A Computer?

The computer is no longer a novelty today. It is something that is highly functional and useful not only to scientists, managers, businessmen, professionals, and government officials, but also to students like you.

The world is changing because of the computer. The computer can do almost any routine or systematic procedure or operation involving information, so that people can have more time to do what they do best - think.

The term computer has many definitions. The easiest to understand and remember is: A computer is an electronic device designed to manipulate data so that useful information can be generated. Data may be defined as any collection of facts. By this definition, data may refer to both numerical and nonnumerical information. Data processing is the manipulation of data into a more useful form. It involves the collection, processing, and distribution of facts and figures to achieve a desired result. It may also involve the classification of data and the transmission of data from one place to another. All the operations involved in data processing may have been performed by some kind of a machine or a computer, although some of them could have been carried out manually. Data processing system refers to the equipment or devices as well as procedures by which the result is achieved. In short, a computer is part of a data processing system.

The Characteristics of a Computer

A computer is a device with remarkable efficiency and speed. In fact, it is described as an intelligent machine. But you must not forget that it is just a tool for man to use. It may be a powerful tool, but it is still a tool nonetheless.

The following are the characteristics of a computer:

1. A computer is a machine. It is an inanimate object and, as such, will need human intervention to operate. Furthermore, it will only do things for which it is designed for.
2. A computer is electronic. It is made up of electronic circuits and runs on electrical energy.
3. A computer is automatic. Once started, it continues to run without outside intervention.
4. A computer can manipulate data. It can perform arithmetic functions such as addition, subtraction, division, and multiplication following specific rules or instructions. It cans also compare data.
5. A computer has memory. It has the capacity to remember what it has done. It can store data and instruction in its memory and retrieve these whenever they are needed during operation.
6. A computer has logical functions. It can be given a set of instructions which tells what it must do and how it must do them and can produce results upon completion of these instructions. Very often, the instructions contain statements in which the computer is asked to make predetermined decisions.