Subject Description
Fundamentals of Computers is an introductory subject in the BCA Semester 1 curriculum that aims to build a strong foundation in basic computer concepts and information technology. This subject is designed especially for beginners and helps students understand the working principles, components, and applications of computer systems.
The course introduces students to the history and evolution of computers, different hardware components, memory and storage devices, and the importance of software and operating systems. It also provides an overview of computer languages, data representation, and basic networking concepts.
This subject acts as a base for advanced subjects such as programming, databases, operating systems, and computer networks studied in later semesters. A clear understanding of this subject enables students to confidently use computers and grasp core IT concepts.
Learning Outcomes
After completing this subject, students will be able to:
- Understand the basic concepts and characteristics of computers
- Explain the working of computer hardware components
- Differentiate between types of memory and storage devices
- Understand system software and application software
- Apply fundamental computer knowledge in academic and practical use
Fundamentals of Computers – Syllabus
Course: BCA
Semester: 1
Unit 1: Introduction to Computers
- Definition of Computer
- Characteristics of Computers
- Applications of Computers
- Advantages and Limitations of Computers
- Evolution of Computers
- History of Computers
- Generations of Computers
Unit 2: Computer System Components
- Basic Components of a Computer System
- Input Devices
- Keyboard
- Mouse
- Scanner
- Barcode Reader
- MICR
- OCR
- Output Devices
- Monitor
- Printer (Impact and Non-Impact)
- Plotter
- Speakers
- Central Processing Unit (CPU)
- Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)
- Control Unit (CU)
- Registers
Unit 3: Memory and Storage Devices
- Concept of Memory
- Units of Memory (Bit, Byte, KB, MB, GB, TB)
- Primary Memory
- RAM (SRAM, DRAM)
- ROM (PROM, EPROM, EEPROM)
- Cache Memory
- Secondary Storage Devices
- Hard Disk
- Solid State Drive (SSD)
- Optical Storage (CD, DVD, Blu-ray)
- Magnetic Tape
- Storage Hierarchy
Unit 4: Software Concepts
- Definition of Software
- Types of Software
- System Software
- Application Software
- Operating System – Introduction
- Functions of an Operating System
- Utility Software
- Open Source Software
- Proprietary Software
Unit 5: Operating System Basics
- Introduction to Operating Systems
- Types of Operating Systems
- Batch Operating System
- Time Sharing Operating System
- Real Time Operating System
- Distributed Operating System
- Basic Concepts of Process and Memory Management
Unit 6: Data Representation and Computer Languages
- Data and Information
- Number System
- Binary
- Decimal
- Octal
- Hexadecimal
- Conversion between Number Systems
- Introduction to Computer Languages
- Machine Language
- Assembly Language
- High-Level Language
- Language Translators
- Compiler
- Interpreter
- Assembler
Unit 7: Introduction to Computer Networks and Internet
- Basics of Computer Networks
- Types of Networks
- LAN
- MAN
- WAN
- Internet – Introduction
- World Wide Web (WWW)
- Web Browsers and Search Engines
- Email – Basics
