COMPUTERS TODAY
In this lesson, you will learn how to:
Talk and write about computer applications in everyday life
Recognize the basic components of a computer system and understand their functions
Understand the structure of different CPUs (central processing units)
Understand the units of memory (bits, bytes, KB, MB, GB)
Build up new words by using prefixes and suffixes
Use synonyms, acronyms, and abbreviations when talking about computers
Computer applications
Match the pictures
A Computers have many applications in a great variety of fields Look at these photographs of different situations and match them with texts 1 to 4 below
1) Airline pilots use computers to help them control the plane For example, monitors display data about fuel consumption, and weather conditions
In airport control towers, computers are used to manage radar systems, and regulate air traffic
2) Computers can help students perform mathematical operations and solve difficult questions They can be used to teach courses such as computer- aided design, language learning, programming, mathematics, etc
3) Computer is used with laser and barcode technology to scan the price of each item and present total at a supermarket
4) Banks use computers to look after their customers’ money They also control the automatic cash dispensers which, by the use of a personal coded card, dispense money to clients
A Match these titles with the pictures
Using an automatic cash dispenser
In education, computers can make all the difference
Scanning the price of each item and present total at a supermarket
B Match the places in column A with the computer uses in column B
Banks Provide information and entertainment
Factories Look after, patient records and medicines
Now use the above words and phrases to fill in the gaps in this paragraph about computer uses
Computers have become an integral part of our daily lives, playing essential roles in various settings In retail stores, they streamline transactions and manage inventory In manufacturing, they enhance efficiency and precision in production processes In healthcare, computers maintain patient records and manage medication inventories When managing our bank accounts, computers ensure secure transactions and account management Additionally, computers in our homes facilitate communication, entertainment, and organization, making them indispensable tools in modern life.
C Look at text one again and discuss these questions
How are/were computers used in your school?
What other areas of study would benefit from the introduction of computers?
In my school, computers are used to speed up the process of looking for references in the library.
Language work: The passive
In technical writing, the use of passive voice is prevalent as the focus is primarily on facts, processes, and events rather than individuals The passive construction is formed by combining the appropriate tense of the verb 'to be' with the past participle of the main verb.
1) We sell computers (simple present)
2) Babbage invented ‘The Analytical Engine’ (simple past)
1) Computers are sold (simple present)
2) ‘The Analytical Engine’ was invented in 1830 (simple past) Facts and processes
When we write or talk about facts or processes that occur regularly, we use the present passive
1) Data is transferred from the internal memory to the arithmetic- logical unit along channels known as buses
2) The other users are automatically denied access to that record
3) Distributed systems are built using networked computers
A Read the text below, which describes the insurance company’s procedure for dealing with PC-users’ problems Fill in the gaps using the correct form of the verb in brackets
All calls 1 ……… (register) by the Help Desk staff Each call
2……… (evaluate) and then 3 ……… (allocate) to the relevant support group If a visit 4 ……… (require), the user 5 ……… (contact) by telephone, and an appointment 6 ……… (arrange) Most calls
7……… (deal with) within one working day In the event of a major problem requiring the removal of a user’s PC, a replacement can usually 8 ……… (supply)
B Fill in the gaps in the following sentences using the appropriate form of the verb in brackets
1) The part of the processor which controls data transfers between the various input and output devices ……… (call) the control unit.
2) An operating system ……… (store) on disk.
3) Instructions written in a high-level language ……… (transform) into machine code
4) In the star configuration, all processing and control functions
……… (perform) by the central computer.
5) When a document arrives in the mail room, the envelope ……… (open) by a machine
When we write or talk about past events, we use the past passive Let us look at some examples
1) COBOL was first introduced in 1959
2) Microsoft was founded on the basis of the development of MS/DOS
3) The organization was created to promote the use of computers in education
C Fill in the gaps in the following sentences using the appropriate form of the verb in brackets
1) Microsoft ……… (found) by Bill Gates.
3) In the 1980s, at least 100,000 LANs ……… (set up) in laboratories and offices around the world
4) The first digital computer ……… (build) by the University of Pennsylvania in 1946
5) IBM’s decision not to continue manufacturing mainframes
……… (reverse) the year after it ……… (take).
Reading
A Write a list of as many uses of the computer, or computer applications, as you can think of
B Now read the text below and underline any applications that are not in your list
Computers and microchips are integral to our daily lives, influencing everything from the design of shops and offices to the production of magazines and the preparation of bills The true marvel of a computer lies in its ability to perform any task you request, thanks to the right combination of hardware and software.
A personal computer (PC) is a versatile tool that accelerates financial calculations and serves as an electronic filing cabinet for managing extensive data collections, including customer lists and inventories It functions as a powerful typewriter, enabling users to create and print various documents such as letters, memos, and legal papers Additionally, a PC acts as a personal communicator, facilitating interaction with other computers and individuals globally For those who enjoy gadgets and electronic entertainment, a PC also offers the opportunity to unwind with a variety of computer games.
Other application
A In small groups, choose one of the areas in the diagram below and discuss what computers can do in this area
Formula 1: racing car, car body, design, mechanical parts, electronic components, engine speed
Entertainment: game, music, animated image, multimedia, encyclopedia
Factories: machinery, robot, production line, computer-aided manufacturing software
Hospitals: patients, medical personnel, database program, records, scanner, diagnose, disease, robot, surgery
A PC can also be used for …
Computers can help … make … control … store … keep … provide … manage
… give … perform … measure … test … provide access to …
B Now write a short paragraph summarizing your discussion Then ask one person from your group to give a summary of the group’s ideas to the rest of the class
In business, computers are used for financial planning, accounting, and specific calculations
In the office, computers are used to write letters and keep records of clients, suppliers, and employees
Computer essentials
Computer hardware
A In pairs, discuss these questions
1) Have you got a computer at home, school or work? What kind is it?
2) How often do you use it? What do you use it for?
3) What are the main components and features of your computer system?
B In pairs, label the elements of this computer system
What is a computer?
A computer is an electronic device that accepts data, processes it, and delivers results as information Initially, data is stored in the computer's memory, and upon executing a program, the computer follows a series of instructions to process this data Ultimately, the output is displayed on the screen or printed out.
A computer system is composed of two main components: hardware and software Hardware refers to the tangible electronic or mechanical parts, while software consists of programs that instruct the computer on its operations The primary hardware components include the central processing unit (CPU), main memory, and peripherals The CPU acts as the computer's "brain," executing program instructions and coordinating the activities of other components Main memory, made up of RAM chips, stores the instructions and data being processed by the CPU Peripherals are external devices connected to the computer, including storage devices like hard drives and flash drives, which provide permanent data storage, as well as input devices such as keyboards and mice that allow users to enter data Output devices, including monitors and printers, present the processed information to users.
The rear panel of a computer features multiple ports for connecting various peripherals, such as modems, digital cameras, and scanners, facilitating communication between the computer and these devices Additionally, modem desktop PCs are equipped with USB ports and memory card readers on the front panel for easy access.
B Match these words from the text (1-9) which the correct meanings (a-i)
4 Hard drive (also known as hard disk)
9 Central processing unit a The brain of the computer b Physical parts that make up a computer system c Programs which can be used on a particular computer system d The information which is presented to the computer e Results produced by a computer f Input devices attached to the CPU g Section that holds program and data while they are executed or processed h Magnetic device used to store information i Sockets into which an external device may be connected
III Different type of computer
A Label the pictures (a-e) with words from the box
Laptop Desktop PC PDA Mainframe Tablet PC a……… b………
B Decide whether these sentences are true of false Correct the false ones
1) A mainframe computer is less powerful than a PC
2) A mainframe is used by large organizations that need to process enormous amounts of data
3) The most suitable computers for home are desktop PCs
5) Laptops are not as powerful as desktop PCs
6) Using a stylus, you can write directly onto the screen of a tablet PC
7) A Personal Digital Assistant is small enough to fit into a palm of your hand
8) A PDA does not allow you to surf the Web
A Look at the HELP box and then use suitable classifying expressions to complete these sentences
2 Peripherals……….three types: input, output and storage devices
Classifying means putting things into groups or classes We can classify types of computers, parts of a PC, etc
3 A word processing program………… software which lets the user create and edit text
4 ……….of network architecture: peer-to-peer, where all computers have the same capabilities, and client-server (e.g the Internet), where servers store and distribute data, and clients access this data
Some typical expressions for classifying are
…are classifying into X types/categories
…can be divided into X types/categories
Digital computers can be divided into five main types: mainframes, desktop PCs, laptops, tablet PCs and handheld PDAs
The basic configuration of a mainframe consists of a central system which processes immense amounts of data very quickly
There are X types/classes of…
A tablet PC is a type of notebook computer
V Benefits of laptops and tablet PCs
Your school is considering buying tablet PCs to use in the classroom Write an email to your teacher explaining the benefits for the students and the school
Inside the system
Worm-up
A Read the advertisement and translate the technical specifications into your own language
B Try to answer these questions (If necessary look at the Glossary)
1) What is the main function of a microprocessor?
2) What unit of frequency is used to measure processor speed?
3) What does ‘RAM’ stand for?
Reading
A Read the text below and then sentences 1 to 8 that follow Decide if the sentences are true (T) or false (F), and rewrite the false ones to make them true
The central processing unit (CPU) serves as the nerve centre of a microcomputer, encapsulated within a single microprocessor chip This integrated circuit is responsible for executing program instructions and overseeing the overall functioning of the computer The CPU comprises three primary components, including the control unit, which reviews and interprets the instructions from the user's program, directing the circuits and other parts of the system accordingly.
Notebook Apple Macbook MC374ZP/A: CPU Intel Core 2 Duo P8600 (2.4Ghz/ Mb), 4GB RAM, 250GB HDD, DVDRW Super drive, 13.3" Monitor, camera isight, card reader, Lan Gigabit wifi
21 components – disk drives, monitor, etc – to be activated to execute the functions specified; ii The arithmetic logic unit
(ALU), which performs mathematical calculations (+,
Registers are high-speed memory units essential for storing and managing information in a computer's CPU Among these, the program counter (PC) tracks the next instruction to be executed from the main memory, while the instruction register (IR) holds the currently executing instruction.
