Essential Concepts of Computing and Information Technology

Information Technology and Communication (ICT)

Technologies based on microelectronics, robotics, computer, and communication networks.

Computing Fundamentals

Computing: The set of techniques and activities that address information, allowing it to be stored quickly and automatically with computers.

System: The set of elements needed to perform automatic processing of information.

Hardware Components

Hardware: Includes all the physical elements of the computer system.

Computer: A machine that can automatically receive information, store it in memory, and process it using programs or instruction sets.

Microprocessor (CPU): Responsible for coordinating and carrying out all operations of the system.

Peripherals

External elements that allow communication between the computer and the user. These include:

• Input Peripherals: Allow entering information into the computer from the outside (e.g., keyboard, mouse).
• Output Peripherals: Enable computers to transmit information to the outside (e.g., monitor, printer).
• Input/Output Peripherals: Enable communication between the computer and the outside (e.g., touchscreen, modem).

Memory

The hardware that stores information used by the CPU. Memory can be internal (stored in the computer temporarily) or external (stored on a secondary device).

Software and Programming

Software: The set of programs that control hardware and facilitate operations.

Program: A set of instructions fed into a computer to perform a specific task or solve a particular problem.

Binary System: A numbering system in which all quantities are represented using a base of two numbers: zero and one.

Operating Systems (OS)

Operating System: A set of programs that control the operation of hardware and enable communication between the user and the computer via peripherals (e.g., MS Windows or Linux).

Interface Elements

• Windows: A special area that appears on the computer screen, used by software to display its contents.
• Dialog Boxes: Windows that request information from the user.
• Icons: Small images that allow access to a program or document.
• Drop-down Menus: Interfaces that allow access to computer applications.