Learning Objectives and Outcomes
• Describe the role of software for computers- Software refers to one or more computer programs and data held in the storage of the computer for some reasons. In other words, software is a set of programs, procedures, algorithms and its documentation concerned with the operation of a data processing system.
• Identify the hardware associated with a computer-
1. The central processing unit (CPU)
2. Main memory
3. Secondary storage devices
4. Input devices
5. Output devices
• Describe how computers store data-
All data that is stored in a computer is converted to a sequences of 0s and 1s
• Explain how programs work-
A program is nothing more than a list of instructions that cause the CPU to perform operations. Each instruction in a program is a command that tells the CPU to perform a specific operation.
• Differentiate between machine language, assembly language, and high level language-
-Machine language uses binary instructions (0s and 1s)
-Assembly language uses short words that are known as mnemonics
-High level language allows you to create powerful and complex programs without knowing how the CPU works, and without writing large numbers of low-level instructions.
• Differentiate between compilers and interpreters-
A compiled program is already translated entirely to machine language when it is executed. A program that is interpreted must be translated at the time it is executed
• Identify the different types of software-
Systems software is the set of programs that control or enhance the operation of a computer. Application software makes a computer useful for everyday tasks. Short-Answer Review Questions 1-7 pg.26
1. Why is the CPU the most important component in a computer?
The CPU is the part of a computer that actually runs programs. Without it, the computer could not run software.
2. What number does a bit that is turned on represent? What number does a bit that is turned off represent?
When a bit is turned on, it represents a "1". When it is turned off, it represents a "0".
3. What would you call a device that works with binary data?
Digital Data is data that is stored in binary, and a Digital Device is any device that works with binary data.
4. What are the words that make up a high-level programming language called?
Key words or reserved words.
5. What are the short words that are used in assembly language called?
Mnemonics
6. What is the difference between a compiler and an interpreter?
A compiled program is already translated entirely to machine language when it is executed. A program that is interpreted must be translated at the time it is executed
7. What type of software controls the internal operations of the computer's hardware?
Systems software is the set of programs that control or enhance the operation of a computer.
