Fundamentals of Computing - Lesson 9 - Finally Tying the Knots of Fundamentals

When tying up the knots of fundamentals in computing we have looked at numerous aspects of computing. You now know how the PC works, what the BIOS is, how networks can cooperate in networks, what the operating system is all about, and what the relationship between CPU speed and harddrives speeds mean for your computing performance. You even know a bit about choosing software for your computer, and there is one thing we haven't really touched.

Fundamentals of Computing - Lesson 8 - The Difference Between Apple and Other PCs

Apple has created some very unique computers when it comes to design, and numerous people in desktop publishing have had a preference for Apple computers. For the group that was previously called "IBM-compatible" PCs, there was much mysticism surrounding the Apple computer. In this lesson we will look at the history of Apple computers - and what the differences were about.

Fundamentals of Computing - Lesson 7 - Choosing Software for Your Computing Needs

When choosing software, we are not going to discuss the choice of single products as such, but take a look at general selections. There is much religion in whether you still prefer WordPerfect Office or go for Microsoft Office, whereas I was a long-time user of OpenOffice. As always, I don't get any revenue from telling you what I know, so I hope you will listen carefully, as we consider alternatives.

Fundamentals of Computing - Lesson 6 - The Difference Between Cabled Networks and WiFi

One very important aspect of using your computer is also the ability to connect with others. Both at your workplace, where you and your colleagues are connected on a network, but also at home where you are connected to the internet through a router. In this lesson we will look at both cabled and WiFi networks, so you may understand what this is all about.

Fundamentals of Computing - Lesson 5 - The Speed of CPUs and Harddrives

In this lesson we will look at the speed of CPUs the the role harddrives play in the overall system performance. Once again, we will be sure to remember that some aspects are historic, but they give you a pretty good idea of why there is a price difference between slower and faster systems.

Fundamentals of Computing - Lesson 4 - What Is the BIOS?

BIOS may sound confusing, but it actually stands for Basic Input Output System. As you saw in the video in lesson 3, its role is to control what comes in and out of your machine - back and forth to the CPU and all related units and expansion cards on the motherboard. Let's analyze why the BIOS is important.

Fundamentals of Computing - Lesson 3 - What Is Around Your CPU?

In this lesson we will look at all the contents of what you know as your computer. Your CPU is surrounded by a multitude of units, all united by a motherboard. This is the first step into actually understanding the makeup of your cabinet.

Fundamentals of Computing - Lesson 2 - How the Computer Works

A computer consists of several units each adding up to what you see as a small miracle machine that will serve your every wish. If you wondered why we didn't look at Windows in the first lesson, I will explain that in a future lesson. Right now we are building up the fundamentals you need so you can understand what a computer is all about.

Fundamentals of Computing - Lesson 1 - The Operating System

Nowadays, youngsters think Windows or MacOS (or sometimes Linux) when you talk about computers. The mouse and little icons have become so commonplace that no one considers that there was actually a time when we didn't have these little icons. Back in those days we had an operating system based on commands entered on a command line. That system was MS-DOS, licensed by IBM for their own machines as PC-DOS, and even 'copied' by a competitor as DR-DOS.