Computer Application in

Business
MS3SE02
Class: Second Semester BBA
 Unit -1
Basic Concepts
 Data Information
Data is unorganised raw facts that need Information is a processed, organised data
processing without which it is seemingly random presented in a given context and is useful to
and useless to humans humans.
Data is an individual unit that contains raw Information is a group of data that collectively
material which does not carry any specific carry a logical meaning.
meaning.
Data doesn’t depend on information. Information depends on data.
It is measured in bits and bytes. Information is measured in meaningful units like
time, quantity, etc.
Data is never suited to the specific needs of a Information is specific to the expectations and
designer. requirements because all the irrelevant facts and
figures are removed, during the transformation
process.
An example of data is a student’s test score The average score of a class is the information
derived from the given data.
What is Data?
Data is the complete list of facts and details like text, observations, figures, symbols and description of
things. It is the raw list of facts that are processed to gain information. The basic concept of data is
associated with scientific research collected by different research organisations.

What is Information?
Information is the processed, organised and structured data. It provides context for data. However,
both the terms are used together, information can be easily understood than data.
The characteristics of the computer system are as follows
−
Speed
A computer works with much higher speed and accuracy compared to humans while
performing mathematical calculations. Computers can process millions (1,000,000) of
instructions per second. The time taken by computers for their operations is microseconds
and nanoseconds.

Accuracy
Computers perform calculations with 100% accuracy. Errors may occur due to data
inconsistency or inaccuracy.
Accuracy of a computer is consistently high and the degree of accuracy of a
particular computer depends on the instructions and the type of processor. But for a
particular computer, each and every calculation is performed. For example, the computer can
accurately give the result of division of any two numbers up to 10 decimal places.

Diligence

A person gets tired of doing some work in a few hours and a computer has the ability to do any work
continuously for many hours, days, months.
Even after the computer has worked for such a long time, there is no decrease in its ability to work
and the accuracy of the result.
The computer does work without any discrimination. A computer is free from monetary and
tiredness.
A computer can perform millions of tasks or calculations with the same consistency and accuracy. It
doesn’t feel any fatigue or lack of concentration. Its memory also makes it superior to that of human
beings.
Versatility

Versatility is the Characteristics of a computer. Its means is that the computer is capable of working in
almost every field. The presence of computers can be seen in almost every sphere – Railway/Air
reservation, Banks, Hotels, Weather forecasting and many more. A computer system is multitasking so
that you can do two tasks very easily at the same time.

Reliability
A computer is reliable as it gives consistent result for similar set of data i.e., if we give same set of input
any number of times, we will get the same result. Reliability is an attribute of any computer-related
component (software, or hardware, or a network, for example) that consistently performs according to its
specifications.
Today every major industry and companies in the world have full confidence in their computers, and their
entire business is running from computers.

Automation
Computer performs all the tasks automatically i.e. it performs tasks without manual intervention (as little
human interaction as possible).
Advantages commonly attributed to automation include higher production rates and
increased productivity, more efficient use of materials, better product quality, improved safety, shorter
workweeks for labour, and reduced factory lead times.
Memory

Computer systems have a very large capacity to store any type of data such as pictures, files,
programs, games, and sound for many years. A computer can store and resell any information due to
its storage capacity.

A computer has built-in memory called primary memory where it stores data. Secondary storage are
removable devices such as CDs, pen drives, etc., which are also used to store data.
 Advantages of computer

Multitasking

Multitasking is one of the major advantage of computer. Person can perform multiple task, multiple
operation, calculate numerical problems within few seconds. Computer can perform trillion of
instructions per second.
Speed
Now computer is not just a calculating device. Now a day’s computer has very important role in
human life. One of the main advantages of computer is its incredible speed, which helps human to
complete their task in few seconds. All the operations can be performed very fast just because of its
speed elsewise it takes a long time to perform the task.

Cost/ Stores huge amount of data

It is a low cost solution. Person can save huge data within a low budget. Centralized database of
storing information is the major advantage that can reduce cost.

Accuracy
One of the root advantage of computer is that can perform not only calculations but also with
accuracy.
Data Security
Protecting digital data is known as data security. Computer provide security from destructive
forces and from unwanted action from unauthorized users like cyber attack or access attack.