Microprocessors vary significantly in their data handling capabilities, specifically in the number of bits they process simultaneously, including 8, 16, 32, and 64-bit architectures The rapid evolution of computer internal architecture has led to the emergence of 64-bit processors, which can address an astounding 4 billion times more information compared to their 32-bit counterparts.
The programs and data which pass through the central processor must be loaded into the main memory (also called the internal memory) in order to be processed
Thus, when the user runs an application, the microprocessor looks for it on secondary storage devices
The computer transfers a copy of the application from the disks into the RAM (random access memory), which is temporary and loses its data when powered off In contrast, the ROM (read-only memory) is permanent and stores essential instructions required by the processor.
Modern computers typically feature internal expansion slots, enabling users to add various adapters or expansion boards Commonly used adapters include high-resolution graphics cards, memory expansion boards, and internal modems.
The performance of a computer is significantly influenced by the speed of its microprocessor, which is measured by its clock speed in MHz (megahertz) This clock emits pulses at fixed intervals to synchronize the computer's circuits and units For instance, a CPU operating at 500 MHz, or 500 million cycles per second, can deliver a high processing rate, enabling the computer to efficiently manage demanding applications.
The new generation of processors
Set Computing) architecture, providing lightning- fast performance
1) The CPU directs and coordinates the activities taking place within the computer system
2) The arithmetic logic unit performs calculations on the data
3) 32-bit processors can handle more information than 64-bit processors
4) A chip is an electronic device composed of silicon elements containing a set of integrated circuits
5) RAM, ROM, and secondary storage are the components of the main memory
6) Information cannot be processed by the microprocessor if it is not loaded into the main memory
7) ‘Permanent’ storage of information is provided by RAM (random access memory)
8) The speed of the microprocessor is measured in megahertz One MHz is equivalent to one million cycles per second
B Contextual reference What do the words in bold and italics print refer to?
1) … which executes program instructions and supervises …
2) …the instruction that is currently being executed
3) …the amount of data – the number of bits – they can work with at a time
4) …the microprocessor looks for it on …
5) …its information is lost when the computer is turned off
6) …expansion slots that allow users to install adapters or expansion boards.
Language work: Relative clauses
2) The chip processes the information provided by the software
Both these sentences refer to chip We can link them by making sentence 2 a relative clause:
The microprocessor is a chip which processes the information provided by the software
The relative clause is in bold italics Note that ‘ The chip ’ in sentence 2 becomes
Study these other pairs of sentences and note how they are linked
3) The teacher has just arrived
4) The teacher is responsible for the computer centre
3+4: The teacher who is responsible for the computer centre has just arrived
B Now link these sentences Make the second sentence in each pair a relative clause
1) The microprocessor coordinates the activities
These activities take place in the computer system
He works for GM as a computer programmer
3) A co-processor is a silicon chip
The chip carries out mathematical operation at a very high speed
4) A megahertz is a unit of frequency
The unit is used to measure processor speed
The word must be entered before access is given to a computer system
The device is used to interconnect different types of networks
You lent me the disk
The gateway is used to connect all kinds of external devices to your computer
This software causes damage to the data, the information or the hardware of the computer.
Reading
A Read the text and complete it with the phrases in the box b All the information stored in the RAM is temporary c Microcomputers make use of two types of main memory d ROM chips have ‘constant’ information e The size of RAM is very important
Main memory: RAM and ROM
The main memory of a computer is also called the ‘immediate access store’, as distinct from any storage memory available on disks (1)
…………: RAM and ROM, both contained in electronic chips connected to the main board of the computer
RAM stands for ‘random access memory’ and is the working area of the computer, that is, the basic location where the microprocessor stores the required information It is called
‘random access’ because the processor can find information in any cell or memory address with equal speed, instead of looking for the data in sequential order
Data stored in RAM is temporary and lost when the machine is turned off, necessitating saving it to a disk for future use When an application runs, the microprocessor locates it on the storage device and transfers a temporary copy to RAM To enhance computer performance, especially with multiple applications or complex documents open simultaneously, increasing RAM capacity is essential.
The RAM capacity can sometimes be expanded by adding extra chips These are usually contained in single in-line memory modules or
SIMMs, which are installed in the motherboard of the computer
Designating a portion of RAM as a cache can enhance application performance by storing frequently used information While a RAM cache can significantly speed up tasks, it requires sufficient internal memory or a dedicated cache card to function effectively.
ROM, or 'read-only memory', refers to a type of memory that allows the processor to read and utilize the stored information, but does not permit any data to be written or modified.
The instructions and routines for basic CPU operations are stored in the ROM, which is often called firmware These instructions are essential for starting up the computer, reading input from the keyboard, and displaying characters on the screen Importantly, they cannot be altered or erased when the power is turned off.
B As we have seen, there are three types of memory used by computers: RAM, ROM and secondary storage Look through this list of features and decide which type of memory they refer to
2) Any section of the main memory can be read with equal speed and ease
3) It is available in magnetic, optical and video disks
4) A certain amount of this memory can be designated as ‘cache’ memory to store information in applications that are used very frequently
5) It stores basic operating instructions, needed by the CPU to function correctly
6) Memory which can be expanded by adding SIMMs of 8 MB, 16 MB, 32
MB or other major increments
7) Information is permanent and cannot be deleted
8) You can save and store your documents and applications.
Vocabulary quiz
In groups of three, write answers to these questions The winners are the group that answers the most questions correctly in four minutes
1) What are the main parts of the CPU?
3) What memory section is also known as ‘firmware’?
4) What information is lost when the computer is switched off?
5) What is the typical unit used to measure RAM memory and storage memory?
6) What is the meaning of the acronym SIMM?
8) What is the ALU? What does it do?
9) What is the abbreviation for ‘binary digit’?
10) How can we store data and programs permanently?
Your ideal computer system
A Make about the features of the computer that you would like to have
CPU: ………… Speed: ………… Optical disk drives: …………
Hard disk: …… Software: ……… Minimum/maximum RAM:………… Monitor: ………
B Now describe it to your partner
It’s very fast It runs at…
The standard RAM memory… and it is expandable…
The hard disk can hold…
Lesson 4 Buying a computer Buying a Home Computer
Purchasing a home computer is a significant decision, similar to buying a car, and involves navigating numerous makes and models while considering various advice sources To enhance your shopping experience and understand the available options, it's essential to conduct thorough research beforehand Whether opting for a new or used computer, clearly define your needs and establish a budget to guide your purchase effectively.
Deciding On An Operating System
Computers are generally divided into two main categories based on their operating systems: those optimized for graphics work and those tailored for word processing While both types can perform either function, your primary usage will guide your choice Consider whether you will primarily use the computer for graphics or text production, the specific software you intend to run, and its compatibility with the operating system, as most software is available for both platforms.
When purchasing a computer for your child, consider the type used in their classroom to ensure compatibility If you plan to share files with your sister, it's wise to check her system as well Both computer systems have their merits, so understanding your specific needs will guide you in making the right choice before making a commitment.
Purchasing a computer from a trusted electronics dealer increases your chances of receiving superior warranty options and customer service These dealers offer high-quality machines that have proven successful due to their reliable performance and support.
What to Consider Before Buying a Computer
When considering how to use your computer, it's essential to identify your primary activities, such as writing papers with word processing software, managing finances on spreadsheets, communicating via email, browsing the internet, or gaming Understanding these needs will guide you in determining the minimum specifications required for your computer to effectively support your intended tasks.
Bigger Programs Require More Memory
When choosing a computer, it's essential to consider the size of the software you plan to run, as this will determine the amount of memory required Assess your intended use and inquire about the necessary software to understand your memory needs better A knowledgeable sales associate can guide you on the minimum memory requirements, typically around 64 megabytes, to effectively run most programs Additionally, ensure to review the preloaded software on the computer to know exactly what you're purchasing.
KEEP IN MIND THAT THE SIZE OF THE SOFTWARE YOU PLAN TO RUN WILL DICTATE HOW MUCH MEMORY YOUR COMPUTER SHOULD HAVE
How Much Should You Spend?
When purchasing a computer, it's advisable to invest as much as your budget allows, with entry-level models starting around $1,000 and high-end options exceeding $3,000 While you don't need the most powerful machine available, aim to acquire the best system within your price range, considering essential components like the monitor, microprocessor, memory, hard drive, keyboard, and printer Additionally, it's wise to postpone software purchases until you've evaluated the software included with your new computer.
WITH COMPUTERS, IT'S A G00D RULE OF THUMB TO BUY AS MUCH AS YOU CAN AFFORD
When deciding on a computer, you can choose between a laptop or a desktop model Laptops offer portability, making them ideal for frequent travelers, while desktops provide larger screens and easy expandability Although laptops are often seen as secondary computers, many are sophisticated enough to serve as your primary device Notably, some lightweight laptops, known as notebooks, weigh less than five pounds.
IF YOU DON'T KNOW A MOUSE FROM A RAM, THEN YOU NEED
TO BRUSH UP ON THE LANGUAGE OF COMPUTERS
If you don't know a mouse from a RAM, then you need to brush up on the language of computers Here's a crash course
Cache: Cache is another type of memory kindred to RAM Cache is used by the computer to quickly move data between the RAM and the CPU
Most modern computers are equipped with a CD-ROM drive, which is essential for reading data stored on discs Unlike music CDs, CD-ROMs hold a variety of information, including games, dictionaries, and recipe files, making them versatile storage solutions.
The CPU, or central processing unit, serves as the brain of a computer, with most new Windows-based programs utilizing a Pentium processor, while newer Macs are equipped with a different type of CPU known as PowerPC.
THE CPU, OR CENTRAL PROCESSING UNIT, IS THE BRAINS OF THE COMPUTER
Most computers are equipped with a disk drive capable of reading and saving data on floppy disks, also known as portable diskettes These floppy disks can be utilized to store information or to install new software on your computer.
