computing

COMPUTING

This is the process of utilizing computer technology to complete a task; simply put it is the use or operation of computers.

Most individuals use some form of computing every day whether they realize it or not e.g. Swiping of debit cards, sending an email, or even using a cell phone can all be considered as forms of computing.

CONCRETE COMPUTING DEVICES

1. Tally stick: This is used to record and document numbers, quantities, or even messages, the first known tally stick made use of animal bones.

2. Abacus/ Counting frame: is a calculating tool used for performing simple mathematical operations such as adding and subtracting.

3. The difference engine: Invented by Charles Babbage, an automatic mechanical calculator designed to tabulate polynomial functions.

4. Coins / Stones: An ancient adding and subtracting tool.

5. Rope: A piece of strong tick cord used for marking distance.

6. Slide rule: This is a mechanical analogue computer, used primarily for multiplication and division, also for functions such as root logarithms and trigonometry.

7. Computer: A computer is a special multipurpose machine (electronic device), that is capable of receiving instructions (data), storing and processing it and giving a desired result as output accurately at an incredibly high speed.

8. Adding Machine (Pascaline): The adding machine was invented by Blaise Pascal in 1642; it is used for computing simple arithmetic problems.

COMPUTING DEVICE AND THEIR INVENTORS

1. William Oughtred developed the SLIDE RUELE

2. John Napier invented NAPIER BONES

3. Blaise Pascal invented THE FIRST MECHANICAL DIGITAL CALCULATOR (Pascaline)

4. Hollerith invented the PUNCH CARD

5. Charlse Babbage invented the ANALYTICAL ENGINE AND DIFFERENCE ENGINE

6. Mauchly and Eckert invented THE FIRST ELECTRONIC DIGITAL COMPUTER

7. Atanasoff Berry Computer was invented by Prof. John V. Antanasoff

8. UNIVAC (IBM) was the FIRST COMERCIAL COMPUTER TO USE VACUUM TUBES.

NUMBER SYSTEM

When we type some letters or words, the computer translate them in numbers as computers can only understand numbers (Binary Numbers).

BASIC CALCULATIONS ON NUMBER BASE

To convert from base 2 to base 10

Example: Convert 101100101 base 2 to base 10

i. List the digits in order, and count them off from the right to left, starting with zero

ii. After which arrange and solve carefully.

To convert from base 10 to base 2

Example: Convert 357 base 10 to base 2

i. To do this you need to divide by 2 repeatedly

ii. Keep track of the remainders

iii. Answer is gotten by reading remainders from top to bottom.

If properly done you should arrive at the Answer 101100101 base 2

SOME NUMBER SYSTEM AND DESCRIPTION

1. Binary Number system: Base 2, Digits used 0 and 1

2. Octal number system: Base 8. Digits used: 0 to 7

3. Hexadecimal number system: Base 16. Digits used: 0 - 9, letters used A - F.

Assignment

1. List and state the features of 5 other number systems.

2. List 5 computing devices (Do not name the ones on your note)