faster in their processing speeds if
compared to humans and other data processing means. Their
operation speeds are in millions of calculations in a second.

2.

Accuracy:

Once given the right instructions, computers are very precise and
exact. Hence being the right tool in places where a lot of precision
is needed. Computers are even capable of detecting mistakes and
correcting them once made by the users.

3. Diligence:

Computers are very meticulous and are capable of doing and

repeating similar task without tiring or getting bored.

4. Memory Capacity:
Unlike other data processors, computers are capable holding data

for long time without losing it through their storage media like;
HDD, CDs, flash disks, DVDs, etc.

5. Artificial intelligence (AI):

Computers are very intelligent devices and can receive and

respond to requests, and give the appropriate response.

AI = Ability of computer to mimic human thought.
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6. Automation:
Computers receive and work on instruction
on their own. They work on minimal human
intervention.
Situations where computers might be
more appropriate than people;
1. Dangerous situations and tasks.
2. Easily automated tasks like telephone call

switch boxes
3. Repetitive tasks which turn out to be
boring.
4. Mathematical calculations
5. Situations calling for extra-ordinary skills.
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Parts of a computer
system
A complete computer system includes four
distinct parts:
Hardware
Software
Data
user

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Computer system

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Computer hardware
A computer hardware consists of electronic

devices or physical components that one can

see and touch.
The term device refers to any piece of
hardware used by the computer such as
keyboard, mouse piece, scanners, digitizers,
etc.

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EXAMPLES OF COMPUTER HARDWARE

(a) Input hardware devices: These are
devices used to key data and instructions
into the Computer. E.g. the keyboard,
mouse piece, scanners, digitizers,
Microphones, Stripper barcode reader, etc.
(b) System unit hardware: This is a
metallic casing used to house the power
supply unit, system speakers, hard disk,
DVD/CD-ROM drive, floppy drive, and
System mother board ,CPU, system ports
and slots, IDE cable/data buses, CMOS
battery, Dimms/Simms, etc.
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(c) Output hard ware Devices: These are

devices used to communicate data and

information to the computer user. They
release stored/processed data and information
for viewing. e.g. printers, speakers, lights, and
Video Graphic Array (VGA) or monitor or Visual
Display Unit (VDU) or screen, etc
(d) Storage hardware Devices: these are
devices used to store data for the computer.
Examples include hard disks, flash disks,
floppy diskettes, compact disc etc.

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SOFT
WARE:
Software
is a set of electronic instructions
that tells the computer how to do certain
tasks.
Software: organized sets of instructions for
controlling the computer.

A set of instructions is often called a

program.

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The two most common types of programs

are system software and application
software.

1. Application software.
These are programs/sets of instructions

that tell the computer how to

accomplish tasks the user requires,
such as creating a document or editing
a graphic image.
Some important kinds of application
software are:

Word processing programs

Spreadsheet software
Database management
Presentation programs
Networking software
Web design tools and browsers
Internet applications
Entertainment and education
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Multimedia authoring

2. System software.
These are programs that exist primarily
for the computer itself, to help the
computer perform specific functions.
One major type of system software is
the operating system (OS). All
computers require an operating system.
The OS tells the computer how to
interact with the user and its own
devices.
Common operating systems include
Windows, the Macintosh OS, OS/2, and
UNIX .
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DATA
Data consists of raw facts, which the

computer can manipulate and process into

information that is useful to people.
Computerized data is digital, meaning that it
has been reduced to digits, or numbers. The
computer stores and reads all data as
numbers.
Although computers use data in digital form,
they convert data into forms that people can
understand, such as text, numerals, sounds,
and images.
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USERS
People are the computer's operators, or

users.
Some types of computers can operate
without much intervention from people,
but personal computers are designed
specifically for use by people.

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THE CONCEPTS OF DATA AND INFORMATION

DATA:

Refer to basic/raw facts and figures. It can also refer to the

un processed information. Data is not a good basis for
planning or decision making e.g.
Hours worked by an employee.
Arrival time of an employee
Sales figure for a day etc
TYPES OF DATA
1. Direct data or Primary data: Originates from the source
i.e. first hand data.
2. Indirect or secondary data: Data which comes in a more
round a bout way. It is already researched data e.g. textbook
data, magazine data, newspapers, etc.
Others forms of data include;
Currency. Data expressed in monetary value.
Number (0 9)
Date/time
Memo
Text. Data constructed from letters of the alphabet,
or a combination of letters of the alphabet and
numbers.
Image.
Voices.
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Data
processing
Data processing
methods includes:
Data processing refers to the collection and
methods
manipulation ofdata itemsto produce
meaningful information. This can be achieved
by:
1. Manual methods. Involves use of human beings
for data processing.
2. Mechanical. Involves use mechanical
typewriters, abacuses, slide rules etc
3. Electronic Data Processing (EDP) which
involves the the use of computers etc
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INFORMATION
This refers to processed data i.e. data that is

already converted into a more

useful/meaningful form. Information should be
the basis for decision and policy making.
On many occasions the two concepts (data and
information) have been used interchangeably.
One has been used to mean the other.
Types of information
Past information
Present information.
Future information
Strategic information
Operational information

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QUALITIES OF GOOD INFORMATION

1. Timelines. Having data at the right time.
2. Cost effectiveness. Having data which is within the
3.
4.

5.
6.
7.

means of the firm.

Completeness/ Comprehensiveness. Having
information that is not lacking in any form.
Relevance. Having data which is capable of solving
organizational needs. It must be directed to the
right audience and from the right author.
Clarity. Having data that is error and ambiguity
free.
Must be through the most appropriate channel. I.e.
a channel which is noise free, or minimizes noise.
User specific or easily attached to the user. It must
be properly qualified or structured.
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Data/Information Processing Cycle

Getting information is a process involving:
Data Collection Data Inputting Data

Processing (Processor) Data

Outputting (Information).

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Booting a computer

Booting Refers to the process of loading an

operating system into a computers main memory

to make a computer ready for use. The two main
types of booting include.
(i) Cold booting: Cold booting refers to turning
on a computer after it has been off by loading the
operating system.
(ii) Warm booting: Resetting the computer
when the Operating System is already running by
using reset button or ctrl + Alt + Del.

