COMPUTER

SCIENCE
Syllabus 4021

for Secondary schools

BOOK 1
UPDATED CURRICULUM
ZIMSEC EXAMINATIONS

@ LJHF 2019
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
TOPIC PAGE(S)
Introduction to Computer Science 3-11

Hardware and Software 12-60

Application of Computer Science 61-73

Data Representation 74-82

Communication Networks and Internet 83-99

technologies
Security and Ethics 100-109

Systems Analysis and Design 110-114

Algorithm Design and Problem Solving 115-119

Programming 120-134

Databases 135-147

Web Design 148-157

Technopreneurship 158-165

Chapter 1
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INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER
SCIENCE
COMPUTER LAB RULES
Computers are special machines that require discipline and care when
using them.
Discipline and care is called for in order to avoid

1. Unnecessary Harm or accidents to computer users

2. Unnecessary damage of the machines
3. Unnecessary Machine loss
4. Unnecessary machine failure
5. Unnecessary maintenance cost and time

And also that it promotes the spirit of responsibility and accountability as

well as respect among computer users.

THEREFORE ALL LEARNERS ARE NOT ALLOWED TO

-Enter computer lab without permission

-eat or drink in the computer lab.
-make noise
-use external disks or flash disks without permission
-use computers without permission
-open windows
-touch computer screens with their fingers
-chase each other in the lab
-move furniture out of the lab
-unplug/disconnect or connect a computer without permission
-leave computer “on” after use
-install or download any software to/from the computers
-remove charts from the walls
-use the teacher’s computer without permission.
-print without the teachers permission
-leave any of your belongings in the lab; teachers will not be responsible
for any loss or theft.
-delete or rename computer files or folders
-damage or remove any labels, parts, cables or equipment
-drop litter in the lab
-process private work in the computer lab, e.g. letters, CVs, etc without
permission

-bring babies or pets in the lab

-bring strangers in the lab

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ALSO learners should make sure that they
-follow the correct procedures when switching a computer on or
off.
-report to the teacher any computer problem

What is Computer Science?

Computer science is the study of the hardware, software,
networking, and all the processes that gives a machine the ability
to perform complicated tasks and actions.

It can also be defined as the study of the design and application of

hardware and software as well as the methods of processing
information in digital computers.

In schools, Computer science is studied as a commercial or

science subject.

What is a computer?
A computer is an electronic machine that works under the control of a
stored program. It has the ability to accept data, process that data, store
it, transmit it or produce desired output. Computers are used as tools to
make our everyday work easier.

The world is experiencing rapid changes and computers are playing a central
role in these changes. People must therefore be willing to adapt to the
changes that computers are bringing otherwise they will be forced to. Studying
computers is not just out of choice but has become a necessity to do so.

The diagram below shows parts of a computer.

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 System
Unit

TYPES OF COMPUTERS

Computers come in different shapes and sizes and for different uses.
Computers can be classified according size, processing power or use.

1. Microcomputers or PC (Personal computers)

Computers that can be used by one person at a time

(a) Palmtops are computers that can be used while being held on the
palms. Palmtops are a type of microcomputers. Examples include
PDA, iPads, calculators and tablets.

(b) Laptops: are computers that can be used whilst on the laps. They
are also a type of microcomputers. Examples include Net books and
Notebooks. They have fixed keyboard and touch pads.

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(c) Desktops: these are computers that can only be usable if placed
on a desk or table. They are also a type of micro computer.
Desktops usually comprise of a separate keyboard, mouse, System
unit, printer, and other peripherals

Uses of Microcomputers
-offices, homes, schools, banks, security, weather stations, etc
-used in small business applications.
-can be used by students, teachers, managers and other people in
the home.
Advantages of Microcomputers
-Most of them are portable and handy
-relatively cheap
-easy to work with
-they are general purpose machines
-can process small to huge amounts of data
-some operate on battery and can be used in areas where there is no
electricity.

Disadvantages of Microcomputers
-Some are portable and some are not.
-smaller capacity compared to mini, mainframe and
supercomputers
-easily stolen.
-some have limited use.

2. Minicomputers/Midrange computers

Minicomputer or midrange computer: Is a Computer that is

smaller, less expensive, and less powerful than
a mainframe or supercomputer, but more expensive and more
powerful than a personal computer. Minicomputers are used for
scientific and engineering computations, business-transaction

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 processing, file handling, and database management, and are often
now referred to as small or midsize servers.

Advantages of Minicomputers
-more powerful than micros
-huge storage
-fast in processing than microcomputers

Disadvantages of Minicomputers
-less powerful than mainframe
-more expensive than microcomputer
-not suitable for personal use
3. Mainframes
Mainframes acquired their name because of their size, typically as large as a six-
foot-tall closet. They also required specialized heating, ventilation and cooling, as
well as a dedicated power supply. In practice, this meant a separate room had to
be dedicated to house the mainframe computer systems. They are used by
institutions to serve multiple users from personal computers used by individuals.
Mainframe computers are capable of handling and processing very large
amounts of data very quickly - much more data than a typical individual needs to
work with on his or her own computer.

Uses of Mainframe Computers

-used in big business networks
-can be used for educational designs and data e.g. scientific
experiments on global warming.
-storage of global data in various areas such as weather forecast,
earthquake and tsunami warnings.
-airlines networks, supermarkets networks, government
departments networks, car manufacturer networks etc

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 Advantages of Mainframes
-more powerful than micros and minis.
-huge storage
-fast in processing than microcomputers
-can process huge amount of data.
-can connect so many computers and so many networks.
-have time sharing capacity
-can deal with complex mathematical business

Disadvantages of Mainframes
-less powerful than supercomputer
-most expensive to buy, operate and maintain than microcomputer
and minicomputers.
-not suitable for personal use
-require special room well ventilated by air cons
-produce a lot of heat

4. Super computers

The fastest type of computer. A supercomputer is a type of computer that

has massive computing power. Supercomputers are very expensive and
are employed for specialized applications that require immense amounts
of mathematical calculations.

For example, weather forecasting requires a supercomputer.

Supercomputers have also been used for scientific and engineering
applications that must handle very large databases or do a great amount
of computation (or both). Other uses of supercomputers include
animated graphics, fluid dynamic calculations, nuclear energy research,
and petroleum exploration. They are also use for scientific work such as
testing bombs, modeling of aircrafts. They are also used for climate
predictions after assessing decades of climatic patterns.
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Today's supercomputers consist of tens of thousands of processors that
are able to perform billions and trillions of calculations or computations
per second.

The chief difference between a supercomputer and a mainframe is that a

supercomputer channels all its power into executing a few programs as
fast as possible, whereas a mainframe uses its power to execute many
programs concurrently.

Sizes can vary. They can be as small as microcomputers or as big as

mainframes

Advantages of Supercomputers
-fastest of all
-sizes differ

Disadvantages of Supercomputers
-most expensive
-may be bigger than mainframes

OTHER CLASSIFICATION/ TYPES OF COMPUTERS

GENERAL PURPOSE COMPUTERS

-All types of computers that can perform many tasks on the same
machine, like playing games, music, word-processing, calculation,
graphics, etc
-an example is a desktop and laptop.

SPECIAL PURPOSE COMPUTERS

Computers designed to perform only one job or task, e.g. monitors
patients in a hospital, Disk washer, digital cameras.

EMBERDED COMPUTERS or DEDICATED COMPUTERS

-These are non computer equipment that uses microprocessors.
-they are also called automated machines
-they are dedicated computers

Examples of embedded computers

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Washing machines, cameras, microwave cookers, refrigerators, video
recorders, sewing machines, air cons, toys, rice cooker, dish washing
machine, TV, alarms, clocks, radios, DVD players, etc

HYBRID COMPUTERS
A computer capable of performing digital and analogue operation on the
same device. E.g. flight simulator and an intelligent robot and also a
modem
They are common in Science and engineering applications, Airplane
design and flight simulators and in military uses such as anti aircraft and
gun aiming.

ANALOGUE COMPUTERS
Computers that handle data of a continuous form. They work with the aid
of sensors. E.g. analogue watches (those with arms)
-They process data in form of electrical voltages and hydraulic pressures.
-They are similar in operation to measuring devices and thus measure
variable magnitudes.
-Output from analog computers is often in form of smooth graphs from
which information can be read
E.g. Temperature readers, voltage, sunshine, car and wind speed, sound,
light etc
-analogue computers are mostly used in research and engineering
institutions

DIGITAL COMPUTERS
-a computer that represent data in bits e.g. digital watches. Computers
that handle data of a discrete values, i.e. digital data. Zeros and ones.
-Are the most common types of computers which store, process and
represent data in discrete values of 1s and 0s.
-They also use the value 1 to mean ON and 0 to mean OFF
-Each number, letter or special symbol is represented as series of various
combinations of 1s and 0s.
-used to store record and manipulate files
-examples are Digital watch, desktops, laptops,
-Digital computers are used in business, schools, hospitals and homes

COMPUTER HARDWARE
These are the physical mechanical or tangible components of a computer.
From the diagram above, examples are printer, System unit, speaker etc.
Computer hardware is classified as
(a) input hardware

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 (b) and the Processor
(c) output hardware
(d) storage hardware
(e) communication hardware

ELEMENTS OF A COMPUTER
INPUT-A stage or process by which data is entered into the computer
using a variety of methods. E.g. using the keyboard to type a letter, using
a scanner to input a picture, writing on the computer screen using a
stylus pen. Etc

PROCESS- A stage when input data is transformed from one state into
another. E.g. calculated, sorted, compared, formatted, etc

STORAGE
-When data or information is stored into the computer for future use. Each
individual piece of information is stored under a unique name in a unique
folder. A received email can be stored for future use. Download notes
from the internet can be kept in the computer.

OUTPUT
-This is the result of processing presented as hardcopy or softcopy.
Hardcopy is tangible output such as on paper while softcopy is
information displayed on a screen.

CONTROL
-This an ongoing process where a computer (itself) coordinates the
general activities of the whole computer’s internal or external processes.
E.g. handling computer interrupts, handling computer errors, managing
two or more programs running on the same computer, fetching data and
executing the instructions as to how the data should be correctly
processed etc

ELEMENTS OF A COMPUTER
CONTROL

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CHAPTER 2
Hardware: INPUT DEVICES
These are Devices that receive data or instructions from sources outside
the computer (CPU).
OR -A category of hardware that is used to enter data into the computer.

-some input devices are for direct entry such as the keyboard while other
input devices collect data automatically Such as Optical mark readers.
-all input devices whatever the size or name, get raw data or instructions
to the computer for processing.

EXAMPLES OF INPUT DEVICES

-keyboard, mouse, scanners, joystick, touch pads, document readers, web
camera, digital camera, microphone, sensors, data loggers , Touch
sensitive screens, stylus, light pen, magnetic stripe reader, chip and pin
readers, smart card readers. Signature pads, eye pattern detection
system, finger print detection systems.etc

1. Mouse
-A mouse is a pointing input device that is used to input data or
instructions by clicking on items on the screen. A mouse is a pointing
input device that rolls on a flat surface to control a pointer on the screen.

USES OF A MOUSE
Opening, closing and minimizing
software and document windows.
-moving, deleting or grouping items
-useful when editing images.
-clicking and dragging item during
movement or copying and pasting
-position the cursor when typing
-scrolling up and down or left and right a
document
-selecting options from a menu or from a
set of icons.
Mice are used on desktop computers and
can also be connected to a laptop as an
alternative to the laptop touch pad.

-optical mouse detects movement using a special light (infrared beam)

instead of ball.

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- A mouse can have a scroll button (wheel) which speeds up the process
of moving through a displayed document.
-some mice are codeless
-most mice take up a shape like a real mouse (creature)
-another special mouse is called a tracker ball

Advantages of mice
-optical mice do not pick up dirty easily.
-faster than the keyboard
-allows rapid navigation through folders and applications
-small and take up little desk space.

Disadvantages of mice
-old mouse types get dirty easily.
-people with disability of hands cannot use a mouse
They quickly get damaged
-they are difficult to use if there is no flat surface

2. KEYBOARD
-a device used to enter data or instruction into the computer mostly by
typing.

TYPES OF KEYBORDS

- QWERTY KEYBOARDS.
Or standard keyboard spell QWERTY on the first line of letters hence are
called QWERTY keyboards.

-CONCEPT KEYBOARDS
Are special and specific purpose input devices.
-they are intelligent input devices containing their own chips to process
instructions.
-each key has its ASCII equivalent. -uses icons and phrases instead of
letters.
-they are not common keyboard because they are not standardized.
-they are used in fast food restaurants, offices, shops, bars and cinemas
where single key represent an item. E.g. a key labeled TAX may result in
the computer calculating tax once pressed
-numeric keypad may be common in retail like supermarkets and ATMs As
well As Chip and Pin Machines including EPOS.
-used when working with spreadsheets

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-ERGONOMICS KEYBOARD
Have shapes and design that help reduce health related problems such as
Carpal tunnel problem and RSI (repetitive strain injury.)
-most have funny shapes.
-ergonomic keyboards allow hands to be comfortably placed on keyboard.

-BRAILLE KEYBOARDS
-are used for visually impaired people. Its letters can be felt by the finger
because they are embossed on the keyboard surface.

Advantages of a keyboard
-always available as a standard input device
-well tried technology and a well known data entry method.
-easy to use once mastered
-data can be verified before processing as it appears on the screen.
-concept keyboard are fast to use than stand keyboards.
-concept keyboard are usually waterproof
-there are special concept keyboards designed for young children.
-concept keyboard are available for handicapped people such as
fingerless, or single fingered hands.
-most familiar input device.

Disadvantages of a keyboard
-different lay require users to study them before use.
-difficult to use at first.
-causes repetitive strain injury (a health problem)
-slow when entering large amounts of data.
-typing mistakes are common with keyboards.
-those with arm problems find it difficult to use.
-keyboard entry is slow to beginners and when compared to other
devices such as the mouse.
-take more desk space than the mouse.
-concepts keyboard are limited to specific applications.
-Key arrangements make typing difficult.
-standard keyboard gets dirt easily

3. SCANNERS
A scanner is an optical input device that reads a pattern of printed
bars that appear on products.
-an optical input device used to capture image data for digital
transfer into a computer.

TYPES of scanners
-Bar code reader

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 -Flatbed scanner (Document scanner)
-hand held scanner
-document readers
(OMR, OCR, MICR)
-biometric scanner

They are used to digitize maps, pictures, documents and old

photographs
-they are used with image processing applications
-libraries and supermarkets to read bar codes on cards and books
and shop products
-used as a safety function in companies to ensure electrical
equipment is checked on regular basis
--they are used for automatic stock entry
-used in automatic registration systems
-used in luggage handling systems at air ports, sea port or in
warehouses.
-Used for research
-used in DTP applications to import photographs or drawing into
pages of a publication.

Advantages of a scanner
-scanned document can be saved in different document formats
-paper copies can be stored electronically where there is no wear
and tear.
-images can be stores for editing at a later date
-they are faster and more accurate than typing again
-it is possible to recover damaged images by scanning them and
then use appropriate software to produce an acceptable copy.

Disadvantages of a scanner
-it takes long to digitize long documents
-the quality of scanned document might be compromised due to
scanner resolution.

4. BARCODE READERS
-a barcode reader an optical input device used to enter product
identification code made of printed thick and thin bars into the computer
-a bar code is a product identification code made of printed thick and thin
bars

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Information shown on supermarket products differs with the country or
system used one being the European Article system. This shows
information such as product
1. Country of origin (country code)
2. Manufucturers number (company code)
3. Product number or code

-After the above information is read from the product bar code,
the computer then looks up for more information from a computer
database such as
-name of product
-the price
-etc

APPLICATION AREAS OF BAR CODE READERS

-often built-in POS terminals in supermarkets or shops
-library check out points
-they are used for automatic stock entry
--used in luggage handling systems at air ports, sea port or in warehouses
s
-used to read bar codes on shop products, videos, books, food, etc

Advantages of a bar code reader

-When used to input data, they Improve data safety
-it is a tried and tested technology that can be trusted.
-when an item price is changed, only the central database needs to
be changed.
-if the bar code reader fails to read, data (numbers below the bar
code) can be entered manually.
-accurate
-customers can be saved quickly.

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 Disadvantages of a bar code reader
-an expensive system to install.
-staff training is expensive
-workers can swap bar codes on supermarket items thus
undercharging or overcharging (or misinform the computer)

5. HAND HELD SCANNERS OR WANDS

Similar to bar code readers except that they are hand held.
-used in supermarkets
-suitable for small sized and big immovable products
-advantages and disadvantages are similar to those of the bar
code reader.

6. DOCUMENT SCANNERS/READERS
-these are types of scanners that read written documents, text or
images.

TYPES ARE
1. FLATBED SCANNER
2. MICR
3. OCR
4. OMR

Flatbed scanner
-it is a document reader. It is flipped up and then an image is placed
on a glass surface. The user closes the lid before scanning a
document.
-the scan head moves across the image to scan it.
-most common in supermarkets, department stores and educational
institutions as well as in photo processing shops

MICR (Magnetic Ink Character Recognition/Reader)

MICR is an input device for reading special characters written in
magnetic ink found at the bottom of a bank cheque. On the cheque
the following information is read
1. Cheque number
2. Branch code/number
3. Account number

Magnetic ink are numbered characters (of a special shape or font)

that we find at the bottom of a cheque.
-these characters contain iron particles that makes it easy to read
cheque data.
-these numbers represent special information about the cheque.

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These are automatic data entry devices used in banks for clearing
cheques.

OCR (Optical character reader)

-is the identification of printed or written text characters by a
computer.
-a light sensitive input device that detects typed or handwritten
characters and convert them into a machine readable form.
OCR may also be written as Optical character recognition. The
character are optical in the sense that both human and computers
can see them. ND Computer see thru use of sensors while human
use eyes. OCR character have to be in a special type of font face.
-OCR works by detecting amount of light reflected by a document or
sheet of paper. A scanner with specialized software will then be
used to transmit the pattern of light detected into a standard ASCII
code. The pattern transmitted is then compared with computer
stored patterns to find the one that matches it. The best match is
then selected and the code representing the data is stored. As each
individual letter has been recognized on its own, the document can
then be edited later using a word processor.

(A printed document or handwritten document is taken to an OCR.

The OCR scans it as an image then using special software; each
individual text character is recognized as then together be stored
in the computer as a word processing document.

-used to scan financial documents such as company accounts,

directly into a spreadsheet.
--used to scan text directly into a word processor
.-used in insurance companies
-used in billing systems (gas, electricity, water and telephone bills
forms)
-Processing of bank GIRO- forms

-used on tablets or PDA where a tablet/PDA can accept handwritten

data from a stylus pen and convert it into different document
formats for future use.
-used in some passport application forms
-used in car monitoring systems in conjunction with CCTV. CCTV
captures car registration number and print it, then OCR captures
printed number for registration and insurance verification

OMR (optical mark reader/recognition)

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 OMR is an optical input device that automatically reads paper
based characters (i.e. Text or marks manually written in pen or
pencil.) into the computer.
-the technique is also called MARK SENSING. (Mark sensor- for the
device)
- The optical mark reader detects pen or pencil marks upon the
form or paper and relays this information to the computer for
storage.
-users prepare documents with pen or pencil on paper and then
taken them to an OMR for automatic input to the computer.
- OMR use is application based. That means not all computer
systems use OMR technology.

APPLICATION AREAS of OMR

-used to read questionnaire responses.
-widely used to read and mark multiple choice examinations
-used for reading election voting forms responses
-lottery tickets use OMR technology
-attendance registers in schools can be designed for OMR
-some enrolment and registration systems use OMR technique
-used in systems where results of processing are needed quickly.
-used for football pools coupons

7. BIOMETRIC SCANNER
-A pattern recognition system which makes a personal identification
based on person’s unique physical characteristics

VARIATIONS
-face recognition biometric scanner
-finger print matching
-iris and retinal scanner
-voice recognition system
=Hand geometry

USES
-users come and talk into, touch looks etc into the scanner as a way of
inputting data.
-can be used in mobile phone
-desktop and laptop computers
-smart cards
-can be used to control entry to buildings
-can be used to replace keys in a car.

Advantages

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-no need to remember or carry personal identification
-a good security measure
-the person has to be present thus theft and fraud is reduced.

Disadvantages
-not yet sufficiently accurate, paper documents still necessary
-computers are prone to error

7. Touch Pads or track pads. Or touch sensitive pad.

A touch pad is a pointing input device used on laptop. A small flat,
square finger or stylus moving surface found below the spacebar on
laptops.

-users move a finger across a touch surface and in so doing the

movement in translated into pointer movement on the screen
--track pad include two or three buttons under the pad that are used
the same way as mouse buttons and these can also be strike
sensitive.
-to select users move a finger on the touch pad and them tap using
the finger if a desired position is reached.

8. Joystick (Game controllers)

-an input device originally designed for playing computer games.
They can be bought separately or are found fixed on game pads.

-similar to a tracker ball I use. -The device consist of a stick located

into a socket. Moving the stick (lever) produces corresponding
movements of an image or cursor on the screen in a similar
direction.
The joystick has one or more buttons to facilitate further input. -
Those used for games are called game controllers.

-used on computers for playing games

-used on TVs for playing games
-used in ultrasound scanners in hospitals
-can be used separately on can be built-in on game pads.
-used in aero planes by fighter pilots
-used in car driving simulators

9. WEBCAM
(Web camera) A digital video camera designed to capture motion
pictures or still images or photographs and transmit then over the
internet. - A webcam is a type of video camera
-it can also take still pictures or photographs.