The hard drive, also known as the hard disk, is an essential component of your computer, functioning as its electronic filing cabinet Although it is typically hidden inside the device, it plays a crucial role in storing the operating system, files, programs, and documents necessary for your computer's operation.
Keyboard: Just like a typewriter keyboard, this device is the primary way of inputting data into many programs
In this lesson, you will learn how to:
Describe input and output devices
Identify important keys on a keyboard and explain their functions
Distinguish between facts and opinions in advertisements about peripherals (e.g scanners)
Understand technical specifications given about monitors
Use different grammatical forms to give instructions, advice or warnings
Compare different types of printers, and choose one for yourself
Understand what sort of input/output devices are used by disabled people
Lesson 1 Type, click and talk!
Input devices are essential hardware components that enable users to enter information into a computer The most widely used input devices include the keyboard and mouse, but other options for interaction include lightpens, scanners, trackballs, graphics tablets, joysticks, and voice recognition devices.
Look at the illustrations and see if you can name them
Work in pairs III About the keyboard
C Look at the picture of a PC-compatible keyboard below and identify these groups of keys
1) Alphanumeric keys: arranged in the same order as a typewriter
2) Function keys: used by various programs to instruct the PC to perform specific tasks such as Save, Copy, Cut, Paste, Help, etc
3) Numeric keypad: set of numeric or editing keys The Num Lock key is used to switch from numbers to editing functions
4) Editing keys: cursor and other keys usually used within word processors to page up and down in a long document or to edit text (using Insert or Delete keys)
5) Special keys: used is to issue commands or to produce alternative characters in key combinations, for example, the Alt key
D Match these keys abbreviations with their full names
E Computer system may have different keyboard options Here is an example
If we enter the Key Caps menu on a Macintosh in Courier and then press the Option key, we obtain the following symbols on the screen
Identify these symbols on the keyboard
1 Slash 2 Not equal to 3 Plus and minus
A Try to answer these questions
1) How is the mouse connected to the computer?
2) What does the mouse pointer look like on the screen?
3) What are the functions of the mouse buttons?
4) What are the advantages of a computer mouse over a keyboard?
Read the text to check your answer or to find the right answers
The computer mouse is a user-friendly device that allows you to easily control the pointer's position on your screen, enabling you to make selections and choices with its buttons.
The mouse contains a rubber-coated ball that rests on the surface of your working area or a mousemat When the mouse is moved on that surface, the ball rolls
The ball’s movements up and down, and left and right, turn the two axles inside the mouse As they turn, detectors register the changing position A small integrated
32 circuit inside the mouse sends signals to the operating system, which instructs it to move the pointer on your screen
B Here are some basic mouse actions Match the terms in the box with the explanations below a Click b Double-click c Drag
1) Position the pointer on something, then rapidly press and release the mouse button twice (You do this to load a program, open a document, or select text or graphics)
2) Position the pointer on something, hold down the mouse button, and move the mouse to the desired position, then release the button (You do this to move an image to a new location on the screen)
3) Position the pointer on something, then press, and release the mouse button (You do this to place the insertion point, to choose an option, or to close a window)
We can describe the function of an item in a number of ways
1 ROM holds instructions which are needed to start up the computer
Used to-infinitive , Used for +
2 ROM is used to hold instructions which are needed to start up the computer
3 ROM is used for holding instructions which are needed to start up the computer
4 The function of ROM is to hold instructions which are needed to start up the computer
Now, match each item in Column A with its function in Column B Then describe its function in two ways
INPUT/OUTPUT DEVICES
In this lesson, you will learn how to:
Describe input and output devices
Identify important keys on a keyboard and explain their functions
Distinguish between facts and opinions in advertisements about peripherals (e.g scanners)
Understand technical specifications given about monitors
Use different grammatical forms to give instructions, advice or warnings
Compare different types of printers, and choose one for yourself
Understand what sort of input/output devices are used by disabled people
Type, click and talk!
Interacting with your computer
Input devices are essential hardware components that enable users to enter information into a computer The most widely used input devices include the keyboard and mouse, but other options such as light pens, scanners, trackballs, graphics tablets, joysticks, and voice recognition devices also facilitate computer interaction.
Look at the illustrations and see if you can name them
About the keyboard
C Look at the picture of a PC-compatible keyboard below and identify these groups of keys
1) Alphanumeric keys: arranged in the same order as a typewriter
2) Function keys: used by various programs to instruct the PC to perform specific tasks such as Save, Copy, Cut, Paste, Help, etc
3) Numeric keypad: set of numeric or editing keys The Num Lock key is used to switch from numbers to editing functions
4) Editing keys: cursor and other keys usually used within word processors to page up and down in a long document or to edit text (using Insert or Delete keys)
5) Special keys: used is to issue commands or to produce alternative characters in key combinations, for example, the Alt key
D Match these keys abbreviations with their full names
E Computer system may have different keyboard options Here is an example
If we enter the Key Caps menu on a Macintosh in Courier and then press the Option key, we obtain the following symbols on the screen
Identify these symbols on the keyboard
1 Slash 2 Not equal to 3 Plus and minus
A Try to answer these questions
1) How is the mouse connected to the computer?
2) What does the mouse pointer look like on the screen?
3) What are the functions of the mouse buttons?
4) What are the advantages of a computer mouse over a keyboard?
Read the text to check your answer or to find the right answers
The computer mouse is a hand-operated tool that simplifies the navigation of the on-screen pointer, allowing users to make selections and choices effortlessly with its buttons.
The mouse contains a rubber-coated ball that rests on the surface of your working area or a mousemat When the mouse is moved on that surface, the ball rolls
The ball’s movements up and down, and left and right, turn the two axles inside the mouse As they turn, detectors register the changing position A small integrated
32 circuit inside the mouse sends signals to the operating system, which instructs it to move the pointer on your screen
B Here are some basic mouse actions Match the terms in the box with the explanations below a Click b Double-click c Drag
1) Position the pointer on something, then rapidly press and release the mouse button twice (You do this to load a program, open a document, or select text or graphics)
2) Position the pointer on something, hold down the mouse button, and move the mouse to the desired position, then release the button (You do this to move an image to a new location on the screen)
3) Position the pointer on something, then press, and release the mouse button (You do this to place the insertion point, to choose an option, or to close a window)
Language work: Describing function
We can describe the function of an item in a number of ways
1 ROM holds instructions which are needed to start up the computer
Used to-infinitive , Used for +
2 ROM is used to hold instructions which are needed to start up the computer
3 ROM is used for holding instructions which are needed to start up the computer
4 The function of ROM is to hold instructions which are needed to start up the computer
Now, match each item in Column A with its function in Column B Then describe its function in two ways
The ROM (Read-Only Memory) plays a crucial role in computer operations by holding essential instructions needed for startup and controlling all operations within the system It facilitates extremely fast access to program sections and data, while also managing the timing of signals Additionally, it enables the reading of DVD-ROMs and writing to removable magnetic disks Input data is entered through keys similar to a typewriter, and the output is displayed on the screen, ensuring seamless interaction between the user and the computer.
Capture your favorite images
Scanners: The eyes of your computer
Use the information in the text and the illustration to answer these questions
1) What is a scanner? Give a definition in your own words
2) How does a color scanner work?
A scanner converts texts or pictures into electronic codes that can be manipulated by the computer
A flatbed scanner operates by placing the document face down on a glass surface, resembling a photocopier Underneath the glass, lighting and measurement devices work together to capture the image When activated, the scanner converts the image into a series of dots, creating a digitized version that is transmitted to a computer and saved as a file Typically, the manufacturer provides software that allows users to edit and enhance the scanned images in various ways.
A color scanner utilizes three rotating lamps equipped with distinct colored filters—red, green, and blue—to capture images These three individual images are then merged into a single cohesive image through specialized software.
What do you think are the benefits of using scanners in business?
Facts and opinions
A Read the advertisements on the following page and underline what you think are facts and circle the opinions Then write them in the table below.
Facts are ‘real’ objective information Opinions usually include emotive words, positive/negative phrases, and subjective (persuasive) statements
9’’ x 15’’: scanning area measured in inches
JPEG, which stands for Joint Photographic Experts’ Group, is a widely used image compression format that allows for significant reduction in file size, compressing images to as much as 1/50th of their original size This efficient compression not only saves valuable disk space but also enhances loading times, making it an ideal choice for web and digital photography.
Opinions You can get crisp, clean scans
The ColorScan XR from Sunrise is a flatbed scanner with 600dpi of resolution and 9’’ x 15’’ of scanning area
You can enter data and graphic images directly into your applications
– word processors or databases You can get crisp, clean scans for color
The ScanPress 800 is a high-resolution flatbed scanner that offers self-calibration and scans in both black and white and vibrant 24-bit color at 800 dpi Included in the package is a hardware accelerator that enhances JPEG compression and decompression, allowing for efficient image storage by reducing file sizes by up to 50 to 1.
In creating ScanPress 800, the manufacturers have chosen the highest
B In small groups, compare your answers and decide
1) Which text has got more persuasive language?
2) Which text is more factual or objective?
