Computers & You

Computers are defined as machines that manipulate data given a set of instructions. However, many of us we define computers as machines that make our lives easier nowadays. Most of our appliances and equipment at home and at work are all computerized, and it is essential to know how they work. Learning how to use computers has become compulsory to many schools and offices since most, if not all, mechanical typewriters have become obsolete. However, aside from learning how to use computers for creating documents and research, if you own a computer and use it at home you also have to learn how to troubleshoot it.

Computers were invented basically to make addition of numbers easier thus the invention of mechanical calculators in the 17th century. However, the abacus from the ancient times can be considered the ancestor of all calculators. Subsequently these mechanical calculators evolved into other programmable machines that led to the modern computer. Some of the most notable inventors that contributed to the creation of computers we know today include:

*Blaise Pascal – invented the first commercial calculator, a hand powered adding machine
*Gottfried Liebnitz – used Pascal’s idea to create a machine that aside from adding can also multiply
*Joseph-Marie Jacquard – invented a loom that weaves by reading punched holes on small sheers of hardwood
*Charles Babbage – considered to be the father of modern computers, invented the difference engine from which computers we know of today evolved
*Herman Hollerith – invented the first electric keypunching machine based on Jacquard’s invention; Hollerith’s tabulating company is IBM’s forerunner

These inventors’ machines paved the way for the invention and development of electronic machines that are not limited to the four basic operations but which can be programmed to solve complex problems and store data which can be retrieved and used anytime.

How do computers work? Most of our appliances today are computerized, but we often refer to computers as the personal computer or PC that we use in making documents, creating programs and researching with the aid of the Internet. There are two basic parts of a computer and these are the hardware and the software. Computer hardware makes up the complex components of the PC which when properly assembled and connected can be used for various purposes. Hardware includes the CPU or the central processing unit considered to be the computer’s brain, the monitor and the keyboard. The software on the other hand, is what we use to operate the computer which includes programs, data and protocols to name a few.

There are a few basic steps to follow when using the computer:

1. Make sure that all are in order and everything is connected properly.
2. Check if the PC is connected to a power supply.
3. Turn on the PC using the “ON” button and wait for the computer to prompt you on the next step.
4. Most computers nowadays are used with a mouse which makes it easier to operate than memorizing a lot of shortcuts or pushing a lot of buttons. So it is important for a computer newbie to learn how to use a mouse.
5. Most operating systems are user friendly which come with help functions that will get you through most problems when using the computer. Just click on HELP AND SUPPORT to access the steps and information you need in using and fixing problems with your PC.

By: Ashley Conner

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Zipcodez.com is a widely-used local business listings service and search engine. It features a complementary collection of useful topics and resources from "Arts & Entertainment" to "Wireless & Telecommunications." If you are interested in this topic, you might also want to read "Doctor Fix IT – Computer Repair," available at www.zipcodez.com/article/featured-articles.htm.