Computer

It is a programmed device with a group of instructions to perform specific tasks

and generate results at a really high speed. A Computer is a machine that can
solve difficult and different problems, process data, store & retrieve data, and
perform calculations faster and more accurately as compared to humans.
The literal meaning of a computer may be a device that will calculate. Its full form
can be abbreviated as Commonly Operated Machine Particularly Used For
Training, Education, and Research.
However, modern computers can do tons of quiet calculations. The computer can
be defined as a machine that receives input stores it and then process the stored
data as per the instructions given by the user of the computer and finally gives
the output as required.
COMPUTER SYSTEM
A computer system is a nominally complete computer that includes the hardware, operating
system (main software), and peripheral equipment needed and used for full operation. This
term may also refer to a group of computers that are linked and function together, such as a
computer network or computer cluster.
A broad range of industrial and consumer products use computers as control systems. Simple
special-purpose devices like microwave ovens and remote controls are included, as are
factory devices like industrial robots and computer-aided design, as well as general-purpose
devices like personal computers and mobile devices like smartphones. Computers power the
Internet, which links billions of other computers and users.
Early computers were meant to be used only for calculations. Simple manual instruments like
the abacus have aided people in doing calculations since ancient times. Early in the Industrial
Revolution, some mechanical devices were built to automate long, tedious tasks, such as
guiding patterns for looms. More sophisticated electrical machines did specialized analog
calculations in the early 20th century. The first digital electronic calculating machines were
developed during World War II. The first semiconductor transistors in the late 1940s were
followed by the silicon-based MOSFET (MOS transistor) and monolithic integrated circuit chip
technologies in the late 1950s, leading to the microprocessor and the microcomputer
revolution in the 1970s. The speed, power and versatility of computers have been increasing
dramatically ever since then, with transistor counts increasing at a rapid pace (as predicted by
Moore's law), leading to the Digital Revolution during the late 20th to early 21st centuries.
Conventionally, a modern computer consists of at least one
processing element, typically a central processing unit (CPU) in
the form of a microprocessor, along with some type of
computer memory, typically semiconductor memory chips. The
processing element carries out arithmetic and logical
operations, and a sequencing and control unit can change the
order of operations in response to stored information.
Peripheral devices include input devices (keyboards, mice,
joystick, etc.), output devices (monitor screens, printers, etc.),
and input/output devices that perform both functions (e.g., the
2000s-era touchscreen).
Peripheral devices allow information to be retrieved from an
external source and they enable the result of operations to be
saved and retrieved.
 CHARACTERISTICS OF COMPUTER
 Speed: The computer helps in saving time. It performs several tasks and multiple calculations in a few
bit of seconds that takes us hours to solve. We measure the speed of computers in terms of
GigaHertz (Ghz) and MegaHertz (MHz).
 Accuracy: Works done by a computer have better accuracy than the work done by a human being.
The errors occur in a computer by entering wrong data by a human being. A computer performs tasks
quickly and accurately.
 Memory: A computer can store billions of data and these records are easily accessible with high
accuracy. We measure computer storage in terms of Bytes, like KiloBytes (KB), Megabytes (MB),
Gigabytes (GB), etc.
 Versatility: The simple meaning of Versatility is performing more than one task, and as everyone
knows, Computers are capable of performing more than one task at a time, hence it is highly
versatile.
 Automation: Today’s World is full of automation as we rapidly move towards Artificial Intelligence
(AI).
 This feature of the computer replaces thousands of workers by performing tasks automatically.
ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF COMPUTER
 COMPUTER
 Multitasking: Multitasking is one of the main advantages of computers. A person can do
multiple tasks, and multiple operations at the same time, and calculate numerical problems
within a few seconds. The computer can perform millions or trillions of work in one second.
 Speed: Now the computer isn’t just a calculating device. Now a day’s computer has a vital
role in human life. One of the most advantages of computers is their incredible speed, which
helps human to finish their task in a few seconds.
 Cost/ Stores huge: Amount of knowledge it’s a coffee cost solution. A person can save huge
data within a coffee budget. A centralized database for storing information is a major
advantage that will reduce costs.
 Accuracy: One of the essential advantages of computers is they will perform not only
calculations but also with accuracy.
 Data Security: Protecting digital data is understood as data security.
 ADVANTAGES OF COMPUTER
 Task completer: Completes tasks that might be impossible for humans to
complete.
 Communication: The computer helps the user better understand and
communicate with other devices.
 Productivity: The level of productivity gets automatically doubled as the
computer can do the work very fast.
 Reduces workload: Information is often accessed by more than one person with
the necessity for work to be duplicated.
 Reliability: Computers can perform the same sort of work repeatedly without
throwing up errors thanks to tiredness or boredom, which are quite common
among humans.
 Storage: The pc has an in-built memory where it can store an outsized amount
of knowledge. You can also store data in auxiliary storage devices.
DISADVANTAGES OF COMPUTER
 Virus and hacking attacks: A virus may be a worm and hacking is just unauthorized access over a computer for a few
illicit purposes.