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 -used to input moving images from a fixed position
-webcam are used on laptops and notebooks where they are in-
built.
-a webcam can be externally connected to a desktop.
-used on voice over internet protocol systems (video conversations
over the internet where sound and picture are found)
-used in video conferencing.
-used for virtual classrooms environments where student listens and
view their teacher from the comfort of their homes.
-used in e-commerce by advertising organizations
-used for checking children activities in nursery schools
-used in weather forecasting around the globe,
-used in traffic monitoring systems in roads
-used for on line charting e.g. on SKYPE

Advantages
-can be installed at home or workplace as a security method to be
vied over the internet at a distance.

-captured images can be stored for editing before transmission

-photographs and videos captured can viewed on a variety of
internet based device e.g. smart phone and TVs
-digital photos and images can be sent by e-mail
-captured data can be broadcast over internet, so that TV programs
can be available on demand.
-Pictures and videos can be stored in a convertible format.
-can view data as it is or was at source.

-people can keep in contact with each other without need to travel.

Disadvantages
-output is affected if there is not internet connection.
-the video output may have poor resolution.
-fixed position and usually can see one view
-need for a huge backing storage
-May slow down the internet during uploading -if large and bulky

10. DIGITAL CAMERA

-a digital camera is an input device that captures an image and

stores it in a memory in a format suitable for saving and displaying
on a computer.
-an input devise used to capture photogram’s and or films for entry
into the computer where they can be edited.
-they are used by both at home and for business

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 -they are used by phographers as a way of life
-They are used in adverting
-they are used by news agents or journalists
-Digital cameras can be connected to a computer or photo printer
directly using a USB cable or use a portable card or else using
Infrared technology.
-mobile phone have digital camera too fixed on them.

ADVANTAGES
-they are hand held.
-images can be of high resolution
-most cameras accept additional memory
-moving images from camera to computer is easy
-a wide range of digital cameras are available.
-digital camera are not very expensive
-users can edit the images in a number of ways
-uploading photographs to a computer is fast
-digital photo are cheap to develop than film based ones.
-it is easy to delete an image from card and memory
-the memory cards used can serve several hundreds of images.
-quicker to produce a photo even while you wait.
-no need to use chemicals in developing
-a number of images can be taken for later comparison
-images can be placed in documents such as spreadsheets or word.
-can use software to improve the image.
-digital camera are portable.
-memory card readers are available in shops.

DISADVANTAGES
-once camera cards are on PC, they can be affected by virus.
-there is need for training to be able to use them effectively
- Films consume more camera memory.
-sense of original art is lost as computers can help edit a photo.
Resolution varies from camera to camera.
-in real practice, memory easily gets full.
-some films used to produce had high quality image better than some
digital cameras.
-computer skills are required to use a digital camera.
-special software is needed to edit a camera image

11. MICROPHONE
An analogue input device for voice or sound (audio) data only.
-used in presentations on a large gathering just for amplified output.
-used in studios in music applications
-used in churches
-used for setting up voice recognition systems.

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-used in video conferencing
-used on mobile phones and PDA for speech input.
-used on PC
-used together with voice recognition systems
-used in voice mail systems or messages
-used with MIDI systems (Musical instrument digital interface- i.e.
hardware and software that connects musical instruments to a
computer.)
-used in natural language processing systems.
-used in cars
-used in voice over internet protocol platforms

ADVANATAGE
-easy to set up
-promote hands free
-One can dictate letters and other documents directly into a word
processor
-can take part in telecommunication platforms
-can add spoken words to a website, presentation or other multimedia
products.
-can be effectively used by disabled who cannot type
-some microphone are cheap to buy.
-faster than typing

DISADVANTAGES
-software has to be trained to understand voice
-users needs to determine the distance of mouth from microphone
otherwise input is disturbed.
-background noises can cause problems
-prone to error
-sound files when stored take up a lot of disk space
-microphone easily get damaged if not properly handled.
-some with short circuits causes shock.

12. DATA LOGGERS

-a data logger is an automatic input device that collects and store
information provided to it by a sensor(s)
-Data logging is the automatic collection and storage of information
provided by sensors at set intervals.

USES OF DATA LOGGERS

-traffic control systems in roads
- Data collection at weather stations
-in a green house system

-in hospitals.

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 -Data loggers with permanent computer connections are suitable for
science experiments in schools.
-In pollution measurement system e.g. in rivers or dams
NB -data logging has many application and fields that cannot be
exhausted in this column.

12. TOUCH SENSITIVE SCREENS

-a touch screen is an input device that can detect the presence and
location of a touch to the screen and also respond to the touch.
-touch screens respond to touch because they use sensors to detect
the touch.
-the type of sensors used differs with the touch screen technology.
-the touch screen is a special type of an LCD

-used in kiosks, airports, railway stations, tourism offices etc for public
information
-on tablets/PDA
-smart phones
-on finger prints detection systems e.g. at some ATMs at bank
-used in shops at POS terminals
-used in fast foods restaurants and bars
-used in department stores and supermarkets
Etc
-used as part of INTERACTIVE WHITE BOARDS (large wall screens)
for education
-used in CBT for answering on-screen tests.

ADVANTAGES
-simple to use
-can be used whilst standing or in bed
-Do not take up lot of useful space esp. Smartphone
-they are tamper proof, i.e. other data besides what it understands
cannot be entered.
-less dirty than keyboard and mice
-easy to clean
-data and instruction entry is fast

DISADVANTAGES
-screens can get dirty
-bacteria/germs can be easily spread when everyone touches the
Same screen
-they cost more than their alternative input devices

24
 -once screen is damaged, whole device stops working
-they have limited uses.
-lead to strain of muscles i.e. RSI

13. SENSORS
-A sensor is an input device that detects an environmental condition
and respond by outputting a signal.-A sensor is an input device that is
used to detect physical quantities from the environment for input to
the computer.
-a sensor is an input device that is used to detect an external change
in an environment.
SOME ENVIRONMENT CONDITIONS AND TYPE OF SENSOR

TEMPERATURE SENSOR -used in central heating systems to measure

temperature so that computers can control it.-used in hospital
intensive care units for body and room temp measurements.-used at
weather stations-control system of a furnace -automatic washing
machines
-Used to monitor/control in chemical processing -microwave ovens

PRESSURE SENSOR -Used on touch screens -used in traffic control

systems e.g. counting vehicles on the road -used in haudralic systems -
bugler alarm systems to detect intruders -washing machines
-In robots -environmental monitoring systems

LIGHT SENSOR
Used in photo processing machines, street lights, home lighting
systems, etc

SOUND SENSOR
-they detect sound esp. of a specific pattern and thus they can be used
in different setups.
-environmental heath office can use sound sensors to detect level of
sound from the neighborhood such as from bars, homes, etc where
music is being played. -Burglar alarm systems, -monitoring liquids
power flowing in pipes.

HUMIDITY /MOISTURE SENSOR

-Used to determine the amount of moisture in an environment (in air or
soil). They are used in Weather stations -greenhouse -environmental
monitoring systems -factories where moisture level is critical-

25
manufacture of microchips -spray painting systems -used in dams and
river beds.

PROXIMITY SENSOR
The sensor has two parts. If the parts are moved away from each
other, then a signal is output.
-also detects distance from objects. -installed in windows to report
burglary by use of alarms.
-used in cars to warn driver of objects ahead or behind.

MERCURY TILT SWITCH

-if a device is moved or tilted, a blob of mercury in the switch touches
it and completes a circuit. -Used in pinball machines -used to trigger an
alarm -used in vending machines.

POSTION SENSOR
-it detects an angle of turn, rotation /or spindle. -used in robot arms

PH sensor
-This Type of Sensor Is Usually submerged In Liquids, Soil or Solutions -
Used to find out how basic or acidic a solution is. -Greenhouses to
monitor soil acidity -chemical processing plants, -environmental
monitoring. -used to measure acidity in rivers (pollution monitoring)

SOME OTHER TYPE OF SENSORS

-PIR motion detector
-shock and inertia sensor
-magnetic switch sensor
-panic button (PAB)
-rainfall detectors
-wind speed detectors

ADVANTAGES
-they are continuous and reliable
-they collect data that human being cannot gather or present
accurately
-data recorded by sensor is presents into a way that a computer can
handle
-limit human labor e.g. travelling

DISADVANTAGES
-sensors cannot interpret data
-sensors detection of environmental data is very much restricted to a
specific area.

26
14. STYLUS PEN
A pen like input device that can be used on a screen to draw point and
select as well as write as if using a manual pen. A stylus pen is a
development from a light pen.

To use it you hold the pen in your hand and write or draw on a special
pad or directly onto the screen.
-the pen can also be used as a pointing device and to select options on
the screen
-they can be used to write documents as save them in a desired
document format such as word or pdf.
-they are modern pens that are used with LCD screens.
-the computer that used a stylus pen must have special software, a
dictionary of terms

ADVANTAGES
They are used on signature pads, -on tablets and PDAs and -on some
smart phones
-can be used to detect people handwriting
-faster to enter data in own handwriting as people are used to manual
pens already

DISADVANTAGES
-can be easily lost
--can be uncomfortable as hand remains firmly fixed to the pen for
long

-sometimes there are problems of lag (delay) when drawing

15. LIGHT PEN

-an input device used for drawing or selecting images on a graphical
display unit. -it can be used to draw. It can be used to select options of
commands.

-You hold the pen in your hand and write or draw on a special pad or
directly onto the screen.
-the pen can also be used as a pointing device and to select options on
the screen

-a light pen is a light sensitive input device which when placed onto the
screen its pixels position is detected and coded special monitoring
software.
-the light pen contain a sensor.
-it has the same uses a mouse have.

27
-they were common with CRT screens and technology changed; they
are very few in existence.
Nb. can only be used to draw and also point and select.

-popular in CAD (computer aided design) systems and are also used on
graphic tablets

ADVANTAGES
-easier to use than a mouse or keyboard.
-produces more accurate lines when drawing than a mouse.
-they have greater accuracy in pointing than when using fingers.
-can be used where there is no space for keyboard or mouse.
-easy to keep clean
-portable

DISADVANTAGES
-can be uncomfortable as hand remains firmly fixed to the pen for long
-can only be used with CRT type screen and not LCD and TIF screens
-easily get lost
-sometimes there are problems of lag (delay) when drawing.
-not very accurate in drawing.

16. MAGNETIC STRIPE READERS

-an input device that reads information from a stripe on the surface of
a plastic.
--strips of magnetized material can be built into plastic cards for
identication use purposes.
-The device reads a short length of magnetic tape stuck on the surface
of a tag, card or document. On plastic tags or cards the stripe is sealed
in. Tags with stripes identify the item they are attached to.
-the stripe is usually a black row at the back of the card.
-the card is passed through the reader when reading. (Swiping the
card)
-examples of data is stored on the stripe can be account number, start
date and expiry date and bank/sort code, branch code, security
number etc of the card.
-some card systems allow users to write additional information on the
stripe such as signatures.
-the card reader reads the magnetized data and convert them into
digital symbols for the computer to understand.

Used on LOYALTY CARD in the following ways:

28
 (a) Used as CREDIT CARD (like debit cards but these do not deduct
money from issuing organization immediately. The organization
will makes payments at a later stage or date after card has been
used. E.g. VISA and MASTERCARD.

(b)used On bank cards

(c) used A phone Card

(d)Used as DEBIT CARD (they are issued by bank and can used in
supermarkets for cash withdraws or for purchases) users of the
card must have a bank account from which the money is
withdrawn.

(e) used at Cash issuance at ATMs

(f) used as PREPAID CARDS

(Prepaid cards are like debit cards only that the owner does
need to have a bank account number when using them. Users
can only use money stored on the card.)

(g)used as prepayment cards on internet use or DSTV decoders

(h)used on security doors to control access to building as

ELECTRRONIC KEY CARDS

(i) For registration systems

(j) Used In EFTPOS (electronic funds transfer point of sale) system
(k) used in travel systems such as trains and underground ticketing
systems

17. SMART CARD READER

-is an input device used to read data on a loyalty card with a
microprocessor chip embedded in it. -a technology slowly replacing
magnetic stripe card readers. -a smart card looks like a credit card or
debit card but they work differently. -smart cards have built in tiny
microprocessor chip that keeps track of a user’s transaction. The
processor chip is loaded with personal identification details such ads
DOB, home address and PIN hence can be used like a passport. -data
on the chip can be updated and it stores more user information than
on strips. -it is also a swipe card. -the chip can also do some
processing in the card as well storing new information.

They are use -in banks -by government agencies for travelling -in
libraries to read borrowers number

29
-at filling stations -used as ID Cards -can be used as public passport
passes -used with satellite systems to decode program signals -they
are used as driving licenses. -used to withdraws cash at ATMs

18. CHIP AND PIN READERS

-is an input device used to read data on a loyalty card with a
microprocessor chip embedded in it and is mainly used in payment
systems. -they are similar to smart card readers but are used at
EFTPOS
-they are a little bigger and like a calculator in shape.
NB. A smart card can be read by a smart card reader or chip and pin
reader.

-the reader has a slot in which the card is slotted to be read. It is not
swiped.
-a PIN is entered using a number keypad
-the reader has a small screen that displays instructions.
-usually data stored in the chip is encrypted.

-used by users inside the banks on a bank teller desk.

-mostly used in systems involving payments (restaurants,
supermarkets, travel agents etc

ADVANTAGES OF CHIP AND PIN READERS

-cards are portable
-data on the card can be input directly to a computer
-reading is usually accurate.
-data entry is faster than keying
-cards are not affected by oil, water or moisture, so they are robust
-the system promotes the development of a paperless society
-cards holders do not have to move with cash of hand.
-avoids possible typing errors on manual entry
.

DISADVANTAGES OF CHIP AND PIN READERS

-on registration systems, they can lead to long queues
-data on the stripe can be affected by electromagnetic radiation
-data on cards can be copied and edited giving thieves an opportunity
for fraud.
-cards are easily damaged and are easily lost
-there are times when reader fails to read

30
-they are affected when computer network is down usually in banking
system
-users cannot see information on the card
-hold small amount of data

19. GRAPHIC TABLET/GRAPHIC PAD

- This is a flat board which is used to draw or write using a stylus pen.
-A hardware device for input of freehand computer graphics into the
computer using a stylus.

This is a special screen sensitive pad that is used for graphics with a
stylus pen.
It is a separate pad that is connected to a computer.
-as the user draws or writes on the pad the drawing is directly entered
into the computer and can be stored in the computer.
-they are ideal for inputting free hand drawings.
-they can be use for retouching digital photographs
-items can be added to it by clicking on it with a stylus.

-They are used for inputting free hand drawing into the computer
-retouching digital photographs
-used in CAD systems

ADVANTAGES OF GRAPHIC TABLET/GRAPHIC PAD

-mostly used in countries like Japan and China were their alphabet is
more of drawing than our letters.
-more accurate to draw using stylus than using a mouse
-drawing icons and buttons are on the tablet and not on the screen,
this leaves the screen for the full display of the image

DISADVANTAGES OF GRAPHIC TABLET/GRAPHIC PAD

-specialist tablets are expensive.

20. REMOTE CONTROL

A remote control is an infrared device used to control other devices.
The remote control has two lights (LEDs) at the front where one is for
signal and one is for the user to ensure that the remote is working.
These lights light when a key is pressed. -once a button is pressed,
infrared pulses (invisible to the human eye) are sent to the receiver for
decoding and responding to the signal.
-the transmitter of the pulse is usually a light emitting diode, at the
front of the remote control.
The receiver is always on the front of the receiver and ones it receives
a signal it sent it to a processor for decoding and acting.
-the strength of the infrared varies some close some a far.

31
-It is used on DVD readers, home-theaters systems, satellite receivers,
HI-FI music systems, multimedia projector, model cars, toys, garage
doors

ADVANTAGES OF REMOTE CONTROL

-less human movement to operate a device
-portable.
-batteries are cheap.

DISADVANTAGES OF REMOTE CONTROL

-require batteries to run
-inaccessible or hidden device can be operated.
-some devices cannot operate with the remote control hand set
-once dropped they are damaged easily.

AUTOMATIC DATA input or ENTRY METHODS

These are input methods that have little or no manual effort at all
when entering data into the computer. Examples are data loggers,
Barcode readers, radio frequency identification (RFI), biometrics,
magnetic strips, OCR, OMR, MICR, voice recognition, smart cards etc.

32
Chapter 3
HARDWARE : OUTPUT DEVICES
To view what the computer has processed for us we use what we call
OUTPUT DEVICES. Visual devices (including Visual Display Units [VDUs],
screens, OR monitors) Hard copy devices (including ink jet printer, laser
printers, dot-matrix printers, and plotters), Sound devices AND Computer
controlled devices (including robots) These devices show us information in
various forms that is as softcopy, or hardcopy as well as sound or light.
These output devices are actually peripherals that receives data from a
computer, usually for display, projection, or physical reproduction. Below
are the most common output devices.

1. MONITOR OR SCREEN OR VISUAL DISPLAY UNIT

Features of a monitor include monitor Size, Color, Resolution and
Video Display Adapter type.

LCD Monitor CTR Plasma

Monitor

LCD SCREEN
 LCD screens are most often seen on portable or laptop computers

33
 These are used in these applications because they are small and
light.
 Also used where space is at the premium.
 The molecules this substances line up in such a way that the light
behind the screens and creates an image.
 Use in banks and Multinational companies

CRT MONITOR
 Creates the image on the screen through electronic beam
 This is same type that is use in Television
 It consists of one or more guns
 These guns generate red, green and blue (RGB) colors.

A Monitor is the most commonly used output device used to display

results of processing. Pictures on a monitor are formed with picture
elements called PIXEL. Monitors may be Monochrome that will
display results in Black & White. Color Monitors are also available.
They display results in multi colors. The latest type monitor screen is
the plasma type for TV sets. Monitor produces soft copy output.

2. PRINTERS
 A printer prints character, symbols and graphics on paper.
 Printers are used to produce hard copy output.
 Print resolution is commonly measured in dots per inch (dpi)
 They have vast differences and are for different uses
 Two major categories or types of printers are:
Impact Printer and Non Impact Printer

IMPACT PRINTER
-act like a typewriter

34
 It prints characters or images by striking a print hammer or wheel
against an inked ribbon. Examples of impact printers include Dot
matrix printer, Line printer, Daisy wheel Printer, chain printer and
drum printer.

NON IMPACT PRINTERS

 Prints characters and graphics on a piece of paper without striking
the paper.
 These printers are faster than impact printers
 Examples are Inkjet printer, Laser printer and Thermal printer

Which category does each of the following printers fall?

Dot Matrix LaserJet Ink jet printers Braille printer
Printer printers

………………… ……………… …………………

…………………
…
.. …

The Braille is mainly used by the blind. The most common printer types
are the once given above though the matrix printer is also finding its way
out of the system.

The INK JET printer

 It prints characters and graphics by spraying tiny drops of liquid ink on
paper
 The print head of an inkjet printer consists of nozzles
 It has two cartridges black and white
 These printers can produce quality text and graphics in both black and
white color

35
 slower than laser printer but faster than dot matrix printer
 They can print 1 to 6 pages per minute
 Cheaper in price
 Satisfactory in color

The LASERJET printer

o Creates image on the paper by the laser beam
o Also called page printer because they print complete page at a time
o It contain toner
o Throws magnetic powder on paper in the form of microscopic dots

The THERMAL printer

 Is a printer that uses heat process to transfer colored dyes or inks to the
paper
 Is the best color printers currently available but it is very expensive

3. Speaker

Multimedia desktop headphones

speakers

Speaker produces sound output. We can listen to recorded voices, sounds

or music with the help of speaker. Computer Speaker produces sound
output with the help of sound card fixed on a computer motherboard.

4. Plotter

36
 Plotters are used to draw different designs of buildings or internal
structure of machines. Mostly Engineers and Architects use plotters. They
are in different types, shapes and sizes.

5. Multimedia Projector.

Multimedia projector is used to produce computer output on a big screen.

These are used in meeting rooms or in classrooms of educational
institutes.

6. Control devices

actuators motor buzzer lights heaters

An actuator is device for moving or controlling something, motors

are used to rotate machinery, e.g. house fans. A buzzer or beeper is
an audio signaling device, typical uses of buzzers and beepers
include alarm devices, timers and confirmation of user input such as a
mouse click or keystroke. Light output light like security light or street
light after certain input or certain action. A heater converts electrical
energy into heat.

7. Global Positioning System, GPS

Short for Global Positioning System, GPS is a network of satellites that
helps users determines a location on Earth.

37
CHAPTER 4

HARDWARE: STORAGE DEVICES

IMPORTANT TERMS

(a) DVD DRIVE- used to read CD and DVD only. Some can also
write
Both the CD and DVD i.e. DVD writer.

(b) CD DRIVE- used to read CD only. Some can also write the
CD

(c) FLOPPY DRIVE- used to store and retrieve data from

Floppy disks only.

(d) TAPE DRIVE- used to store and retrieve data from specific
type
Of magnetic tape. Drive varies with type of tape used.

(e) VIRTUAL MEMORY

Temporal storage space on the disk, memory required by the
Computer to store programs bigger than RAM can contain.

(f) BUFFER
Temporal memory in the computer used in data spooling during

38
 Input and output of information.

(g) PORT
A connection point onto a computer for a peripheral device.

(h) Storage- is a description of the process of keeping

computer software, data or information.

(i) Storage media are parts of a computer that keep computer

programs or data either temporary or permanently. A collective
name for disks, tapes and memory cards etc.