Language work: Making comparisons
The regular comparative and superlative forms of descriptive words (adjectives and adverbs) are shown below:
1 Words of one syllable add the ending – er and – est
Adjectives New old newer older newest Oldest
Adverbs soon late sooner later
2 Words with three or more syllables are preceded by more and most
Adjectives interesting more interesting most interesting convenient more convenient most convenient
Adverbs easily more easily most easily carefully more carefully most carefully
3 Adjectives with two syllables may be like 1 or 2 above in that they will add the ending – er and – est if they end in – y or – ly, -ow, -le , and – er
-y tiny tinier tiniest compositions, video, and animation work
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In the field of flatbeds, the
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-ly early earlier earliest friendly friendlier Friendliest
4 Most of the remaining two-syllable adjectives take more and most in front of them
Absolute Comparative Superlative careful more careful most careful boring more boring most boring awful more awful most awful
5 Some common two-syllable adjectives can have either type of formation
Absolute Comparative Superlative common Commoner/ more common
Commonest/ most common gentle gentler/ more gentle gentlest/ most gentle quiet quieter/ more quiet quietest/ most quiet
6 Two-syllable adverbs ending in – ly take more and most
Absolute Comparative Superlative quickly more quickly most quickly slowly more slowly most slowly
7 A small number of adjectives and adverbs have an irregular comparative and superlative form
Adjectives bad worse worst far further/farther furthest/farthest good better best many more most
36 much more most little less least
Comparison may show equivalence, non-equivalence, the highest degree of something, and parallel increase
1 Equivalence: the following words and constructions are used to show that things or people are similar in some way as … as as many … as as much … as similar to the same are similar equal to is like similar/ly equal/ly compared to/with each either all both alike
Here, the term ‘processor’ is equivalent to the central processing unit
Laptops are as powerful as microcomputers
2 Non-equivalence: the following words and constructions are used to compare or contrast things or people that are separate from each other not as … as
…-er than more … than greater than not as many … as not as much … as unequal(ly) unlike not the same as less … than not equal fewer … thanto
A mainframe is larger and more expensive than a microcomputer
Learning to use a computer is not as difficult as learning to program
3 The highest degree: the following words and constructions are used to compare one member of a group with the whole group (superlative) the …-est the most … the least …
This is the most popular package on the market today
BASIC is probably the least difficult programming language to learn
4 Parallel increase: the following words and constructions are used to show parallel increase (two comparatives) the … -er, the more … the more…, the ….-er the …-er, the less…
The more memory your computer has, the more data it can store
The bigger your computer system is, the less time you spend waiting
The more training you give to your employees, the better they will perform
C The following sentences express computer capabilities and limitations Decide whether the sentences express equivalence, non-equivalence, or the
37 superlative, then underline the words expressing the comparison The first one has been done for you
1) equivalence Speeds for performing decision-making operations are comparable to those for arithmetic operations
2) ……… Even the most sophisticated computer, no matter how good it is, must be told what to do
3) ……… A computer can perform similar operations thousands of times without becoming bored, tired, or careless
4) ……… For example, modern computers can solve certain classes of arithmetic problems millions of times faster than a skilled mathematician
5) ……… One of the most important reasons why computers are used so widely today is that almost every big problem can be solved by solving a number of little problems
6) ……… Finally, a computer, unlike a human being, has no intuition.
Further reading
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The GT-7000 provides amazing quality with powerful, (1) ……… software and hardware at a very (2)
……… price Using a combination of EPSON Advanced
Scanning Technologies, the GT-7000 provides (3) ……… quality whether scanning text documents, photos, or films
The EPSON START Button simplifies the scanning process, allowing you to effortlessly scan photos or documents with a single press Once activated, your scanned items are automatically inserted into your preferred software for easy editing, printing, or publishing.
Included with the GT-700 is a (4)
….………… range of bonus software to help with home and business scanning, printing, and publishing, allowing you to create (5) ……… posters, letters, flyers, and Web pages
The GT-7000 is also available as the GT-7000 Photo scanner (6)
……… with advanced film adapter unit
Viewing the output
Read and think
Describe the screen of our computer to another student Use these questions to help you
- Does it produce a high quality image?
- Which is the common size of a monitor ?
A Read the text and try to guess the meaning of any new words in the box below Refer to the Glossary if necessary dot pixel resolution scan (verb) display hertz Flicker bit-mapped visualize
The quality of the display depends on the number of dots which make up the image The more dots the better display
1,024 x 768 pixels The diagrams above show how pixel density affects the image: a larger number of pixels gives a much clearer image
The monitor refreshes the image on the screen all the time The faster this happens, the less the screen flickers
The repetition of this sequence occurs at rates of 50, 60, or 75 times per second, varying by system A lower repetition rate may lead to noticeable flickering and an unstable screen, resulting in eye fatigue In contrast, a higher frequency of 75 Hz offers a smoother visual experience.
‘refresh rate’ eliminates this annoying flicker
The size of the screen is the diagonal distance from one corner to another The actual area for images is smaller than this
The price of a monitor is primarily influenced by its screen size, with common sizes including 14-inch, 17-inch, and 21-inch Additionally, factors such as aperture grill pitch, resolution, and the number of controls play a significant role in determining the cost Aperture grill pitch refers to the distance between the dots that form the image; a smaller space between dots results in a superior display quality, with most monitors featuring a dot pitch of 0.28mm, while some range from 0.31mm to 0.25mm Monitors operate through a dedicated circuit board called a display adaptor, which connects to the computer's motherboard, and different types of display adaptors, like the VGA (video graphics array) card, support various monitor types.
B Read the text again and answer these questions
1) According to the writer, what is the importance of ‘pixel resolution?’
2) Which unit of frequency is used to measure the refresh rate of a monitor?
3) In the writer’s opinion, why can a low refresh rate produce eye fatigue?
4) Is a dot pitch of 0.31 mm is better than one of 0.25mm ? why ?
5) Does the price of a monitor depend only on the size ?
6) Is a maximum resolution of 1600x1200 better than 1280x1024 ? why ?
Language work: Instructions and advice
A Look at the HELP box and then use suitable classifying expressions to complete these sentences
2 Peripherals……….three types: input, output and storage devices
Classifying means putting things into groups or classes We can classify types of computers, parts of a PC, etc
3 A word processing program………… software which lets the user create and edit text
4 ……….of network architecture: peer-to-peer, where all computers have the same capabilities, and client-server (e.g the Internet), where servers store and distribute data, and clients access this data
Some typical expressions for classifying are
…are classifying into X types/categories
…can be divided into X types/categories
Digital computers can be divided into five main types: mainframes, desktop PCs, laptops, tablet PCs and handheld PDAs
The basic configuration of a mainframe consists of a central system which processes immense amounts of data very quickly
There are X types/classes of…
A tablet PC is a type of notebook computer
V Benefits of laptops and tablet PCs
Your school is considering buying tablet PCs to use in the classroom Write an email to your teacher explaining the benefits for the students and the school
A Read the advertisement and translate the technical specifications into your own language
B Try to answer these questions (If necessary look at the Glossary)
1) What is the main function of a microprocessor?
2) What unit of frequency is used to measure processor speed?
3) What does ‘RAM’ stand for?
A Read the text below and then sentences 1 to 8 that follow Decide if the sentences are true (T) or false (F), and rewrite the false ones to make them true
The central processing unit (CPU) serves as the nerve center of a microcomputer, encapsulated within a single microprocessor chip, which is an integrated circuit It is responsible for executing program instructions and managing the overall operation of the computer The CPU comprises three main components: the control unit, which analyzes and interprets the instructions in the user’s program, directing the necessary circuits and operations.
Notebook Apple Macbook MC374ZP/A: CPU Intel Core 2 Duo P8600 (2.4Ghz/ Mb), 4GB RAM, 250GB HDD, DVDRW Super drive, 13.3" Monitor, camera isight, card reader, Lan Gigabit wifi
21 components – disk drives, monitor, etc – to be activated to execute the functions specified; ii The arithmetic logic unit
(ALU), which performs mathematical calculations (+,
Registers are high-speed memory units essential for storing and managing information in a computer's processing unit Among these, the program counter (PC) plays a crucial role by tracking the next instruction to be executed from the main memory, while the instruction register (IR) holds the currently executing instruction.
Microprocessors vary in the amount of data they can process simultaneously, categorized as 8, 16, 32, and 64-bit processors The rapid evolution of computer architecture has led to the development of 64-bit processors, which can address 4 billion times more information than their 32-bit counterparts.
The programs and data which pass through the central processor must be loaded into the main memory (also called the internal memory) in order to be processed
Thus, when the user runs an application, the microprocessor looks for it on secondary storage devices
When a computer is powered on, it loads applications from the disk into the RAM (random access memory), which is a temporary storage area that loses its data when the computer is turned off In contrast, the ROM (read-only memory) is a permanent storage that holds essential instructions required by the processor.
Modern computers are equipped with internal expansion slots that enable users to add various adapters or expansion boards Commonly used adapters include high-resolution graphics cards, memory expansion boards, and internal modems, enhancing the computer's functionality and performance.
The performance of a computer is significantly influenced by the speed of its microprocessor, which is measured by clock speed in MHz (megahertz) This clock emits pulses at fixed intervals to synchronize circuits, with a CPU operating at 500 MHz capable of delivering a rapid processing rate suitable for demanding applications.
The new generation of processors
Set Computing) architecture, providing lightning- fast performance
1) The CPU directs and coordinates the activities taking place within the computer system
2) The arithmetic logic unit performs calculations on the data
3) 32-bit processors can handle more information than 64-bit processors
4) A chip is an electronic device composed of silicon elements containing a set of integrated circuits
5) RAM, ROM, and secondary storage are the components of the main memory
6) Information cannot be processed by the microprocessor if it is not loaded into the main memory
7) ‘Permanent’ storage of information is provided by RAM (random access memory)
8) The speed of the microprocessor is measured in megahertz One MHz is equivalent to one million cycles per second
B Contextual reference What do the words in bold and italics print refer to?
