Computer Basics Course - Lecture Notes

Introduction

• Course Description: Introductory course for beginners and those looking to fill in gaps in their computer knowledge, provided by GCF Global.
• Main Topics: Computers, hardware, software, basic usage, and operating systems.

What is a Computer?

• An electronic device that manipulates information/data.
• Sees data as ones and zeros, but can combine them into complex forms (e.g., movies, websites, games).
• Uses hardware and software.

Hardware vs. Software

• Hardware: Physical parts of the computer (internal components, monitor, keyboard, etc.).
• Software: Set of instructions that tells hardware what to do (e.g., web browsers, media players, word processors).

Types of Computers

• Personal Computers: Desktop and laptop, commonly use Windows OS.
• Other Types: Macs (macOS), Chromebooks (Chrome OS), smartphones/tablets (iOS, Android), TVs, game consoles, appliances.
• Servers: Send information to other computers on a network, used for delivering web pages and sharing files.

Common Buttons and Ports

• Power Button: Location varies by device type.
• USB Ports: Used for connecting devices like keyboards, printers, and USB drives.
• Monitor Ports: HDMI, USB-C, etc., for connecting monitors.
• Ethernet Port: For wired internet connection.
• Audio Jack: For headphones/speakers.
• Disk Drive: For CDs, DVDs, Blu-rays (becoming less common).

Basic Parts of a Computer

• Case: Holds main components and actual processing happens here.
• Monitor: Displays images and text, uses LCD or LED technology.
• Keyboard and Mouse: For interaction; mice often use optical sensors.
• Laptops: Combine all components into one unit, use touchpads instead of mice.

Inside a Computer

• Motherboard: Main circuit board containing the CPU and RAM.
• CPU (Central Processing Unit): Brain of the computer, carries out commands.
• RAM (Random Access Memory): Short-term memory for calculations.
• Hard Drive: Long-term storage; newer versions use solid-state drives (SSD).
• Power Supply Unit: Provides electricity to components.

Laptops vs. Desktops

• Laptops: Portable, built-in parts, battery-powered, less screen space.
• Desktops: Mix and match components, more customization, separate components.

Operating Systems

• Definition: Program that lets you interact with your computer.
• Popular OS: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android.
• Function: Hardware and OS together form a complete system.

Applications (Apps)

• Definition: Software programs that let you do various tasks.
• Examples: Mobile apps (Google Maps), desktop apps (Microsoft Word).
• Installation: Some pre-installed, others downloadable or purchasable.

Setting Up a Computer

• Step-by-step guide for setting up a desktop (unpacking, connecting monitor, keyboard, mouse, power supply).
• Wireless Setup: How to pair wireless keyboard and mouse.
• Internet Connection: Types (dial-up, DSL, cable, fiber, cellular), ISPs, modems, and creating a home Wi-Fi network.

Cloud Storage

• Definition: Saving data on internet servers as opposed to local drives.
• Benefits: Access anywhere, protection from data loss, supports backup.
• Applications: Web apps (Google Docs), photo storage (Google Photos, Dropbox).

Computer Maintenance and Safety

• Physical Cleaning: Proper methods for cleaning the case, monitor, mouse, and keyboard.
• Malware Protection: Using antivirus programs, avoiding suspicious downloads, regular updates.
• System Maintenance: Tools like Storage Sense and Disk Cleanup for Windows.

Ergonomics

• Importance: Proper setup to avoid strain and discomfort.
• Tips: Keyboard/mouse positioning, chair adjustment, monitor distance, regular breaks.

Browser Safety and Privacy

• Security Features: Domain name highlighting, warning for malicious sites.
• Email Safety: Avoiding spam, recognizing phishing emails.
• Digital Tracking: Understanding tracking cookies and targeted ads.

Navigating Interfaces

• Windows Interface: Desktop, Taskbar, Start button, File Explorer.
• macOS Interface: Dock, Menu Bar, Finder, Launchpad.
• Web Browsers: Address bar, navigation buttons, tabs, bookmarks, history.