Chapter 1

Introduction to Information
Technology
Sheryll Trishia L. Laban
Objectives

• Differentiate data and information

• Identify the different characteristics and
types of a system
• Understand the data processing concepts
• Know the characteristics, capabilities,
benefits and limitations of a computer
 What is a computer?

• A computer is an electronic, programmable

device that can store, retrieve, and process
data.
• A term used to describe a collection of devices
that function together as a system.
Devices that comprise a computer:
 Basic Elements of a Computer

• Electronic
• Programmable
• Storage
• Retrieve
• Process
 Data vs. Information

• Data: a collection of • Desirable Qualities of

independent raw facts Information:
• Information: processed – Relevant
data made meaningful – Complete
based on the needs of – Timely
the user – Accurate
– Presentable
– Cost effective
 Basic Functions
Computers can perform four general operations, which
comprise the data processing cycle.

• Input
• Output
• Process
• Storage and Retrieve
 Data Processing Cycle

SO URCE IN P U T PRO CESS O UTPUT USER

DATA IN F O

F E E D B A C K /C O N T R O L
 Computer Capabilities

• Ability to perform certain logical

operations (And, Or, Not)
• Ability to provide new time dimensions
• Ability to store and retrieve information
• Ability to control error
• Ability to check itself
Computer benefits

• Increased Productivity (Manufacturing,

offices, factories, establishments, BPO)
• Information Management (Database,
Cloud Computing)
• Improved Communication (E-mail, skype,
chat, facebook, twitter etc.)
• Android Technology (viber)
 Computer Benefits

• Speed – It can process data in a millionth

per second
• Accuracy – it can perform process in a
number of hours continuously
• Repeatability – it can perform repeated
process
• Programmability – it follows instructions
 Computer limitations

• Dependence on prepared instructions

• Inability to derive meanings from objects
– no feelings
• Inability to generate information
• It cannot correct wrong instructions
• It is subject to a breakdown
 Evolution of Computers

Hardware
• Trends
• Generations – Cheaper
1. Vacuum tubes – More efficient: faster
2. Transistors and more applications
3. Integrated Circuits – Smaller
4. Microprocessors – More Portable
• Microminiaturization – Much easier to use
– All-in-one devices
– IoT