(j) storage devices

-the piece of device that is used to record or retrieve
data from a storage media.

THE 2 types of computer storage are:

-primary storage, and
-secondary storage

PRIMARY STORAGE
Is also called immediate access memory or, Main memory or Core storage
or Working memory or Primary memory or internal memory. PRIMARY
MEMORY is found inside the computer on a motherboard fixed on a
memory chip slotted onto the motherboard. PRIMARY MEMORY
-Primary memory (main memory) is the group of chips inside the
computer that holds data temporary whilst processing takes place. This
data is readily available for computer use.

Primary memory is used in computers of all types, modern printers and

some cameras. -It is used to hold programs (operating system or control
programs or application programs) that are waiting to be processed.
-It is used to hold application programs that are currently being
processed.
- It is used to hold data that is waiting processing
-used to hold input data during processing
-used to hold information immediately after it has been processed ready
to be output.

-there are two types of primary storage namely RAM and ROM (Random
access memory and Read only memory)
-at the time of writing of this book some computers have a RAM capacity
of 4GIG.

RAM

39
Random access memory. -data held in RAM is temporal. The contents of
RAM disappear if computer is switched off hence it is said to be volatile
and is used to store user data operating software and application
programs. RAM is used to hold data during processing
-holds operating system control programs during processing
-holds application programs during processing.
-modern printers have RAM memory.

Types of RAM are

DYNAMIC RAM (DRAM)
-memory contents slowly leaks from the storage cells and must be topped
up (refreshed) constantly.

STATIC RAM (SRAM)

-This contents of this memory does not change as long as the computer
has a constant power supply.

ADVANDAGE O F RAM
-data is written and read at a very high speed.
-computer has fast access to data in main memory.
-it can be updated (added)
-RAM chips are locally available.

DISADVANTAGES OF RAM
-it is volatile i.e. it loses contents when power is cut.
-storage is limited.
-older computers have too little storage capacity for RAM

ROM
Read only memory). -holds data and programs that cannot be changed by
the user. Information on a ROM chip is called firmware. They are hard-
wired onto the motherboard. When a computer is switched on, the first
programs to run on the computer comes from ROM.
-ROM is permanent, non volatile and is used for booting routines.

Types are PROM, EPROM, and EAPROM.

All forms of ROM are used to hold programs used to boot a computer IE
(to load the O/S when a computer is switched on. -Stores BOIS (basic
input output system (information needed by the computer at start up. -
stores control programs needed by the computer. -stores translator
programs. -The ROM technology is used in the manufacture of CDs and
DVDs. -ROM is a type of WORM (write once Read many times) technology

PROM

40
-Programmable read only memory. This memory allows the user to
program it, but once programmed it becomes permanent ROM.
-differs from normal ROM in that ROM comes programmed by the
manufacturer while PROM can be done by the user.

EPROM (Electrically Programmable Read Only Memory)

-Erasable programmable ROM. It is like PROM but its advantage is that it
can be programmed over and over again using a special erasing and
programming device.
-the memory is first removed from the computer if there is need to erase
and reprogram it.

EEPROM (EAPROM)
Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory
Or
Electrically Alterable Programmable Read Only Memory.
-just like EPROM, the difference is that the memory is not manually
removed from the computer. The processing is however done electrically
and it is slower to reprogramming EPROM electrically.

ADVANDAGEs OF ROM
-memory is permanent (even when the computer is accidentally switched
off, ROM is not affected)
-it is non-volatile

DISADVANTAGES OF ROM
-not easy to change (Non volatile)
-electronic errors can happen during erasure and this affects the process

SECONDARY STORAGE
Is also known as backing storage, auxiliary storage, external storage, or
permanent memory. SECONDARY STORAGE -includes disks, tapes,
flash, pen drives etc that are connected to the computer motherboard
through ports or cables.

HARD DISK
-circular storage media made of a metal coated with a magnetized
material
-there are two types i.e.
 fixed hard disks and
 External hard disks.

41
-data is stored randomly onto the surface.
-data is stored in-situ randomly onto the surface, i.e. that means in can
be overwritten.
-There are several types and sizes of hard disks
-The common once are the Desktop and laptop hard disks, but we also
have Mass storage HD Media disk used for a variety of applications
especially in broadcasting business.
-fixed hard disk (fixed permanently in the computer) may contain
multiple disks called a disk platter or disk pack. This platter is actually
a disk pack that can be changed. It gives the inseparable disks a
cylindrical shape and has read write heads in between disks and one drive
spindle for all the disks in the middle of the disks.
-the disk surface is made up of tracks, sections and inter-block gap
separating the sectors.

Track. A circular data storage space on a disk.

Sector: a section of the disk made up of a number of tracks
Inter block gap- blank spaces that separate sectors on a disk

Cylinder- the same track number across all disks on a disk platter/pack.

-Fixed hard disk are used to store operating systems and application
programs
-external disks can be used for backup
- External hard disks can be used to boot up computers that fail
-external hard disks are used to store data and programs that need to be
transferred from one computer to another.
-all the two types can be used to store user information.
-fixed hard disks are used in real time systems (e.g. robots, control
systems and airline booking etc.
-fixed disks are also used as file servers for computers on a network or on
internet.

EXTERNAL HARD DISK

-A hard disk externally connected to a computer through a port (usually
USB port). They vary in sizes, capacities and manufactures. -they are
portable hard disk that work the same way as fixed hard disk. They are
connected to a computer via a USB port. -data is stored randomly onto
the surface.

-mostly used for backing up data and software.

-they are used to transfer files from one computer to another
-can be used to store personal information.

CD (COMPACT DISK)
-a flat portable circular optical storage media

42
 -it is a type of WORM device (write once read many) times
-also called CD ROM

Nb all types of CD and DVD are called optical devices- because they use
laser technology . All types of CD and DVD are called WORM devices- i.e.
(write once read many times)

CDs Store data as a series of (optical pattern called) bumps using laser
beam technology. They are read only memory devices.
-can store up to 700MB
-differs with DVD in that their surfaces are lighter in appearance and have
a smaller capacity
-Again a CD drive cannot read a DVD while a DVD drive can read both the
CD and DVD.
-data is stored randomly onto the surface.

There are two types of CDs namely

CD-R and CD-WR

1. CD-R (Compact disk recordable)

-CD-R allows data to be stored on it only once.
-Cannot be recycled.

2. CD-WR (Compaq disk rewritable)

-it allows data to be store over and over again. Each time data is written
again, the old is first deleted and before a fresh writing is done. (No
overwriting such as is done on hard disks.
-Used to record television programs

USES OD CDs
-used to hold music and software for distribution.
-used to hold animation files
-used to store computer data and programs
-used to boot up a computer.
-used for back up
-Most common on PCs
-most software is sold on CD rather than DVD
-used for archive data

DVDs (Digital Versatile disk)

-a flat circular optical storage media used to store audio and video data.
-WORM device (write once read many) times
-also called DVD ROM

-DVDs differ with CDs in that their surfaces are dark in appearance and
have a bigger capacity

43
 -some store up-to 4.7 GB of data and others 8.5GB other up-to 100GB
-data is stored randomly onto the surface.

Types of DVDs are

 DVD-R
 DVD-WR
 DVD RAM
 Blu-ray disk

1. DVD-R (digital versatile disk recordable)

DVD allows data to be stored on it only once. Cannot be recycled.

2. DVD WR (Digital versatile disk rewritable)
-it allows data to be stored over and over again. Each time data is written
again, the old data is first deleted before a fresh writing is done (cannot
be overwritten such as is done with hard disks.

3. DVD RAM (Digital Versatile Disk Random Access memory)

-has same properties with DVD WR in that data can be recorded many
times.
-it allows several and repeated erasure and recording of data just as it is
on computer internal RAM. They can be used as many times as possible.
-have long life of about 30 yrs,
-they have fast access to data,
-files are fairly small,
-have large capacity,
-can allow simultaneous read and write to data.
- However their drives are less compatible
-three to four times more expensive than DVD WR.

4. Blu-ray (BD-R)
-a new technology with a high capacity than other DVD types (from 25GB,
50GB, 100GB)
-used to store high definition videos
-it is possible to playback a blu-ray video disk and record it simultaneously
onto another media.
-data access is faster than on other DVD types.
-However they are expensive -They allow data encryption at disk-write
time and this is helpful as it avoids piracy.

USES OF DVDs
-Used to store videos and films for sale or distribution.
-Used for back up
-Most common used on PCs and DVD players
-used to archive data

44
-used for storing TV programs that do not need any update
-Blu-ray disks are used to store high definition videos
-Blu-ray disks are used for long play films- 2 hours and more.
-blue ray are also used in home video consoles.
-blue ray are used as back up for hard disks.
-DVD RAMS - Used in satellite receivers and Camcorders.

MAGNETIC TAPE
-A thin continuous film strip of plastic coated with a magnetic layer of iron
particles.
-Magnetic tape differ in types however the computer tape drive is just like
the CD drive, that is mounted onto the computer for tape use.
-the cassette tape is used in radios while the video tape is used for Video
tape players.
-data is stored serially or sequentially.
-data transfer rate (writing) is faster than data retrieval rate.

USES OF MAGNETIC TAPES

-Used to store data, music, films and programs.
-used on radios, video cassette players
-Used on computers to store data and programs
-as as computer back up by network servers.
-used in high hit rate applications (batch processing applications) such as
electricity, water, gas billing, payroll systems.

MEMORY CARDS
-These are small cards that are used to store data
-they are an example of solid state devices.
-data is stored on a chip inside them

-they are also called flash memory of HD cards

-they store data randomly on their storage spaces.
Types are the
 Compact Flash (CF)
 Secure Digital (SD) mini and micro cards
 xD cards
 Smart Media cards
 Multimedia cards.

-they are an example of EEPROM memory type.

-old PC and laptops can only read them with a separate card reader
through USB port.

MEMORY CARDS USES

45
-they are used to store data that needs to be transferred to a computer at
a later stage.
-used in digital cameras, mobile phones, palmtops, laptops and MP3 and
MP4 platters.
-can be used in digital photo processing system.
-used to stored photos on digital cameras.
-used as back up for data.

MEMORY STICKS/FLASH DISKS OR FLASH MEMORY

-memory devices that use USB connection to a computer.
-they are an example of solid state devices.
-data is stored on a chip inside them
-they are sometimes referred to as dongles, (a term used to describe all
types of memory plugged in using USB port)

They have several names i.e.

1. Pen drives
2. Memory sticks

They consist of PCB (printed circuit boards) enclosed in a plastic case.

-can store 1GB, 2GB, 4GB, 8GB, 16GB, 32GB, 64GB, 128GB, 256GB etc
-they store data directly/randomly on their storage spaces.

USES OF MEMORY STICKS

-used to store photographs
-used to store music
-used to store computer data
-can also be used to store or transfer computer programs from one
computer to another.
-mostly used by teachers and school pupils
-used by mobile business officers such as marketing personnel.

- FLOPPY DISK
A single thin disk made of a flexible plastic. -also called diskette. -stores
data on both sides. Each side has its own read write head. -they store
data in-situ randomly on their storage spaces.
There are no-longer in use today.
They were used
- To boot up a computer.
- On desktop PC to hold data files
- To hold driver software for hardware installations
- To transfer data from one computer to another.
-as back up.

ADVANTAGES OF SECONDARY STORAGE

-they are permanent storage device.

46
-external hard disks are portable.
-all hard disks are fast when transferring and accessing data.
-all hard disk are even faster than DVD, CD, tapes, floppies and flash
memory
-they have a very large storage capacity.
-most have long life span except for floppy disks and CDs
-it is easier to store and update data on disks.
-large storage capacity for most disks and tapes and flash memory

DISADVANTAGES OF SECONDARY STORAGE

-fixed hard disks are not portable.
-all hard disks do not effectively utilize memory space
-are prone to crushing if computers are frequently not properly shut
down.
-they are heavily affected by viruses
-external hard disks can be damaged if they are not properly handled e.g.
if they fall, exposed to heat and water.
-memory cards and sticks are easily lost or stolen

AS FOR DVDs AND CDs

-On DVD WR the rate of data transfer is slower than with DVD-R
-Not robust
-Not durable if used often
-blu ray are not common and many computers dot even have the drives.
-data transfer and access rate is slower than that of hard disks.
-Rewritable disks are more expensive than recordable once.
-once burned (written) it becomes permanent

47
CHAPTER 5

HARDWARE: THE PROCESSOR

The processor is commonly called the CPU or Central processing Unit.
-The CPU if found inside the system unit casing together with a number f other
components.
-this is the brain or heart of the computer.
-data is transformed into information and this is called PROCESSING
-the CPU is the main part of the computer where data is processed and the
entire system is coordinated.
-it is made up of the ALU (Arithmetic logic unit, and the control unit
(CU), however the main memory also plays an important part.
-computer systems with more than one processor do multiprocessing. Dual
Core means two processors, Corei3 means 3 processors, and corei7 means 7
processors.
-the more the processors the faster the computer.

The Central Processing Unit

Control unit(CU) 48
 DATA FLOW
CONTROL SIGNALS

The purpose of the CPU or processor is to

-organize and carry out (process) instructions that comes from either the
user or software.
-to control the sequence of instructions
-control other parts of the computer

ALU
-performs arithmetic (addition, multiplication etc) and logical operations
(AND, OR, comparisons, etc) of the computer.
CU- fetches instructions that specifies how data is to be processed,
decodes the instructions and execute them.
-coordinates and control hardware operations.

MAIN MEMORY
This is where data or information and instructions are stored before,
during and after processing.

EXERCISE
 Identify hardware devices in your school by name.
 explain how each hardware devices work
 demonstrate how to connect each of hardware device

49
CHAPTER 6

COMPUTER SOFTWARE

Software is a collective term that refers to all various programs

that are run on a computer system. These programs are installed in
a computer to make the computer or other related devices usable,
otherwise a computer is not usable without software. Software is logical in
nature while hardware is physical.

SOME SOFTWARE TERMS

Applets are small applications that sometimes come with the operating
system as "accessories." They can also be created independently using
the Java or other programming languages.

Shareware : software usually intended for sale after a customer has had
a trial period.

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 Liteware : shareware with some capabilities disabled.

Freeware : free software but with copyright restrictions:

Public domain software :free software with no restrictions and open

source (software where the source code is furnished and users agree not
to limit the distribution of improvements.

Malware: This stands for malicious software. Most common forms of

malware are Trojan horses, worms and viruses .

Software is divided commonly into two main categories: namely system

software Software and Application software.

(1) System software: programs that control the basic functions of a

computer and comes usually preinstalled with the machine. Most System
software operations are invisible to the user.

(2) Application software: these are programs that handles specialized

tasks a user wants to perform on a computer , such as accounting,
communicating, data processing, word processing. They are used to solve
user problems or tasks.

A.] SYSTEM SOFTWARE

System software are programs that controls and coordinates all

operations (internal and external) of computer system. System software
is designed to control and coordinate the procedures and functions of
computer hardware and ensures that there is good communication
between hardware, software and the user. Systems software carries out
middleman tasks to ensure communication between other software and
hardware to allow harmonious coexistence with the user. Systems
software can be categorized under the following. System software is the
first layer of software to be loaded into memory every time a computer is
powered up.

 Operating system: Harnesses communication between hardware, system

programs, and other applications.
 Device driver: Enables device communication with the OS and other
programs.
 Firmware: Enables device control and identification.
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 Translator: Translates Assembly language and high-level languages to
low-level machine codes.
 Utility: perform diagnostic, maintenance and routine computer tasks and
ensures optimum functionality of devices and applications.

1. Operating System (OS)

An operating system (OS) is system software that manages computer
hardware and software resources and provides common services for
computer programs. It is installed first on a computer to allow devices and
applications to be identified and also for them to be usable.

Types of Operating Systems

 Real-Time OS: Is installed in special purpose embedded systems like
robots, cars, and modems.
 Single-user and single-task OS: Are installed on single-user devices like
phones.
 Single-user and multitask OS: Are installed on contemporary personal
computers.
 Multi-user OS: Is installed in network environments where many users
have to share resources. Server OSs are examples of multi-user
operating systems.
 Network OS: Is used to share resources such as files, printers in a network
setup.
 Internet/Web OS: Is designed to run on the browser that is online.
 Mobile OS: Is designed to run on mobile phones, tablets and other mobile
devices.

Functions of Operating Systems

 They provide the interface between the user and hardware through GUI.
 Manages and allocates memory space for applications.
 Processes the management of applications, input/output devices, and
instructions.
 Configures and manages internal and peripheral devices.
 Manages single or multi-user storage in local and network computers.
 Security management of files and applications.
 Manages input and output devices.
 Detects, installs, and troubleshoots devices.

52
 Monitors system performance through Task Manager and other tools.
 Produce error messages and troubleshooting options.
 Implement interface for network communication.
 Manages printers in single or multi-user systems.
 Internal or network file management.

Examples of Operating Systems

Popular OSs for computers are: Windows 3.1, XP, 10,Windows 8, Mac OS
X, and Ubuntu
Popular network/server OSs are: Ubuntu Server, Windows Server, Red Hat
Enterprise, and Linux
Popular internet/web OSs are: Chrome OS, Club Linux, and Remix OS
Popular mobile OSs are: iPhone OS, Android OS, and Windows Phone OS

2. Device Drivers
A device driver is a piece of software that controls a particular type
of device (peripheral) which may be attached to your computer, such as
a keyboard or a mouse. Each peripheral device that we connect to the
computer must have its unique driver software installed. Driver software
ensures communication of a specific device with the operating system. By
default certain for devices already in the market come with the operating
system and some have to be added at a later time when the a new device
is added to the computer.
Examples of devices which require drivers:
 Mouse
 Keyboard
 Soundcard
 Display card
 Network card
 Printer
If a device is newer than the operating system, the user may have to
download drivers from manufacturer websites or alternative sources.

3. Firmware
Firmware or microcode is software that is loaded into a special area on
a microprocessor or read-only memory(ROM) this software is permanent
or may be changed after a long period of using the computer. Firmware is
embedded in ROM, or EPROM memory chip for the OS to identify it. It

53
 directly manages and controls all activities of any single hardware.
Examples are:

The BIOS program (Basic Input/output System) is a program that runs

during POST (Power on Self Test) and it checks the computer to make
sure all basic configured devices are connected and are in place and
ready to be usable. It is the first software to run when a computer is
switched on. It first checks to make sure components like the processor,
RAM, keyboard, mouse and disk drives are functional. If all the crucial and
configured components are fine, it will run the boot loader.
 The boot program (boot loader) this program loads the operating
system into the computer's main memory or random access memory
(RAM).
The major difference between firmware and device drivers are is that
firmware will always reside within ROM or the processor while drivers are
installed into the operating system. All are used to identify computer
devices.

4. Programming Language Translators

These are intermediate programs are used by software programmers to
translate high-level language source code to machine language code.
Popular translator languages are assemblers, assemblers, compilers and
interpreters. They're usually designed by computer manufacturers.
(a) An assembler is a low level language translator that takes basic
computer instructions written in assembly language i.e. language written
pneumonic codes and convert the codes into a pattern of Bits (BInary
digiTS) called machine language. Machine language is a language of zeros
and ones. This is the language that all computers understand.

(b) Interpreters and compilers all translate high level language into
machine readable form however they differ in one way or the other. See
separate notes for more details on translators.
Besides simplifying the work of software developers, translators help in
various design tasks. They;
 Identify syntax errors during translation, thus allowing changes to be
made to the code.
 Provide diagnostic reports whenever the code rules are not followed.
 Allocate data storage for the program.

54
 List both source code and program details.

5. Utilities
Utilities are system software programs designed to perform diagnostic
and maintenance tasks for the computer . It is a type of system software
which sits between system and application software. They come in handy
to ensure the computer functions optimally.
Most are third-party tools but they may come bundled with the operating
system.
Examples and features of utility software include:
 Antivirus and security software for the security of files and applications,
e.g., Malware bytes, Microsoft Security Essentials, and AVG.
 Disk partition services such as Windows Disk Management, Ease Partition
Master, and Partition Magic.
 Disk defragmentation to organize scattered files on the drive. Examples
include Disk Defragmenter, Perfect Disk, Disk Keeper, Comodo Free
Firewall, and Little Snitch.
 File Compression to optimize disk space such as WinRAR, Winzip, and 7-
Zip.
 Data backup for security reasons, e.g., Cobian, Clonezilla, and Comodo.
 Hardware diagnostic services like Hard Disk Sentinel, Memtest, and
Performance Monitor.
 Data recovery to help get back lost data. Examples include iCare Data
Recovery, Recuva, and EaseUs Data Recovery Wizard.
 Firewall for protection against external threats, e.g., Windows Firewall.
 Etc

B] APPLICATION SOFTWARE

An application software (app or application for short) is a program

designed to perform user functions, tasks, or activities.

Application software is a term which is used for software created

for a specific purpose. It is generally a program or collection of
programs used by end users. It can be called an application or

55
 simply an app. Application software uses the capacity of a computer
directly for specific tasks and are used to manipulate text
( alphabetic letters and symbols) , images or graphics (pictures,
drawings and diagrams) , numbers ( digits 0-9.) audio and video
data.

Application Software Suite(also known as integrated package,

Off-The-Shelf Software or General Purpose software. )

Software suite is a collection of separate application programs

bundled and sold as a group. An application suite consists of multiple
applications bundled together. They usually have related functions,
features and user interfaces, and may be able to interact with each other,
e.g. open each other's files. Business applications often come in suites,
e.g. Microsoft Office, LibreOffice and iWork, which bundle together a word
processor, a spreadsheet, etc.; but suites exist for other purposes, e.g.
graphics or music. They come in four different types namely
productivity, specialized, utility and personal.