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The booting
process
is a list of detailed
The
Booting
Process

procedures that the system undergoes to

perform all system checks and load all
necessary files to bring the computer to an
operational state.
The Windows XP boot up process comprises of
the following procedures:

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1. The Power-On Self Test Phase (POST)

As soon as you power up your computer, a
self-test is performed by the power supply to
ensure that the volume and current levels are
correct before the Power Good signal is sent to
the processor.
When this first stage is cleared, the
microprocessor will then trigger the BIOS to
perform a series of operations.

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2. BIOS ROM Phase

The BIOS, also known as the Basic Input Output

System is a firmware or set of instructions that

resides on a ROM chip as contained in the
motherboard.
It first carries out the P.O.S.T that performs and
verifies all initial hardware checks, such as
checking if the system is initialized by a warm
or cold start, detecting the presence of
peripheral devices and the amount of memory
present.
It then accesses the information stored in the
CMOS chip, jumpers and assigns the necessary
system resources.
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The system will now attempt to determine the

sequence of devices to load based on the

settings stored in the BIOS to start the operating
system. It will start by reading from the first boot
up device. If it points to the floppy drive, it then
searches for a floppy disk. If it does not detect a
bootable diskette in the floppy drive, the system
displays an error message.
If the floppy drive does not contain a diskette, it
bypasses the first boot up device and detects the
second device, which is usually the hard disk. It'll
then start by reading the boot code instructions
located in the master boot record(MBR) and
copies all execution into the memory when the
instructions are validated and no errors are
found.
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3. Boot Loader Phase

Control is then passed on to the partition

loader code which accesses the partition table

to identify the primary partition, extended
partitions and active partition which is needed
to determine the file system and locate the
operating system loader file - NTLDR.

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4. Operating System
Configuration Phase
Ntoskrnl will begin to load the operating system

and registry information.

After this is completed, the control is passed over
to the Ntdetect.com program which collects and
configures all installed hardware devices such as
the video adapters and communication ports.
If the video adapter card is found, the cursor will
now appear on the screen.
Ntdetect.com then searches for hardware profiles
information and load the essential software
drivers to control the hardware devices.

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5. Security & Logon Phase

Lastly the Local Security Administration which

is the logon dialog interface will prompt you to

select your user profile and verify your
necessary credentials before you are
transferred to the Windows desktop.
After the successful loading of the operating
system, the computer is now ready for use
and this marks the end of the boot process.

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ERROR MESSAGES
Any error found during the booting process is
reported by a combination of beeps and
displayed error messages.
The errors which occur during the post can be
classified as either fatal" or non fatal
Non fatal error
This typically displays an error message on
the screen and allow the system to continue
the boot process

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Fatal error
On the other hand fatal errors stop the

process of booting and is signaled by a series

of beeps.
How ever a successful completion of post is
indicated by a single beep.

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Reasons for warm booting.

After changing CMOS settings.
After installing/un installing a hardware.
After un installing/installing new software
When the computer Freezes(Does not respond

to any input Instruction by the mouse or the

Keyboard).

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NB: Before you power up your

computer, first observe the following.
Connect all the peripherals(Hardware).
Switch on power from the socket
Press the on button of the UPS if any
Press the ON button of the Monitor and that of

the system Unit.

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SECURE LAB
ENVIRONMENT
A computer lab is a cluster of computers
that usually are networked and available for
use by the students or public.
The computer lab employs a combination of
physical and software-based methods to
ensure the safety and security of students,
staff, equipment and computer network.

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Area
of
laboratory
Physical security
In order to have a secure lab environment,
security
the following should be in place.
All the lab equipment such as computers and

other assets are supposed to be locked down

through cabling or other means to enhance
physical security.
IT computer labs should be monitored either in
person by the lab technician, remotely through
security cameras or a combination of both.
All labs should be checked for un authorized
hardware on a periodic basis.
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Electrical power and

Electrical wiring in general refers to
cabling
insulated conductors used to carry
electricity and associated devices.

All aspects of electrical wiring as used to

provide power in buildings and structures

should be clearly known.
Ensure that all wires are properly insulated to
avoid electric shocks and short circuits in the
computer lab usage.

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Security
cameras
(CCTV)
The computer lab
requires surveillance
in areas
that may need monitoring such as the inside of
the lab and the outside . This is mostly done by
use of CCTV and sensor devices.
Closed-circuit Television (CCTV) is the use of video
cameras to transmit a signals to a specific place
on a limited set of monitors. CCTV cameras may
work continuously or only as required to monitor a
particular event.

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FIRST AID KIT

It is necessary to have a first aid kit for

emergencies such as accidents in the lab,

sicknesses etc. First Aid kit is the collection of
supplies and equipment for use in giving first
aid. This can be purchased in parts or as a
complete set.

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FIRE
EXTINGUISHERS
device used to extinguish or control small

A fire extinguisher is an active fire protection

fires, often in emergency situations. It is not

intended for use on an out of control fire, such
as one which has reached the ceiling as this
tends to endanger the user .
A fire extinguisher consists of a hand held
cylindrical pressure vessel containing an
agent which can be discharged to extinguish
the fire.

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AIR CONDITIONING
Air conditioning is the process of altering the

properties of air (primarily temperatures and

humidity) to more favorable conditions. More
generally, air conditioning can refer to any
form of technological cooling, heating,
ventilation or disinfection that modifies the
condition of air.

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LABARATORY RULES AND

REGULATIONS
There are rules essential for the safety and

proper use of computer lab and its resources.

However these rules may vary from place to
place. They include the following.
No foods or drinks allowed in the computer
lab at any time.
No shouting, loud talking or cell phone use
allowed inside labs.

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Students are not permitted to install,modify or

delete any software on lab computers.

Scheduled classes in the labs have priority
over all other uses.
Equipment in the computer lab should not be
removed,modified,relocated or dissembled
without permission of the lab coordinator.
Displaying of offensive graphic images such
as pornography and other software is not
permitted.

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Intentionally modifying other peoples

documents/files or password unless

authorized to do so is strictly not allowed.
Be respectful of other lab users, lab
equipment and other areas at all the time
in the computer labs.
Problems with computer lab equipment
should be reported to the lab attendant or
teacher immediately.
Reproduction of any copy righted material
such as books, music, photographs is
prohibited.
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Users should clean up the area around the

computer they have used before they

leave.
Network ports in computer labs are for lab
equipment only. No other devices may be
connected to them.
Protect your security i.e. log off the
computer before leaving the computer lab.
The printers in the labs are intended to
serve the individual copy printing needs of
the lab users not as a replacement for
photocopy machines.
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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE OF

COMPUTER SYSTEMS
Importance of servicing and maintenance of

computers.
Regular servicing prolongs the life time of the
hardware.
Also helps to pre-empty problems that may
render the proper performance of the
computer system.