1) … which executes program instructions and supervises …
2) …the instruction that is currently being executed
3) …the amount of data – the number of bits – they can work with at a time
4) …the microprocessor looks for it on …
5) …its information is lost when the computer is turned off
6) …expansion slots that allow users to install adapters or expansion boards
III Language work: Relative clauses
2) The chip processes the information provided by the software
Both these sentences refer to chip We can link them by making sentence 2 a relative clause:
The microprocessor is a chip which processes the information provided by the software
The relative clause is in bold italics Note that ‘ The chip ’ in sentence 2 becomes
Study these other pairs of sentences and note how they are linked
3) The teacher has just arrived
4) The teacher is responsible for the computer centre
3+4: The teacher who is responsible for the computer centre has just arrived
B Now link these sentences Make the second sentence in each pair a relative clause
1) The microprocessor coordinates the activities
These activities take place in the computer system
He works for GM as a computer programmer
3) A co-processor is a silicon chip
The chip carries out mathematical operation at a very high speed
4) A megahertz is a unit of frequency
The unit is used to measure processor speed
The word must be entered before access is given to a computer system
The device is used to interconnect different types of networks
You lent me the disk
The gateway is used to connect all kinds of external devices to your computer
This software causes damage to the data, the information or the hardware of the computer
A Read the text and complete it with the phrases in the box b All the information stored in the RAM is temporary c Microcomputers make use of two types of main memory d ROM chips have ‘constant’ information e The size of RAM is very important
Main memory: RAM and ROM
The main memory of a computer is also called the ‘immediate access store’, as distinct from any storage memory available on disks (1)
…………: RAM and ROM, both contained in electronic chips connected to the main board of the computer
RAM stands for ‘random access memory’ and is the working area of the computer, that is, the basic location where the microprocessor stores the required information It is called
‘random access’ because the processor can find information in any cell or memory address with equal speed, instead of looking for the data in sequential order
Data stored in RAM is volatile and lost when the machine is turned off, necessitating the saving of information to a disk for future use When an application runs, the microprocessor locates it on the storage device and transfers a temporary copy to RAM To enhance computer performance, especially when multiple applications are open or when handling complex documents, it is essential to optimize RAM usage.
The RAM capacity can sometimes be expanded by adding extra chips These are usually contained in single in-line memory modules or
SIMMs, which are installed in the motherboard of the computer
Allocating a specific amount of RAM as a cache can enhance the performance of applications by storing frequently used information While a RAM cache can significantly speed up operations, it requires sufficient internal memory or a dedicated cache card to function effectively.
ROM, or 'read-only memory', refers to a type of storage where data can be read by the processor but not written to, meaning that information stored in a ROM chip is permanent and cannot be modified.
The CPU's basic operations are governed by unchangeable instructions stored in the ROM, which is often called firmware These instructions are essential for starting up the computer, reading input from the keyboard, and displaying characters on the screen Importantly, the information in ROM remains intact even when the power is turned off.
B As we have seen, there are three types of memory used by computers: RAM, ROM and secondary storage Look through this list of features and decide which type of memory they refer to
2) Any section of the main memory can be read with equal speed and ease
3) It is available in magnetic, optical and video disks
4) A certain amount of this memory can be designated as ‘cache’ memory to store information in applications that are used very frequently
5) It stores basic operating instructions, needed by the CPU to function correctly
6) Memory which can be expanded by adding SIMMs of 8 MB, 16 MB, 32
MB or other major increments
7) Information is permanent and cannot be deleted
8) You can save and store your documents and applications
In groups of three, write answers to these questions The winners are the group that answers the most questions correctly in four minutes
1) What are the main parts of the CPU?
3) What memory section is also known as ‘firmware’?
4) What information is lost when the computer is switched off?
5) What is the typical unit used to measure RAM memory and storage memory?
6) What is the meaning of the acronym SIMM?
8) What is the ALU? What does it do?
9) What is the abbreviation for ‘binary digit’?
10) How can we store data and programs permanently?
VI Your ideal computer system
A Make about the features of the computer that you would like to have
CPU: ………… Speed: ………… Optical disk drives: …………
Hard disk: …… Software: ……… Minimum/maximum RAM:………… Monitor: ………
B Now describe it to your partner
It’s very fast It runs at…
The standard RAM memory… and it is expandable…
The hard disk can hold…
Lesson 4 Buying a computer Buying a Home Computer
Purchasing a home computer is a significant decision, much like buying a car, due to the wide range of makes and models available To enhance your shopping experience and navigate the various options, it's essential to conduct thorough research beforehand Whether you opt for a new or used computer, it's crucial to clearly define your needs and set a budget to guide your purchase.
Deciding On An Operating System
Computers are generally divided into two main types based on their operating systems: those optimized for graphics work and those designed for word processing While both types can perform either function, your choice should depend on your primary usage—whether it's for graphics or text production Additionally, consider the software you intend to use and its compatibility with the respective operating systems, as most applications are available for both.
When purchasing a computer for your child, consider the type used in their classroom to ensure compatibility If you plan to share files with your sister, it's important to check her system as well Both computer systems have their advantages, but understanding your specific needs will help you make an informed decision before committing to a purchase.
Choosing a printer
Reading
A How many kinds of printers can you think of? Make a list
B Read the text below and label these types of printers
The resolution depends on the number of pins (9 or 24)
The quality (resolution) of the images ranges from 180 to 720 dots per inch (dpi)
Provides high quality output – a resolution of 600/1200 (dpi)
Provides the highest resolution – more than 2,000 dpi
Provides high quality for linework
Printing is the crucial final step in document creation, facilitated by printers connected to your computer Understanding the significant differences in output quality among various printer types is essential, and this guide will assist you in making informed choices.
42 you decide which one is most suitable for your needs
Dot-matrix printers use pins to print the dots required to shape a character
They print text and graphics and nowadays some of them can print up to
Inkjet printers can produce up to 450 characters per second (cps) but typically output at low resolutions of 72 or 144 dots per inch While this quality is adequate for preliminary drafts, it is not ideal for reports or books intended for a broad audience Although inkjet printers are slower than laser printers, they are a more affordable option for users.
Ink-jet printers are a popular type of non-impact printer that work by projecting tiny ink droplets onto paper to create images Known for their speed, quiet operation, and affordability compared to laser printers, ink-jet printers also deliver impressive quality, with some models offering a resolution of up to 720 dpi.
Laser printers operate by scanning images with a laser beam and transferring them to paper using special ink powder, achieving impressive speeds and resolutions of 600/1200 dpi Constant improvements enhance their performance, making them the preferred choice among experts due to their superior speed and image quality They offer a broader range of scalable fonts, can emulate various language systems, and produce high-quality graphics, among other advantages However, it is important to note that laser printers remain relatively expensive.
C Read the text again and complete this table with the most relevant information Then compare your notes with a partner
Technical specifications and other features
Discourse cohesion
Reference signals: Read the text and say what the underlined words refer to
Printing is the final step in document creation, facilitated by printers connected to your computer As various printer types yield significantly different results, this guide will assist you in selecting the most suitable printer for your specific needs.
Dot-matrix printers utilize pins to create the dots that form characters, enabling them to print both text and graphics Modern models can achieve printing speeds of up to 450 characters per second (cps).
Scan reading: Quiz
Read the advertisements for printers below, and then with your partner, answer the questions See who in your group/class can finish first
1) How many laser printers are advertised here?
2) Is there a printer that operates by spraying ink droplets onto paper?
3) Which laser printer offers the highest resolution or output quality?
4) Which printer is the most expensive?
5) Which one would you recommend to a friend who does not have much money?
6) Which one has more internal fonts?
7) A printer language is software that tells printers how to print a document Can you find two types of laser printer languages?
8) What connectivity features are offered by the Turbo Laser Writer QR?
9) A very common feature in advertisements is the use of abbreviations Find the abbreviations for these expressions: dots per inch, characters per second, pages per minute, small computer system interface, and liquid- crystal display
Workgroup laser printer 15 pages per minute 600 dpi for graphics 36 MB of
RAM Includes Adobe PostScript and
Hewlett Packard PCS printer languages
75 resident fonts Connectivity: one bi- directional parallel port, one LocalTalk port, and one Ethernet port for networks
Dot-matrix printer with 24 pins Prints text and graphics 450 cps Compatible special interface Free unlimited hotline support for our customers One year on-site maintenance
Color printer 40 Adobe PostScript fonts
36 MB RAM with a SCSI interface for an optional 20 MB hard disk
Parallel, serial and AppleTalk interfaces
Two 200 sheet selectable input trays
HP plotter emulation Thermal printing system 30-day money-back guarantee
1 year’s on-site parts and labor and £2,249
Comes with PostScript language and PCL (printer control language) Telephone hotline support
Resolution: Up to 4800 x 1200 optimized dpi on premium photo paper
Paper input capacity: Up to 150 sheets
Reliable color printer with cost-effective features for the home or office on a budget
Personal laser printer, 5 pages per minute 4 MB RAM expandable to 64
MB Parallel interface 200 sheet input tray 35 resident fonts One-year on-site maintenance Prints on a wide range of materials and sizes £649
Language work: Revision of comparison
A Study the sentences below and do the following:
Draw a circle around comparatives and a rectangle around superlatives
1) Dot-matrix printers are cheaper than laser printers
2) A photosetter is the fastest output device
3) A thermal wax printer is more expensive than a monochrome laser printer
4) The Micro Laser XT is the most reliable of all
5) Personal laser printers cost less than ordinary laser printers They also weigh less and require less space
6) My printer has more resident fonts than yours
7) This printer offers laser quality at a lower price
8) Monochrome printers operate faster than color ones
9) Dot-matrix printers are too slow
10) Dot-matrix printers are not quick enough
Describing your ideal printer
Describe to your partner the characteristics of the printer you would like to use Give reasons (Does your ideal printer look like the one below?)
I/O devices for the disabled
Adaptive technology
Working in pairs or small groups, look at the pictures and discuss these questions Use the phrases in the box to help you
1) What sort of difficulties do you think are experienced by computer users with limitations of vision or mobility?
2) What types of devices could be helpful to blind users?
3) How can a person with mobility limitations communicate with a computer?
4) Think of possible tools or solutions
Key words blind person magnification software
Braille printer adaptive switch motor-impaired person adapted keyboard on-screen keyboard voice recognition system screen-pointing device speech synthesis system optical head pointer
A Read the text below and find:
1) Two examples of speech synthesis systems
2) The kind of software which is recommended for someone with partial vision
3) The speed of the Juliet Braille printer
4) The ways adaptive switches can be activated
5) The function of voice recognition devices
6) The devices used by the disabled person at the Center for the Handicapped in Seattle
7) How the blind student interacts with the machine
Sal possesses the essential traits of a successful telemarketer, including brightness, sociability, and persistence, despite being blind Phillis is interested in hiring him but has reservations regarding his ability to access the company’s database, read office correspondence, and the potential costs associated with adapting the workplace to meet his needs.
Phillis is required to accommodate Sal due to her company's compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) However, she can feel reassured, as the latest adaptive technology for personal computers offers a cost-effective solution that enables Sal and other employees with disabilities to work independently.
