Computer - the Need of Modern Life

Computers simply mean a machine which can compute. Let us peek into the past and find out who were the geeks who thought about having a device that could perform calculative tasks by recognizing inputs and giving the appropriate outputs.
Abacus developed in 3000 BC can be called the first ever computer as it was a simple counting device. In 1941 a German engineer Konard Zuse developed a first programmable calculator using binary math and Boolean logic. UNIVAC was developed in 1951 and the real breakthrough came in 1952 when Texas Instrument developed the Integrated Circuit. In 1964, IBM introduced a mainframe computer called IBM 360. Apple introduced Apple I in 1976 and Apple II in 1977. The Computer that is familiar to most of us in terms of looks and functionality was unveiled in 1981 when IBM introduced the Personal Computer.

The main characteristics of a Computer are:
1 - It follows and is capable of following a special set of instructions.
2 - It can execute preset list of instructions generally known as a computer program.

The basic components which are essential to make a computer are:
1 - Input Device comprising of a Keyboard and Mouse which are used for entering instructions and data into the computer.
2 - Output device such as the Visual Display Unit or the Screen, Printer etc, which lets us see what the computer has done.
3 - The Central Processing Unit which is known as the brain of the Computer where all the processing of data is done and instructions are executed.
4 - Memory is the powerhouse of the computer which stores data and instructions in it.
5 - Mass Storage Devices are those which permanently stores and retain large amount of data. The common ones are floppy drives, CD-ROMs, Hard disks etc.

Computers come in various types designed for various purposes keeping in mind different categories of its users. According to their type they have different capabilities and are priced accordingly. The most popular computer is the Personal Computer which is for personal use of a single user at one time. They come in two types; A Desktop and a Laptop. Then there is an even smaller computer known as the Palmtop which can be held in the palms of the user. While these are the smaller and personal types of computers, The Mainframe, Workstation and Supercomputers are the larger high end computers used by big organizations.

Computers can perform a wide range of functions such as word processing, Digital Audio/Video composition, Internet, Communications and Networking and Desktop Publishing. Computers word processing capability includes automatic correction of spelling and grammar mistakes. Internet is one of the greatest inventions of human beings. It connects infinite number of computers in the manner of a web.

Ungodly amounts of information are available on the Internet and facilities of communications such as messaging, audio and video conferencing are available for free. Graphic engineers are using computers for editing audio and video compositions. No media production can be completed without the help of computers. Nowadays Computers are indispensable for Banking, Railway and Flight Reservations, Education and even defense of a country. There is hardly any sector of business which does not utilize Computers. Important and critical business tasks cannot be accomplished without the help of computers.

Just like human beings, computers are also prone to diseases which are created by attack of viruses. Proper back up of all data stored in computer must be maintained to provide back up in case of storage media failure. Computers must be secured from unauthorized use by passwords and must be protected from viruses by installing anti-virus programs in them. Computers, if safeguarded and used properly can create wonders for human kind and can produce results which are unachievable without them.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hardware-articles/computer-the-need-of-modern-life-288052.html

About the Author:
This article can also be accessed in portuguese language from the Article section of page www.polomercantil.com.br/computador-pc.phpRoberto Sedycias works as IT consultant for http://www.polomercantil.com.br/

Broken Computer? Should You Fix It Or Fling It?

Okay, so your computer has stopped working for whatever reason. What is the cause? is it the hard drive, the processor, are adware, or the problem? Maybe a Trojan, a virus? Has a chip on the RAM blown or the CPU overloaded?Should you hire a computer repair service, or should you buy yourself a new computer?It can be a very difficult decision, one you will base upon your finances and the age of your computer.If your computer is more than a few years old it may not be cost effective to repair it. For example, if the motherboard blows then unless you can find one of a similar age on ebay you will have to replace the processor, heat sink and memory as well because your originals are not likely to work in your new motherboard.The cost factor should also be taken into account when thinking about computer repair. Buying a new computer could cost you up to ten times more than repairing your existing computer.There is also the environmental impact of buying a new computer – what do you do with the old one? Do you throw it out to go rot in a landfill and pollute the environment or do you pay to have it properly disposed of? Or do you do what so many of us do and shove it in the back of the attic or garage and forget about it until it becomes an antique.The final consideration is your technical skill. Whilst computers have become easier for the novice to use and work with, they are still technical concerns. Many of us have enough trouble programming the VCR let alone changing the processor in a computer.You need to also realise that a computer is, after all, a delicate piece of equipment and is still sensitive to dust and static – in fact you can seriously damage your computer if you do not take the appropriate precautions. I have many customers who have tried to fix their own computer and inadvertently blown their processor or memory because they failed to take the proper anti-static precautions.You should never touch the connectors or chips on any computer card. Ideally you should always store memory and computer cards in proper anti-static bags to avoid this damage. Again, I get people coming to me with some memory they bought out of a bucket at a computer fair or boot sale wondering why it doesn’t work.It really is worth taking the time to hire a professional computer repair service to fix your computer, not only can they probably do the job quicker than you could, but they will do it properly and without any risk of damaging your computer.Hiring a professional computer repair service will ensure your computer is fixed quickly, easily and efficiently – with the least cost to you. Not only that, but you can get advice from a professional about how to keep your computer running efficiently and free from viruses, adware and Trojans.Tony Roberts has worked extensively for the last 15 years for several Blue Chip companies providing technical support and training to on-site support staff, enabling them to support a variety of software/hardware platforms. He now focuses his efforts in assisting small businesses and home users more information can be found at "Computer Repair the easy way" Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tony_Roberts

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Buying a Computer on Ebay. The best tips.

By Mitz
Buying a computer off EBay can be a scary thing to do. But if you know what you are doing, you can catch a real bargain there. You should follow these guidelines:

1. Make sure you are buying from an honest seller that writes an accurate description with pictures of the actual item.
2. It would be better if you were in picking up distance as postage can cost big dollars. And if you do have to return it for replacement or repair, being near your seller is a definite advantage. If they do not allow pick up, what are they hiding?
3. Research what you would like to buy. It is not fair on a seller if you bid and then decide it is wrong for you. Know what speed and how much storage space you need. Ask a friend to help you.
4. Viewing your item before you bid or buy is the best practice.
5. Try and buy something that includes original software or an updated version of Windows that includes disks and a Certificate of Authenticity on the case. To buy this separate would be expensive.
6. Read the description carefully as some computers come without the monitors they are pictured with. Some computers don't even come with a keyboard or mouse, so be aware.
7. Don't rush in. Buy your items on EBay when everyone is at work. I find 5pm on a weekday great because people are usually at work, picking up children, or organising dinner. I get some real bargains at that time.

This article was written by Milica (mitz) Pantic. Go to http://www.tips4pc.com/ for more articles that are written in an easy to understand interface and FREE computer help. You can also visit her EBay store Fantastic Bits 24_7.