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Cleaning of computers
The area of emphasis here is to keep the work

area and computer system clean and dust

free.
Basic tools and equipments used
Toolkit containing nut drivers, cross cut

pliers, digital multimeter and head screw

driver
Lint free cleaning cloths
Mild soap/detergent
Canned or compressed air.
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Cleaning
the
system
unit

Turn off the computer and then un plug it from the

power source.
Use the head screw driver and nut screw driver to
open the computer casing.
With the system in vertical format,
system mechanism
including power supply and all other visible parts using
canned air.
Clean both the removed outer casing and main casing of
the system unit using a damp cleaning cloth and after
use a dry cloth to wipe down the residual water remains
on the casing. Ensure that water does not drip inside on
the mother board while using the damped cloth.
Wait for some time for both parts of the casing to dry and
allow the remains of water to evaporate.
Blow out the dust that has build with in the

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Re-fix the computer casing

Test the system to ensure whether it is in its

normal working state.

CLEANING THE WORKING AREA/SURFACE

Use a damped cloth to clean the table surface

on which the computer system is laid.

Wipe the area using a dry cloth.

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CLEANING THE MONITOR

Using a dampened cloth and detergent, wipe

the casing of the monitor and its screen until

it is clean enough.
Wipe down the remains of the water using a
dry cleaning cloth until every part is dry.
Test the system to ensure that it is its normal
working state.

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CLEANING THE KEYBOARD

With the keyboard in vertical position and

using compressed air, blow the surface of the

keyboard including the keys area.(the inclined
position of the keyboard ensures that no remains
of the dust settle/stays under the keys)
Also clean other parts of the keyboard using a

damped cloth.
Using a dry cleaning cloth wipe down the
remaining elements of the residual water
Leave the keyboard for some time to ensure
that its dry.

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CLEANING
THE MOUSE
side or plate.

Remove the trackball by un locking its under

Using a lint free cloth and your finger nails,

clean the track ball.

Using a lint free cloth clean the outer surface
of the keyboard
Return the track ball into the underside of the
mouse by locking.

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PREVENTIVE MEASURES TAKEN DURING

THE
CLEANING
PROCESS
Ensure
the proper
handling of the
computer to ensure that the components
do not loosen up. Loosening could damage
the components especially when the unit is
turned on.
After the cleaning process of the monitor
surface, plug back the power code safely.
Little or minimal amount of water is used
so that so that it does not drip inside
monitor. In case the water drips inside the
monitor, it evaporates.
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INSTALLING SYSTEM AND

Installing is a process
of putting a program in
APPLICATION
SOFTWARE

the computer while un installing is removing a

program from the computer. To install a
program take the following procedure.

Click on start and then control panel

Double click on add/remove programs
Select the software that you wish to install by

clicking on each option

Click next and then follow the on screen

prompts/instructions to complete the

installation.
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UNINSTALLING
SOFTWARE
The uninstall wizard allows you to review and
uninstall items in your computer. This wizard
is shown when you select items and press
uninstall. To uninstall a program from your
system do as follows:
Click on start and then control panel

Double click on add/remove programs

Select the program you want to install and

the installing options

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Select the program to uninstall

click on uninstall( the uninstall details page will

show you a list of the items that will be uninstalled)

If you change your mind about which items

should be uninstalled, you can click back to

see a list of items you had selected before.
Click next and then follow the on screen

prompts/instructions to complete the uninstallation.

Once all the software is un installed successfully,
you will be prompted to start the computer.

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Computer
troubleshooting
Troubleshooting is the process of diagnosing
the source of a problem. It is used to fix
problems with hardware, software and many
other products or processes. It is a logical
systematic search for the source of the
problem so that it can be solved and the
product can be made operational again.

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Troubleshooting in the control panel

contains several troubleshooting programs

that can automatically fix some common
problems with your computer such as
problems with networking, hardware
devices and program compatibility among
others.
Open troubleshooting by clicking the start button
Click the control panel and then under system security,
Click find and fix problems.

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MAJOR TROUBLESHOOTING PROBLEMS

IN COMPUTERS
1. Software Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting software problems is a big part of
computer maintenance. If your computer is
freezing, crashing or acting strangely, software is
the most likely culprit. A number of things can
cause software programs that once behaved
flawlessly to stop working, including corrupt files
and the addition of conflicting programs. In order to
get the most from you system, use built-in
diagnostics like the Windows Event Viewer and Disk
Defragmenter to examine the condition of the
computer and its software packages.
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2. Hardware Troubleshooting
Not all computer problems are caused by
malfunctioning software programs. Some
problems are caused by faulty hardware,
including hard drives that are about to fail,
defective RAM modules and worn-out CD and
DVD drives. In order to troubleshoot these
hardware devices, use the Device Manager by
right-clicking on "My Computer," choosing
"Properties" from the drop-down box, clicking the
"Hardware" tab and clicking the "Device
Manager" button to view the drive details .

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3. Connectivity Troubleshooting
Even if the computer is running fine, if it cannot
connect to the network or the Internet, it will not
be very useful. If you cannot connect to your
computer, check the lights on your modem; if
the lights are red, or if the lights are green but
not flashing, you may need to power the modem
off and back on

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TROUBLESHOOTING DIFFERENT PROBLEMS IN A

COMPUTER

1. COMPUTER CANT START.

Examine the cables, connectors, and power cords to make sure

they're plugged in securely. Often times a loose cable or

connector (power, network, keyboard, mouse, speaker, monitor
cable, etc.) is the cause of the problem.
If you're using a power strip or a surge protector, make sure it's

on and that it works. Remember that a surge protector may not

be working because it is designed to self-destruct. When an
electric jolt is too much, your surge protector takes the hit
saving your more expensive hardware from the voltage.
Try plugging something else directly into the electrical outlet to

make sure there isn't a power problem.

Check to see if your monitor is on. Sounds silly, but it has

solved my own problem more than once.

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2. CANT GET ON TO THE NETWORK OR

THE INTERNET?
Check to see if anyone else around you is having

a similar problem. If so, there may be a service

outage affecting a wider area
Check to make sure the network cable is
connected to both the computer and the wall or
modem.
Check where the network cable connection is
made to the back of the computer, you should see a
little green light right where the cable connects. If
the light isnt on or flashing, then you are not
getting a signal to the computer. If rebooting
doesnt fix it, contact the Help Desk or your ISP.