To effectively integrate adaptive technology into a computer for disabled workers, it is crucial to first identify their specific needs For instance, blind users often require specialized adaptations to their computers to enhance their usability and productivity.
48 such as speech synthesis, magnification,
Braille and OCR One example of a speech-synthesis system is VertPro from
This product can read MS-DOS- based word processors, databases, spreadsheets, and other text-based software Window Bridge from Syntha-
Voice can verbalize both MS-DOS and
For someone with limited but usable vision, a software magnification package may be appropriate
Magnification software can enlarge text appearing on the screen by up to 16 times
For Braille output, the Juliet printer from Enabling Technologies interfaces to any standard serial or parallel port
This printer can emboss Braille on both sides of a page at a speed of 40 characters per second The Reading
Edge OCR from Xerox Imaging
Systems and the Arkenstone Open Book
Unbound from Arkenstone can read printed material to blind people and send the text to a PC
To adapt equipment for motor- impaired workers unable to type on standard keyboard, you can employ adapted keyboards, head pointers, and Morse code systems
Users can utilize external adaptive switches to navigate menu options or activate virtual keys on an on-screen keyboard These adaptive switches are available in various types, designed to be triggered by eye movements, breath control, or other dependable muscle actions.
Morse code systems offer an alternative method for controlling computers, utilizing adaptive switches and specialized software This solution is designed for individuals who may struggle with a full keyboard but can physically press at least one key, enabling them to interact with technology effectively.
Voice-recognition systems permit people to issue verbal commands to a computer to perform data entry
(Adapted from ‘Computers for the disabled’, Joseph J Lazzaro, BYTE Magazine, June 1993)
* Someone who markets products by phone
# This makes it illegal for employers to discriminate against people with disabilities
B Match the terms in the box with the explanations below a disability b Braille c port d interface e Morse code f speech synthesizer
1) A system of writing and reading (using raised dots) for blind people, to enable them to read by touch
4) A system of dots and dashes, or short and long sounds, representing letters of the alphabet and numbers
5) A hardware device used in conjunction with a screen reader program to convert screen contents into spoken words
6) Channels and control circuits which allow different parts of a computer to communicate with one another It also refers to the part of the system that allows a user to interact with programs
Dear Mike Hartley, I hope this message finds you well I am reaching out to inquire about the latest advancements in computer technology specifically designed for individuals with disabilities As the director of the Adaptive Technology Project for the Blind, your expertise would be invaluable in understanding how these technologies can enhance accessibility and usability for the visually impaired I would greatly appreciate any information or resources you could provide regarding available software, hardware, and support services that cater to this community Thank you for your time and assistance Sincerely, [Your Name]
- Begin by saying why you’re writing: I’m writing to…
- Ask for information about specific I/O equipment for deaf, blind, and motor- disabled workers: I would like to know…
Ask for a free handbook about how to add adaptive technology to personal computers: I would be very grateful if…
- End the letter appropriately: I look forward to hearing from you soon
Language work: Compound nouns
The language of computing in English contains an ever-increasing number of compound nouns, that is, a group of two or more nouns which act as a single noun
Examples memory capacity an address bus an arithmetic unit information systems a bar code scanner a computer keyboard
It is important to be able to recognize how such compounds are formed in order to understand what they mean
In compound nouns, the last word defines the subject, while the preceding words provide a description To understand these expressions, begin with the last word and read backwards.
An address bus is a bus dedicated to address information
The memory capacity of a computer is the capacity of its memory
Compound nouns can convey a variety of meanings, with the first noun or group of nouns indicating the composition, purpose, or component of the second noun.
1 Material: the first noun tells us what the second noun consists of
Example: a silicon chip (a chip made of silicon) a ferrite ring (a ring made of ferrite)
2 Function: the first noun tells us what the second noun is for
Example: an address bus (a bus dedicated to address information an arithmetic unit (a unit which performs arithmetic functions)
3 Part: the second noun refers to a part of the first noun
Example: a computer keyboard (the keyboard of a computer) a monitor screen (the screen of a monitor) a program feature (a feature of a program)
4 Activity or person: the second noun refers to an activity or person related to the first noun
Example: computer programming (the programming of computers) a computer programmer (a person who programs computers) systems analysis (the analysis of organizational systems) a systems analyst (a person who analyses organizational systems)
5 Multiple nouns: sometimes a compound noun will join together with one or more other nouns to give an expression that has three or four words In such cases, it is important to examine the expression very carefully to break it into its constituent parts The secret, as always, is to read the expression from the back towards the front
4 3 2 1 a document-image-processing program (a program which processes images of documents)
Note: some expressions are written separately, while others are joined by hyphens
There are no clear rules for this Sometimes you will see the same expression written in different ways in different texts
Example: document-image-processing program document image-processing program document image processing program However, it is important to be consistent within a single text
1 A device that scans bar codes is called a bar code scanner
What name is given to:
1) a unit that gives a visual display of information on a screen?
2) a device that reads magnetic cards?
4) a device that prints using a laser as the light source?
5) a unit that holds magnetic disks?
6) a device that prints using a jet of ink?
7) the rate of transmission of data?
8) a package for making presentations using multimedia?
9) a program which processes data in batches?
10) the process for the conversion of disks for computers?
2 Using the explanations in Exercise 1 as models, write short simple explanations of the following items:
STORAGE DEVICES
In this lesson, you will learn how to:
Ask and answer questions about hard disks
Describe different types of storage devices
Locate specific information in texts about optical disks
Use technical vocabulary connected with disks and drives
Give advice and make recommendations about disks and drives.
Hard drives
Before you read
Try to answer these questions
1 What is the main function of a hard disk?
2 Which unit is used to measure hard disk capacity?
A Read the text quickly to find out if you were right in task 1
B Read the text again and make a list of the technical aspects that you should consider when buying a hard disk
Hard disks offer significant advantages over floppy disks, primarily due to their higher spin speeds, which enable faster data storage and retrieval With capacities ranging from 500 MB to several terabytes, hard disks can accommodate vast amounts of information Despite their differences, both hard disks and floppy disks operate similarly; the read/write heads of hard disks quickly locate the necessary tracks and sectors, transferring data to the computer's main memory or other storage forms in just a few milliseconds.
When considering disk storage, it's essential to evaluate your needs by asking key questions: What capacity is required? What speed is optimal? Which type of storage device best suits my usage? For instance, if your primary tasks involve word processing, you will require significantly less storage than if you are utilizing CAD, audio, or animation software.
Now let’s turn our attention to speed Access times vary from 8 ms to 20 ms
Access time, also known as seek time, refers to the duration required for the read/write heads to locate a specific record, typically measured in milliseconds (e.g., 20 ms) It is crucial to differentiate seek time from data transfer rate, which indicates the average speed at which data is transmitted from a disk system to the RAM.
20 megabits per second) Remember that the transfer rate also depends on the power of your computer
When buying a hard disk you should consider the kinds of drive mechanisms and products available There are
Internal and external drives are both types of fixed hard drives, consisting of rigid disks sealed within the drive unit, either located inside or connected to the computer Additionally, there is a third type of hard drive called a removable drive.
54 allows information to be recorded on
‘cartridges’, which can be removed and stored off-line for security purposes
Popular removable hard disks include
Jaz and Zip drives A Jaz cartridge can store up to 2 GB of data, whereas a Zip drive can store up to 250 MB of data
Finally, a few words about ‘optical’ technology: CD-ROMS and CD-
Recordable drives are now a reality, yet magnetic hard disks remain the preferred choice for personal data storage In contrast, optical discs are commonly utilized for storing extensive information, such as dictionaries and encyclopedias.
C Now read these sentences and decide if they are true (T) or false (F)
1) Hard disks use rigid rotating disks
2) ‘Seek time’ refers to the average time required for the recording heads to move and access data
3) If you use multimedia applications, you need the same storage capacity as required for word processors
4) ‘Access time’ and ‘data transfer rate’ mean the same.
6) Each Jaz cartridge can hold up to 1,000 MB of data
7) CD-ROM disks are used for storage of massive amounts of information.
Work in group
Work in group of three Read two texts each and complete your sections of the table
1) Almost all desktop computers have hard disks They are fast and store much amounts of data, but they are fixed inside the computer and you cannot use them to transfer data
2) You can move data from place to place using removable hard disks They are almost as fast as fixed hard disks and also have high capacities, but they are relatively expensive They do not all conform to one standard and they are not very common
3) CD-ROM disks are very common and conform to a standard They are removable and can hold large amounts of data They are also cheap to make However, they are usually read-only You can not change the information on them They are also slow compared to hard disks
4) Magneto-optical disks are like CD-ROMs, but you can write data on to them, they are removable, have large capacities, and last for a long time, but they are expensive and do not all conform to one standard For this reason they are not very common
5) Magnetic tape is a cheap medium You can use it to store very large amounts of data, but it does not allow random access Every time you read or write a piece of data, you start at the beginning of the tape Tape drives are slow Therefore, it is only suitable for doing backups.
Vocabulary
The term "hard disk" combines the adjective "hard" with the noun "disk," referring to a storage device that uses magnetic storage to store and retrieve digital information Other phrases that can be formed include "hard drive," which denotes the entire device used for data storage, and "hard disk drive," a more formal term for the same technology Additionally, "hard disk space" refers to the available storage capacity on the hard disk, while "hard disk recovery" pertains to the process of retrieving lost data from the hard disk Each of these phrases highlights different aspects of data storage technology.
(Use your dictionary if necessary) sell drive copy drugs worker optical internal hard dirk magnetic compact labor currency capacity ware directory
Language work: Revision of prefixes
Fill in the gaps with the correct prefix from the following list auto maxi mono de mega multi dec micro semi inter mini sub
1) Most people prefers a color screen to a ………… chrome screen.
2) ………… script is a character or symbol written below and to the right of a number or letter, often used in science
3) A ………… byte equals approximately one million bytes.