 Viruses can go to another system from email attachments, viewing an infected website advertisement, through
removable devices like USBs, etc.

 Online Cyber Crimes: Online cyber-crime means computers and networks may have been utilized in order to
commit a crime. Cyberstalking and fraud are the points that come under online cyber crimes.
 Reduction in employed opportunity: Mainly past generation hasn’t used the pc or they need the knowledge of
computers they faced an enormous problem when computers came into the field.
 High Cost: Computers are expensive. Even the foremost affordable computers are still very expensive for the typical
person in South Africa. Since computers empower people.
 Distractions/disruptions: If you’ve got ever spent hours browsing the web or watching videos on YouTube, then you
recognize how distracting computers can be! Because of their high entertainment value.
 Increases waste and impacts the environment: With the speed at that computer and other electronics get replaced,
all of the old devices that get thrown away have a big impact on the environment.
 Health Problems: Prolonged use of computers can lead to various health Hazards. Too much sitting near the screen
results in eye strain and drying up of the eyes. Also, prolonged sitting leads to neck and back problems.
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (IT)

isthe use of computers to create, process, store, retrieve and

exchange all kinds of data and information.
IT forms part of information and communications
technology (ICT).
 An information technology system (IT system) is generally
an information system, a communications system, or, more
specifically speaking, a computer system — including
all hardware, software, and peripheral equipment — operated
by a limited group of IT users, and an IT project usually refers
to the commissioning and implementation of an IT system.
 Although humans have been storing, retrieving, manipulating, and
communicating information since the earliest writing systems were
developed,
the term information technology in its modern sense first appeared
in a 1958 article published in the Harvard Business Review;
authors Harold J. Leavitt and Thomas L. Whisler commented that
"the new technology does not yet have a single established name.
We shall call it information technology (IT).“
 Their definition consists of three categories: techniques for
processing, the application of statistical and mathematical methods
to decision-making, and the simulation of higher-order thinking
through computer programs.
 What is Information Technology?
 Information technology (IT) is the management of computers and information systems. Information
technology encompasses both the hardware and software components of computer systems.
 The aim of information technology is to coordinate and assemble existing computer systems to solve
a problem.
 IT professionals are also responsible for troubleshooting any issues with computer systems – making
sure they are well managed and function as expected.
 However, technology has adversely affected our daily lives. In today’s

world, every information technology has its advantages and

disadvantages.

IT professionals help build secure computer networks, software, and

systems. They may also develop databases, provide technical
support, and often specialize in specific areas like software
development, network engineering, or cyber security.
Information technology is constantly evolving as new technologies
are developed and adopted. As a result, IT professionals must stay
up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies.
 Information technology plays an essential role in almost every aspect of

modern life. It is used in many industries to increase efficiency and

productivity and reduce costs. It also improves customer service and creates

new products and services. In addition, IT protects data and other sensitive

information.

 The people who use and manage the hardware and software include IT

professionals, system administrators, and other personnel.

ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
 Advantages

 Improved Communication: Technology has improved communication by making it faster and more efficient. People and

businesses can now communicate quicker and more accurately through emails, text messages, video conferencing, and social

media.

