How to Identify Basic Computer Operations

A computer is a computer regardless of size. In other words, all computers are capable of performing the same tasks if given enough storage ability and time. Your cell phone is as much a "computer" as is the one on your desk when it comes to basic computer operations. The difference is the storage ability. But what are "basic computer operations" and how do you identify them? Basic computer operations are often broken down into four area but there are six when pertaining to a pseudo code algorithm, which is a detailed, readable description--not in programming language--of what a computer program must do.

Things You'll Need

• Computer

Instructions

1. Receive information. Computers receive information from other sources or devices such as keyboards, cameras, modems, scanners. When you hook a device up to your computer, you are sending information into the computer, although some devices act as input and output sources.

2. Store data. A computer can store data or results to a memory location. A computer can assign a value to a memory location such as "=". When you install a program into your computer that program is stored to a memory location chosen by you or the computer.

3. Follow commands. A computer carries out commands and can compare two variables. A variable is a a place in your computers memory to store information. Your computer can translate or "decode" commands into action and can choose between two alternative actions by comparing data.

4. Peform mathematics. A computer is capable of performing calculations (mathematics). Programmers can write actual mathematical calculations for a computer and the computer can perform calculations for simple or difficult tasks. Your computer has a calculator built in just as do cell phones.

5. Process data. Computers have the ability to repeat groups of actions and to process data. Computers can repeat entire groups of actions utilizing a sequence of steps. Your computer takes the information you put into it and "processes" it to create the information/data you put out of it.

6. Output information and data. A computer puts out information. Just as you can send information into your computer, because of its ability to "save" information, a computer can send information to other sources, using output devices that act as input and output, such as modems and printers. When you send a picture or text message from your cell phone you are using your mini "computer's" ability to output.

Tips & Warnings

• Identifying basic computer operations is as simple as recognizing what you are doing when you use any of your "computerized" electronics. The "hardware" of your computer can do nothing without the "software." Hardware is any part of the computer needed for basic operation that you can physically touch, such as the processor, monitor, keyboard, mouse, video cards, your cell phone and MP3 player body. Software is the information (programming) put into your computer that tells the hardware what to do. When you download information from the Internet, or receive a text message, send an email or a photograph, add up your checkbook, press save for any file, and do your bookwork or inventory--you are identifying and utilizing the basic operations of your computers.

References

• Hower Users Repeat Their Actions on Computers; Saul Greenberg and Ian H. Witten; University of Calgary
• Seattle Central; Pseudocode
• PC for Dummies; Dan Gookin

Resources

• Seattle Central; Pseudocode