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3. The computer is on but the screen is frozen

and the keyboard and mouse are not
responding.
Try tapping on the Num Lock key on the keyboard.
While tapping the Num Lock key, notice whether or
not the Num Lock light goes on and off. If it doesnt,
the computer is completely locked up. Youll have to
REBOOT the computer. If the light does go off and
on, wait a minute before giving up hope. It may
come back to life on its own.
Pressing Alt + F4
If a software program stops working or freezes up, try
pressing the ALT+F4 keys to close the window that youre
currently working in. This can shut down a frozen window
and bring the computer back to life. If the keyboard is frozen
as well, youll have to reboot.
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4. The Blue Screen has appeared.

The dreaded Blue Screen of Death. Theres

not a lot to be done except to reboot the

machine. If it keeps occurring, this is an
indication of a major problem with the computer.
4. The computer is on, but the keyboard doesnt
work

Swap the keyboard or try plugging the

keyboard into another computer. If it doesn't

work on the other computer, there is likely
something wrong with the keyboard. If it does
work on the other computer, there is likely
something wrong on the computer or the
connection to the computer
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COMMON UTILITIES

MEANING OF UTILITY PROGRAM

A utility is a system software designed to help

analyze, configure, optimize/improve and
maintain a computer.
Utility programs are part of system software
used to support, enhance or expand existing
programs in a computer system and make it
more and more user friendly.
They are computer programs designed for the

general support of the processing process of the

computer. This support includes performing routine
file conversions, sorting/merge operations, formatting
of diskettes, data compression and virus removal
among others. Examples of utility programs include:
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A disk scanner is a utility that detects and

corrects both physical and logical problems on a
hard disk or floppy disk, and searches for and
removes unwanted files.
A disk defragmenter is a utility that reorganizes
the files and unused space on a computer's hard
disk so data can be accessed more quickly and
programs can run faster. When the contents of a
file are scattered across two or
more
noncontiguous sectors, the file is fragmented.
An uninstaller is a utility that removes an
application, as well as any associated entries in the
system files
A backup utility: These are utilities that allow a
user to copy, or backup, selected files or the entire
hard disk onto another disk or tape.
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 Data recovery utility : This is used to

recover accidentally deleted files from your

computer.
An antivirus utility: This is a program that
prevents, detects, and removes viruses from a
computer's memory or storage devices. One popular
antivirus program is Norton Antivirus.

A screen saver : This is a utility that causes the

monitor's screen to display a moving image or blank
screen if no keyboard or mouse activity occurs for a
specified time period.

Search utility: This utility enables the location of

files and folders than manually location. Windows
system contain many folders and directories and its
easy to forget when and where you stored a folder or
file
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Network Utility: These are programs used

to analyze computer network connectivity,

configure network settings and checking
data transfer or log events.

Diagnostic utility: This is a utility

program that is used to compile technical
information about computer hardware and
certain software programs and then prepares
a report outlining any identified problem.
Cryptographic utilities: These enable
encryption and decryption of streams and
files during data movement.
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Sort-merge utility: This utility enables the

arranging of data records in a predefined

order(sorting) and also two or more ordered
files into one file(merging).
Memory testers: These utilities are used to
check for memory failures.
Disk space analyzers: These are used for
the visualization by getting the size of each
folder and files in folder or drive showing the
distribution of the used space.

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Anti
virus
program
used to prevent, detect and remove malware

An ant virus or ant virus program is a software

such as computer viruses, Trajan horses

worms and spyware among others.
The ant virus usually contains the definition
( one that contains all known viruses) this ant
virus has to be updated at regular basis.

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Common ant-virus
Norton Antivirus
programs
- Avira Antivirus

Panda Antivirus
Avast Antivirus
MacAfee Antivirus
AVG Antivirus
Eset-Nod 32 Antivirus
Dr. Solomons tool kit

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- Kaspersky Antivirus
- Escan Antivirus
- F-secure Antivirus
-web root etc

There fore when you buy a new PC or if you

have re installed your operating system, an

ant virus should be the first software to install.
Above is a list of some of the common ant
viruses.

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Using
the
search
tool
Windows provides several ways to find files
and folders. The search tool is the best choice
when:
When you dont know where the folder is
located.
Want search results to include files from one
or more than one folder such as pictures and
music.

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Open search by pressing windows log +F

Type a word or part of a word in the search

box
Now do any of the following in the search
pane.
Click one of the available filter buttons to
show only certain kinds of files such as
documents, e-mail, pictures or music.
Then follow on screen instructions to
complete the search.

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OR
Click on start and then click on search
programs and files tab.
Type all or part of the file or folder name and
click search.
The search utility searches for the file and
displays the file or folder by use of pop up
menu.
Double click on the file to launch it.

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INPUT DEVICES
THE KEYBOARD
Theses are input devices consisting of keys of

the alphabetical, numbers and special key

used to key in texts, numbers and perform
other computer related functions.
Sections of the Keyboard keys
The Key board has a number of keys grouped
in accordance with their Uses and they
include;

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1.Alpha Numeric Keys

These keys are used for entering letters

and numbers. Example of such keys are keys

bearing symbols of the Alphabet like a, b,
f, and those bearing numbers like 1, 2,
3, 0.
2.Numeric Keys
Not all keyboards have a numeric keyboard.

If available, this is a separate set of keys with

numbers from 0 to 9, the decimal point,
arithmetic operators, and navigation
symbols. The NUM LOCK key on this keypad
allows you to switch between the Numeric
pad and the Navigation keys
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Modifier keys
These are keys on a computer keyboard that
temporarily modifies the normal action of
another key when pressed together. These keys
include the
Control
ALT
Shift
Tab
Fn if available on your keyboard

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3. Function Keys
These keys carry a programmed function (general
functions) depending on the running program.
They are located at the top of the keyboard and
they are labeled with letter F and a Numeral i.e.
F1, F2, F3, F4 to F12.

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4. Arrow Keys / Navigation Keys

These are Keys such as the arrow keys,
HOME, END, PAGE UP, and PAGE DOWN,
We use the navigation or arrow keys to move
the insertion point up, down, right, and left.
Navigation or arrow keys are identified with
symbols , , , representing the
direction the cursor will move to if the key is
pressed on.

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The HOME key is used to move the cursor to the

left end of a line of text or the top of a document.