Custom software (also known as bespoke software , tailor-made

software, special purpose or on-the-shelf software) is software that
is specially developed for some specific organization or other user. As
such, it can be contrasted with the use of integrated packages developed
for the mass market, such as commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) software, or
existing free software. Since custom software is developed for a single
customer it can accommodate that customer's particular needs,
preferences and expectations. Custom software may be developed in an
iterative
Large companies commonly use custom software.
Custom software development is often considered expensive compared to
off-the-shelf solutions or products.
Examples of such programs are
 Content Management System (CMS)
 Customer Relationship Management (CRM)
 Business Process Automation System
 Automated Invoicing
 Company-Facing / Customer-Facing Web Portals
 Ecommerce software solutions
 Bug tracking software

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 BENEFITS OF CUSTOM MADE SOFTWARE

1. Simplicity
Bespoke software is designed specifically around your business so you
don’t have to worry about unwanted features or unfamiliar terminology
that is not appropriate to your business. This reduces learning time and is
obviously more efficient to use.
2. Branding and Identity
With unique tools, such as forms and auto messages in your brand voice,
you will stand out from the crowd. Sometimes even a simple detail can be
a key differentiator between you and the competition.
3. Efficient Workflow
it is both faster and easier to use.
4. Complete Development Ownership
There is no pressure to upgrade. This also means you won’t have
problems such as new versions not being backwards compatible with old
data or the screen layout changing and incurring a new learning curve.
It’s your software, and your decision.
5. Potential Marketability
a bespoke solution for you could become an off-the-shelf solution for
other businesses. You can sell it and make money.
6. Locally specific
most countries will have unique geographic parameters, such as currency,
time-zones and obviously languages. They may also have different
considerations for tax, VAT, and import duties. These can be fully
customized to your geographical areas.
7. Integration
Bespoke software can generally be customized to integrate smoothly with
any other key software used within the business – and introducing new
applications doesn’t mean the previous integrations will stop working.

WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN PURCHASING APPLICATION SOFTWARE

 Functionality Needed-can it solve your challenges

 Implementation-hoe long and complicated is it o implement.
 Support-can you get support from developers.
 IT Infrastructure-does it work well with the machines you have.
 Global expertise-is the owner a well known service provider
 Pricing –how much does it cost.

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CATEGORIES OF APPLICATION SOFTWARE

Multimedia Software:

Multimedia software allow users to create images, audios and videos.

Examples of these include Media Player, Virtual DJ, Quick time player
etc

Word Processing software - Use this kind of tool to create and edit
documents such as type letters, type novels , type notes, etc. Examples
are MS Word, WordPerfect, MS Works, AppleWorks , and Lotus Word Pro .

Desktop Publishing software - Use this software to make signs,

banners, greeting cards, illustrative worksheets, newsletters, etc.
examples are Adobe PageMaker, MS Word, MS Publisher, AppleWorks, MS
Works, Quark Express,

Spreadsheet software - Use this kind of tool to compute number-

intensive problems such as budgeting, forecasting, etc. A spreadsheet will
plot nice graphs very easily. Examples are MS Excel, Quattro Pro, Lotus 1-
2-3, MS Works, AppleWorks,

Database software - Use this software to store data such as address,

membership and other text information. A database can be used to easily
sort and organize records. Examples are, Filemaker Pro, AppleWorks, MS
Works, Corel Paradox, Microsoft Access , Lotus Approach,
Boland, Dbase IV

Presentation software - Use this software to create multimedia stacks

of cards/screens that can effectively present a lesson or a sales pitch. The
user often clicks on buttons to advance to the next screen in a sequence.
Examples are MS PowerPoint, AppleWorks (slideshows), HyperStudio,
Flash, Director, HyperCard, Digital Chisel, SuperCard, Corel Envoy,

Internet Browsers - This software allows one to surf the Web. Often
they can read email and create Web pages too. Examples are Netscape

58
 Navigator (or Netscape Communicator), MS Internet Explorer, AOL
Browser, Google Chrome, UC browser etc

Email programs - These programs send and receive email. Examples are
Netscape Messenger (part of Netscape Communicator), MS Outlook
Express, MS Outlook, Eudora, AOL browser.

Graphics Programs (pixel-based) - This software allows one to touch

up photographs and create graphics from scratch. Examples are Adobe
Photoshop, Paint Shop Pro, AppleWorks, MS Works, MS Paint (comes free
on Windows PC's), Painter etc

Graphics Programs (vector-based) - This software creates graphics

that are similar to illustrations or cartoon drawings. Adobe Illustrator,
Corel Draw, AppleWorks, MS Works.

Communications software - This software allows two computers with

modems to communicate through audio, video, and/or chat-based means.
Examples are MS NetMeeting, AOL Instant Messenger, IRC, ICQ, CU-
SeeMe.

 Educational software is related to content access software, but has the

content or features adapted for use in by educators or students. For
example, it may deliver evaluations (tests), track progress through
material, or include collaborative capabilities. More Examples are Driving
test software, Interactive geometry software, Language learning software,
Notetaking (Comparison of notetaking software), Software for enabling
simulated dissection of human and animal bodies (used in medical and
veterinary college courses)[4], Spelling tutor software, Typing tutors,
Reading Instruction, Medical and healthcare educational software

Entertainment Software can refer to video games, screen savers,

programs to display motion pictures or play recorded music, and other
forms of entertainment which can be experienced through use of a
computing device. Can be part of multimea software.

Programming software or Software development tool

Programming software is a software which helps the programmer
in developing other software. Programming software is
a program or set of programs which helps the software developers
by assisting them in creating, debugging and maintaining other
programs and applications . Programming software is also known
as programming tool or software development tool. Examples

59
 are Java, C, C++, Visual Basic, C Sharp(C#), PHP, Python , Ruby,
JavaScript, SQL, etc.

Mobile Application software (Mobile App)

A mobile application, most commonly referred to as an app, is a type of
application software designed to run on a mobile device, such as a
Smartphone or tablet computer. Mobile applications frequently serve to
provide users with similar services to those accessed on PCs. Apps are
generally small, individual software units with limited function. A mobile
application also may be known as an app, web app, online app, iPhone
app or Smartphone app. You can name them.

EXERCISE
 identify types of software

60
 CHAPTER 7
Application of Computer Science
We have learnt in chapter one that a computer is a tool we can use to make our everyday
easier. Now let’s see how they are used or they can be used in each of the following areas.

A] APPLICATION OF COMPUTERS IN AGRICULTURE

Agriculture refers to the growing of crops and rearing of livestock. The following are
some of the uses of computers in agriculture:

1. Keeping records such as budget information, farm equipment inventories and animal
health forms .Like many small business owners’ farmers also use basic computer
programs such as databases for this

2. Farm implements such as tractors, fertilizers sprayers have computers that farmers
can program to automatically adjust the amount of fertilizers according to the
requirements of soil and crops which help in improving soil and higher crop yield.

3. Monitoring and Control systems for farm implements such as combine harvesters
and control system for green houses

4. Farmers often use global positioning system (GPS) receivers to electronically map
factors and areas that might affect crop yield, such as wet spots and weed patches

5. With regard to livestock farming, ready-made computer applications are available to

track individual animals, storing and evaluating information such as age, health
records, milk production, offspring productivity, and reproductive cycle status. This is
often called herd recording.

6. Communication: Through internet forums, social networking sites and online

knowledge bases farmers get lot of information. With these they contact with other
farmers and experts and exchange know-how. There are many online databases,
articles, newspapers in which there is lot of information available for farmers which
help them in increasing productivity.

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7. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are being used for developing ranking
systems that evaluate land and provide a site assessment to aid what is now known
as precision agriculture. These hi-tech, interactive systems provide information
based on a variety of factors such as soil conditions, drainage and slope conditions,
soil pH and nutrient status, etc. Precision agriculture provides farmers with control by
predicting vital information including fertilizer application and problems with
drainage, insects, and weeds.

8. Global Positioning System (GPS) based technologies also help to monitor irrigation,
field mapping, soil sampling, tractor guidance and crop scouting. This kind of
technology equips farmers with enough information to increase crop yield in a
manner that is consistent with the best environmental practices for sustainable
agriculture.

9. Computer can also be used for inspection of agricultural implements, product quality
e.g. food quality etc

10. Keep track of weather patterns

11. Making crop rotation schedules
12. Making financial statements e.g. budgets and income and expenditure statements
and Preparing employee salary statements
13. Electronic commerce e.g. advertising products
As well as online shopping of fertilizers, chemicals and farm inputs.
14. Designing and Production of product labels
15. Used for research of developments in animal and crops as well as research for
seeds varieties and animal behavior
16. Used as expert systems to diagnosing animal diseases
17. Security and control of thieves or intruders using GIS application
18. Education and training of farmers
19. Work as robots in the construction of dams and other agricultural work.

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B] COMPUTER IN BANKING SYSTEMS
The following are some of the uses of computers in the banking system:
1. Storage of financial information for the bank and its clients.
2. Used to clear bank cheques using MICR(Magnetic ink character recognition)
3. Used for Printing correspondences, statements and account warnings, bank
cards, bank cheques etc
4. Used as security systems using CCTV, passwords and access cards and
security doors
5. Used for internal and external communication e.g. emails and chat sessions
6. Used for forms of online banking
7. Used for phone banking ( e.g. telecash, mukuru, Ecocash, onemoney etc )
8. Used for online (internet) banking e.g. make payments for ZESA and water
bills and apply for loans an also pay fees and home utilities.
9. Used for Electronic Funds transfer within same bank or bank to bank
10. Used for online application of bank loans
11. Used to process salaries
12. Used to prepare income and expenditure statements
13. Used for calculating foreign currency conversion
14. Used to read bank cards using chip and pin readers and smart card readers.
15. Used for ATM (Auto teller machine) to disburse money, deposit money,
change PIN (Personal Identification number) number, enquire account
balances and print mini statements.
16. Used to entertain clients with videos and music
17. Used for e-commerce (marketing the bank)
18. Used for bank biometric data capture (fingerprints, retinal scanning etc)
19. Used in the education and training of bank tellers
20. Used for communication using emails and other online platforms

ADVANTAGES OF COMPUTERS IN THE BANK

1. Computers are fast and accurate in handling information or making calculation
of money transactions

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 2. Banks can have fewer client queues due to use of ATMS and fewer bank
workers are required
3. Customers do not need to travel they can use online banking
4. People can do home banking
5. Easy to pay bills and school fees
6. Money can be withdrawn any time on the ATM 24/7
7. Less error at the bank
8. Bank tellers do not need to count money physically
9. etc

DISADVANTAGES OF USING COMPUTING IN BANKING

1. Customers can feel the lack of personal contact care
2. Customers do not trust machines alone when it comes to loan offering
3. Highly skilled workers may be required
4. Computers and phone and networks sometimes fail
5. May cause overspending as it is easy to withdraw money anywhere any time
6. Causes problems in times of cash shortages
7. Loyalty cards and phones are easily stolen
8. Loss of jobs
9. can lead to computer fraud
10. etc

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C] APPLICATION OF COMPUTERS IN EDUCATION
The following are some of the uses of computers in education:
1. Store school and student information such as first name, surname, class,
hobby etc
2. Researching assignments
3. E-learning( the use of computers in the learning processing) that is Computer
assisted learning e.g. how to type, Computer based learning i.e. Learning that
involves the use of a computer, Computer based training i.e. training
managed by a computer, Computer based testing i.e. examination managed
by a computer.
4. Used for preparing income and expenditures and manage schools fees
payment.
5. Communication with teachers, students, education officials, parents, other
schools and other stakeholders
6. Used as a teaching tool by teachers e.g. using MS PowerPoint slides
7. Used for school entertainment (music, games, and videos)
8. Used for managing students registration e.g. on line registration.
9. Printing exam papers, statements, posters and timetables
10. Making time tables and report cards
11. Used for training at universities and polytechnics e.g. nurses and doctors
using specialized software’s like CAD.
12. Managing students daily attendances by logging in
13. Application of educational loan
14. Designing students ID cards
15. Used as expert systems in specific subject matters
16. Used for electronic shopping of school materials e.g. books, vehicles etc
17. Used for marking examinations using OMR

Some of the Advantages of Computer in Education are:

1. Computer helps in easy storage of information in schools and colleges.

65
 2. Quick data processing is possible with the help of computer which plays an
important role in education.
3. Better presentation of information in schools and colleges is possible using
computer to improve education.
4. Computer also helps to access Internet to get more knowledge from the world.
5. Nowadays Quick communication is possible between parents, teachers and
students with the help of computer.
6. Computer allows students to learn advanced concept easily and effectively.
7. Audio - Visual aids. Easy and effective way to gain knowledge with the help of
computers.
8. With the recent advancement in the education industry, schools and colleges
started using computer technology for effective learning.
9. Computer also allows teachers to share ideas as well resources online using
computer network.
10. Online learning is now possible with the help of internet & computer, which
improves education in the world.
11. Desktop computer can be seen in schools and colleges which help students
and teachers to improve education.
12. Computer enhances classroom experiences by incorporating audio visual
media.

Some of the Disadvantages of Computer in Education are:

1. Some children spend more and more time in playing computer games which
may affect education.
2. They also waste their time in watching movies or videos on computer.
3. With the excessive use of computer, Students lacks the verbal as well as non
verbal skills which is very important for the development of social and
emotional skills.
4. Sitting in front of a computer for a long time may affect the eyes and health of
a student which may indirectly affect education.
5. High infrastructure cost, electricity cost and other additional cost may increase
by purchasing computer.
6. Exposure to inappropriate content is possible on social sites which may have
negative impact on students as well as education.

ACTIVITY
1. List 10 uses of computers at your school [10]
2. Find out on the types of software used at your school and what they are used for.
[10]

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 D] Social Networks
Social networking is the use of internet-based social media programs to make
connections with friends, family, classmates, customers and clients. Social
networking can occur for social purposes, business purposes or both. Social
networking is also a significant target area for marketers seeking to engage users

SOCIAL MEDIA
"Social media is an internet tool that people can use to communicate, participate,
share, network, collaborate and bookmarking online.

Common Features of social media

1. User accounts: each user creates his or her own accounts that they can log into
and which other users can access.

2. Profile pages: A page that includes information about the individual user, like a
profile photo, bio, website, feed of recent posts, recommendations, recent activity
and more.

3. Friends, followers, groups, hashtags and so on: Individuals use their accounts to
connect with other users. They can also use them to subscribe to certain forms of
information.

4. News feeds: When users connect with other users on social media, they're basically
saying, "I want to get information from these people." That information is updated for
them in real-time via their news feed.

Examples of social media

1. Facebook is a popular free social networking website that allows registered users to
create profiles, upload photos and video, send messages and keep in touch with
friends, family and colleagues.
2. Twitter is a free microblogging service that allows registered members to broadcast
short posts called tweets. Twitter members can broadcast tweets and follow other
users' tweets by using multiple platforms and devices.
3. Google+ was designed to replicate the way people interact offline more closely than
is the case in other social networking services.

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4. Wikipedia is a free, open content online encyclopedia created through the
collaborative effort of a community of users known as Wikipedians. Anyone
registered on the site can create an article for publication; registration is not required
to edit articles.
5. LinkedIn is a social networking site designed specifically for the professional
business community. The goal of the site is to allow registered members to establish
and document networks of people they know and trust professionally.
6. Reddit is a social news website and forum where stories are socially curated and
promoted by site members. Members submit content which is then voted upon by
other members. The goal is to send well-regarded stories to the top of the site's main
thread page.
7. Pinterest is a social curation website for viewing, sharing and categorizing images
found online. Clicking on an image will take you to the original source, so, for
example, if you click on a picture of a pair of shoes, you might be taken to a site
where you can purchase them.
8. WhatsApp: people show or share photos, messages, small videos, news,
posts, ,recent activity, update and more.

Advantages of using Social media

1. one gets connected worldwide and these connections can help with a variety of
things such as: Finding friends, Seeking a new job, Locating assistance, Getting and
giving product and service referrals, Receiving support from like-minded individuals,
Making or receiving career or personal advice, Sharing political beliefs and
Accessing news in real time

2. Find friends of same interest

When you opt to participate in a social network community, you can pick and choose
individuals whose likes and dislikes are similar to yours.

2:- Education – It is very easy way for teachers and students to learn from others
who are experts and professionals.

3:- Help – You can share your issues with the community to get help and giddiness.
4:- Information and Updates – The main advantage of the social media is that you
update yourself from the latest happenings around in the world.
5:- Promotion – Whether you have an offline business or online, you can promote
your business to the largest audience.
7:- Awareness – Social media also create awareness and innovate the way people
live. It is the social media which has helped people discover new and innovative
stuffs that can enhance personal lives
.8:- Helps Govt and Agencies Fight Crime- It is also one of the advantages of the
social media that it helps Governments and Security Agencies to spy and catch
criminals to fight crime.

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9:- Improves Business Reputation – Just like it can ruin any business reputation, It
can also improve business sales and reputation. Positive comments and sharing
about a company can help them with sales and goodwill.
10:- Helps in Building Communities – Since our world has different religions and
beliefs. Social media helps in building and participating in the community of own
religion and believes to discuss and learn about it.

Disadvantages of Social Media

1:- Cyberbullying – Since anyone can create a fake account and do anything
without being traced, it has become quite easy for anyone to bully on the Internet.
Threats, intimidation messages and rumors can be sent to the masses to create
discomfort and chaos in the society.
2: – Hacking – Personal data and privacy can easily be hacked and shared on the
Internet.
3:- Addiction – . The teenagers are the most affected by the addiction of the social
media.
4:- Fraud and Scams – Several examples are available where individuals have
scammed and commit fraud through the social media.
5:- Security Issues – Now a day’s security agencies have access to people
personal accounts. This makes the privacy almost compromised.
6:- Reputation – Social media can easily ruin someone’s reputation just by creating
a false story and spreading across the social media
7:- Cheating and Relationship Issues – Most of the people have used the social
media platform to propose and marry each other. However, after some time they
turn to be wrong in their decision and part ways. Similarly, couples have cheated
each other by showing the fake feelings and incorrect information.
8:- Health Issues – The excess usage of social media can also have a negative
impact on the health. Since exercise is the key to lose weight, most of the people get
lazy because of the excessive use of social networking sites.
9:- Social Media causes death – Not just by using it, but by following the stunts and
other crazy stuffs that are shared on the internet. For example bikers doing the
unnecessary stunts, people doing the jump over the trains and other life threatening
stuffs.
10. Time Waster -Research shows that a lot of time is spent online on social
networks. With these type of numbers, some of the time spent on social media
occurs at work. When these visits are for non-work related activity, it can cost
companies money through lost productivity.

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 APPLICATION OF COMPUTERS FOR RESEARCH AND
DEVELOPMENT

Almost every person is involved in research of one type or another. Research takes
place in homes, school and other organizations. Nurses, teachers, students, etc use
computers for research. Research can be carried out to do the following

1. Finding job vacancies and other vacancies in institution locally or abroad

2. Making research on Online news
3. Making researches for products and services available in organizations
4. Researching for new methods, equipment and skills.

• Computer Education: Many people in his world are seeking to understand how to
use computers i.e. the young and old.
• Computer Use for research: Almost all the researchers are using computer one or
other purposes.
• Purpose of using Computer: The research scholars are using computer for
preparing assignment, project, research and some extend to entertainment rather
business purpose
• Internet and World Wide Web: Almost all the respondents are aware of Internet
and World Wide Web and one third of them having good experiences in using
Internet and World Wide Web.
• The research scholars are not only depending upon the school or university Internet
Centre’s but also Cyber cafes and free WIFI zones. Only minimum number are
using in their home.
• Internet use Learning: The researchers are learnt Internet browsing by themselves
and through friends. This indicates that the syllabus does not have any course on
Internet study area
• Search Skills: Keyword search is preferred search methods adopted by the majority
of the researchers’ rather content/ topical search. The moderate level of satisfaction
they acquired through keyword search.

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• Search techniques: Boolean operators, phrase searching are some of search
techniques rarely being used by the researchers. The other techniques such as
nesting, truncation, controls, wildcard, etc never being used by the almost all the
research scholars.

The following are the uses of computers in the process

1. To store and retrieve researched data for further manipulation such as editing or
printing
2. Accessing the internet to see work done by others
3. Using the computer stored applications to read more information on a topic
4. Using simulation software during study
5. Making calculations wherever needed using spreadsheet and calculators programs
6. Analyzing data using computer based methods
7. Printing of finished works.
8. Communicating with others doing the same or similar research
9. Formatting a research document to make it presentable.

Type of Resources browsing:

• Bibliographic databases: It is not a preferred resource for browsing by the
research scholars.
• E-books: Almost all the researchers are not having the habit of using E-books.
• Audio-Video: Rarely it being used by the researchers.
• Full-text databases: Full-texts databases are preferred areas of interest of most of
the scholars.
• E-journals: The majority of the research scholars often use E-journals

71
72
73
 CHAPTER 8
Data Representation

BINARY NUMBER SYSTEM

Bit stands for binary digit.
A binary digit is the smallest unit of data capable of being stored in the
computer. A bit is a 0 or 1.

A binary number is a number system comprising of 0s and 1s to represent

digits, text, sound and graphics. E.g. 00000011 in binary form represents
number 3.