 Increased Productivity: Technology has enabled businesses to increase their productivity and efficiency. For example,

companies have been able to automate tasks and processes, reducing the need for manual labor and giving employees more

time to focus on creative or strategic missions.

 Cost Savings: Technology has enabled businesses to reduce costs in various ways. Automation has reduced the need for

manual labor, saving companies money in labor costs. Additionally, businesses have been able to reduce the cost of

production and distribution by using technology to streamline processes.

 Access to Information: Technology has enabled businesses to access information quickly and easily. Companies can now

access market, customer, and other information to help them make more informed decisions.
 DISADVANTAGES
 Security Risks: Information technology has potential security risks in storing and transmitting data.

As more information is stored electronically, there is an increased risk of unauthorized individuals or

malicious software accessing it. This can lead to identity theft, financial losses, and damage to a

company’s reputation.

 Dependence on Technology: As technology becomes increasingly integrated into our daily lives, it

can lead to an over-reliance on technology and a lack of knowledge and skills, particularly among

younger generations who have grown up surrounded by it.

 Job Losses: Information technology can lead to the potential for job losses due to automation and

computerization. As technology advances, machines and computer algorithms replace many manual

and even skilled jobs, leading to high unemployment and decreased quality of life.
 Disadvantages

Cost: Technology can be expensive, and businesses must know the potential costs of implementing new

technology. Additionally, businesses must ensure they are getting a return on their investment by ensuring the

technology is helping them improve their processes and operations.

 Security Issues: Information technology has also increased the risk of cyber-attacks, data breaches, and other

security threats. Companies must invest in advanced security systems and technologies to protect their costly data.

 Over-reliance: The over-reliance on technology can lead to increased operational costs and an inability to

function without it. Furthermore, significant problems can occur if a system goes down.

 Privacy Concerns: Information technology has made it easier for businesses to access and store personal data,

which can lead to privacy concerns for users. There is also the risk that data can be misused or stolen.

 Skills Gap: Technology can create a gap between those familiar with the latest technology and those unfamiliar. It

can lead to a need for more qualified workers in certain areas.

CASE STUDY – DOMINO’S PIZZA

 Domino’s Pizza is the world’s oldest and biggest pizza chain, whose popularity started declining in the

2000s. Customers can order pizza anytime, anywhere, by introducing online and mobile ordering

systems such as Pizza Builder, Pizza Tracker, Domino’s Tracker, and Domino’s anyway. The online digital

ordering platform technology led to an 80% increase in the company’s revenue. The market

share grew from 1.6% of the global QSR (quick service restaurant) market in 2019 to 2.2 % in 2021.

As a result, Domino’s success is an inspiring story of brand development and product reinvention

through IT techniques to improve productivity, customer service, and revenue. In 2021, Domino’s

economic earning was $627 million.

APPLICATIONS OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
 1. Healthcare
Information Technology in healthcare industries is essential for exchanging patient-related data
electronically, reducing medical errors, improving medication management, lowering healthcare
costs, nursing informatics, protecting patient privacy, and disaster recovery.
 2. Finance
Information technology is essential for creating fast and efficient financial services, such as
online/digital banking, mobile payment, data storage, financial reporting, cybersecurity, and risk
management.
 3. Education
IT is essential in education; it increases student engagement, helps maintain records, offers
systematic learning techniques, improves knowledge retention, provides instant access to
educational information, and accommodates students with special needs or disabilities.
 4. Transportation
IT is used in transportation industries to improve operations with informed decision-making and
real-time vehicle tracking, enhance customer service, provide safety and security to public
transport, and manage traffic with automated tolls, smart ticketing services, and self-driving cars.
 5. Communication.
Information and communication technology (ICT) is used in industries like broadcasting media,
telecommunications, audiovisual systems, and network-based systems to increase productivity,
save time, provide instant access to information, and reduce the workforce.
ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF USING NEW TECHNOLOGY FOR BUSINESSES

