Introduction to Computers, 2019 Edition

This is an introductory text for a basic computer literacy course. We have tried to include all of the material necessary for an introductory computer literacy course, but, in order to keep a low price for our students, we have attempted to include ONLY what would be important in such a course. Topics that are new in 2019 edition or have information significantly updated from earlier editions include: the 1nternet of things, artificial intelligence, cloud computing (specifically SaaS), encryption, quantum computing, speech recognition, digital currencies, dark web, hashtags, biometric authentication, distance education, and net neutrality. Contents include: 1. Introduction - History of computer development, different classes of computers, networks and communication, information processing cycle, Distinction between hardware ans software, Social effects of computers, Hacking and Malware 2. Computer Components - CPU, memory, secondary storage, input, output and communications devices 3. Computer Software - System software (operating systems, utility programs), application programs, Classes of and distribution methods for software, Ethical issues related to software 4. The System Unit - Motherboard, CPU, Types of Memory, Secondary Storage, Data representation, connecters and ports 5. Input - Keyboards, scanners, pointing devices (mouse, trackball, touchscreen, ...), Speech recognition 6. Output - Monitors, projectors, wearables, printers, fonts, audio output 7. Storage - Hard disk drives, optical storage, obsolete media, cloud storage, Data compression 8. Networks and Internet - Internet development, Internet services (WWW, e-mail, FTP, ... ), e-commerce, Internet architecture (HTML, TCP/IP, routers, servers, ... ), Social issues, Security, Net neutrality.