Different codes are used to represent data in the computer. E.g. American
Standard Code for Information Interchange (ASCII), Binary Coded Decimal
(BCD) etc. Using ASCII code letter A is represented as 01000001.

Once users press a letter, number, symbol or key on the keyboard the
processor converts that key press into its equivalent binary representation.
The word computer comes from the word compute, and to compute is to
crunch numbers or calculate and these numbers are computed or
calculated only in the form of bits. Our normal counting is done in decimal,
denary or base 10 and computers and digital machines work with bits.

Base 10 = 0123456789 there are ten digits but there is no number 10

only 0 to 9

Base 2 = 01 there are two digits 0 and 1 and there is no number 2.

These are the numbers computers work with.

STUDY THE TABLE BELOW AND SEE BASE 10 NUMBERS THAT ARE
EQUIVALENT TO BASE 2 NUMBERS

BASE 10 BASE 2 using 8 bit

(DECIMAL) system(BINARY)
0 00000000
1 00000001
2 00000010
3 00000011
4 00000100
5 00000101
6 00000110

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 7 00000111
8 00001000
9 00001001
10 00001010
11 00001011
12 00001100
13 00001101
14 00001110
15 00001111
16 00010000

ADVANTAGES OF USING BINANRY NUMBER SYSTEMS

 Binary number systems are easily implemented in any electronic system

as most gadgets in IT use on/off signals (0/1) and nothing else. On/off
signals provide very reliable operation in electronic processes.

 The binary language is a computer language or machine language. Data

does not need to be translated further than binary. Computers are
happier and faster with bits than any other data representations.

 The binary system works well for computers because the mechanical and
electronic relays recognize only two states of operation which was once
dismissed as primitive but has become central to the development of
computer science and many forms of electronics. Many important tools of
communication, including the typewriter, cathode ray tube, telegraph,
and transistor has its operational basis in binary.

 Binary language is used as universal language for all standardized IT

devices

 There is extremely a low possibility of errors when transferring data

because it is easy to decide the difference between the on and off state of
the circuit and some noise or disruption during the transfer process will
not disrupt that decision.

DISADVANTAGES OF USING BINANRY NUMBER SYSTEMS

 Binary representation is too long and inconvenient for humans to
manipulate. The process of writing out binary numbers and using
them in mathematical computation is long and cumbersome, making
it impractical to use binary numbers for everyday calculations
because it is less comprehensible to a human user.

75
 Computer have a task when working binary numbers because every
different type of data (e.g. words, numbers, images, music, speech)
must be converted to and from the binary representation for human
use.

 The on/off nature of circuits using binary causes issues when trying to
get high speed computations.

DATA REPRESENTATION USING BINARY

Most Computer components are made up of small electronic boards called chips.
The chips are made up of tiny components called logic gates. Data moves into and
out of these gates as zeros and ones.

LOGIC CIRCUITS/GATES
Logic gates are electronic digital circuit designed to perform logic functions. They
accept one or more logical bits performs logical operations on them and produce a
single logical output based on the logical inputs. In the logic circuits below A and B
represents logical inputs and C represent a logical output. Logical circuits differ in
shape and operation but may produce the same output.

Types of logic gates

Out of the six logical gates, there are only three basic circuits i.e. the
AND, OR and NOT. There are also three derived gates(gates formed from
the three basic ones) and these are NAND date, NOR gate and the XOR
Gate.

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SYMBOLS USED TO DENOTE LOGICAL OPERATORS
SYMBOL OPERATOR
● AND e.g. A.B read as A AND B
+ OR e.g. A+B read as A OR B

¯ NOT e.g. Ā read as NOT A

Or

TRUTH TABLE FOR THE AND GATE

INPUTS OUTPUT
A B C
0 0 0
0 1 0
1 0 0
1 1 1
C=A.B

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 Or

TRUTH TABLE FOR AND GATE

INPUTS OUTPUT
A B C
0 0 0
0 1 1
1 0 1
1 1 1
C=A+B

78
 Or

NOT
0 1

TRUTH TABLE FOR AND GATE

INPUT OUTPUT
A B
0 1
1 0
B=Ā

79
 OR

0
NOR 0
1

TRUTH TABLE FOR NOR GATE

INPUTS OUTPUT
A B C
0 0 1
0 1 0
1 0 0
1 1 0

C=A+B

80
 OR

0 NAND
1
1

TRUTH TABLE FOR NAND GATE

INPUTS OUTPUT
A B C
0 0 1
0 1 1
1 0 1
1 1 0

C= A.B

81
 OR

0
XOR 1
1

TRUTH TABLE FOR XOR (EXCLUSIVE OR) GATE

INPUTS OUTPUT
A B C
0 0 0
0 1 1
1 0 1
1 1 0

C= AΘB

CHAPTER 9
Communication Networks
82
NETWORK TERMS
• Packets - packets are pieces of data transmitted over a network.

What is a Computer Network?

A Computer network is a connection of two or more computers linked

together to share resources (such as printers and CD-ROMs), exchange
files, or allow electronic communications. The computers on a network
may be linked through cables, telephone lines, radio waves, satellites, or
infrared light beams.

USES OF COMPUTER NETWORKS

• Sharing of software and files

• Shared peripheral device such as Printers and faxes
• Networks are used for communication using Email, Tele
Conferencing, Videoconferencing, Audio-conferencing, Voice over
IP and Phone communication.
• Can be used to backup data away from the processing site. Egg
cloud storage

The two basic types of networks are:

 Local Area Network (LAN)

 Wide Area Network (WAN)

Local Area Network

A Local Area Network (LAN) is a network that is confined to a relatively

small area. The It is generally limited to a geographic area such as a
school computer lab, inside an institution or in one building.

The following are types of LANS.

PAN- Personal area network. A connection of computers for personal

use. E.g. when a person connects his or her cell phone, PDAs, MP3
players to his or her laptop.

CAN- Campus area network. A connection of computers in the same

organization at a premise such as in a school

83
TAN- Tiny area network. Connection of very few computers up to about
four computers.

HAN- Home Area Network: Small scale network in a home setup e.g.
such as a Connection of computers and entertainment appliances.

LANs are usually made up of the following:

(a) File and print servers
(b)Terminals(computers)also called clients
(c) Cables
(d)Network cards and hubs for star networks
(e) Network software

Wide Area Network

Wide Area Networks (WANs) connect larger geographic areas, such as in

a suburb, in a town, in a country, in a continent or in the whole world.
Wide area network are usually made of small network and in such
connections cables and satellites are used in linking up the computers.
To users, however, a WAN will not appear to be much different than a
LAN. The internet is a type of WAN.

THE FOLLOWING ARE TYPES OF WANS

1. Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)- network in a city area. Egg

Municipal or city council network
2. INTRANET
3. EXTRANET
4. INTERNET

CATEGORIES OF NETWORKS
There are two basic categories of networks as below:

(a) client-server network - is a network which consists of a group

of user PCs called clients that issue requests to a server e.g.
Novell Netware, Windows NT Server, Banyan Vines, Unix

(b)Peer-to-peer network – is a network that consists of a group of

PCs called peers that operate as equals and do not rely on central
control. PCs or clients rely on one another for services e.g.
Windows for Workgroups, Windows 95, Windows NT Workstation.

84
 Wireless networks
Are as a result of developments in wireless transmission media.
These have seen increased emphasis on wireless networks. Presently
wireless technology is mainly used in some LANs, WANs and mobile
computing where mobile machines connect to the home or office
network using cellular technology or satellite systems.

Reasons for wireless networks

(a) Spaces where cabling is impossible e.g. historical buildings where

renovation is prohibited for political reasons
(b)People who move around a lot in their work environment e.g.
network administrators, doctors, nurses
(c) People who travel a lot outside their work environment e.g. sales
executives, directors, journalists, highway police patrol officers,
etc
(d)Temporary installations e.g. temporary departments, offices and
branches set up for a specific purpose that will be removed later

Advantages of networking computers

 Speed. Networks provide a very rapid or fast method for sharing
and transferring files such as notes and learning exercises and
tests.
 Cost. Software can share and cost of buying individual licensed
software are reduced. The software can be easily upgraded.
 Security. There is controlled access to data and software.
Passwords and access limits can be set to avoid data loss or
corruption.
 Centralized Software Management. One of the greatest
benefits of installing a network is the fact that all of the software
can be loaded on one computer (the file server). This eliminates
that need to spend time and energy installing updates and
tracking files on independent computers throughout the building.
 Resource Sharing. Sharing resources is another area in which a
network exceeds stand-alone computers. Such as databases. Also
most people cannot afford to buy enough laser printers, fax
machines, modems, scanners, and CD-ROM players for each
computer. However, if these or similar peripherals are added to a
network, they can be shared by many users.
 Electronic Mail. The presence of a network provides the
hardware necessary to install an e-mail system. E-mail aids in
personal and professional communication for all school personnel,
and it facilitates the dissemination of information. Electronic mail

85
 on a LAN can enable students to communicate with teachers,
managers and peers at their own place or in the world.
 Workgroup Computing. Workgroup software (such as Microsoft
BackOffice) allows many users to work on a document or project
concurrently. For example, educators located at various schools
within a county could simultaneously contribute their ideas about
new curriculum standards to the same document and
spreadsheets.
 Simultaneous access to files or software . Files or software
can be accessed by many people at the same time.

Disadvantages of Installing Network

 Expensive to Install. Although a network will generally save

money over time, the initial costs of installation can be prohibitive.
Cables, network cards, and software are expensive, and the
installation may require the services of a technician.
 Requires Administrative Time. Proper maintenance of a
network requires considerable time and expertise. Many schools
have installed a network, only to find that they did not budget for
the necessary administrative support.
 The network or File Server May Fail. Although a file server is
no more susceptible to failure than any other computer, when the
files server "goes down," the entire network may come to a halt.
When this happens, the entire area may lose access to necessary
programs and files. The network may be affected by
environmental noise or physical damage.

NETWORK TOPOLOGIES
Topology refers to the physical or logical arrangement of
computers, devices and wires in a network. There are four basic
network topologies namely: Star, Ring, Bus and Mesh

1. BUS TOPOLOGY / LINEAR TOPOLOGY

– Also called linear bus
– One main line wire called the BUS connects all nodes
– Terminator ends the wires

86
 Advantages
• Easy to setup
• Small amount of wire
• Easy to connect a computer or peripheral to a linear bus.
• Requires less cable length than a star topology.
• Easy to extent the bus

Disadvantages

 Easy to crash
 Entire network shuts down if there is a break in the main cable.
 Terminators are required at both ends of the backbone cable.
 Difficult to identify the problem if the entire network shuts down.
 Not meant to be used as a stand-alone solution in a large building.
 Slow
 Congestion is common in bus network if number of computer
increases

2. STAR TOPOLOGY
• All nodes connect to a hub, a server or central computer. Most
common topology

87
 Advantages
• Easy to setup
• Easy to install and wire or add up a client
• No disruptions to the network when connecting or removing devices.
• Easy to detect faults and to remove parts.
• If One cable is not functioning the system cannot crash

Disadvantages
• If the central computer crashes the entire network breaks down
• Requires more cable length than a linear topology.
• More expensive than linear bus topologies because of the cost of the
concentrators.
• Uses lots of cable

3. RING TOPOLOGY
– Nodes connected in a circle
– Tokens used to transmit data. Nodes must wait for token to send or
communicate. Data transmitted in one direction.

88
 Advantages
• Time to send data is known
• No data collisions
• Every computer has equal access to the token

Disadvantages
• Generally Slow in communication
• Lots of cable are required
• A fault on the cable makes the whole network down

4. MESH TOPOLOGY
– All computers connected together. Internet is a mesh network.

89
 Advantage
• Data will always be delivered as there are many channels to
transmit data.

Disadvantages
• Lots of cable
• Hard to setup
• Expensive to setup

CHAPTER 10
90
The Internet and Technologies

INTERNET (INTERnational NETwork)

THE INTERNET (the information superhighway)

Is a global network of interconnected networks connected to each other
by telephone lines and satellite systems. It is a worldwide network of
computer networks.

The Internet is a complicated information storage system where files are

located in thousands of sites across the world. The files contain a variety
of information ranging from text, graphics, and software, video and
audio recordings.

Internet Service Providers(ISP)

Are government, large companies or universities which run networks
that acts as a gateway and connects all other users to the Internet.
Individuals and other companies go through these companies to have a
connection on the Internet. In Zimbabwe examples of the ISPs are:

(a) Africa online

(b)samara
(c) zarnet
(d)mweb
(e) ecoweb
(f) econet
(g)ZOL

ISP may also be referred to as IAP(Internet Access Providers). They sale

internet services to uses. This is where we make payment to, to get
airtime for using the internet. Once registered with an ISP, users are
given an Internet address that makes it possible for his or computer to
be identified on the internet. Write in the box below, the form of an
internet address.

EQUIPMENT NECESSARY TO ACCESS THE INTERNET

(a) PC

91
 (b)MODEM(MOdulator/DEModulator)
(c) Telephone line
(d)Specialist connection software(provided by ISP)

Once you have the above, you then contact an ISP who will
issue the following:

(a) IP( Internet Protocol) address

(b)Telephone number(to dial in order to get a connection)

ADVANATGES OF THE INTERNET

-can be accessed from anywhere
-information is up to date
-multimedia can be used
-huge amounts of information available
-Search engine assist in finding information
-different types of computers can be used
-using emails makes communication easier and cheaper

DISADVANTAGES OF INTERNET
-expensive equipment used
-One needs training ,knowledge and skills to use internet
-problems of hackers
-problems of virus distribution
-facilitates breaking of copyright rules
-leads to loss of privacy
-causes addiction
-pornography to young people is a ethical problem

CHAPTER 11

92
Internet services
SERVICES ON THE INTERNET
(This is what we can do with or get on the internet)

(a) e-mail facility – one can create an e-mail address on the

Internet and send or receive e-mail messages

(b)browsing and downloading information to one’s computer

(c) file transfer from one computer to another using the FTP(File
Transfer Protocol)

(d)Internet shopping and banking

(e) newsgroups and chartrooms which allows one to access a wide

range of information and postings from various registered users

(f) previewing movies and playing audio recordings(music)

(g)business and academic research

(h)electronic libraries which allows one to access an electronic

copy of a book provided you a registered member

(i) viewing some TV channels and radio stations

(j) bulletin board services where one can post a question which
will be answered by anyone

(k) e-commerce (buying and selling over the internet)

(l) teleconferencing(a methods of holding discussions with several

people in different location over the internet)

A] E-MAIL (ELECTRONIC MAIL)

93
 Is a text message created on a computer and sent over a
computer and telecommunications network.

The text message is sent over a telephone system from the

sending computer to a central computer known as the electronic
post office, which allocates disk space to act as an electronic mail
box for each user. To access the mailbox, the user will have to
enter the password, which acts as a key to the mailbox. The
password is important because it acts as a security measure for
the mailbox. To be able to use and receive e-mails, the user must
have an e-mail address and a computer connected to a telephone
line with either an in-built MODEM or external MODEM.

The above simply means, Tindo has an e-mail account with an

academic institution called Elisegledhill based in Zimbabwe.

NOTE:
Ac: refers to academic institution such as college, university or
school
Org: refers to organization
Co/com : refers to company or co-operation or commercial
organisation

E-mail address may differ with organizations as shown below:

 nyasha@hotmail.com
 brendon@netone.co.zw
 john@netscape.net,
 Michael@gmail.com

B] E-COMMERCE
E-commerce is buying and selling goods and service online. It is doing
business on the Internet.

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 EXAMPLES OF ECOMMERCE

 Online shopping
Buying and selling goods on the Internet. Buyers browse and purchase
products with mouse clicks.

 Electronic Payments
When you are buying goods online and paying online. It reduces the
inefficiency associated with writing and mailing cheques. It also does
away with many of the safety issues that arise due to payment made
in currency notes.

 Online auctions
Online auctions are an efficient mechanism for price discovery. Many
buyers find the auction shopping mechanism much interesting than
regular storefront shopping.

 Internet banking
Performing bank transaction using the internet, such as money
transfers.

 Online ticketing
Air tickets, movie tickets, train tickets, play tickets, tickets to sporting
events, and just about any kind of tickets can be booked online.
Online ticketing does away with the need to queue up at ticket
counters.

ADVANTAGES OF ECOMMERCE
 Faster buying/selling procedure, as well as easy to find products.
 Buying/selling 24/7.
 More reach to customers, there is no theoretical geographic limitations.
 Low operational costs and better quality of services.
 No need of physical company set-ups.
 Easy to start and manage a business.
 Customers can easily select products from different providers without
moving around physically.
 Using E-commerce site will decrease the cost related with client’s
base, consumer loyalties and higher deals it produces.
 The Problems related with running a retail location will lessen on the
grounds due to reason that exchange is done through a site and
not through a guiding store, likewise, the cost of lighting, leasing,
staffing and restocking a store will totally take out.
 Your business can reach every corner of the geographical location, it
empowers the business to reach in worldwide markets with

95
 national and global requests. What’s more, your business action is
no longer limited with any geological limitations.
 With this, and even private company can get to the worldwide
markets for offering and purchasing of products and ventures.
 The client or consumer can buy and pay the amount and
transactions is carried out 24 hours a day and on holidays and
weekends.
 It gives the consumer an option to compare the prices and at the
same time also benefited the customers for cheaper products at
fine quality.
 No need to stand in big queues or on hold waiting for your turn.
 Various amazing deals and coupons are available to provide an extra
discount.
 Managing the stocks, and inventory is an easy process also the
records of payments and payouts can be done easily.

DISADVANTAGES OF ECOMMERCE
 Any one, good or bad, can easily start a business. And there are many
bad sites which eat up customers’ money.
 There is no guarantee of product quality.
 Mechanical failures can cause unpredictable effects on the total
processes.
 As there is minimum chance of direct customer to company interactions,
customer loyalty is always on a check.
 There are many hackers who look for opportunities, and thus an
ecommerce site, service, payment gateways, all are always prone to
attack.
 Delivery time of the product is more.
 Unavailability of touching off and feeling of the product.
 In case of items of clothing you have to buy without trying.
 Sometimes wrong or damaged product is delivered then the
problem of returning and getting money back is a still difficult
process.
 You have to wait for the delivery person because he can come at
any time doesn't matter you are busy or what you have to collect
your item or should wait for some extra days.
 Sometimes you find an image of the product very attractive but
the product you received does not match with the image you
actually viewed on the website.
 Internet access is still not cheaper and is inconvenient to use for
many potential customers like one living in remote villages.
 Every people is not digitally literate so that he/she is not capable
of buying the product.

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C] E-LEARNING
E learning is any form of learning in which digital communication,
electronic devices or the internet is used to support the learning
process.

It is the use of technology to enable people to learn anytime and

anywhere i.e. learning through the use of electronic media(such as
TVs, Computers, radios, CD ROMs, audio and video, online lectures, e-
mail, screen sharing, chats, fax, news groups, quick reference guides,
etc. ) It is important to remember that it does not necessarily require
either a computer or an internet connection but only the use of
electronics.

E-learning resources we use are diverse and include the

following:

 Online learning resources.

 Tasks and Assignments that can both be downloaded and
completed and then e-mailed to your Trainer/Assessor or
uploaded to your e-portfolio or alternatively downloaded and
kept for future reference.
 Dynamic learning platform where you will complete initial
assessment and diagnostics tests to ascertain your maths and
English abilities. Dynamic learning will also give you access to a
broad range of training materials to improve your skills
in ,maths and English.
 Website Links where you will be able to select your own learning
resources.
 Website Links where you will be able to access information
relating to the underpinning knowledge with regards to the
qualification you’re completing.
 Interactive Learning Materials.
 Access to the Standards for the qualification you are completing.
 24 hour access to all training materials and your e-portfolio.
 On line tests.
 The opportunity to upload all types of media as evidence towards
your qualification.
 Online Assessment Plans and target setting.
 Ability to see your progress on an ongoing basis.
 Mobile learning

M-learning

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 Mobile learning means learning using portable devices that allow
the student to learn in different environments and whilst on the
move instead of being restricted to a classroom setting or tied to a
desk. Mobile learning is, of course, by its electronic nature, a
subset of e-learning, but it refers far more specifically to these
handheld devices and portable technology.