The END key, moves the cursor to the end of a
line or a file, depending on the program.
The PAGE UP key is used to move one page up
The PAGE DOWN key is used to move the cursor
one page down while viewing a document.
, key is used to move the insertion cursor to
the left side within a document.
, key is used to move the insertion cursor to
the top line within a document.
, key is used to move the insertion cursor to
the right side within a document.
key is used to move the insertion cursor to the
bottom line +256777169712
within a document.

STRUCTURE IS A
KEYBOARD
The keyboard is an
input device
designed to enter
text, characters
and other
commands into the
computer.
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THE
MOUSE
The mouse is an input device designed to
manipulate objects on the computer screen.
It can also be described as (a hand-operated
electronic device that controls the coordinates of
a cursor on your computer screen as you move
it around on a mouse pad; on the bottom of the
device is a ball that rolls on the surface of the
mouse pad).

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COMPUTER MOUSE

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LIGHTPEN
This is a pointing device shaped like a pen and
is connected to a VDU (Visual Display Unit).
The tip of the light pen contains a lightsensitive element which, when placed against
the screen, detects the light from the screen
enabling the computer to identify the location
of the pen on the screen.
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LIGHT PEN

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JOYSTICK
This is often used for
playing games and for
simulators. They can
move in 8 directions
and often have
buttons attached for
extra functionality.

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A SCANNER
A scanner takes a picture placed on the scanner
screen and digitizes the information in order to
present it on the computer screen for viewing.

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STRUCTURE OF A
SCANNER

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Microphones
Microphones are used to input

audio
Three main types of
microphones are:
Desktop

microphones
Headsets
Directional microphones

Speech recognition is
increasingly being included in
application software
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Digital Cameras

Digital

cameras are used mainly to:

Download images to a computer

Post pictures to the Web
Produce videos

Resolution

is measured in megapixels
Higher the resolution, better the
image quality, but the more expensive
the camera

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Web
Cams
Web cam is a video camera that
can be used to take images for
uploading to the Web

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Magnetic Ink Character

Recognition
Magnetic Ink Character Recognition Magnetic

Ink Character Recognition, or MICR, is a

character recognition technology used
primarily by the banking industry to facilitate
the processing of cheques. The technology
allows computers to read information such as
account numbers of printed documents

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Output Devices
Output devices take

information within your

computer and present it to
you in a form that you can
understand
Main output devices:
Monitors
Printers
Speakers

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MONITORS
A monitor is a display unit that is used to

show data that has been put in a computer.

The data is processed by a video card into
images that are displayed on the monitor.
There are different types of monitors, some of
which include the cathode ray tube and liquid
crystal displays.

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Monitors
CRTs
Flat-panel displays
LCD (liquid crystal display)

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Flat
Panel
Display
Devices
Devices with flat-panel displays
Tablet PCs
PDAs
Cellular phones
Desktop computers

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Screen
Talk
Screen size measured as a diagonal line across

the screen from corner to opposite corner

Resolution the number of pixels displayed on
the screen (the higher the resolution, the closer
together the dots)
Pixels (or picture element) dots that make up
the image on your screen
Dot pitch is the distance between the centers of
a pair of like-colored pixels
Refresh rate the speed with which a monitor
redraws the image of the screen, and is
measured in hertz
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Printers

A printer is an output device that

produces text and graphics on

paper.

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TYPES
OF
PRINTERS
Major types of printer can be divided into two
main groups,
1.impact printers: Impact printer produces
text and images when tiny wire pins on print
head strike the ink ribbon by physically
contacting the paper. Examples of impact
printers include:
Dot matrix,
Daisy-wheel printers,
Ball printers.

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2. Non-impact printer:
Non-impact printer produces text
and graphics on paper without print
heads actually striking the paper.
The Examples of Non-Impact printers are :

1- Laser Printer
2- Inkjet Printer
3- Thermal Printer
4-Plotters
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Printers
Inkjet: This is the most popular type
of printer.
Makes images by forcing droplets

through nozzles
Top speed is 20 pages per minute

Laser
Forms images using an electrostatic

process
Prints between 3 and 30 pages per
minute
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Printers
Cont
Resolution of a printer is the
number of dots per inch (dpi) it
produces.
Higher the resolution, better the
image, and usually the more costly
the printer

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Multifunction

printer:

Scan, copy, fax, and print

Can be either inkjet or laser

Cost less than buying individual

units

Take up less desk space

SimNet

Concepts Support CD: Printers

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PLOTTERS

Plotter: This is a
special purpose
output device
that draws
graphs, charts,

and maps using

ink pens.

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Dot matrix printing or impact matrix

printing is a type of computer printing which

uses a print head that runs back and forth, or
in an up and down motion, on the page and
prints by impact, striking an ink-soaked cloth
ribbon against the paper, much like the print
mechanism on a typewriter.
A daisy-wheel printer works on the same
principle as a ball-head typewriter.

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Ball Printer: This is a type of a printer that

uses a type ball, a small ball-shaped print

head that bears fully formed characters on its
surface. The printer rotates the ball to line up
characters and then strikes the ball against a
ribbon.

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Speakers
A

speaker is a device that

produces computer output as
sound

Speakers

are common devices

in computer systems
Examples include:

Built-in speaker

Two-device set speakers

Surround sound speakers

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A MULTIMEDIA PROJECTOR?

Multimedia projectors:

This is a device that takes

the image from a
computer screen and
projects it onto a larger
screen so an audience of
people can see the image
clearly.

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Storage Devices
Storage

device stores information to be

recalled and used at a later time
Storage device consists of:
Storage medium
Storage device
Three major technology types for
information storage:
Magnetic
Optical or laser
Flash memory
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Magnetic Storage
1.Devices:
Internal Magnetic Hard Disk
Magnetic

storage devices can be either

internal or external

Internal magnetic hard disks are fixed inside

the system unit
External magnetic hard disks are portable

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Internal Magnetic
Hard Disk
An Internal hard disk is a

magnetic storage device with

One or more thin platters that store

information sealed inside the disk

drive.
Read/write heads access the
information on surface
Heads read information while copying
it from disk to RAM
Heads write information when
copying it from RAM to disk
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2.External Magnetic
Hard
Disk
External hard
disks are
magnetic storage media
which are portable storage
units that you can connect to
your computer as necessary
Great for backup storage devices
Ability to transport your hard

disk from one computer to

another

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Disk composition
A magnetic disk consist of a collection
of platters (1to 20 per disk) that rotate
on a spindle.
Disk surface divided into tracks (1000
to 4800 per platter).
Tracks are divided into sectors (64 per
track), which are the smallest unit that
can be read or written.
Capacity measured in gigabytes

