Computer Hardware and Software Fundamentals
Hardware and Networking
Hardware and Software
Hardware comprises the physical components of a computer. Software consists of the programs that control computer operations. Both are essential for proper computer function.
Binary to Decimal Conversion
To convert a binary number (zeros and ones) to decimal, use polynomial expansion. For example, to convert 10101 to decimal:
10101(2) = 1*24 + 0*23 + 1*22 + 0*21 + 1*20 = 16 + 0 + 4 + 0 + 1 = 21(10)
Exercises
The smallest unit of information is a bit.
| 1 byte |
Computer Architecture: Control Units, Memory, and I/O Systems
Control Unit
The control unit orchestrates operations, including reading, processing, and storing data.
Control Unit Implementations
- Wiring Control
- Microprogrammed Control Unit
Control Signals
- Finite State-Machine: Control flows through states; inputs determine state transitions, activating control signals.
- Delay-Cells: Control lines are tied to CR outputs, activating signals based on the current state.
- Sequencer: Uses timer periods; instruction triggers specific signal activations.
Microprogrammed Control
Instructions
Read MoreOperating System Fundamentals: Processes, Scheduling, and Concurrency
1. Leading Operating System Functions
Process Management
Management of Primary Memory
2. Definitions and Examples
- Program: A sequence of instructions a computer can interpret and execute.
- Process: A set of activities or events performed to follow a specific purpose.
- Parent Process: Maintains control over its descendants and can terminate any of its child processes.
- Child Process: Inherits resources from the parent process unless explicitly acquired by the parent.
- Process vs. Thread: A process has its own
Computer Architecture, Systems, and Software Components
Processor Speed
MIPS (Millions of Instructions Per Second): A unit of measurement for computer speed.
System Clock: An electrical pulse synchronizes processing. 1 MHz = 1 million cycles per second. Higher frequency means faster processing.
BUS-Width: The amount of data the CPU can transmit at any time to main memory and input/output devices.
Data and Memory
Data:
- Input Data
- Output Results
- Internal Values (Processing Information/Program Instructions)
RAM (Random Access Memory): User’s working memory
Read MoreDatabase Field Properties, Relationships, and Queries
Field Properties
Field Size: The maximum number of characters allowed in the field (Integer, Long Integer, Single).
Format: Customize data presentation on-screen or in reports.
Input Mask: Control user input values.
Decimal Places: Specify the number of decimal places for a data type.
Title: Customize the field header’s appearance.
Default: Automatically entered value if no other is provided.
Validation Rule: Control data entry based on specific criteria.
Text Validation: Display text when input fails validation.
Essential Photoshop Tools: Functions and Applications
Selection Tools
Marquee
Marquee: A tool for square or rectangular selections.
- Setting Elliptical: Allows circular and elliptical selections.
- Setting Single Row: Allows the selection of a row of 1 pixel thick.
- Setting Column One: Allows the selection of a column of 1 pixel thick.
Elliptical Marquee
A tool to create circular or elliptical selections. It is in the same group as the rectangular frame.
Move Tool
This serves to move the contents of the layer you are working. The layer moves completely or only
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