Advantages and Disadvantages of eLearning

 Class work can be scheduled around work and family
 Reduces travel time and travel costs for off-campus students
 Students may have the option to select learning materials that
meets their level of knowledge and interest
 Students can study anywhere they have access to a computer
and Internet connection
 Self-paced learning modules allow students to work at their own
pace
 Flexibility to join discussions in the bulletin board threaded
discussion areas at any hour, or visit with classmates
and instructors remotely in chat rooms
 Instructors and students both report eLearning fosters more
interaction among students and instructors than in large
lecture courses
 eLearning can accommodate different learning styles
and facilitate learning through a variety of activities
 Develops knowledge of the Internet and computers skills that
will help learners throughout their lives and careers
 Successfully completing online or computer-based courses
builds self-knowledge and self-confidence and encourages
students to take responsibility for their learning
 Learners can test out of or skim over materials already
mastered and concentrate efforts in mastering areas containing
new information and/or skills
 Faster delivery. Organizing training sessions can be time-
consuming and expensive—especially if your employees are
scattered around the country or the world. With e-learning,
employees can get the training they need when they need
 Learners may have the option to select learning materials that
meets their level of knowledge and interest
 Learners can study wherever they have access to a computer
and Internet
 Self-paced learning modules allow learners to work at their own
pace
 Flexibility to join discussions in the bulletin board threaded
discussion areas at any hour, or visit with classmates and
instructors remotely in chat rooms

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  Different learning styles are addressed and facilitation of
learning occurs through varied activities
 Development of computer and Internet skills that are
transferable to other facets of learner's lives
 Successfully completing online or computer-based courses
builds self-knowledge and self-confidence and
encourages students to take responsibility for their learning

Disadvantages of online or computer-based learning

 Learners with low motivation or bad study habits may fall

behind
 Without the routine structures of a traditional class, students
may get lost or confused about course activities and deadlines
 Students may feel isolated from the instructor and classmates
 Instructor may not always be available when students are
studying or need help
 Slow Internet connections or older computers may
make accessing course materials frustrating
 Managing computer files and online learning software
can sometimes seem complex for students with beginner-level
computer skills
 Hands-on or lab work is difficult to simulate in a virtual
classroom
 Unmotivated learners or those with poor study habits may fall
behind
 Lack of familiar structure and routine may take getting used to
 Students may feel isolated or miss social interaction
 Instructor may not always be available on demand
 Slow or unreliable Internet connections can be frustrating
 Managing learning software can involve a learning curve
 Some courses such as traditional hands-on courses can be
difficult to simulate

CHAPTER 12
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Security and Ethics (Unhu/Ubuntu/Vumunhu)

CYBER USE
CYBER WELLNESS

What is Cyber Wellness

Cyber Wellness (CW) refers to the positive well-being of Internet

users.

It involves an understanding of online behavior and awareness

of how to protect oneself in cyberspace. The focus of CW is
about helping students to become responsible digital
learners. Students should demonstrate respect for self and
others and practice safe and responsible use. Students should
also be a positive peer influence by harnessing technology for
collaboration, learning and productivity, as well as
advocating positive use of technology for the good of the
community.

Principles
(1) Respect for Self and Others
Students need to:

 uphold their own dignity when online (e.g. share appropriate

content and participate in only legal online activities)
 respect other people online (e.g. put themselves in others’ shoes,
accept diverse views and opinions, give credit when using other
people’s work and seek permission where necessary, avoid sharing
hurtful materials).

(2) Safe and Responsible Use

Students need to:

 Have an understanding of the risks of harmful and illegal online

behaviours, and take steps to protect themselves (e.g. keep their
personal information private, verify the reliability of information
using various sources, take steps to avoid dangers they may
encounter online).

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  make wise and healthy choices (e.g. maintain a healthy balance of
their online and offline activities)

(3) Positive Peer Influence

Students need to:

 be a positive role model online (e.g. share healthy and positive

content, harness the affordances of technology to do good for
society)
 advocate positive online behavior (e.g. stand up for their peers
online, report cases of cyber bullying to a trusted adult/authority,
post encouraging remarks on social media)

CYBER-CULTURE.
A cyber culture may be defined as a way of life and even speaking that
takes place entirely online. This culture has emerged, or is
emerging, from the use of computer networks for
communication, entertainment, and business. It is also the study
of various social phenomena associated with the Internet and other new
forms of the network communication, such as online communities,
online multi-player gaming, social gaming, social media, mobile apps,
augmented reality, and texting, and includes issues related to identity,
privacy, and network formation.

MANIFESTATIONS OF CYBERCULTURE
Cyber culture refers to values and norms that emanate from use of
computer networks. They can be activities, pursuits, games, places and
metaphors, and include a diverse base of applications. Examples include
but are not limited to:
- Blogs
- Chat
- Bulletin Board System
- Cybersex
- E-Commerce
- Games
- Internet memes
- Peer to peer file-sharing
- Social Networks
- Usenets
- Visual worlds

QUALITIES OF CYBERCULTURE
 It is a mixture of several cultures across the network or globe

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 It Placeless culture
 It is highly dynamic
 Relies heavily on the notion of information and knowledge exchange.

 Is a “cognitive and social culture, not a geographic one.

 Is “the product of like-minded people finding a common ‘place’ to
interact.
 Is inherently more "fragile" than traditional forms of community and
culture

Effects of the Cyber Culture

The internet affected how people:

 Make Friends
 Shop
 Learn
 Transmit Files
 Make a Living
 Romantic Relationships
 Entertain themselves and others
 Look for employment

SIDE EFFECTS OF CTBBER CULTURE

 Withdrawal of the human communication.

 Handshakes become weaker
 cyber bullying is high
 Hacking is common
 Viruses are spread easily
 hurtful words can be exchanged easily

HANDLING ONLINE CONTENT

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How to check a website is safe
Google Safe browsing is a good place to start. Type in this URL
http://google.com/safebrowsing/diagnostic?site= followed by the site
you want to check, such as google.com or an IP address. It will let you
know if it has hosted malware in the past 90 days. If the site is not safe
then you can block it. You can also tell others about this unsafe site.

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ONLINE RELATIONSHIPS

An internet relationship or online is a relationship between people

who have met online, and in many cases know each other only via
the Internet Online relationships are similar in many ways to pen
pal relationships. This relationship can be romantic, platonic, or even
based on business affairs. The major difference here is that an internet
relationship is sustained via computer or online service, and the
individuals in the relationship may or may not ever meet each other in
person. Otherwise, the term is quite broad and can include relationships
based upon text, video, audio, or even virtual character. This
relationship can be between people in different regions, different
countries, different sides of the world, or even people who reside in the
same area but do not communicate in person.

QUESTIONS

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 1. Write a list of those things that one should not practice or do on the
internet
2. Write a list of those good things that one should do when using the
internet
3. List down a number of things that you should do to keep yourself
safe when using the internet.

EXERCISE
 outline the characteristics of cyber culture and its impact
 describe the characteristics of safe and unsafe sites
 suggest effects of online content and behaviour
 Blocking unsafe websites

COPYRIGHT
What is copyright
• The legal right granted to an author, composer, playwright,
publisher, or distributor to exclusive publication, production, sale, or
distribution of a literary, musical, dramatic, or artistic work.

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 What does copyright do?
• It gives authors or artists the legal right to exclude others from
using their works.

Copyright information
• Copyright protects “original works of authorship” that are fixed in “a
tangible form of expression.”
• Rights begin at the moment of “fixation.”
• Copyright is automatic when a protectable work has been fixed in a
tangible medium such as a floppy disk or hard drive.
• A poem or picture is as much protected on a disk as on a piece of
paper or on a canvas.

What is it that should be protected

· literary works (all text including computer software)
· musical works
· dramatic works
· pantomimes & choreographic works
· pictorial, graphic, & sculptural works
· motion pictures & other audiovisual works
· sound recordings
· architectural works
· ideas, concepts, or discoveries
· titles, names, short phrases, and slogans
· works that are not fixed in a tangible form of expression such as
improvised speech or dance
· works consisting entirely of information that is commonly available
and contains no originality
· anything written or created by the government

What rights does the owner control?

• Rights to:
· make copies of the work
· distribute copies of the work
· perform the work publicly (such as for plays, film, or music)
· display the work publicly (such as for artwork, or any material used
on the internet or television)
· make “derivative works” (including making modifications,
adaptations or other new uses of a work, or translating the work to
another media)
·

How long does copyright protection last?

Differs from country to country however in the USA it is:
· for the life of the author, plus 70 years
· 95 years for corporations

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 How can I tell if certain work has a copyright
• Look for trademark information
• Contact author if possible
• Some items have statements for copyright

When can you use copyrighted material?

• Personal, academic, not-for-profit use – some authors will let you use
• Give the author credit
– Linking to author’s site
• This falls under “Fair Use”
• Fair Use id a doctrine in the copyright law that allows limited use of
copyrighted material without requiring permission from the rights
holders such as for commentary, criticism, news reporting, research,
teaching or scholarship.

Use your best judgment

• Everything on Web is copyrighted property of someone
• Academic use does NOT automatically protect you from being sued
for copyright infringement.

Plagiarism and Piracy

Plagiarism is the use of another's original words or ideas as
though they were your own. Plagiarism occurs when a writer
deliberately uses someone else’s language, ideas, or other original
material without acknowledging its source.

Plagiarism is:
1) to steal and pass off (the ideas or words of another) as one's own
2) to use (another's production) without crediting the source
3) to commit literary theft
4) To present as new and original an idea or product derived from an
existing source.

In other words, plagiarism is an act of fraud. It involves both stealing

someone else’s work and lying about it afterward.

All of the following are considered plagiarism:

• turning in someone else’s work as your own
• copying words or ideas from someone else without giving credit
• failing to put a quotation in quotation marks
• giving incorrect information about the source of a quotation

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• changing words but copying the sentence structure of a source
without giving credit
• copying so many words or ideas from a source that it makes up the
majority of your work, whether you give credit or not

Most cases of plagiarism can be avoided, however, by citing

sources. Simply acknowledging that certain material has been
borrowed, and providing your audience with the information
necessary to find that source, is usually enough to prevent
plagiarism.

Types of Plagiarism
1) “The Ghost Writer” The writer turns in another’s work, word-for-
word, as his or her own.
2) “The Photocopy” The writer copies significant portions of text
straight from a single source, without alteration.
3) “The Potluck Paper” The writer tries to disguise plagiarism by
copying from several different sources, tweaking the sentences to make
them fit together while retaining most of the original phrasing.
4) “The Poor Disguise” Although the writer has retained the essential
content of the source, he or she has altered the paper’s appearance
slightly by changing key words and phrases.
5) “The Labor of Laziness” The writer takes the time to paraphrase
most of the paper from other sources and make it all fit together,
instead of spending the same effort on original work.
6) “The Self-Stealer” The writer “borrows” generously from his or her
previous work, violating policies concerning the expectation of
originality adopted by most academic institutions.
7) “The Forgotten Footnote” The writer mentions an author’s name
for a source, but neglects to include specific information on the location
of the material referenced. This often masks other forms of plagiarism
by obscuring source locations.
8) “The Misinformer” The writer provides inaccurate information
regarding the sources, making it impossible to find them.
9) “The Too-Perfect Paraphrase” The writer properly cites a source,
but neglects to put in quotation marks text that has been copied word-
for-word, or close to it. Although attributing the basic ideas to the
source, the writer is falsely claiming original presentation and
interpretation of the information.
10) “The Resourceful Citer” The writer properly cites all sources,
paraphrasing and using quotations appropriately. The catch? The paper
contains almost no original work! It is sometimes difficult to spot this
form of plagiarism because it looks like any other well-researched
document.

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11) “The Perfect Crime” Well, we all know it doesn’t exist. In this
case, the writer properly quotes and cites sources in some places, but
goes on to paraphrase other arguments from those sources without
citation. This way, the writer tries to pass off the paraphrased material
as his or her own analysis of the cited material.

Punishment for plagiarism

Punishment can be classified as:
(a) Academic punishment, where student work may not be
considered by the school or university because it has been
copied.
(b) Institutional punishment, varies from one institution to
another
(c) Legal punishment, where the owner takes one to court

PIRACY
Piracy is the unauthorized copying, distribution, use,
reproduction, sale or storage of intellectual property (IP)
protected under copyright law. It is a form of copyright
infringement.

Software piracy
Software piracy is the copying, distribution, or use of software without
the owner’s permission.

There Are Five Main Types of Software Piracy

 Soft lifting: Borrowing and installing a copy of a software
application from a colleague.
 Client-server overuse: Installing more copies of the software than
you have licenses for.
 Hard-disk loading: Installing and selling unauthorized copies of
software on refurbished or new computers.
 Counterfeiting: Duplicating and selling copyrighted programs.
 Online OR INTERNET piracy: Typically involves uploading or
downloading illegal software from peer-to-peer network, Internet
auction or blog.
 End User Piracy
this occurs when an individual reproduces copies of software
without authorization. These include:
 Using one licensed copy to install a program on multiple computers

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  Copying discs for installation or distribution
 Taking advantage of upgrade offers without having a legal copy of
the version to be upgraded
 Acquiring academic or other restricted or non-retail software
without a proper license
 Swapping discs in or outside the workplace.

CHAPTER 14
System Analysis and Design

SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT LIFE CYCLE (SDLC)

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DEFINITION OF TERMS
1. System -A system is a collection of components working together to
achieve a common goal. An example is a Computer system which is
made up of elements (input, process, storage, output, control) that
makes it possible for a computer to be usable. The computer system is
made up of components working together to make it function (i.e. the
keyboard, mouse CPU, monitor, printer etc)

2. Development: This means building up ( the system must be built up)

3. Life cycle: this refers to activities that are continuously and periodically
done to keep the system in existence or keep it going on and on.

4. Systems development life cycle (SDLC) therefore refers to a series of

stages or/and activities that are followed to introduce a new system or
maintain an existing system. It can also be defined as the process of
analyzing, designing and implementing a system.

5. System analyst- is an information technology (IT) professional who

specializes in analyzing, designing and implementing information
systems.

EXAMPLES OF SYSTEMS
1. Personal computer (keypad/board, mouse/touchpad, screen, etc)
2. Computer department at a company
3. The blood circulatory system
4. Rainfall system
5. Student registration system
6. Voter registration system
7. Car registration system
8. The school is a system(made up of students, teachers, buildings,
grounds etc)

CAUSES OF SYSTEM DEVELOPMENTS

1. Change of management. A new manager may suggest and
implement changes to a system
2. Changes in government policies. New laws may result in a system
changing or adjusting the way it operates
3. Product quality improvement or introducing a new product
4. Development of new technology(new machine or software)
5. Market changes
6. Workflow (more products needed as output)
7. Automation(changing manual processes to use machines)
8. Integration with other systems
9. Reducing duplication of data handling methods

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 What is the
problem/work which
must be done
PROBLEM IDENTIFICATION
10. Improving system performance, speed and time to process data
11. Present system is ageing, has not been upgraded and is now
becoming difficult to maintain
FEASIBILITY
REVIEW/EVALUATION STUDY
12. Easier system development
AND MAINTENANCE
in the future
13. Supporting an increased number of system users
14. Improving data storage
15. No longer supplying a specific range ofANALYSIS
productsSTAGE
16. Changes in hardware

IMPLEMENTATION STAGE
SDLC MODEL
SDLC is made up of seven distinct stages as follows
DESIGN STAGE

DEVELOPMENT STAGE

1. PROBLEM IDENTIFICATION AND DESCRIPTION

(INITIAL INVESTIGATION)

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Terms of reference document
(a) This is a stage where the current system problems or errors or
weaknesses are identified and named and or listed.
(b)Each error, problem or weakness is described so that it is clear what
it means as well as its scope (depth)
(c) A description of how the system must operate(its aims, objectives,
scope, boundary etc )
(d)A description of system outputs
(e) Time required for system processes
(f) System constraints (areas that must not be changed)
(g)A written report to system management about the problems, errors
or weaknesses
(h)Suggested ways of solving the weaknesses, errors or problem.

FACT FINDING TECHNIQUES OR METHODS

There are basically many methods of collecting data and these include
-interviews
-questionnaires
-record inspection
-observation

(a) OBSERVING THE EXISTING SYSTEM

this involves watching events take place or watching personnel at work
to find out
exactly what happens and how they work. There are a number of
advantages and disadvantages of using this method to gather
information about the existing system:

Advantages
- The analyst obtains reliable data
- it is possible to see exactly what is being done
- this is an inexpensive method compared to other
techniques
Disadvantages
-people are generally uncomfortable being watched and may work in a
different way
- what they are watching may not be representative of a typical day’s
work
- if workers perform tasks that violate standard procedures, they may
not do this when being watched!!

(B) QUESTIONNAIRES
this involves sending out simple to answer typed and printed
questions to the work force and/or to customers to find out their views

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of the existing system and to find out how
some of the key tasks are carried out. As with observation, there are a
number of advantages and disadvantages in using this technique:

Advantages
- Questions can be answered quickly
- an inexpensive way of gathering data from a large number of people
- allows individuals to remain anonymous
- it is quick to analyze data

Disadvantages
- number of people returning questionnaires is often quite low
- questions asked tend to be rather inflexible
- no immediate way to clarify a vague/incomplete answer to a
question
- it is difficult to prepare a good questionnaire

(C) INTERVIEWING
this involves a one to one question and answer session between the
analyst
and an employee or a customer.

Advantages
- opportunity to motivate the interviewee to give open and free
answers to the analyst’s questions
- allows the analyst to probe for more feedback from the interviewee
(easier to extend a topic than it is when using questionnaires)
- can ask modified questions or questions specific to the interviewee
based on previous responses
-gestures can help in data collection process

Disadvantages
- Can be a very time consuming exercise
- can be expensive to carry out
- unable to remain anonymous

(D) LOOKING AT WRITTEN RECORDS(record inspection)

this allows the analyst to see how paper files are kept, look at
operating instructions and training manuals, check accounts, etc. This
will give the analyst some idea of the scale of the problem, memory
size requirements, type of input/output devices needed, and so on.
They will often gain information not obtained by any of the other
methods described above.
However, it can be a very time consuming exercise.

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 Advantages

 Low cost
 Relatively rapid
 Unobtrusive
 Can be highly accurate
 Often good to moderate validity
 Usually allows for historical comparisons or trend analysis

Disadvantages

 May be difficult to access local data

 Data may be out of date
 Difficulty to find data on knowledge, attitudes, and opinions
 May not provide a complete picture of the situation

CHAPTER 15
Algorithm Design and Problem-solving

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ALGORITHM DESIGN AND PROBLEM SOLVING

Problem Solving

In ICT a problem is simply a task that must be carried out by a

computer. Solving problems is the major business in computer
science. Computer Programmers (people who design, code and
test computer programs) are problem solvers. Computer science
can be defined as the study of algorithms. It is in actual fact the
study of problems, problem-solving, and the solutions that come
out of the problem-solving process. Given a problem, a computer
scientist’s goal is to develop an algorithm.

ALGORITHM
Definitions of an Algorithm.

1. An algorithm is a list of steps to follow in order to solve a problem.

2. An algorithm is a systematic logical approach used to solve
problems in a computer.
3. It is a set of steps that must be followed to solve a given problem.
An algorithm is a step by step method of solving a problem.
4. This refers to detailed steps that are followed in the planning or
design of a program.
5. Algorithms are finite processes that if followed will solve the problem.
Algorithm is constructed with the use of variables and program
structures. Algorithms can be represented in two ways. i.e. a
pseodocode or a flowchart. Algorithms are designed in computer
programming where programmers write instructions for a computer to
execute in solving computer problems.

PURPOSE OF AN ALGORITHM.

Each and every algorithm must be designed for a specific purpose.

Programmers and computer users must know the purpose of each of
the algorithm before they can use them. Algorithm purpose is the main
task that a specific algorithm was written to perform. E.g.
-to find the square of a number,
-to calculate area of a circle,
-to draw a rectangle on the screen,
-to output a sound through the speakers,
-to calculate salary of a worker,
-to calculate interest, etc.

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 ALGORITHM TOOLS
Algorithms can be designed using two tools, iePseodocode or
flowcharts.

(a) Pseudocode
Pseudocode is a simple way of writing programming code in
English. Pseodocode is the statement in plain English written to
represent an algorithm for later translation into a programming
language (program). Pseudo code is an
intermediary between an algorithm and implemented program.
Psoedo means before. So it’s written before a computer code. It can
also be in half English and half programming language.
Pseudocode is not an actual programming language. So it cannot
be compiled into an executable program. It uses short terms
or simple English language. Egg pseodocode to add two numbers
and display sum.

Start Program
Enter two numbers, A, B
Add the numbers together
Print Sum
End Program

(b) Flowchart
it is a pictorial representation of an algorithm. A pictorial
representation of steps to be followed to solve a computer problem.

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e.g. flowchart to add two numbers and display sum

Variables
-variables are names of data items or entities used in an algorithm.
These names are given by the user or programmer.. e.g. if a user is to
develop a program that calculates average of two numbers, he or she
needs variables such as num1, num2, sum, average. The purpose of
the algorithm is to calculate the average.
Variables are program entities which may change its value during
program execution. These are memory locations where different types
of data can be stored. The data types can be integer, character, date,
float etc.
The variable name can be any word, which is not a reserved word
(which is not used by the program like

Rules for naming variables

 -the name should easily tell what it is used for or what it
represents.
 It should not start with a number. A number can be included inside
 Must be as short as possible
 Capital letters are different from small letter therefore “tax” is
different from “TAX”

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  DO NOT USE RESEREVED WORDS AS VARIABLE NAMES.
 Do not use same variable name in the same program or set of
statements.
 Begin with a letter or an underscore
It should not contain spaces

INTEPERTING AND TESTING ALGORITHMS

Algorithms are interpreted by dry running them ( determining the
output using different test data. Test data can be normal, extreme or
abnormal. In doing so trace tables can be used to show the state of the
input and output variable at each stage of execution.

Dry running:
It is the manual method of tracing the program in order to find errors
(bugs) in the program. Dry run table is the same as trace table.

PSEODOCODE CONTROL STRUCTURES

These describe how a computer reads an algorithm from the start of a
program up until it finishes executing the program or instructions.
There are three control structure shows in the table below:

(a) Sequence

This is when program statement is executed one after the other

following the order in which they appear. No selection condition or
repetition. Inputting two numbers, calculating sum and displaying sum
is an example of sequence. In real life there is sequence in starting a
car, bathing, etc

STRUCTURE OF COMPUTER PROGRAM

End
STAGES DESCRIPTION
Start Stage different programming languages have different
ways to start an algorithm

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 Declare and Different programming languages have different
Initialize ways to start an algorithm. To declare a variable is
variables stage to tell a computer names you are going to use
together with their data types. To initialize a variable
is to give a variable a start value especially it will
change its value during processing. Variable may
change values trough incrementing them,
decrement, or reassignment of a value.
Input data to the Once variables are declared they are now given (assigned)
variables stage their values at this stage.
Process stage Every computer program should be able to input data,
process the data and store and output information. To
process is to perform mathematical or logical operation on
the data. In addition to input, process and output, programs
may be designed to be able to control and communicate
with other programs. Area= Length x Width is an example of
a process statement.
Output stage This is a stage where the results of processing are either
displayed or printed
End Every program that start must end otherwise an infinite
program is bad programming.