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Magnetic
Disks

A read/write head travels across a spinning

magnetic disk, retrieving or recording data

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A floppy disk, or
diskettes
A floppy disk, or diskette, is a disk
storage medium composed of a disk of
thin and flexible magnetic storage
medium, sealed in a rectangular plastic
carrier lined with fabric that removes
dust particles. They are read and
written by a floppy disk drive (FDD).
Floppy disks, initially produced in forms
as 8-inch media and, 25-inch and 3.5inch sizes
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Floppy Mylar disk

These are housed inside a

hard plastic casing.

also

called floppies, diskettes,

floppy disks
Holds about 1.44 megabytes of
information

p. 5.144 Fig. 5.15

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Optical Storage Devices:

How Optical Storage Works
An optical disk is a high-capacity
storage medium. Data is recorded by making
marks in a pattern that can be read back with the
aid of light, usually a beam of laser light precisely
focused on a spinning disc.
Typically, data is written to optical media, such as
CDs and DVDs. For several years.
Optical media is more durable than tape and less
vulnerable to environmental conditions. On the
other hand, it tends to be slower than typical hard
drive speeds, and to offer lower storage
capacities.
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Optical Storage
Compact Disks(CDS)and Digital

versatile disk(DVDs) are both

examples of optical storage and have
three formats:
Read-only
Write-once
Read-and-write

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Optical
Storage
Media
1. Read-Only
3. Fully Read-and CD-ROM
DVD-ROM

2. One-Time Writable
CD-R
DVD-R

Write
CD-RW
DVD-RW or

DVD+RW or
DVD-RAM

DVD+R

SimNet

Concepts Support CD: CDs and DVDs

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Optical storage comes in two capacities

A CD holds up to a maximum of about 800 MB.
A DVD holds from 4.7 GB to 17 GB depending
on whether it uses both sides and whether the
side(s) have one or two layers available for
storage

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Flash
Memory
Cards
Flash memory cards have
high-capacity storage
laminated inside a small
piece of plastic
Flash flash memory cards
do not need a drive with
moving parts to operate

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Flash
Memory
Card
Readers
Some devices have flash memory
slots into which you slide your flash
memory card
Other devices can use an external
flash memory card reader in order
to transfer information
A flash memory drive is a flash
memory storage medium for a
computer that is small enough to
fit in your pocket and usually plugs
directly into a USB port
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COMPUTER
MEMORY

Computer Memory is a temporary

area for holding data, instructions
and information.
It is a storage location where the
Computer stores data.

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Categories of
Computer Memory
Internal Memory (Primary Storage)
External Memory (Auxiliary Storage or

Secondary Storage)

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Types of Internal Memory

(Primary Storage)
Random Access Memory (RAM)

- This is the type of memory that a computer

utilizes when it is switched on and is
actively processing something.
- It is used by the computer as a primary
memory for data and programs during
processing

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Random Access
Memory Ctnd
Other names of RAM are;
User memory
Volatile memory
Temporary memory and
Main memory

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Read Only Memory

This is used to store programmed
instructions permanently or semi
permanently.
Data that is stored in the ROM will remain
unchanged for quite sometime for example
the booting instructions. It is permanently
accessible, non volatile meaning that even if
power goes off, the contents cant lost.

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Storage Medium Terms

Byte

=
Kilobyte (KB)

Megabytes (MB)
Gigabytes (GB)
Terabytes (TB)
Petabyte (PB)

Exabyte (EB)

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8
1
1
1
1
1
1

bits
Thousand Bytes
Million Bytes
Billion Bytes
Trillion Bytes
quadrillion Bytes
quintillion Bytes

Memory Measurements
Memory in a computer is measured basing

on the basic operation of a computer.

The computer operates in a binary system
i.e. in terms of 0s and 1s. There fore all
data is represented in binary form of 0s and
1s.
1 Bit or A bit = 0 or 1

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Memory
Measurements
Measurements
Contd

Capacity

Equivalent in bytes

1 Binary digit
(0 or 1)

1 Bit

1 Byte

8 Bits

Actual Bytes

2^0

1 KiloByte (KB) 1,000 Bytes (8,000 Bits)

1024 (2^10)

1 MegaByte
(MB)

1,000,000 Bytes (1,000 KB)

1048576
(2^20)

1GegaByte
(GB)

1,000,000,000 Bytes (1,000 MB)

2^30

1 TeraByte
(TB)

1,000,000,000,000 Bytes (1,000

GB)

2^40

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External Memory
This is also called the Auxiliary storage or

Secondary storage
These devices hold data until it is deleted
and even when power is off, it is
overwritten.
In other words the memory keeps its
contents even if power is lost.

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Examples of
Secondary Storage
Punched Cards
Floppy diskettes
Hard Disks
Flash Disks
Compact Disk (CD)
Digital Versatile Disk (DVD)
Magnetic Tapes e.t.c

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Punched Cards
These were flat and consisted of rows and

columns of numbers and letters neatly

arranged in columns
To store data, the card was inserted in a
computer drive and then the computer
punched a series of holes in the low of
characters to represent the dta stored

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Hard
Disk
(HDD)
Hard disk consists of any or more data
(disks arranged on top of the other). These
platters are made from a metallic material
coated on both sides with a magnetic
material whose property is used for
storage.
Each of these platters has a set of read
and write head that is just attached above
the disk.
Hard disks store large amounts of data
with capacities of 10GB and above.
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Advantages of Hard
Disks
They offer more data storage space than
any other storage device.
Provide a faster data access and storage
compared to a floppy disk.
Hard disks also supplement RAM using
virtual memory.
Provides more permanent storage than RAM.
They also provide a quick and easy means
of data back up.

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Disadvantages of Hard
Disks
Hard disks are relatively expensive compared
to floppy diskettes.
They are virus prone i.e. they are easily
attacked by the virus.
They may fail to work when subjected to
severe shock e.g. when it falls on hard surface.
They are relatively heavy compared to other
forms of storage devices.
They may expand and contract since they are
metallic which may lead to data loss
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Floppy Diskette
A Floppy diskette is made of a thin circular

plastic media coated with a magnetic

surface.
This media is then cased in a 3 and1/2 inch
hand plastic cover that has a metallic slide
cover that protects the media inside.
Diskettes come in sizes of 5.25inch and
3.5inch and 8 inch.

