FATMA ISMED
FATMA ISMED / 12232
OVERVIEW OF COMPUTERS
Computer is an advanced electronic device
that takes raw data as input from the user
and processes these data under the
control of set of instructions (called
program) and gives the result (output) and
saves output for the future use.
MAIN COMPONENTS OF A COMPUTER
Monitor
Keyboard
Mouse
Hard Disc Drive
RAM AND ROM

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RAM (Random Access Memory). RAM is a sort of
working area in which the computer stores the programs
it runs, performs its calculations and stores intermediate
results.
The important thing that you need to know is how much
RAM your computer has, as this determines whether a
particular piece of software will run on your computer.
ROM  Key programs that enable the computer to
operate are stored in another set of microchips
SOUNDCARD
A soundcard is an electronic circuit board that
is mounted inside the computer to control
sound output to speakers or headphones and
sound input from a microphone. Soundcards
are essential for multimedia applications.
LOUDSPEAKERS / HEADPHONES

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Loudspeakers
or
headphones
are
essential for listening to sound recordings.
When purchasing speakers it is worthwhile
checking that they have their own inbuilt
amplification system.
Headphones can be integrated with a
microphone - the so-called pilot's headset
that is used in language laboratories.
Stereo speakers or headphones are
advisable for most multimedia applications.
MICROPHONE
For good quality sound recordings the
language teacher needs a 600 Ohm low
impedance microphone with a 3.5 mm jack
plug, as used in many popular audiocassette
recorders. Alternatively, microphones are
available that plug into computer's USB
port.
PERIPHERAL DEVICES
A peripheral device - or simply peripheral - is any
piece of hardware that can be connected to a
computer.
Printer
 Modem
 Scanner
 Interactive whiteboard (IWB)

PRINTER



Nowadays most people use ink-jet printers.
These printers can produce output in any
language or alphabet and also produce graphics in
full color.
Printers need cartridges that contain the ink,
and these need to be renewed regularly.
Some printers can act as a printer and as a
scanner - and as a photocopier too!
MODEM
Modem is an acronym standing for
modulator/demodulator. This is a device which
converts computer data to a signal that can be
transmitted over a telephone line. It can also
reconvert a signal coming into a computer via a
telephone line so that it can be understood by
the computer. Modems are used to connect
computers with the Internet
SCANNER
A scanner is a device that copies hard copy
information (printed page, graphic image,
photograph etc) into digital data,
translating the information into a form a
computer can store as a file. Thus it is
possible to make a digitised copy of a
printed page, graphic image or photograph.
INTERACTIVE WHITEBOARD (IWB)
An interactive whiteboard is a a kind of
"intelligent" screen, used in conjunction
with a data projector attached to your
computer. You can "write" on the
whiteboard with a special "pen" or with
your finger. You can also tap the
whiteboard screen in order to make
something happen - i.e. instead of clicking
with the mouse
THANK YOU