4) Once you finish your program, you will have to test it and ………… bug it to remove all mistakes
5) The introduction of ………… conductor technology revolutionized the computer industry
6) If a computer system has two or more central processors which are under common control, it is called a ………… processor system.
7) The ………… imal system is a number system with a base of 10
8) When the user and the computer are in active communication on a graphics system, we refer to this as ………… active graphics
Magnetic storage
Types of magnetic drive
A Look at the pictures and descriptions below and find the following
1) The name of the hard drive on a PC platform
2) The type of hard drive that plugs into a socket at the back of a computer
3) The system that works in sequential format
4) The size and storage capacity of a floppy disk
The inside of a hard drive
Most personal computers are equipped with a single internal hard drive, commonly referred to as the C: drive This drive is essential for storing the operating system, software applications, and user files efficiently With the capacity to hold hundreds of gigabytes of data, a hard drive plays a crucial role in a PC's overall functionality and storage capabilities.
A tape drive is a device that reads and writes data on magnetic tapes, functioning as a sequential access medium To access specific data, the drive must sequentially traverse all preceding data points on the tape These tapes can store hundreds of gigabytes of information, making them ideal for data collection, backup, and archiving purposes.
External hard drives connect to a computer via USB or FireWire ports and can be compact, similar in size to a wallet, while offering storage capacities comparable to internal drives They are commonly utilized for backup purposes and as secondary storage solutions.
B Complete these sentences with words from the box capacity storage archiving hold secondary
1) There are basically three types of magnetic………… Device available to the computer user-hard drives, diskettes and tapes
2) Hard drives can………….hundreds of times more data than floppy disks
3) A portable hard drives is a good choice for………storage.
4) Magnetic tapes are used for……… information that you no longer need to use regularly
Magnetic storage
A Read the text and then identify a sector and a track
B Read the text again and decide whether these sentences are true or false Correct the false ones
1) If you format a hard drive that has files on it, the files will be deleted
2) Hard drives cannot be partitioned to run separate operating systems on the same disk
3) Seek time and transfer rate mean the same thing
4) Disk drives are not shock resistant, especially in operating mode
Magnetic storage devices store data by magnetizing particles on a disk or tape
A hard drive operates at speeds exceeding 7,200 rpm, utilizing a series of metal platters to store data This design allows for increased data storage capacity and quicker information retrieval.
New disks need to be formatted before you can use them, unless they come preformatted from manufacturer
When the disk is formatted, the operating system
(OS) organizes the disk surface into circular tracks and divides each track into sectors The
OS creates a directory which will record the specific location of files
When saving a file, the operating system directs the read/write head to empty sectors to record data and update the directory Upon opening the file, the OS retrieves its directory entry, positions the read/write head to the appropriate sector, and reads the file into RAM It's important to note that formatting a disk will erase all existing files, so avoid formatting disks containing important data.
The operating system enables the creation of multiple partitions on your hard drive, effectively segmenting it into distinct logical sections This partitioning allows for the installation of different operating systems, such as Windows and Linux, on the same computer Additionally, users may choose to separate their hard drive to allocate one partition for the operating system and applications, while reserving another for data files This organization facilitates easier reinstallation of the OS without affecting personal data.
OS when a problem occurs, without affecting the data partition The average time required for the read/write heads to move and find data is called seek time
Access time, measured in milliseconds (ms), typically ranges from 7 to 14 ms for most hard drives It's important to differentiate access time from transfer rate, which refers to the average speed of data transmission from the disk to the CPU, measured in megabytes per second.
C Match these words (1-5) with the definitions (a-e)
5 Back up a A file system that defines the structure for keeping track of the files b The part of a drive that reads and records data on a disk c To make a copy of data of software in case the original disk is damaged
58 d Initialized; when the tracks and sectors on magnetic disks are set e A serious disk malfunction; when the read/write head touches the rotating disk
Language work: precautions
A Look at the HELP box and then match the instructions (1-6) with the pictures (a-f)
1) Do not expose discs to heat or direct sunlight
2) Check for viruses before opening files you receive from the Web or via mail
3) Make backup copies of your files
4) Don’t shake or move the computer violently while the hard drive is spinning
5) Keep you discs away from water and humidity
6) Hold discs by the edges or by one edge and the centre hole a…… d……
We use the imperative to give precautions and warnings
Check your hard drive regularly for logical and physical errors
…formatting erases any existing files on a disk, so do not formatting disks on which data that you don’t want to lose is stored
We use should + infinitive without to to give advice or to talk about what we think is right
…you should install an up- to-date virus scanner
We use shouldn’t + infinitive without to to give advice or to talk about what we think is wrong
You shouldn’t turn your computer off and on quickly b…… e……. c… f………
B In pairs, discuss what you should or shouldn’t do to protect your data Use the suggestions below
Example: discs on top of each other (stack)
You shouldn’t stack discs on top of each other / Don’t stack discs on top of each other
1) Your anti-virus program regularly, since new viruses are created everyday (update)
2) Discs in a protective case (store)
3) Passwords and security devices to protect confidential information (use)
4) On discs with permanent marker pens (write)
5) The disc into the disc drive carefully (insert)
Note: disc (optical media); disk (magnetic storage media)
Word building
Look at the words in the boxes Are they nouns, verbs, adjectives or adverbs? Write n, v, adj or adv next to each word and then complete the sentences below
1) ……….is the science of magnetic phenomena and properties
2) Hard drive is………storage device
3) Data is recorded on a disk in the form of…….spots called bits
Explaining hard drive precautions
A friend has sent you an email explaining that she has just lost all of the information on her PC because of a head crash Write a reply explaining the following
Why the head crash happened
What precautions she should take with her new PC to avoid similar problems in the future
What steps she could take up her files
Flash memory
Flash-based gadgets
Flash memory is used in many handheld devices Match the descriptions (1-6) with the pictures (a-f)
1) This handheld console lets you play games stored on ROM game cards, which have a small amount of flash memory to save user data, for example high scores
2) This flash memory card is used as “digital film” to store images on a digital camera
3) This wireless LAN card allows laptop and PDA users to access the Internet form any Wi-Fi access point
4) This USB flash pen drive is the latest mobile drive for your computer
5) It looks like an ordinary watch, but this USB drive from Edge Tech can store up to 1GB of flash memory It will let you save and transfer your photos, songs and data files easily
6) This flash-based player provides everything you need to play music and store data on the go It also comes with a built-in FM radio and voice recorder a…… b………… c……… d……… e……… f…………
Memory in a flash
A Look at the title of the text Why is it a suitable title for an article about flash memory? Read the first paragraph of the text to find out
B Read the whole text and answer these questions
2) What are the differences between RAM memory and flash memory?
3) What can devices which use multi-level cell technology do?
4) What are the differences between flash drives and external hard drives?
5) What is the advantage of using U3 technology in flash drives?
6) How much data can a flash memory card hold?
7) What is the name of the flash card created by Sony for its digital cameras?
Flash memory is a non-volatile storage technology that allows for electronic erasure and reprogramming The term was coined by Toshiba to highlight its rapid erase capability, emphasizing the speed with which data can be deleted and rewritten.
Unlike RAM, which is volatile, flash memory retains the information stored in the chip when the power is turned off
Flash memory is perfect for digital cameras, laptops, network switches, video game cards, mobile phones, and portable multimedia players It provides quick read access times, achieving transfer rates of 12MB per second, although it is not as fast as RAM Unlike ROM chips, flash memory is rewritable, allowing for software updates to programs.
Data within a chip is stored in floating gate transistors known as cells, with each traditional cell holding one bit of data (1 for erased and 0 for programmed) Modern devices utilize a multi-level cell structure, enabling them to store multiple bits per cell These chips are built using either NOR or NAND gates, with NOR chips operating similarly to a computer’s main memory.
NAND works like a hard drive For example, in a camera, NOR flash contains the camera’s internal software, while NAND flash is used to store the images
Flash memory is used in several ways:
Many PCs have their BIOS (basic input/output system) stored on a flash memory chip so it can be updated if necessary
Modems use flash memory because it allows the manufacturer to support new protocols
USB flash drives are convenient for transferring MP3s and data files between computers, thanks to their solid-state technology that makes them more portable and durable than external hard drives, which have fragile moving parts However, it's important to note that USB flash drives typically offer less storage capacity compared to traditional hard drives.
New U3 smart drives allow users to store both applications and data They have two drive partitions and can carry applications that run on the host computer without requiring installation
Flash memory cards are essential for storing images in cameras, backing up data on PDAs, transferring games on video consoles, and recording music and voice on MP3 players, as well as storing movies on MP4 players These compact devices, comparable in size to a stamp, offer capacities ranging from 8MB to several gigabytes However, a key limitation is that flash cards are often not interchangeable between different devices Common formats include CompactFlash, Secure Digital, MultiMedia Card, miniSD card, and xD-picture Card, with Sony's Memory Stick specifically designed for its digital cameras, camcorders, and PlayStation Portable Users can offload photos from digital cameras to computers via cable or wirelessly, or by using a flash card reader connected to the PC for easy access.
62 card from the camera and put it into the reader instead of having to plug the camera in
The future of data storage may lie in hybrid hard drives, which integrate magnetic hard disks with flash memory This innovative combination enables faster boot times for computers and significantly lowers power consumption, making them an efficient choice for modern technology.
Find words or phrases in the text with the following meanings
A Look at the HELP box and then, using affixation, conversion and compounding, try to make as many words as you can from blog, mail and print Use a dictionary and the Internet to help you
Blogger (a person who writes a blog)
To mail (the verb form) Printout (the pages produced by the printer)
B Choose the correct word in brackets to complete this description of a voice recorder Use a dictionary to help you
Olympus WS-320M digital voice recorder
Slim, attractive, and highly functional, the Olympus WS-320M digital voice recorder packs 1GB of internal flash memory into is 1
The lightweight housing allows for the recording of up to 277 hours of high-quality audio in WMA format, making it perfect for taking notes, capturing long lectures, interviewing individuals, or jotting down fleeting song ideas.