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The most commonly used floppy diskette is a

3.5 inch with a capacity of about 1.44MB.

(Equal to 343 pages of A4 papers) when
formatted yet it just fits in a pocket.

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Advantages of using a
Diskette

Data with a floppy can easily be accessed in a

short time
They are portable hence transfer of
information from one computer to another is
possible
Easy to store data
Relatively cheap.

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Disadvantages of
using
a
Diskette
They store less information compared to the
hard disk (store files less than 1 MB).
They are very good virus transfer agents.
Floppy diskettes are not durable i.e. they
dont last for so long.
Data can easily be lost when the magnetic
media is exposed to magnetic field.

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Care for floppy

diskettes
Never remove the diskette from the
computer while it is still in use.
Keep it away from dust, smoke, direct
sunlight or water
Dont put heavy weight on top of the diskette
Dont bend the diskette because it may
cause permanent damage to the diskette.
Dont expose them to magnetic fields
Dont use damaged diskettes in the floppy
because these may damage the drive
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Compact
Disk

Its an optical disk. The CD Drive is required to

read the data on the CD. The CD stores less
information compared to the Hard Disk but it
has a slower rate of information retrieval.
A compact disk is made of a circular
polycarbonate plastic media coated with a
thin film layer of either gold or aluminum on
one side. Store Data of up to 700MB or
70minutes of Audio.

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Advantages of using the CD

They are portable i.e. one can easily move

with the CD.

They store large amount of data compared to
floppy diskette.
Their data life is high if well handled.
They are not easily affected by viruses.

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Disadvantages of
using
the
CD
They have a high rate of destruction because
they seem to be made of plastic.
They are easily scratched if poorly handled
and this leads to total destruction of the CD,
thus information loss.
Some CDs are read only i.e. you can alter
their contents.

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Flash Disk

This is a small portable flash memory card that

plugs into a computers USB port called a USB

flash drive.
They are identified as removable disk E, F, G
when inserted into the computer
A USB flash drive consists of a Flash memory
data storage device integrated with a USB
(Universal Serial Bus) interface. USB flash drive
are typically much smaller than a floppy disk.
They come in a variety of memory sizes
ranging from 512KB to 128GBs.
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Sample Questions
1. List the advantages and disadvantages of

using a flash disks

2. List ways in you can take care of your flash
disk

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Advantages of using
They are small
and portable.
flash
disks
They are relatively cheap compared to hard

drive.
Data stored on flash disks is protected from
scratches and dust.
Most modern operating system can read and
write on flash disk without installing their device
drivers.
Some flashes retain their memory after being
submerged in water.
Silent operation due to lack of moving parts
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Disadvantages of using flash

disks
Flash disks are prone to static electricity.
Flash disks are prone to computer viruses.
The prices of flash disks are high compared

that of a floppy diskette.

Flash disks have a limited life time.

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Tips for caring for a USB

Flash Disk
Avoid dropping it down
Avoid exposing them to hot and cold

temperatures, they can damage the disk.

Dont allow water to fall on it.
Avoid keeping it near strong magnetic
fields such as speakers and dynamos.
Store in a clean and well sealed Sackets
such that it does not get dirty.
when used on another computer scan
with the latest anti virus to secure it free
from viruses.
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General care of Disks /

Diskettes
Dont touch on exposed data parts.
Dont expose them to magnetic objects /

fields.
Handle your CDs /DVDs on their edges or
center hole

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Store your disk away from direct sun light.

When labeling CDs or DVDs use soft pens

such as markers.
Put them back in their covers or shells as
soon as you finish using them

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Care of Disks /
Diskettes Contd
Avoid bending them, so avoid carrying

them in pockets.
Dont apply petro, paraffin or acid on them.
Always clean your CD or DVD with
methanol.

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Steps taken when

formatting a disk
Insert the disk in a computer drive
Open my computer using the my computer

icon on the desktop.

Right click on the disk you want to format
Click on format
Select quick format from the option and
then;
Click OK.

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Disk Formatting
Formatting is the process of preparing a

storage device or medium (disk) for reading

and writing or recording data.
When you format a hard disk the system
erases or deletes all the contents of the
disk.

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COMPUTER
SOFTWARE
The set of instructions, commands or
programs that tell the Computer how to
behave or perform tasks.
It relates to all forms of information
processing instructions.
A program is a complete sequence of
instructions for data processing to be
performed by a computer.

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Software consists of
two categories:-Application

software.
-System software.

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1.
Application
Are programs or instructions, which direct
data processing for a particular problem for a
software
computer user. The problem can be of word
processing, spreadsheet management,
presentations management, entertainment,
etc.
Applications direct the computer how to
produce information.

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Application software is subdivided

into two:-Custom or tailor made software.
-Packaged/off-the-shelve software.

(i)Custom/Bespoke/Tailor-made Software or User

Application
These are computer programs which are
designed and developed for a specific
customer.

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These include software

packages
like
Accounting packages
Library software
Stock control system
Financial software etc

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Advantages custom/bespoke software

-Customized software are hard to manipulate.
-Help to improve the image of an

organisation.
-Help to increase productivity or profits of the
organisation.
-It caters for all firm needs by providing all the
necessary information or details.

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Disadvantages
-They are very expensive to design and

develop.
-They are very rigid. Since they can only
be used by one customer.
-They are time consuming to develop.
-They need a lot of specialized skills which
require expensive special training.

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(ii) Packaged or off-the-shelve software

These are computer programs developed for sale to

the general public to solve routine organizational

problems. Application packages are either specialised
applications or generalized applications e.g.
-Word processors like word perfect, Microsoft word, Note
pad Word Star, etc.
-Electronic spread sheet Lotus 1-2-3, Microsoft Excel,
etc.
-Presentation software.
-Database management software.
-Acting software like Pastel, sage, Quick books, Tally, etc.

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Advantages of off-the-shelve
software
-They are readily available in software kiosks.
-They are cheap to procure.
-They are very flexible since they can be used

by any organization.
-They are entertainment and leisure tools.
-Do not need a lot of specialized skills.
-They have educational value.

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Disadvantages.
-They are very easy to manipulate since they
are almost known by every one.
-They are not very secure.
-May not handle some problem with ease.

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Examples of off-the-shelve
software include;
-Productivity software.
-Education reference software: e.g.

Infopedia, Encyclopaedia, English Usage

Dictionary, etc.
-Home personal software for home repairs,
gardening, decoration, travel planner, etc.
-Specialty software for desktop publishing,
project management, presentation
graphics.

