Understanding Computer Basics and Measurement Systems

Posted on Feb 2, 2025 in Technology

Computer Basics

Secondary Memory

Secondary memory is a storage location other than the main memory. It can store and retrieve all types of information when needed without having to keep it in the main memory.

Kilobyte

A kilobyte is 1024 bytes.

Operating System

The operating system is the set of programs or software installed on your computer to control the operation of all physical devices connected to it, as well as all application programs.

How to Find a File

  1. Select the tab to search for files or folders.
  2. Click and type the name and the search unit.
  3. Click on the “Search” button.

Measurement Systems and Instruments

Measuring Instruments

Measuring instruments are used by comparing a determined magnitude with another that has been used as a pattern. These instruments are provided with graduations.

Tapes

Tapes are very similar to roll-meters but with a length between 10 and 20 meters. These tapes are usually made with a textile and have a metal ring at the end to facilitate their use.

The Meter

The meter is defined as 1,650,763.73 times the wavelength of light radiation of the krypton-86 atom obtained in a vacuum. There are now even more precise definitions.

Measuring Systems

  • 1p = 12mm
  • 1y = 3p
  • 1 inch = 25.4mm
  • 2 yards = 182.88cm
  • 320 km on foot = 1,049,868.77

Historical Context of Measurement

The period between 1875 and 1889 is characterized by the construction and distribution of thirty-meter and kilogram patterns made of platinum-iridium.

Initially, people used familiar objects, including their own bodies, as units of measurement. However, the need for a fixed yardstick led to the creation of the first standard called “toesa” in 17th-century France.

Types of Measuring Tools

  • Folding rules: These are called so because they fold or open, normally from 20 to 20cm. They are usually made of steel or duralumin, and sometimes wood, with metal reinforcements at the ends. They are graduated in ml and cm and have limited accuracy.

  • Roll-meters: These are made of a flexible steel tape graduated in millimeters and sometimes in inches. They are best used in workshops because of their convenience.

  • Graduated rules: These are rules of hardened steel with a rectangular section, some of which are usually beveled. The strokes are performed in mm.

  • Verification tools: These only check whether the different magnitudes are within established limits. They do not provide a specific numerical value.

  • Protractors: These are the simplest instruments for measuring or transporting angles. They consist of a circle whose outer edge is divided into degrees and half degrees. They are made of sheet steel.

  • False brackets: These are low-precision instruments often used to transport angles from a model to one that is being built.

  • Levels: These are instruments used to verify the flatness of flat surfaces and sometimes their verticality.

Computer Generations

  • 1st generation computers: They used relays and valves.

  • 2nd generation computers: These were developed to reduce size, power consumption, and problems.

  • 3rd generation computers: They used integrated circuits and chips.

  • 4th generation computers: These use microprocessors and refined graphical environments.

Hardware and Software

Hardware

Hardware is the set of all physical elements that make up the computer. However, these elements by themselves are unable to perform any functions; they require software.

Software

Software is the computer’s logic, that is, the set of instructions called programs that enable the computer to “think” and perform different jobs.

Computer Peripherals

Mouse

The mouse is an input device used to navigate. It has a compact sphere inside that rolls on a surface, and this movement is transmitted to the computer using electrical impulses.

Printer

A printer is an output device that captures on paper the results of the information processed by the computer.

Monitor

A monitor is similar to a television and lets you view the data entered through the input devices.

Pixels

Pixels are independent points on the screen that together form the image. Each pixel has its own tone, brightness, and color.

File Management

Creating a Folder

  1. Select drive.
  2. Activate the menu.
  3. Click “Folder”.
  4. Write the new name.
  5. Click on the workspace.

Copying a File

  1. Select files from the folder.
  2. Click the “Copy” button.
  3. Select the destination directory or folder.
  4. Right-click and select “Paste”.

Deleting a File

  1. Select the file.
  2. Click the “File” menu.
  3. Click “Delete”.
  4. Write the name of the new folder.
  5. Click on the workspace.