Computers

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The computers in the school are shared between up to four classes each day - it's crucial that you learn to help take care of them so they perform reliably for you, and the other students assigned to them. Here's what you need to learn: code OBJECTIVES:

* Demonstrate how information is organized and stored in a computer system * Use correct file management techniques to create, name, copy, move, delete, and organize files; * Use correct networking services to log on and off and access shared files and devices; * Maintain backup copies of program files on different media. code
 * DAILY COMPUTER ROUTINE:**
 * POWERING UP
 * The FRONT switch should normally turn on the main computer
 * The MONITOR has it's own power switch that may need to be turned on
 * If the computer fails to "light up", you MAY need to turn on the BACK power switch beside the power plug
 * POWERING DOWN
 * Press the FRONT switch, or use START MENU - SHUTDOWN to power down the computer
 * ALWAYS make sure all computers are powered down at the end of the period
 * If a computer appears to be frozen, press and HOLD the FRONT power switch for 10 seconds to force a power down
 * AVOID using the power switch on the BACK to shut down a computer - it's a last resort

What is a Computer?
What exactly qualifies as a "computer"? There are many different ways to answer that question. Try this: (Do this now)
 * Use the web, and try to identify the world's FIRST computer
 * Report your findings to the class

There are many different ways to interpret the question - are we looking at:
 * Mechanical Computers
 * Analogue Computers
 * Digital Computers
 * Military Computers
 * Personal Computers

Since we're learning to use the computers in our classroom, we will focus on modern digital, personal computer systems.

Computer Systems
A "SYSTEM" a collection of things that somehow work together A "**Computer System**" is a collection of "**components**" that have been designed to work together to let you:
 * 1) Input Information
 * 2) Store Information
 * 3) Process Information
 * 4) Output Information