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Examples of Application
Software
Word processing: This is used for creating

and editing word documents. Examples

include; Microsoft word, Word pad, Note pad
etc
Spreadsheet: This is used for managing,
organizing and performing calculations on the
data. Examples include; Microsoft Excel, Lotus
1-2-3, SPSS etc.

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Database: this is used to organize, store and

retrieve large amount of data/ information.

Examples include; Microsoft Access, Oracle
etc.
Multimedia: It is used for creating video or
music. They allow the user to create or play
audio and video. Examples include; media : It
is used for creating video or music. They allow
the user to create or play audio and video.
Examples include; media s, VLC players, PCDJ
etc.
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Presentation Software: It is used to

display information in slide show E.g..

Microsoft PowerPoint.
Graphic Application: It is used for
creating pictures. It provides tools used to
view and edit image files. E.g. Adobe
Illustrator, page maker etc
Communication software: This includes
email and faxing software for sending and
receiving messages. E.g. Web browsers.
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2.
SYSTEM
These are programs which contribute to the
control and performance of the computer
SOFTWARE.
system. They enable application software to
interact well with the computer, and also help
it in managing its internal and external
resources.
System software is usually found already
installed by the computer manufacturer or
vendor.

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It Consists of the
following
Operating System / the executive
Service utilities or utility programs or system

utilities.
Language translators
Database management system

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1. Operating System
An operating system is a master control

program which manages and supports the

operation of the computer. Operating systems
contribute to the control and management of
the computer system. Examples include;
Windows 98, 2000 and XP, Linux, Unix, Novel,
Netware etc

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Functions of the Operating

System
It is responsible for the booting of the

computer by accessing starter files located in

the boot strap loader.
During this process, all computer peripherals
are checked and validated, and when finished
signals are sent to the user to begin working
on the computer.

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Management of computer resources. The operating

system supervises all the activities of the CPU and

other components hence acting as a police officer
directing traffic.
It helps to interprete the command executed by the
user.
It uniforms the user to any hardware and software
errors.
Memory management. The Operating system helps in
memory management. i.e. it coordinates the use of
memory by trapping which one is available, which is to
be located or reallocated and how to move between
them.
File management. It helps in managing files i.e. coping,
deleting, moving files from one location to another.

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Processor management. It manages the

activities of the processor in terms of job execution

according to the priority of the arrival of the
job/task i.e. it determines and maintains the order
in which the tasks are executed in the computer
system.
Providing user interface. The OS allows the user
to interact with the computer hardware by
providing the user with controllable parts (icons,
menus, and buttons) which make it possible for
users to interact with the computer.
It interpretes the programs, instruction one at a
time

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Examples of Operating
System
The main operating system on the computer
can be grouped into the following classes.
Desktop Operating System (DOS)
Network Operating System (NOS)
PDA Operating System (PDA OS)

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DESKTOP OPERATING
SYSTEM
This is commonly used on PCs and normally
stand alone computers. Examples include;
i - Disk Operating System
ii Ms Windows 95- 2000
iii Windows 2000 Operating system

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NETWORK OPERATING
SYSTEM
These are designed to be used on several
computers that exist on the network. It allows
multiple computers to communicate, share
files and hardware devices with one another.
Examples include; Novel, Linux, Windows XP,
Unix etc.

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PDA
OPERATING
SYSTEM
These are
designed for hand held
computers.
Examples include; windows CE, palm OS,
EPOC. Other operating systems that are
designed specifically for particular computers
by the manufacturers include;
i MAC OS for Macintosh Computers
ii System 7 for Apple computers
iii CP/M (Control Programs for Micro
computers)

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Types of Operating
System
As computers have progressed, different
operating system have also been developed.
Many computer operating systems will fall into
more than one of the following.
GUI (Graphical User Interface) A GUI
operating system contains graphics and icons.
It is commonly navigated by using a computer
mouse. Examples include; Windows 97,
Windows 95 etc.

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Multi Tasking Operating System. This OS is

capable of allowing multiple software

processes to run at the same time. It enables
a single user to have two or more applications
open at the same time.
Multi-user Operating System. A multi user OS
allows many users to use the same computer
at the same time. E.g. Unix.

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Single user operating system. This allows a

single user to run different applications at the

same time. This is a type of OS most PCs
have. Windows of Microsoft and Macintosh,
and Apple are the mostly used single user OS.
Multi processing operating system. This allows
two or more processes to be used at the same
time. It allows a program to run on more than
one CPU at the same time. It is capable of
supporting and utilizing more than computer
processor e.g. Linux, Unix, and windows 2000

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Real time operating system. RTOS are

designed to allow computers to process and

respond to inputs /instructions instantly. RTOS
are typically used when computers must react
to consistent inputs of information without
delay. RTOS are mainly used to control
machinery, scientific instruments, industrial
systems etc.

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2.UTILITY
PROGRAMS/SYSTEM
These are programs developed to improve,
expand or support or enhance performance of
UTILITIES
other existing programs in the computer
system. They are also referred to as service
programs.

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Specific utilities and

their
functions
Back up utilities.
Help in making duplicate
copies of every file on either internal or
external media as security files for reference
in case the original copy is destroyed eg
Colorado scheduler.
Defragmentation utility. Used to find all
scattered portions of files on the hard disk and
organize them as contagious/ adjacent files

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Memory management utilities. Are programs

that determine how to efficiently control and

allocate memory resources (usually activated
by software drivers).
Disk repair utility. Checks your disk drive for
defects and make repair the spot or mark the
bad area e.g. Norton's Disk Doctor.
Virus protection utilities/ Anti-virus. Is a utility
program that scans storage media (hard disks,
diskettes, and memory) to detect and destroy
virus e.g. Avast Norton, Avira MacAfee antiviruses
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3. PROGRAMMING
These are set of instructions that tell the
LANGUAGES
computer what operations to do during the
programming process.
Note: Programming is a multi steps process for
creating computer instructions. These are two
basic categories of programming languages
which include;
Low Level Languages (LLL)
High Level Languages (HLL)

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LOW
LEVEL
LANGUAGE
These are called low level language because
they are closely associated with the processor
than the HLL which are nearer to the
programmers. There are two types of low level
languages. They include;
i- 1st Generation languages /Top
languages or machine language: these
languages provide basic computer languages
representing memory location instructions
and data in 0s and 1s (Binary number).

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Characteristics of
Machine
codes
Can be used directly
by the computer without
interpretation.

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