EXERCISE
Write and algorithm of a program to find the area of a rectangle.
(a) Write the Pseodocode
(b) Draw the flowchart
(c) Explain each statement line of the program
(d) What will happen to the area if the inputs change
(e) What other problem can be solved using sequence structure.

CHAPTER 16
Programming Concepts (in the context
of VB.NET)
 Programming is the process of writing computer programs.
 It is the process of taking an algorithm and encoding it into a
notation (a programming language) so that it can be executed by
a computer.

120
  It is the process of creating (computer programs) software.

A computer program is a sequence of instructions that can be executed

by a computer to solve some problem or perform a specified task. These
sequences of instructions are written in the form of an algorithm.

PROGRAMMING LANGUAGES
A programming language is a special language programmers use to
develop software programs that computers can execute. An algorithm is
described using a particular chosen programming language.

Programming languages are typically called computer languages. It is a

coded language used by programmers to write instructions that a
computer can understand to do what the programmer (or the computer
user) wants.

Computer programming languages are classified as Low level

programming languages and High level programming languages.

Two types of low level languages are 1, machine code which is written in
binary system and Assembly language which uses pneumonic.

Machine code is first generation, Assembly language is second

generation and the rest are High level languages which are also
categorized as third, fourth and fifth generation languages.

PROGRAMMING ERRORS?
Semantics refers to meaning of language symbols (i.e. its grammar)
whereas syntax refers to rules (or format) of language symbols.

121
A+5=25. With semantics, A should be representing a number value and
not an alphabetic value which is 20. With syntax, A must be declared as a
number value first before it can be added to 5 otherwise A cannot add to
5 because the two comes from different domains. This is the meaning of
the statement and the expected format of the statement.

So, Every programming language like Visual basic has its set of
language words and format that may differ with another programming
language.

DATA TYPES
Computer systems work with different types of data. In the early days
of computing, data consisted primarily of text and numbers, but in
modern-day computing, there are lots of different data types, i.e., text,
audio, images and video data. There are further other types of data
under each of the four main data types. Ultimately, however, all data

122
types are stored and processed in binary digits form. These notes will
focus more on Text data.

1. Text data
This is a group of several data types which include, numeric data,
character data, strings, arrays, Boolean etc

(a) Numeric data type

this is digital data. Data on which arithmetic operations can be

performed. There are several other subtypes of data under
numeric. Examples being, integer data, real numbers, floating point
etc. we will focus on integer data for now.

Integer data
Integer data are positive numbers, zero or negative numbers e.g.
-12, 0, 345. E.g. 3+4=7 (3 and 4 are all numeric data
types.)

(b) character data

Character data refers to one letter of the alphabet, a special

symbol, or a digit not intended to be used for calculation. One
cannot perform calculations with character data. A character is a
byte i.e. made up of eight bits.
Examples are (‘a’, ‘B’, ‘1’, ‘9’, ‘4’, ‘+’,’ *’, ‘@’ etc) usually
character data in enclosed in single quotes.

(c) string data

A string is an organized collection of character data. It is a series

of character data. This means when two or more characters are to
be considered as one unit of data it becomes a string. Examples are
names, descriptions, titles, etc. string data cannot be calculated.
Examples are, “Tendai”, “12 Mugagau street”, “Harare”. Usually
string data is enclosed in double quotes.

(d) Array data

Array data refers to a collection of organized strings treated as one

unit of data by the computer. An array is a series of strings.
Example: if in your class learners are put into three groups, then
each group and its names become an array.

GROUP A= {“TATENDA”, “MONICA”, “MIKE”, “IVY”, “CHIPO”}

GROUP B= {“Tockie”, “Marry”, “Misheck”, “Ian”, “Charity”}

123
 GROUP C= {“Triphune”, “Mernard”, “Mellody”, “Doit”,
“Happymore”}
We have three arrays of data in the example above.

(e) Boolean data.

Boolean data is logical data i.e. data that can only exists in two
states and one state at a time. Data that is expressed as TRUE or
FALSE, YES or NO, ON or OFF.

(f) Constant data.

A constant is a data types whose value does not change during the
execution of a program. Constants can therefore be of type
numeric, character, string, array, or Boolean data type. An example
of a constant is pie in mathematics which remains at 22/7 and
does not change. Within an executable program, all constants that
have the same form and have the same value.

2. Audio data
Audio data refers to sound data e.g. speeches, music.
3. Image data
Image is graphical data i.e. data in the form of pictures,
diagrams or drawings.
4. Video data
This is data in the form of moving pictures such as animations
and films.

In programming each and every data type must be declared

before it is used in a program. Variables are names used to
hold or identify or represent a data type in a specific program.

Int A=4
this tells a computer that A is a variable of integer data type
and is holding the value 4

Dim number As integer

–this is visual basic way to tell the compiler that number is a
data type of integer values.

124
 Char Sex = ‘M’
-tells the computer that Sex is a variable of data type
character and hold the value M (for male)

Basics of Operators
Operators are symbols that tell the compiler to perform specific mathematical or logical
manipulations. THEY TELL A COMPUTER HOW DATA IS TO BE PROCESSED.

A: Arithmetic Operators:

Symbol Operation Usage Explanation

+ addition x+y Adds values on either side of the operator

Subtracts the right hand operand from the

- subtraction x-y
left hand operand

Multiplies values on either side of the

* multiplication x*y
operator

Divides the left hand operand by the right

/ division x/y
hand operand

Divides the left hand operand by the right

% modulus x%y
hand operand and returns remainder

Relational Operators:
These operators are used for comparison. They return either true or false based on the
comparison result. The operator '==' should not be confused with '='. The relational operators
are as follows:

125
 Symbol Operation Usage Explanation

Checks if the values of two operands are

== equal x == y equal or not, if yes then condition
becomes true.

Checks if the values of two operands are

!= not equal x != y equal or not, if values are not equal then
condition becomes true.

Checks if the value of the left operand

greater is greater than the value of the right
> x>y
than operand, if yes then condition becomes
true

Checks if the value of the left operand

is less than the value of the right
< less than x<y
operand, if yes then condition becomes
true.

Checks if the value of the left operand

greater
is greater than or equal to the value of
>= than or x >= y
the right operand, if yes then condition
equal
becomes true.

Checks if the value of the left operand

less than or is less than or equal to the value of the
<= x <= y
equal right operand, if yes then condition
becomes true.

C: Logical Operators:

126
 These operators take boolean values as input and return boolean values as output.
Note: In C,C++ any non-zero number is treated as true and 0 as false but this doesn't hold for
Java.

Symbo
Operation Usage Explanation
l

Returns true if both x and y are

&& logical AND x && y
true else returns false.

Returns false if neither x nor y is

|| logical OR x || y
true else returns true

Unary operator. Returns true if x

! logical NOT !x
is false else returns false.

Computer programming languages(by alphabet)

A-C D-J L-Q R-Z

ActionScript D LISP R
ALGOL DarkBASIC LiveScript Racket
Ada, Dart LOGO Reia
AIML Datalog Lua Ruby
Altair BASIC dBASE Matlab Rust
Assembly Dylan Metro Scala
AutoHotkey F MUMPS Scheme
Babel F# Nim SGML *
BASIC FORTRAN Objective-C Simula
Batch file FoxPro OCaml Smalltalk
BCPL Go Pascal SQL *
Brooks GW Basic Perl Swift
C Haskell PHP Tcl
C# HDML * Pick Turbo Pascal
C++ HTML * PureBasic True BASIC
Clojure ksh Python VHDL
COBOL Java Prolog Visual Basic
CoffeeScript JavaScript QBasic Visual FoxPro
CPL JCL WML *
CSS * Julia WHTML *
Curl XML *
Curry YAML *
PROGRAMMING LANGUAGE BY APPLICATION AREA

127
Languages for Applications and Program development
 C, C#, C++, D, Java, Tcl, Visual Basic
Languages for Artificial Intelligence development

 AIML, C, C#, C++, Prolog, Python

Languages for Database development

 DBASE, FoxPro, MySQL, SQL, Visual FoxPro

Languages for Game development

 C, C#, C++, DarkBASIC, Java

Languages for Computer drivers or other hardware interface
development

Assembly language, C

Languages for Internet and web page development

 HDML, HTML, Java, JavaScript, Perl, PHP, Python, XML

VB.NET PROGRAM STRUCTURE

128
STEPS TO CREATE A VB.NET PROGRAM

1. Load the VB.NET program you have on your computer (Express version)

2. Select “ New project”

129
3. Choose either “Windows Form application” or “Console Application”
Windows Form application uses GUI (objects or picture’ and Console uses
Command prompt.

To start off with, select Console application

4. Start coding your program between Sub Main() and End Sub

5. Debug and run your program

130
 Click over there
To debug and
run

Let’s get started on Your first program

131
 Module Module1
Sub Main()
'A program that accepts the name and surname and print hello “Name &
Surname”
Dim name As String
Dim Surname As String
Dim age As Integer
Dim sex As Char
Console.WriteLine("Please enter your identification details below :")
Console.WriteLine("************************************************")
Console.WriteLine("Name :")
name = Console.ReadLine
Console.WriteLine("Surname :")
surname = Console.ReadLine
Console.WriteLine("Age :")
age = Console.ReadLine
Console.WriteLine("sex M or F :")
sex = Console.ReadLine
Console.WriteLine("_________________________________________________")
Console.WriteLine(" hello " & name & " " & surname)
Console.WriteLine(" You are :" & age & " years old")
Console.WriteLine(" your sex is :" & sex)
Console.WriteLine(" ________________________________________________")
Console.ReadKey()

End Sub
End Module

The first line of the program Imports System is used to include the
System namespace in the program.

The next line has a Module declaration, the module Module1. VB.Net
is completely object oriented, so every program must contain a module
of a class that contains the data and procedures that your program uses.

Classes or Modules generally would contain more than one procedure.

Procedures contain the executable code, or in other words, they define
the behavior of the class. A procedure could be any of the following:
o Function
o Sub
o Operator
o Get
o Set
o AddHandler
o RemoveHandler
o RaiseEvent

The next line ('This program) will be ignored by the compiler and it has
been put to add additional comments in the program.

132
 The next line defines the Main procedure, which is the entry point for all
VB.Net programs. The Main procedure states what the module or class
will do when executed.

The Main procedure specifies its behavior with the statement

Console.WriteLine ("Hello World") WriteLine is a method of the
Console class defined in the System namespace. This statement causes
the message "Hello, World!" to be displayed on the screen.

The last line Console.ReadKey() is for the VS.NET Users. This will
prevent the screen from running and closing quickly when the program
is launched from Visual Studio .NET.

End Module terminates the program

Data Types in VB.NET

Data Type Storage Value Range
Allocation
Boolean Depends on True or False
implementing
platform
Byte 1 byte 0 through 255 (unsigned)
Char 2 bytes 0 through 65535 (unsigned)
Date 8 bytes 0:00:00 (midnight) on January 1, 0001
through 11:59:59 PM on December 31,
9999
Decimal 16 bytes 0 through +/-
79,228,162,514,264,337,593,543,950,335
(+/-7.9...E+28) with no decimal point; 0
through +/-
7.9228162514264337593543950335 with
28 places to the right of the decimal
Double 8 bytes -1.79769313486231570E+308 through -
4.94065645841246544E-324, for negative
values
4.94065645841246544E-324 through
1.79769313486231570E+308, for positive
values

133
 Integer 4 bytes -2,147,483,648 through 2,147,483,647
(signed)
Long 8 bytes -9,223,372,036,854,775,808 through
9,223,372,036,854,775,807(signed)
Object 4 bytes on 32- Any type can be stored in a variable of type
bit platform Object
8 bytes on 64-
bit platform
SByte 1 byte -128 through 127 (signed)
Short 2 bytes -32,768 through 32,767 (signed)
Single 4 bytes -3.4028235E+38 through -1.401298E-45 for
negative values;
1.401298E-45 through 3.4028235E+38 for
positive values
String Depends on 0 to approximately 2 billion Unicode
implementing characters
platform
UInteger 4 bytes 0 through 4,294,967,295 (unsigned)
ULong 8 bytes 0 through 18,446,744,073,709,551,615
(unsigned)
User- Depends on Each member of the structure has a range
Defined implementing determined by its data type and
platform independent of the ranges of the other
members
UShort 2 bytes 0 through 65,535 (unsigned)

Array declarations in Visual Basic .NET are similar to those in Visual Basic
and other languages.

For example, here is a declaration of an Integer array that has five

elements:

Dim a[4] As Integer

CONSTANTS
The constants refer to fixed values that the program may not alter during its
execution. These fixed values are also called literals.
The constants are treated just like regular variables except that their values
cannot be modified after their definition. An enumeration is a set of named
integer constants

134
 STEPS TO FOLLOW WHEN DESIGNING A PROGRAM
1. Analyze the problem
2. Sketch the G.U.I on paper
3. Write the Algorithm
4. Write code on paper
5. Dry Run program (run on paper /without the compiler)
6. Code on machine
7. Test & Debug
8. Document Program
If you follow the above steps you won’t make mistakes

NOW TRY THE PROGRAMS BELOW AND DEBUG THEM

VB.NET PROGRAM TO ADD TWO NUMBERS READING INPUTS FROM THE

KEYBOARD USING CONSOLE APPLICATION

135
 Module Module1
Sub Main()
Dim num1, num2, sum As Integer
Console.Write(" Enter the first number to be added: ")
Console.ReadLine(num1)
Console.Write(" Enter the second number to be added: ")
Console.ReadLine(num2)
sum = num1 + num2
Console.Write(" The sum of two numbers is:" & sum)
Console.ReadLine()
End Sub
End Module

VB.NET PROGRAM TO MULTIPLY TWO NUMBERS READING INPUTS

SUPPLIED IN THE CODE USING CONSOLE APPLICATION

Module Module1
Sub Main()
Dim num1, num2, sum As Integer
num1 = 4
num2 = 8
sum = num1 + num2
Console.Writeline( " The sum of “&num1 “and “ & num2 “ is:" &
sum)
Console.ReadLine()
End Sub
End Module

CHAPTER 17
Databases(Using MS Access)
DEFINITION OF A DATABASE
 A collection of related files stored on a computer under one
common name.
 A collection of related data elements that may be structured in
various ways to meet multiple processing and retrieval needs of
organizations or individuals.
 A single organized collection of data, stored with a minimum
of duplication of data items so as to provide a consistent and
controlled pool of data.

136
EXAMPLES OF MANUAL DATABASES (DATA RECORDED
ON PAPERS)
 Customer information at a company, Students information at a
school, Employee information Product details at a company ,
Telephone directory, Encyclopedia, Student report books, Library
catalogues, Vendor information, Order information, Inventory
information

BUILDING BLOCK OF COMPUTERISED DATABASES

- Bit: A single binary digit like 0 or 1.

- Byte: A group of eight bits representing a

character for example 10010110

- Field: A specific category of information in a

table (database), for example Surname, Date of
Birth, etc

- Record: A collection of related fields describing

an entity, e.g patient.

- File: A collection of related records

- Database: A collection of related files

DATABASE MODELS/SCHEMES/STRUCRURE
 There common models are relational, network, Hierarchical structure
and List structure

Relational database
A database with two or more tables each containing some
interconnected data.
Files are connected together by common field names held in a
number of interrelated files. It uses tables called relations. Records
appear in rows and columns. Rows are also called tuples and
columns are also called attributes. Tables are called files. A single
table can also be called a database.

Fname Surnam Clas

e s

137
 Tendai Moyo 1b
Mutsa Dhliwayo 1c
Tawanad Mendi 3c
a
Doit Philips 1a

DATABASE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM SOFTWARE

 Complex software used to construct, expand and maintain a
database.
These are the database application programs used to store, sort,
search and retrieve information on a computer. They are also used
to organize and control access to a database and provide an
interface between the user and the database.

Examples of DBMS
 MS ACCESS (relational model ), FoxPro, FoxBASE, Dbase, Paradox, Data
Ease, Rbase, System V, Informix, Codasyl ( network model), Oracle etc

Functions of DBMS
-store data, -retrieve data, -update data, -create and maintain a data
dictionary, -manage data backups and data recovery, -Provide security
o data (user ids, access levels and passwords)
-manage data sharing facilities, -provides security to the database
against corruption and unauthorized access , -Maintain indices to data –
indices used to retrieve and cross reference data

COMMON DATABSE TERMS

 Character-the smallest unit of data in a database also called a byte. A
letter, number or symbol.
 Fields- an organized collection of characters
 Field name- unique name given to a table column
 Field size- the number of characters the field (column can store) can
be fixed length or variable length.
 Record-related fields put together
 File- related records make up a file
 Object- files in a database that can contain data, e.g. the table, query,
macro, etc
 Table- basic element of a database that contains related data stored in
rows and column. Data represented in rows and column.

138
 Database- a table or all related tables making up a database. A
database made up of one table is called a flat file. Flat files may also
mean databases on small systems.
 Query- an extract of information for screen display –(a search condition
used to select specific records from a given database ( to select all form
3 out of all students in a school)
 Form- Graphical interface that is used to display or collect information.
It is a window providing labels and text boxes to collect or display data.
 Report- an extract of information in a printed format. (Extracted from
one or more tables.)
 Macro- a small program that tells the DBMS to perform one or more
actions such as running a query, opening a form or printing a report.
 Primary key- database field that uniquely identifies a record. Used
when search for a specific record or sorting records.
 Secondary key - a database field which can be used to organize
records e.g. sort students according to surname.
 Normalization-the processing of separating entities in a database so
as to create all possible relationship between the entities in a bid to
remove all repetition of data which in turn makes the database more
efficient.
 File Management Systems- database systems on small computers
like the PC used with flat files.
 Sort -rearrange data in the order of an index.

ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF COMPUTERISED

DATABASES OVER THE CONVENTIONAL FILING SYSTEM

Advantages of computerized databases

 Minimum redundancy ( reduced duplication)
 Centralized updating of records( one update takes effect to all data
items linked)
 Integrity of data (correctness of data)
 Program or file independence( changes to the data does not affect file
structure or programs used)
 Increased production( queries allow instant answers and client
satisfaction)
 More information available to users ( all information need in one pool
time is saved)
 Centralized control of data(all users are catered for from one system
control point)
 More than one person can view the same data at the same time
139
 Quick retrieval of data
 Consistency of data ( structure does not allow erroneous data to be
input)

Disadvantages
 Expensive and difficult to install
 Large size-Used more hardware storage space
 Require a great deal of planning time and creation time
 May contain errors or failures
 complex and require a high level of education (specialist -DBA)
 Greater impact on system failure

MAIN FEATURES OF DATABASE PACKAGES (what we can do with

databases)
Allows us to:

 Create records
 Add new records
 Append or insert records to already existing ones
 Search specific records
 Update or amend a record (e.g. change of address)
 Sort records
 Delete unwanted records
 Display records in datasheet view, form view and as reports
 Viewing records (navigate through records)
 Export data to other related packages
 Merge two or more data files

PLANNING A DATABASE
The following procedures are necessary to follow in planning and
creating a database.

o Know the DBMS you will use (study it)

o Identify the database name (what the all the data is all about)
o Identify all the objects you want o use (tables, queries, macros, forms,
reports etc)
o Indentify the fields for each object
o Validate each fields for each table (field type, size, formats, etc)
o Enter data using a table or a form
o Identify key fields (primary and if need be the secondary keys)

140
o Make table relationship
o Make a list of all possible questions about the data (for query design)
o Design and run queries (forms are the best way of showing query
results)
o Determine the best way to show answers to the questions asked
above(reports)
o Design and show reports
o Design the suitable user interface (customize the database user
interface- switchboards and macros)

LETS GET HANDS ON

CREATING A DATABASE
Steps
1. Load the DBMS program
2. Create a new database(blank database)
3. Give a name to the database (Training)
4. Create objects
Datasheet view
Displays a database in tabular form. This is not very useful when you
want to modify the table structure and set field properties.
Design view
Allows you to set field properties, insert or delete fields and also set
primary key.

