How We Use Computers in Everyday Life
Computers are not just those items you have sitting on your desk that you use for social networking and online shopping. They are present in a wide array of everyday items and processes that you use regularly without thinking about them. From banking to the workplace, computers are unobtrusive but commonly used.
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Travel
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Most new cars use computer chips to control the engine and other functions. For example, the engine microprocessor instructs the engine to mix a suitable ratio of air and fuel for combustion. The computer chip also controls the timing of the spark plugs. A car can also have microprocessors that control airbag release, cruise control, automatic transmission, traction control and the anti-lock braking system. In addition, the car can contain a DVD player or a satellite navigation system, which also uses computer chips.
Communication
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Computers are integral parts of modern communication networks. They control the telephone systems that consumers use regularly. They also control satellites that beam information around the world. Common uses of computers for communication are email, social networking sites and Internet discussion forums.
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Entertainment
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The ubiquitous toy of a teenage boy is his computer gaming system. Computer games became popular with Pac-Man and the Atari gaming systems in the early 1980s. In 1982, people could buy games for home computers. The game console was popular all through the 1980s and hand-held games, such as Nintendo's Mario Brothers, turned up in the 1990s and are still played by children today. Personal computer games and consoles such as PlayStations and X-Boxes are commonly found in homes. Children and adults can play single games or even interact with other players over the Internet.
Another common use of a computer for entertainment purposes is watching television or movies online, through a feed from a television station or from a movie streaming website.
Workplace
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Most jobs now involve using computers. An office worker uses his computer to store data and to communicate with colleagues via email. He can also perform research relating to his job over the Internet.
Business
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Most businesses have websites that can be accessed by anyone with Internet access. This easy availability of information allows consumers to inform themselves about businesses and order products online. An employee of a business may also use computer databases to organize his work.
Banks use computer systems in cash machines. When you shop, most stores use computers to scan products, organize stock and calculate costs.
Knowledge
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Students at universities and schools use the Internet regularly for looking up sources for projects and papers. Most institutions also have a web presence, where they post data and information that consumers can search through.
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References
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