Connects on internet to get all things

The world of any information, data, any problem, to know any celebrities, news, get games, software,
online shopping and other thing just you have to know search internet a Computer. Connecting a
computer to internet is what unlocks the power of the Desktop. Just connected to a computer your
choices and available options are almost limitless, and more benefits listed on this page are a PC that is
linked to the Internet.

In the medical field

In the medical field, robots are used to perform key-hole surgery on patients. This means the person is
less open to infection, a quicker recovery time and hospital bed management systems have a leaner
system in place (patient is less days in hospital).
 What are the Limitations of a Computer?

The computer is capable of performing many types of tasks in every field, but the computer is unable to
perform certain types of tasks, which we call computer limitations.
Let us understand the limitation of computer system with an Example.
Although a computer is many times ahead of humans in working, but there are some tasks where humans are
better than computers.
By the way, you should know that the computer cannot function without human instructions, the computer is
completely dependent on us.
Like humans, our computers do not have the ability to think, and neither have the knowledge to understand
right and wrong.
There are some main limitations of computer system are given
below:-
•Lack of common-sense
•Zero IQ
•No Feeling
•Computers can’t Decide
•Computers can’t Express their Ideas
•Computers can’t Implement
•Computers can’t Think
•Depend on the user input.
Lack of common-sense
Common sense is also the main limitations of the computer, as you all would know that a computer works on the
instructions of humans.
A computer is designed in such a way that it works only on logic and not on common sense.

Let us understand this with an example.

You must have used Microsoft Word, Whenever you type something in Microsoft Word, sometimes some word
gets mistyped while typing, then you must have seen that the red underline comes down under that word, it
means that the word is wrong.
The computer tells us that the word is wrong, but the computer has no common sense to correct that word.

Zero IQ
Zero IQ is also one of the major limitations of computers. Zero IQ means that the computer does not have brains.
Simply say that, computer systems do not have the ability to think and understand. A zero IQ in a computer means
that the computer is programmed, or is designed based on the work it is already to do. If a particular type of task
is to be performed by a computer that is not already programmed in the computer system, then the computer
cannot perform that task. You all will know that computer is also known as dump machine. The more the
computer is instructed, the computer performs that work.
No Feeling

Any emotion is not one of the limitations of computers. We are not computers like humans. A human can
work only eight hours in a day, but the computer can work continuously for several hours. A computer can
work continuously from 24 hours to 48 hours or continuously for several days. No matter how long the
computer system works, it does not affect the speed of computer work nor does the computer ever feel
tired.

Computers can’t Decide

Like us humans, computers do not have the ability to make decisions. In these cases, human is ahead of
computer.
Computer systems only work in logic, not in judgment.
Let us understand this with an example.
2 + 2 means that we understand that two numbers have to be added, but the computer does not decide
what to do with these two numbers.
2 + 2 = By writing this number, the computer thinks that these two numbers have to be added.
Example 2
I have written some names before you. Like - Avinash, Jhon, Simran, Ava, Sophia.
We know whose boy's name is in this and which name is of the girl, but the computer does not know which
name is of the boy and which name is of the girl.
Computers can’t Express their Ideas

One research revealed that computers cannot express their ideas. Because a computer is a machine and a
machine can never be Express their Ideas. Because computers only work on the instruction of humans. It is also
one of the limitations of computers.

Computers can’t Implement

It is also a major part of the Computer of Limitations. Computers never implement anything because computers
are unable to do so.

Let's understand this for example.

When you type something on the computer, then you must have noticed that some red line comes down under
some word, it means that the word is wrong. As soon as you click on that word, there is an option to correct that
word and that word becomes correct. This means that the computer is unable to implement the wrong word and
correct it.

Computers can’t Think

Computers can never think because a computer is a machine.

The machine never does any work by itself, unless it is given an instruction.
Depend on the user input

The computer always depends on the user. Without human instruction, computers cannot do any work.
Because until the computer gets no input then how will the computer give the output.
Classification of Computers by Size

1. Micro Computer
2. Mini Computer
3. Main frame computer ( Lagre Size in Square feets)
4. Super Computer (Very Lagre Size)
Microcomputer
`
•Microcomputers are also called personal computers (PCs) and use microprocessor as
its CPU, a memory unit, and input device and an output device.

•8-32 bits Range

•They can perform difficult task.

•They are used for general purpose calculations, industrial control, home appliances,
desktop publishing, graphics designing and project management.

Desktops and Portables.