CREATING A TABLE
steps
1. Select Table from the Object tab
2. Go to design view

1. Save the table as Studentstbl

2. On the design view create the table structure(Enter field names, types,
sizes, descriptions)

141
 Unique
Field
name

Primary Field description

key

Type field size

Type validation rule here

DATA TYPES IN A DATABASE

DATA DATA TYPE COMMENT

Short names Text Letters of the
((alphanumeri alphabet and a
c data up to mixture of letters
255 and numbers or
characters )- symbols
character data
figures Number (0-9) marks, height ,
etc
Date or time Date/time Different time and
date formats (dob,
join date,
retirement date
etc
142
 logical Yes/no (status True or false/ yes
data) or no, (one space)
money Currency(fees, Different
budgets, rates currencies
etc)
Long memo Addresses,
descriptions- comments,
large text descriptions and
field data which takes
more spaces and
cannot be sorted.
Picture or Binary field or All picture data.
images OLE field (photo, finger
(BLOB) Binary print, Pdf files,
Large Object) sound files, video
clip etc
Auto number number Automatically
generate by the
computer
especially if no
index is supplied.
Hyperlink Web, Used for web
homepage addresses

3. Save the entries you have made by clicking Save

4. Click the Datasheet view mode and enter student details

click on this icon

143
 Column
header
(Name)

Just click
Record on the
selector Change box if
date paid
format in
the design
view

5. Save the records

Activity
 Insert a column named email address and enter the email addresses for
each student
 Insert a new row between Nisha and Nawaz and fill in the details.
 Delete record with student number 0004
 Change field name for Gender to Sex
 In design view, move the field Email to be the last field (use record
selector to click and drag field)
 Add three more records in the table.
 Change any one of the email address (update)
 Create another table called Mesuremetstbl and create the structure
under the following fields. Studn0, Sname, height, weight
 Copy details from the previous table and type the rest.
 Sort records in the Studentstbl according to ascending alphabetical
order of surname

144
 CREATING A QUERY
Queries
 Students with four or more distinctions
 Students whose surname starts with an M

Steps
1. From the object tab elect query in design view
2. Add Studentstbl and Close
3. Tick all the fields and enter the criteria as follows

Click here
Added table
to run the
query

Specify each
fields and tick
on Show Enter
criteria as
follows

4. Create the other query (Like “M*”)

5. Type [Enter criteria] on the criteria to find a specific surname

EXAMPLES OF QUERY CRITERA

QERRY CRITERA
All girls Sex= “F”
All students from Harare Hometown= “Harare”
All grade 4 pupils Grade=”4’
All boys in grade 4 Sex= “m” or grade= “4”/
=”m” or “f” under “sex”
All pupils who paid less than Fees paid <20.00
$20.00
All pupils born from 1 January DOB<01/01/88

145
 1998
Search all pupil of the Jongwe Surname=” Jongwe”
family
Students from form 2 and =”2” under “Form” and >60
marks greater than 60 under “marks”
Students who did not get Not<=40 under “marks)
marks less than or equal to 40
Marks between 50 and 70 >=50 and <=70 in the marks
column
To get text data use any of the “tinotenda” under Fname
following under the respective brings out all pupils with the
column name tinotenda

CREATING A FORMS
Form view- used to enter data, edit it or navigate through the data
Layout view- used to design the form while viewing the actual data
Design view- used to design the form with a header, footer and details
and an also put images using the toolbar.

Steps
1. From the Object tab elect Form wizard

Specify
table

Select the fields

you want to use

2. Click next AND AGAIN NEXT

3. Give the form a name Studentsfrm
4. Go to Design view to adjust objects and specify font and font
styles
5. Also put a logo in design view

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 CREATING A REPORTS
Steps
1. Create report using report wizard and choose studentstbl
2. Choose next on areas where there is no need to change anything
3. Select the column layout and landscape page layout
4. Give it a name as studentsrpt
5. Click finish
6. Go to design view and insert a logo on the report
7. In the design view resize objects

CREATING MACROS
Macros are created form the object tab and are saved. They can be
used with command buttons. Executing a macro is called running a
macro.

Steps
1. Go to the Object tab
2. Select macro
3. Specify action (open a form)
4. Select the form to be opened
5. Save the macro (the name will appear under the object tab)
6. Open a form
7. Go to design view
8. Click and a command but and drag it in the form window
9. Link the command button to a macro in the miscellaneous group
10. Run the form
11. Click the command button

CREATING TABLE RELATIONSHIPS

There are some operation on data that are not possible when the
database tables are not related. Such as designing a query of report
from two tables.

To link tables, the two tables should have certain fields in common.
(foreign key)
In our database table, the field Student number is appearing in both
tables. This has been done to create table relationships.

Steps
1. Click the relationship button

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2. Add the tables to be shown (two tables above) and close

3. Click create
4. Link the foreign key together in the two tables by dragging one to
another
5. Save and close

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CHAPTER 18
Web design (with Notepad++)

What is Web Design?

Web design is the process of creating web pages or web sites.
The process involves collecting ideas and content, arranging and
implementing them so that they can be viewed on the internet. In
simple term web design is internet programming.

Elements of Web Design

Layout: This is the way how the graphics, advertisements and text
are arranged on a web page. The layout should help the viewer to
find the information they seek at a glance.

Colour: The choice of colours depends on the purpose and the type
of viewers. it should be simple, attractive and conveying the
personality of a person or the brand of an organization. Similar to
human dressing.

Graphics: Graphics can include logos, photos, clipart or icons, all of

which enhance the web design. For user friendliness, these need to
be placed appropriately, working with the colour and content of the
web page, while not making it too congested or slow to load.

Fonts: The use of various fonts can enhance a website design. Most
web browsers can only read a select number of fonts, known as "web-
safe fonts", so your designer will generally work within this widely
accepted group.

Content: Content refers to the textual, audio, or visual content

published on a website. Content means any creative element, for
example, text, applications, images, archived e-mail messages, data,
e-services, audio and video files, and so on. Content should be
informative, easy to access and adequate for its purpose.

Features of a User-Friendly Web site

Friendliness can be achieved by paying attention to the following factors.

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Easy of Navigation: Site architecture, menus and other navigation tools in
the web design must be created in a way that help the user to move around
the site with ease, efficiently finding the information they require.

Multimedia: . Well designed and arranged visual and audio content can
encourage visitors to spend more time on the webpage.

Compatibility: Design the webpage, to perform equally well on different

browsers and operating systems, or platforms to increase its viewer base.

Technology: Web sites should be easily upgraded to match with current

technology where designers can easily add movement and innovation,
allowing for web design that is always fresh, dynamic and professional.

Interactive: Increase active user participation and involvement, by adding

comment boxes and opinion polls in the design. Convert users from visitors
to clients with email forms and newsletter sign-ups.

HTML
HTML, an acronym for HyperText Markup Language, it is a computer
language for creating websites and web applications.

There are many free and paid HTML editors, below are some
of the top options you can choose from:

HTML-Kit, CoffeeCup, KompoZer, Komodo Edit, Notepad++, Bluefish,

HDML, Java, JavaScript, Perl, PHP, Python, XML, CodeLobster

Basic Building Blocks of HTML

They include
1. Tags
2. Attributes
3. elements.

Introduction to Tags

Once you’re into HTML, the first thing you need to understand is
tags. In essence, tags separate normal text from HTML code.

Tags are used to format, link, display a series of web page content

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The content to be affected should be placed inbetween an opening
tag and a closing tag in most cases.

STRUCTURE OF A WEB PAGE

< iDOCTYPE html> introduces a web page

<head>

This tag usually contains information about the document such as its
title, meta tags, CSS file (document styles), character set, document
title, scripts, etc.– content which is not visible directly on the browser
page.

</head>

<body>

This is the portion which we represented with “MAIN CONTENT”. It

is where the main content of the HTML file, that the viewer will see
in the browser, is located.

</body>

</html>.

Examples of tags
<b> </b> to bold text

<i> </i> for italics

<a href=”https://websitesetup.org”>YOUR LINK TEXT HERE</a> for

hyperlinks

<br>. To go to the next line- used without a closing tag.

<h1> </h1> for the biggest heading and ranges from <h1> to
<h6>

<p></p> paragraphs

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<u></u> or underlining

<hr> for horizontal rule or line. Used without a closing tag

 for subscript

 for superscript

<ol>
<li>Item 1</li>
<li>Item 2</li> For ordered and numbered lists
<li>Item 3</li>
</ol>

<ul>
<li>Item 1</li>
<li>Item 2</li> For unordered and bulleted lists
<li>Item 3</li>
</ul>

<ul>
<li>Item 1
<ul>
<li>Item 1 nested</li>
<li>Item 2 nested</li>
For nested unordered and bulleted lists
<li>Item 3 nested</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Item 2</li>

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 <li>Item 3</li>

<a href=”about-page.html” target=”_blank”>YOUR LINK TEXT

HERE</a> specifies that the link should be opened in a new tab.

<a href=”about-page.html” target=”_self”>YOUR LINK TEXT

HERE</a> specifies that the link should be opened in the same tab.

 _blank – Open in a new tab.

 _self – Open in the same tab.
 _parent – Open in the parent frame
 _top – Open in the full body of the window
 framename – Open in a named frame
 <img src="heisaboy.jpg" alt="He is a boy"> for image displaying.
<alt> is used to display alternative text id the image is not found

This tells the browser to display an image pulled from the image file
“heisaboy.jpg” and have it linked to https://websitesetup.org. The
“alt” attribute represents what should be shown if the image is
unable to be displayed (due to browser settings or some other stuff
that prevent images from showing).

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<table border=1>
<tr>
<th>Table Header 1</th>
<th>Table Header 2</th>
<th>Table Header 3</th> For table creation
</tr> Table with rows
and columns
<tr>
<td>Input 1 under header 1</td>
<td>Input 1 under header 2</td>
<td>Input 1 under header 3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Input 2 under header 1</td>
<td>Input 2 under header 2</td>
<td>Input 2 under header 3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Input 3 under header 1</td>
<td>Input 3 under header 2</td>
<td>Input 3 under header 3</td>
</tr>
</table>

For table width

<q></q> single line quotation

<blockquote></blockquote> for a blockquote
<marquee></marquee> for moving text
<strong></strong> for strong text
<em></em> for emphasizes text

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<i--<b>bold</b> --> for comment, in this case its
bolded.
<code>Computer code is put in here</code>

<a href="http://www.google.com><img src="image file name or

url of image"></a>

<a href="mailto:email address">Send email</a>

Try these frame set codes

<frameset>
<frame src="http://www.google.com"></frame>
<frame src="https://www.facebook.com"></frame>
</frameset>

<div></div> inserted in boad for division

Introduction to Elements

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In HTML, an “element” consists of the opening and closing tag as
well as the content between the tags. When a tag is opened, content
is introduced and the tag is closed, we have an element.

<b>He is a boy</b> is an element.

Introduction to Attributes
The attribute is used to define the characteristics of an element, it’s
used inside the opening tag of the element. Attributes are used to
communicate additional information inside an element. Attributes
are made up of a name and a value.

using the format

<tag attribute=”value”>Your Text</tag>.

Example:

<p align="center">He is a boy</p>

<p style="color:orange;">This is the color orange</p> for

paragraph colour

Iframes can be used to display a website, video, images or any other

form of content in a frame

The code for this is simple:

<iframe src="URL"></iframe> -iframe code

<iframe src="URL" height="350px" width="400px"></iframe>

formatted frame

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The head section of a web page

<head>
<title>My first web page</title>
<meta charset =”UTF-8”>

</head>

Web page templates

A website template (or web template) is a pre-designedwebpage,
or set of HTML webpages that anyone can use to "plug-in" their own
text content and images into to create a website.

To practice using web templates, open a web page from the internet,
save it in your computer. Open it from your computer, right click and
view code. Start altering the contents.

WEB CONTENT DEVELOPMENT

Content refers to the textual, audio, or visual content published on a

website. There are two basic kinds of web content:

(a) Text:

Text is simple. It is added on the webpage as text blocks or within

images. The best written content is unique textual web content
that is free from plagiarism. Web content added as text can also

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 include good internal links that help readers gain access to more
information.

(b) Multimedia: Another kind of web content is multimedia.

Simply put, multimedia refers to any content which is not text;
some examples include:

 Animations: Animations can be added with the help of Flash,

Ajax, GIF images as well as other animation tools.
 Images: Images are considered the most popular option to
incorporate multimedia to websites. Clip art, photos, or even
drawings can be created by means of a scanner or a graphics
editor. It is recommended to optimize the images so that the
users can download them quickly.
 Audio: Different types of audio files can be added as part of
the web content so as to increase the desirability of the
website.
 Video: It is the most popular multimedia contents; however,
when adding video files, the publishers should make sure that
they efficiently on various browsers.

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 CHAPTER 19
Techno-preneurship
Definition of terms

(a) Entrepreneurship is in simple terms running your own business.

(b) Technopreneurship
It is a process of running a business by combining the power of technology (IT)
with one’s entrepreneurial talent and skills. OR It is use of technology in the
delivery or conduct of normal business activities.

What is Technopreneurship all about?

Technopreneurship is all about destroying the old way of doing business and create
new ways or methods. It therefore focuses on:
- new knowledge
- new products
- new processes
- new services
- new market
- new business

There are six famous Technopreneurs:

Bill Gates, he developed Microsoft Software and he deals it to the IBM’s first PC’s. He
dominated the industry.
Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniac, was founded the Apple Technology. Steve Jobs is
known as one of the successful person.
Michael Dell, he created a new model for PC sales cutting out the retail middle man and
custom building computer named as Dell computers.
Larry Page and Sergey Brin, they are both founded the Google.
Dado Banatao, is known as the father of the semi conductor. He founded Mostron,
Chips & Technologies, and S3.

COMPONENTS/ELEMENTS OF TECHNOPRENUERSHIP

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 Human Resources components
 Researchers – these are thinkers, business idea generator, innovators
 Developers – implementers, technical people, they implement innovations
 Marketing people – scan for markets, sell innovations to stakeholders
especially customers
 Financer- these are sponsors in a business

Environment component
These are the environmental factors that a business venture can take
advantage of.
o Science and parks
o incubation centers (centers that help upcoming technoprenuers by
offering them a practice ground so that they can build enough resources
to start their own businesses)
o Academic institutions
o Records development centers
o Internet access
o Communications and other support services
o Geographic accessibility
o Research and development centers

Law and Policies component

 Intellectual property rights -this focus on laws on trademarks, copyright and
patents
 Technology licensing office- this has to do with registering a business with
the authorities like the government.
 Legal services- to provide legal services or products

Financial components
 Investor- individuals who own the business, who invested in it.
 Business sector- the business venture is part of the business sector.
 Funding agencies- organizations or individuals
 Financial services –Good business finance management, e.g. accounting
services

CAPITAL
Capital is needed in starting a business.

Capital refers to assets that can enhance one's power to perform economically
useful work. It is Wealth in the form of money or other assets owned by a person
or organization or available for a purpose such as starting a company or
investment.

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Capital can be classified into various types for which one of the types of capital
is intellectual capital.
Elements of intellectual capital
 Human capital
 Structural capital (or organizational capital)
 Relational (customer or social ) capital

(a) Human Capital refers to the skills/competences, training and education, and
experience and value characteristics of an organization’s workforce that in
the minds of individuals: knowledge, skills, competences, experience, know-
how, capabilities, expertise of the human members of the organization.

(b) Relational Capital (also also called relationship Capital, Customer Capital,
External Capital). All relations a company entertains with external subjects,
such as suppliers, partners, clients. External capital comprises relationships
with customers and suppliers, brand names, trademarks and reputation.
( Social Capital - quality of the relationships with customers, suppliers and
partners.)

(c) Structural Capital (also Organizational Capital, Internal Capital) - "that

which is left after employees go home for the night": processes, information
systems, databases, policies, intellectual property, culture, etc. Thus, the
knowledge embedded in organizational structures and processes.( patents,
technologies, processes, database and networks)

Technoprenuers should understand business

ethics.
Business ethics are moral principles that guide the way a business behaves.
It applies to all aspects of business conduct and is relevant to the conduct of
individuals and entire organizations. These ethics originate from individuals,
organizational statements or from the legal system. These norms, values,
ethical, and unethical practices are what is used to guide business. They help
those businesses maintain a better connection with their stakeholders.

IMPORTANCE OF Business Ethics

 Stop business malpractices

 Safeguarding consumer’s rights
 Gain confidence of customers
 Survival and growth of business
 Creating goodwill
 Healthy competition

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  Consumer satisfaction.
 Building strong relationship with customers and clients

SOME COMMON ETHICAL PRINCIPLES COVERS THE FOLLOWING.

 Honesty, Integrity, Promise-Keeping & Trustworthiness, Loyalty, Fairness,

Concern for Others, Respect for Others, Law Abiding, Commitment to
Excellence, Leadership, Reputation & Morale and Accountability

Business Laws Every Entrepreneur Should Know

1. Business licenses
To legally start a business, you’ll likely need a business license. Visit your local city
council or government office for more information.

2. Observe Employment laws

Fair Labor Standards Act
This act regulates federal minimum wage, overtime rules, child labor bans, and
record keeping requirements. You’ll want to read through it to make sure you
comply with the current regulations.

3. Equal Employment Opportunity laws

This set of laws prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or
national origin. It also includes equal pay for men and women, and protects
people with disabilities.

4. Family and Medical Leave Act

If an employee is dealing with a medical condition, or a family member with a
medical condition, there are rules an employer must follow. From time off to
compensation, you’ll want to read this guide to understand how this act affects
your business.

5. Occupational Safety and Health Act

This law guarantees employees a safe work environment, free from recognized
health hazards.

6. Workers’ compensation
Most states require employers to buy an insurance policy that compensates
employees if they get hurt or become ill from workplace exposure.

7. At-Will work doctrine

This means employers can fire an employee at any time for any reason, unless
it’s an illegal one. Likewise, an employee can leave the job at anytime.

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8. Obtain an employer identification number
To file your business taxes, you’ll need an employer identification number.

9. Know the taxes you have to pay

You have to pay certain taxes. Take some time to review the federal tax, social
security, Medicare, and federal unemployment tax requirements.

10. Hiring employees

When you plan to bring on an employee, it impacts your taxes.

11. Truth in Advertising and Marketing

Just as it sounds, this law requires all advertising or marketing efforts to be
truthful.

12. CAN-SPAM Act

Did you know there is an email law? It’s true. The CAN-SPAM Act regulates
commercial emails. The law requires honesty and bans deceptive subject lines.
In addition, you must tell recipients where you’re located and give them an easy
way to opt-out of your email messages.

13. Tele-marking Sales Law

Observe telemarketing laws. E.g. if a businesses must ship products within 30
days, if this does not happen it may be required by law to provide delivery
notices if a product is delayed, and give refunds if an order can’t be filled.

14. Sales Tax Collection

Owners of a business might be required to collect applicable state and local
sales tax.

15. International sales laws

With a website, any business can sell their products internationally. It instantly
opens your business to a new audience, but that exposure comes with
regulations. It poses questions about shipping, various taxes, and customs.

16. Data security

If your business collects sensitive personal information from its customers, you
must have a sound security plan in place. Aside from keeping the data under
lock and key, you should only collect the information that you need, nothing
more.

17. Affordable Care Act

Provide health care to your employees.

18. Healthcare privacy

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 If your small business offers healthcare policies that can be accessed online,
you’ll need to come up with a security plan for this data as well. If the
information is ever breached, there are rules in place to notify those affected.

19. Protect your intellectual property

If you develop a new product, you’ll want to protect it with a patent. You can
also protect your business name, symbols, and logos by applying for a
trademark.

20. Bankruptcy
If your business has cash flow problems and is exploring the possibility of
bankruptcy, there are several laws you’ll want to familiarize yourself with before
filing the paperwork.
)

MARKETTING YOUR BUSINESS

Marketing refers to the action or business of promoting and selling products or
services, including market research and advertising. TodaytTechnoprenuers are
taking advantage of E-Commerce as a marketing tool.

E-COMMERCE, is also known as electronic commerce or

internet commerce, it refers to buying and selling of goods or services using the
internet. the following are e-commerce marketing ways:

1. Email Marketing
Email marketing involves gathering the email addresses of leads and customers,
sending them emails regularly, and getting them to open those emails or click the
links in them.

2. Content Marketing
Unlike directly advertising your products and services, content marketing aims to
reach your target audience through informational or entertaining content. The idea
is that when your target audience is attracted by this content, they’ll learn about
your business as a result. The content you use can come in any of the following
formats:

 articles
 videos
 audio
 illustrations
 infographics
 eBooks
 whitepapers
 case studies

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  testimonials
 and website copy (such as your homepage text or "About Us" page text).

Because content marketing doesn’t directly ask for the sale, it works best primarily
as a brand engagement strategy rather than a sales strategy.

3. Blogging
For businesses, blogging means regularly posting new updates to your blog or
website. Although blogging is technically part of content marketing, it often requires
a separate plan since it’s a recurring project.

4. Social Media Marketing

Using sites like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Snapchat, and Pinterest to
market your business means that you're using social media marketing.

5. Pay-Per-Click Advertising
Pay per click (PPC) advertising is simply a form of online advertising where you
pay for the clicks you get on an online ad.

6. Posters and Flyers

Displaying posters or giving away brochures and flyers is essential for small
businesses that need to market within a specific location.

7. Print Advertising
One of the more traditional marketing approaches, print advertising is simply about
buying ad space on printed media such as newspapers, magazines, newsletters,
direct mail, or yellow pages.

8. Referral Marketing
As the name implies, referral marketing is about getting new leads and sales from
referrals. These could be from your existing customers or other people who simply
know about your business.

9. Event Marketing
Small businesses, especially those that have a storefront or serve a local
community, can also benefit from hosting simple events that appeal to their target
audience. This approach is known as event marketing. The idea is that by creating
an event, your target customers will be gathered together in the same space. In
this space, they can buy your products or at least become aware of your brand.

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10. Business Partnerships
To make your small business stronger, sometimes it’s best to look for other small
businesses and band together. This could be in the form of cross promoting each
other’s products, bundling some of your products together, or co-hosting an event
for your target customers.

What are examples of top ecommerce marketing companies?

 1 Digital Agency.
 Americaneagle.com.
 BORN Group Inc.
What ecommerce marketing tools do you recommend?
 Google Analytics.
 MailChimp.
 Optimizely.
 Unbxd.
 Hotjar.

NOW LETS GO FOR BOOK 2 >>>>>>>>>

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