 New technology has a range of advantages and disadvantages for businesses and business
stakeholders. It is important for businesses to assess the risk and make informed decisions
about whether to use the latest technology.
 Advantages of the new technology include:
 easier, faster, and more effective communication
 better, more efficient manufacturing techniques
 less wastage
 more efficient stock management and ordering systems
 the ability to develop new, innovative approaches
 more effective marketing and promotion
 new sales avenues
DISADVANTAGES OF THE NEW TECHNOLOGY INCLUDE:
 increased dependency on technology
 often large costs involved with using the latest technology
(especially for small businesses)
 increased risk of job cuts
 closure of high street stores in favour of online business
 security risk in relation to data and fraud
 required regular updates
 can go down or have faults, which can stop all business
operations instantly
FUTURE OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

The IT industry has a bright future with many job opportunities and
career growth. Several jobs for IT professionals, including network
administrator, network engineer, security analyst, cloud developer,
and system administrator, are in high demand. In the coming
years, cloud computing, artificial intelligence, data analytics,
cybersecurity, data science, machine learning, metaverse, etc.,
will become increasingly important. In addition, 3D printing,
chatbots, the Internet of Things (IoT), big data, virtual reality,
and robotics are other players in the future of IT. All these factors
will contribute to the continued growth of the IT sector.
CONCLUSION
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY HAS REVOLUTIONIZED THE WAY WE COMMUNICATE,
WORK, AND LIVE. IT HAS ENABLED US TO BECOME MORE EFFICIENT, PRODUCTIVE,
AND FLEXIBLE. HOWEVER, IT HAS ALSO PRESENTED ITS OWN SET OF DRAWBACKS.
THE MOST COMMON DISADVANTAGES INCLUDE THREATS TO CYBER SECURITY,
PRIVACY PROTECTION, AND JOB LOSS. IN ADDITION, IT HAS WIDENED THE
DIGITAL GAP BETWEEN THOSE WITH ACCESS TO TECHNOLOGY AND THOSE
WITHOUT ACCESS. ULTIMATELY, THE ADVANTAGES OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
FAR OUTWEIGH THE DISADVANTAGES, AND ITS USE SHOULD BE ENCOURAGED AND
SUPPORTED.

HTTPS://WWW.BING.COM/SEARCH?Q=NANOTECHNOLOGY&QS=OS&PQ=NANO+TECH&SC=10-
9&CVID=4D0668924A4E4428B877B06856C16473&FORM=CHRDEF&SP=1&LQ=0
 NANOTECHNOLOGY
 It is the science of manipulating matter at the scale of nanometers, which are
billionths of a meter. It can create new materials and devices with amazing
properties.
 One of the pioneers of nanotechnology was physicist Richard Feynman, who in
1959 gave a famous lecture called 'There's Plenty of Room at the Bottom'. He
envisioned the possibility of manipulating atoms and molecules to build
anything.
 Nanotechnology has many applications across different fields, such as
medicine, energy, electronics, and cosmetics. For example, nanotechnology can
help design more efficient solar cells, or deliver drugs to specific targets in the
body.
Nanotechnology is an exciting and rapidly evolving field that is changing the
world as we know it. It has the potential to solve many problems, but also create
new ones. It is up to us to use it wisely and responsibly.
 ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI),
 Is the ability of a digital computer or computer-controlled robot to perform tasks
commonly associated with intelligent beings. The term is frequently applied to the
project of developing systems endowed with the intellectual processes characteristic
of humans, such as the ability to reason, discover meaning, generalize, or learn
from past experience. Since the development of the digital computer in the 1940s, it
has been demonstrated that computers can be programmed to carry out very
complex tasks—such as discovering proofs for mathematical theorems or
playing chess—with great proficiency. Still, despite continuing advances in computer
processing speed and memory capacity, there are as yet no programs that can
match full human flexibility over wider domains or in tasks requiring much everyday
knowledge. On the other hand, some programs have attained the performance
levels of human experts and professionals in performing certain specific tasks, so
that artificial intelligence in this limited sense is found in applications as diverse as
medical diagnosis, computer search engines, voice or handwriting recognition, and
chatbots.