•Few examples are IBM PC, PS/2, Apple II and Macintosh.

 Mini Computer
•Minicomputers are faster and more powerful than microcomputers.

•Their word length is 32 bits (word length means number of bits in a computer word).

•These computers can perform more complex tasks and cost more than microcomputers.

•They are larger in size and their storage capacity is small to medium.

•They are used for payroll preparation, accounting and scientific computation,
controlling and monitoring production processes.

•Few examples are VAX 11, PDP11/42 and WIPRO LANDMARK 860 etc.
Mainframes
•These are more powerful than minicomputers.

•Their word length may be 48, 60 or 64 bits.

•They have high processing speeds and can store large amounts of data.

•They are used in research organizations, large industries, large business and government
organizations, banks and airline reservations where large database is needed. However,
these computers consume more electricity.

•Few examples are IBM 2000 series and UNIVAC 1180.

Super Computers

•These are the largest and fastest computers.

•Their word length is 64-96 bit. They are also the costliest.

•A super computer has a number of CPUs which operate in parallel to make it

faster.

•They are used for massive data processing and solving very sophisticated
problems i.e., in the fields of science and defense, designing and launching
missiles, weather forecasting, biomedical research, aircraft design and automobile
design.

•Few examples are CRAZY 3, HITAC S-300 etc. India has a series of super
computers called PARAM developed by C-DAC and ANURAG.

•Wipro InfoTech has developed Supernova computers.

Classification based on Generation or Type:
1. First Generation Computers (1940-1956) (Vacuum Tubes)

• The first business computer was developed in the year 1951 by U.S. Census
Bureau. This computer was called Universal Automatic Computer (UNIVAC).
• The computers that used vacuum tube circuits were called the First Generation
computers.

• The vacuum tube circuits contained a filament that was heated to emit electrons.

Outstanding features:
1. Very expensive
2. Bulky in size and occupied a lot of space
3. Magnetic core memories
4. Main application areas were scientific computation, record
keeping, pay roll processing etc.
5. Processor speed measured in milliseconds.
Second Generation Computers (1956-1963) (Transistors)
• Bell labs of USA invented transistors that were used in place of vacuum tubes.
• Transistors are electronic circuits that are small in size and do not require any
heating for emitting electrons.

Outstanding features:
1. Smaller in size in comparison with the previous generation and generated less heat.
2. Internal storage capacity was increased and processor speed measured in
microseconds.
3. Magnetic core memories as primary storage.
4. Machines started to evolve as series rather than standalone processors.
5. More reliable and less prone to errors.
Third generation computers (1964-1971) Integrated Circuits

• These used Large Scale Integrated (LSI) circuits for processing.

• LSI circuits integrate several circuits’ components into a single chip.

Outstanding features:
1. Smaller in size
2. Significant improvement in cost performance factor.
3. Could be commercially produced at cheaper rates.
4. Processor speeds measured in nano seconds.
5. Portable.
6. The use of high level languages e.g. COBOL, FORTRAN and PL/1.
7. Disk used as backing store medium.
Fourth Generation Computers (1971-Present) Microprocessors

• Very Large Integrated (VLSI) chips were invented in the year 1969.
• The introduction of standard architecture helped in greater mobility of systems.

Outstanding features:
1. Very small in size and very reliable and cheaper.
2. Development of microprocessor based technology.
3. Semiconductor memory used.
4. Sophisticated systems software.
5. Personal and home computers availability.
6. Complex and sophisticated technology used for CPU design.
Fifth Generation Computers (Present and Beyond) Artificial Intelligence

• Recent research has focused on developing ‘thinking computers’ i.e. artificial

intelligence.
• These will have ULSI/GSI technology with sophisticated operating system
interface capability. These computers will have KIPS (Knowledge Information
Processing System).

In reality we have entered the era of generation less computers because no single
innovation is, or will be, good enough to name another generation of computers.
Hardware

Abbreviated as HW, Hardware is best described as any physical component of a

computer system containing a circuit board, ICs, or other electronics.

A perfect example of hardware is the screen on which you are viewing this page.

Whether it be a Monitor, Tablet or Smartphone, it is hardware.

