A computer is used to process data and a data processing system consists of more than just machines. A computer system must contain.
1) Hardware
2) Software
3) Humanware and
4) Operational procedures.
1) Hardware :
Hardware refers to machines or physical equipment that performs the basic functions of the data processing cycle. In addition to the computer itself, other hardware devices are also required. There devices may be off-line that is detached from the computer and operating independently or they may be on-line that is directly connected to and controlled by the computer. A printer is an off-line device and a keyboard is an on-line device.
2) Software :
A program is a sequence of instructions, which directs a computer to perform certain functions. A computer must have access to stored programs and input devices for data, and it must make decisionos, arithmetically manipulate data, and output results in the correct sequence. Programs are referred to as software. Software is Generally categorized as
A) System software and
B) Application software .
A) System software :
consists of programs that help the use of a computer. These programs perform such standard tasks as organizing and maintaining data files, translating programs written in programming languages to a language acceptable to the computer, scheduling jobs through the computer, as well as aiding in other areas of general operations. Of all, the systems software the most important one is known as the operating system.
B) Application software :
Includes programs to perform user applications. A computer program for preparing results of a public examination is an example of applications software. Application programs are either purchased or written by the computer users for specific applications.
3) Human-ware :
Humanware refers to the persons who design, program, and operate a computer. There are numerous categories of jobs, but the three principal positions for a large computer installation are systems analyst, programmes, and computer operator. People in each of these areas generally perform special-purpose tasks under the supervision of a director or manager.
A systems analyst requires a broad background and extensive understanding of the above three job categories. The main task of a systems analyst is to study information problem. Determines systems specifications, recommends hardware and software and designs information processing procedures.
A programmer requires a comprehensive knowledge of programming languages and standard coding procedures. This position does not require the broader understanding of the structure and inner workings of an application. A programmers principal job is to code or prepare Programs based on the specifications made by the systems analyst.
A computer operator requires the least extensive background of the three categories. A computer operator generally performs a series of well defined tasks to keep the computer operating at maximum efficiency. The efficiency of a computer installation depends on the quality and ability of the operational staff.
4) Operational procedures :
Operations of a data processing center require an extensive and clearly defined redu of procedures for performing and entering data into the computer, processing jobs, initiating new programs and changing or deleting old ones etc. Such procedures require actions to be taken in the event of hardware of software malfunctions.
1) Hardware
2) Software
3) Humanware and
4) Operational procedures.
1) Hardware :
Hardware refers to machines or physical equipment that performs the basic functions of the data processing cycle. In addition to the computer itself, other hardware devices are also required. There devices may be off-line that is detached from the computer and operating independently or they may be on-line that is directly connected to and controlled by the computer. A printer is an off-line device and a keyboard is an on-line device.
2) Software :
A program is a sequence of instructions, which directs a computer to perform certain functions. A computer must have access to stored programs and input devices for data, and it must make decisionos, arithmetically manipulate data, and output results in the correct sequence. Programs are referred to as software. Software is Generally categorized as
A) System software and
B) Application software .
A) System software :
consists of programs that help the use of a computer. These programs perform such standard tasks as organizing and maintaining data files, translating programs written in programming languages to a language acceptable to the computer, scheduling jobs through the computer, as well as aiding in other areas of general operations. Of all, the systems software the most important one is known as the operating system.
B) Application software :
Includes programs to perform user applications. A computer program for preparing results of a public examination is an example of applications software. Application programs are either purchased or written by the computer users for specific applications.
3) Human-ware :
Humanware refers to the persons who design, program, and operate a computer. There are numerous categories of jobs, but the three principal positions for a large computer installation are systems analyst, programmes, and computer operator. People in each of these areas generally perform special-purpose tasks under the supervision of a director or manager.
A systems analyst requires a broad background and extensive understanding of the above three job categories. The main task of a systems analyst is to study information problem. Determines systems specifications, recommends hardware and software and designs information processing procedures.
A programmer requires a comprehensive knowledge of programming languages and standard coding procedures. This position does not require the broader understanding of the structure and inner workings of an application. A programmers principal job is to code or prepare Programs based on the specifications made by the systems analyst.
A computer operator requires the least extensive background of the three categories. A computer operator generally performs a series of well defined tasks to keep the computer operating at maximum efficiency. The efficiency of a computer installation depends on the quality and ability of the operational staff.
4) Operational procedures :
Operations of a data processing center require an extensive and clearly defined redu of procedures for performing and entering data into the computer, processing jobs, initiating new programs and changing or deleting old ones etc. Such procedures require actions to be taken in the event of hardware of software malfunctions.
