Common Computer Performance and Features

Digital Literacy Lesson 3

The Role of MemoryA computer stores data in the memory when

a task is performed.Data is stored in the form of 0s and 1s.Bit: Each 0 or 1 in data.Byte: A combination of eight bits

Bits and BytesBit: the smallest unit of information a

computer handles.Byte: a combination of eight bits arranged

in a sequence. Represents a single character, symbol, digit or letter.

Kilobyte(KB): 1 KB= 1,024 bytes. Kilobytes can be used to store text files or email messages.

Bits and BytesMegabyte (MB): 1 MB=1,024 KB

The amount of 1 MB is almost equal to the information and pictures in a textbook.

Gigabyte (GB): 1 GB=1,024 MBMost computer hard drives are measured in

GB.1 GB can store a video

Terabyte (TB): 1 TB= 1,024 GBCan hold the complete text for several books

Computer PerformanceCPU SpeedAffects the overall performance of the

computerCPU speed is the rate at which the CPU

performs tasks.

Computer PerformanceHard Disk FactorsThe faster the speed of data retrieval, the

less time the computer takes to start and load programs.

RAMA computer runs faster is the RAM is large

enough to hold all of the information in use.When there is not enough RAM the computer

slows down or fails to function properly.

Productivity ProgramsWord-processing and publishing programWord-processing programs are used to create

and modify text-based documents. (MS Word)Publishing programs are used to create

documents such as brochures, books, magazines, and greeting cards, where text and graphics are combined. (MS Publisher)

Productivity ProgramsNote Taking ProgramNote taking programs are used to collect,

capture, and store information, notes, projects and presentations.

Can also help to gather and organize text, pictures, audio and video recordings and digital handwriting in to one location.

Example: OneNote 2010

Productivity ProgramsPresentation Program Used to present information in the form of

slides.Sound, pictures, and animation can be added

to make the presentations more attractive.Example: PowerPoint

Productivity ProgramsSpreadsheet ProgramUsed to create budgets, manage accounts,

perform mathematical calculations and create charts and graphs.

Example: Excel

Productivity ProgramsDatabase ProgramUsed to store and manage data in an

organized way.Can be used to store customer details, create

and manage inventory, and track sales.Example: Access

Productivity ProgramsGraphics ProgramsUsed to create and edit drawings and

enhance photographs.Paint can be used to create drawingsPicture Manager can help a user manage,

edit, share and view photos on the computer.

Communication ProgramsPrograms used to send e-mail messages. User must have an Internet connection and an e-mail account (Windows Live Mail)Chat ProgramsUsed to communicate with several people at

the same time. (Windows Live Messenger)

Communication ProgramsSocial NetworkingUsed to share ideas, files, photos, and hold

discussions.Example: Facebook, Twitter, Google +