Hardware used in Computer
• LCD, Monitor • Drive(CD-ROM, DVD, floppydrive,
• Gamepad hard drive, and SSD).
• Joystick • Fan
• Keyboard • Modem
• Microphone • Motherboard
• Mouse • Network card
• Printer • Power supply
• Projector • RAM
• Scanner • Sound card
• Speakers • Video card
• USB thumb drive
Software
• Software is a set of instructions,
data or programs used to operate
• System Based
computers and execute specific Software
tasks.
• Application Based
• It is the opposite of hardware,
which describes the physical Software
aspects of a computer. • Middleware
• Software is a generic term used
to refer to • Drive Based
applications, scripts and
programs that run on a device.
Firmware
•Firmware refers to software that has been permanently installed
in a machine, device, or microchip, usually by the manufacturer.
•Without it, the electronic device will not work. Unlike standard software, firmware is meant to
control, operate, or maintain the hardware in the background, and not interact with human users.

•Today, the word “firmware” refers to any computer program tightly linked to hardware, including
processor machine instructions for simple electronic devices like microwave ovens, remote controls,
or computer peripherals
Types of Firmware

Low-level firmware: Stored on nonvolatile memory chips like read-only memory (ROM). As such,
it cannot be rewritten or updated and is considered an intrinsic part of the hardware.
(Ex. TV Remote)

High-level firmware: Used with flash memory chips to allow for updates. It often has more
complex instructions than low-level firmware, making it closer to software than hardware.
(Ex. Alexa, Bluetooth devices etc.)

Subsystem: A device or unit that is a semi-independent part of a larger system. It has embedded
microcode-like high-level firmware and so often resembles the system.
(Ex. Embedded systems including server connectivity)
LiveWare
•Liveware are peoples that use and make computer system work.

•These are human expertise that are needed in field of IT.

•Benefits of liveware includes allows interaction among

hardware and software, operate system, increases productivity, etc.

•Examples of liveware includes software engineer, hardware engineers, managers, network engineer, data
entry operator, etc.
System software
System software is a type of computer program that is
designed to run a computer's hardware and application programs.

Operating System
Compiler
Interpreter
Assembler/Translator
Operating System
An operating system (OS) is the program that, after being initially loaded into the
computer by a boot program, manages all of the other application programs in a
computer.
Function of Operating system
• In a multitasking operating system, where multiple programs can be running at the same
time, the OS determines which applications should run in what order and how much time
should be allowed for each application before giving another application a turn.

• It handles input/output (I/O) to and from attached hardware devices, such as hard disks,
printers and dial-up ports.

• It sends messages to each application or interactive user -- or to a system operator -- about

the status of operation and any errors that may have occurred.

• It can offload the management of batch jobs -- for example, printing -- so that the
initiating application is freed from this work.

• On computers that can provide parallel processing, an operating system can manage how
to divide the program so that it runs on more than one processor at a time
Types of Operating system
• General Purpose Operating Systems
Ex. Window, MAC OS, Unix, Linux, Red-Hat,
• Mobile Based Operating Systems
Ex. Google Android, Apple IOs
• Embedded Operating System
• Network Operating System
• RTOS (Real Time Operating System)
Compiler
A compiler is a software that translates the code written in one language to some
other language without changing the meaning of the program
Examples of compiler include GCC(C compiler)
G++ (C++ Compiler )
javac (Java Compiler) etc.
Interpreter
An interpreter is a computer program that directly executes, i.e. it performs
instructions written in a programming or scripting language.
Interpreter do not require the program to be previously compiled into a machine
language program.
An interpreter translates high-level instructions into an intermediate form, which is
then executes.

Examples include- Ruby

Python
PHP etc.
(Hypertext Preprocessor)
Assembler/Translator
An assembler/translator is a program that converts assembly language into machine
code. It takes the basic commands and operations and converts them into binary
code specific to a type of processor.
Application Software
( Or End-user Program Or Productive Program)

Application software is a type of computer program

that performs a specific personal, educational,
and business function.

Each application is designed to assist end-users in

accomplishing a variety of tasks, which may be
related to productivity, creativity, or communication.

• GPPS (General Purpose Packed SoftWare)

• Tailor-Made Software
GPPS (General Purpose Packed Software)
• A general purpose software application is
software which has been designed to solve
user's common or general tasks using a
computer system.

Examples include word processors,

spreadsheets and photo editing applications
for example.
Tailor-Made Software
(Custom Software or Bespoke software)
• Customized software is software that is specially developed for some
specific organization or other user.

• Why it needs ?