WS-320M can store up to 266 WMA or
MP3 song for high-quality stereo 3
The WS-320M offers five distinct folders, each capable of storing up to 199 files, allowing users to efficiently organize nearly 1,000 files by subject or category Additionally, it provides four recording modes: HQ for high-quality audio, LP and SP for extended recording times, and ST HQ for enhanced sound quality.
We can create new words from existing words in three main ways:
Affixation (adding a prefix or suffix)
Adding a prefix volatile non-volatile date update
Adding a suffix: erase erasable install installation
Conversion (turning a noun into a verb, or a verb into a noun, etc) network (now) to network (verb)
We networked all the PCs in the office
We created a network of all the PCs in the office
Compounding (putting two or more words together)
I bought a new handheld last week
SanDisk’s card readers read and write to just about every flash memory card
63 stereo recording And thanks to the voice
5 (activation/activate/active) option, users don’t need to press a single button to start recording- the WS-320M will record as soon as the built-in microphone picks up sound
Perhaps the most convenient feature, however, is the built–in USB 6
(connector/connect/connected), which eliminates the need for a USB cable
Once this is connected, you can 7
You can easily download music files, images, or documents from your PC, effectively transforming the recorder into a compact hard drive Additionally, it allows for the seamless transfer of voice recordings to your computer.
(store/storage/storeroom) or multimedia use
Compounds can be expressed in three forms: as two separate words (flash card), as hyphenated words (solid-state), or as a single word (handheld) There are no strict rules governing these forms, and some compounds may evolve in their spelling over time A notable example is "web site," which transitioned from two words to hyphenated (web-site) and is now commonly written as one word—website Always consult a dictionary or Google for clarification if you're uncertain.
In pronunciation, compounds normally have the main stress on the first part, and the secondary stress on the second part, for example “video, game”
Vocabulary revision
Solve the clues and complete the puzzle
4 Thousand of a second, abbreviated to ms, used to measure the access time of hard drives
6 Floating gate transistors are called…… in flash memory technology.
7 Prefix meaning very large or one thousand million
11 acronym for light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation
1 Concentric ring on the surface of a disc when the disc is formatted
2………memory retains its data when the power is switched off
3 CD-RW means Compact Disc………
5 Abbreviation of digital versatile disc
8 To write information on a disk or storage area
9 Type of external bus or connector that plugs into the computer
10 The physical mechanism that accepts, reads and writes data on disk
BASIC SOFTWARE
In this lesson, you will learn how to:
Extract relevant information form texts about system software
Recognize the characteristics of a typical graphical user interface or GUI
Make a summary of a written text
Identify the function of different word-processing capabilities: search and replace, cut and paste, spell checkers, etc
Understand the basic features of spreadsheets and databases
Acquire specific vocabulary related to Internet utilities
Operating Systems
Warm-up
A Look at the diagram What is the function of the operating system?
B Read the text below and complete it with the phrases in the box
An operating system is a piece of software that presents an interface between the computer and the user One of the first operating systems was the
GM OS or General Motors Operating
There are two major kinds of operating systems, Command Line
Interfaces (CLI), and more recently,
Graphical User Interfaces (GUI) CLIs use only text and no graphics to display information and the user navigates by means of the shell Examples of popular
CLI operating systems still in use today are MS-DOS and Linux Examples of popular GUI operating systems are
Until the 1990s, Unix on mainframes and MS-DOS on PCs were the most popular operating systems Unix, developed by Dennis Ritchie and Ken Thompson in 1970, evolved from the less favored MULTICS system Both Linux and Mac OS X can trace their origins directly back to the original Unix Meanwhile, MS-DOS was created by Microsoft.
Microsoft's predecessor to Windows was MS-DOS, which Bill Gates acquired from Tim Paterson's QDOS, a Unix-like program developed by Seattle Computer Products Gates rebranded QDOS as MS-DOS and licensed it to IBM, establishing it as the foundational command-line interface for all of Microsoft's graphical user interface operating systems leading up to Windows.
Microsoft Windows dominates the PC operating system market with over 90% share Initially designed for home and office use, Windows has evolved into a formidable competitor to Unix systems, even within enterprise environments where Unix-derived systems continue to maintain a strong presence.
An operating system consists of a core component known as the kernel, which serves as the fundamental layer that manages hardware and the file system Additionally, it includes device drivers, which are essential programs that facilitate communication between the kernel and various hardware components and peripherals.
An essential function of an operating system is managing user access to various computer resources, typically requiring authentication through a username and password System administrators can set specific permissions for files and directories to control access Additionally, modern operating systems provide numerous utilities, such as straightforward software installation and uninstallation, hardware monitoring, and network-based upgrades Most OS releases also come with standard productivity applications, including web browsers and text editors, enhancing user convenience and functionality.
Read the text and answer these questions:
1) What is an operating system ?
2) What are two major kinds of operating systems?
3) Name one of popular GUI operating systems?
4) What was the most popular OS up until the 1990’s?
5) Whom was Unix created by?
6) Which is the main operating system today on PCs?
7) What exactly is an operating system composed of?
9) What is another main task for an operating system?
10) What do modern operating systems offer?
Basic DOS commands
Match the DOS commands on the left with the explanations on the right Some commands are abbreviations of English words
1 FORMAT a erases files and programs from your disk
2 CD (or CHDIR) b copies all files from one floppy disk to another
3 DIR c changes your current directory
MKDIR) d initializes a floppy disk and prepares it for use
5 DISKCOPY e displays a list of the files of a disk or directory
6 BACKUP f changes names of your files
8 DEL h saves the contents of the hard disk on floppy disk for security purposes
Language work: Revision of the passive
We form the present simple passive with am/is/are + past participle
- This program is written in a special computer language
- Programs and data are usually stored on disks
Remember that the word data takes a singular verb (3 rd person singular) when it refers to the information operated on in a computer program
- The data is ready for processing
B Fill in the blanks with the correct form of the verbs in brackets
1) Various terminals (connect) ……… to this workstation.
4) When a particular program is run, the data (process) ……… by the computer very rapidly
5) Hard disks (use) ……… for the permanent storage of information
6) The drug-detecting test in the Tour de France (support) ……… by computers
7) All the activities of the computer system (coordinate) ……… by the central processing unit
8) In some modern systems information (hold) ……… in optical disks.
Quiz
Work with a partner Try to answer as many questions as possible
(Use the Glossary if you need to)
1) What name is given to the set of programs that interface between the user, the applications programs, and the computer?
2) What types of programs are designed for particular situations and specific purposes?
3) What does ‘MS-DOS’ stand for?
4) What is the basic DOS command for copying a file?
5) The Macintosh operating system is kept in various locations Where exactly are these?
6) Can you give synonym for the term ‘routine’?
7) What is the abbreviation for ‘International Business Machines’?
9) Which programming language allows you to play animations on the
10) What are the effects of computer viruses?
The graphical user interface
A user-friendly interface
The picture below illustrates a user interface based on graphics
Read the definitions in the HELP box and then match with the concept in the right column:
The interface elements of the Windows XP
The HELP box is a designated area on the computer screen that displays the contents of folders, files, or programs, allowing users to view multiple overlapping windows, with the top window being the active one Icons are small images representing programs, folders, or files, such as the Recycle Bin, which is used for deleting and restoring files, and they typically appear in a specific area of the screen Menus provide users with a list of choices, which can be navigated by clicking one or more buttons on the mouse The pointer, represented by an arrow, is used to select icons or choose options from a menu by moving it across the screen with the mouse.
Then you click a button on the mouse to use the object selected by the pointer e Containers for documents and applications, similar to the subdirectories of a PC platform
A Read the article below and decide which of the expressions in the box best describe a graphical user interface (GUI) user-friendly slow text-based complex graphics-based attractive
The terms user-interface refers to the standard procedures the user follows to interact with a particular computer
An effective user interface is crucial for ensuring ease of use when purchasing software A graphical user interface significantly enhances efficiency, eliminating the need to memorize commands; users can simply point and click to access application features, saving valuable time.
Macintosh computers – with a user interface based on graphics and intuitive tools – were designed with a single clear aim: to facilitate interaction with the computer Their interface is called
WIMP: Window, Icon, Mouse, and
Pointer, and software products for the
Macintosh systems are engineered to fully leverage their interface features, while the ROM chips include libraries that offer developers essential routines for creating windows, dialog boxes, icons, and pop-up menus, ensuring a high level of consistency in application development.
The most innovative graphical user interfaces (GUIs) today are the Macintosh, Microsoft Windows, and IBM OS/2 Warp, all featuring a desktop with icons, windows, and folders, along with a printer selector, file finder, control panel, and various desk accessories Users can easily navigate these platforms by double-clicking a folder to open a window containing programs, documents, or additional nested folders Within any folder, launching a desired program or document is as simple as double-clicking its icon or dragging it to a different location.
The three platforms differ in other areas such as device installation, network connectivity, or compatibility with application programs
User -friendly interfaces have gained immense popularity due to their simplicity, encouraging creativity and enhancing the quality of output This appealing design significantly influences users, leading to more innovative and effective results that resonate with the broader audience.
B Look at the text again and guess the meaning of the words in bold and italics in your own language
C Find answers to these questions
1) What does the abbreviation ‘GUI’ stand for?
2) What is the contribution of Macintosh computers to the development of graphic environments?
3) What does the acronym ‘WIMP’ mean?
4) What computing environments based on graphics are mentioned in the text?
5) How do you run a program on a computer with a graphical interface?
6) Can you give two reasons for the importance of user-friendly interfaces?
Exercise work
Add to the statements (1-10) using the extra information (a-j)
1 A barcode is a pattern of printed black lines a it contains the main electronic components
2 A floppy is a disk b it adds features to a computer
3 A mother is a printed circuit board c it is about the size of a piece of paper
4 A password is a secret set of characters d supermarkets use them for pricing
5 A monitor is an output device e it reads and writes to disks
6 A disk drive is a unit f it can hold 1.44Mb of data
7 An expansion card is an electronic board g it allows access to a computer system
8 A CD-ROM drive is a common storage device h it controls all the other boards in a computer
9 A notebook is a portable computer i it displays data on a screen
10 The system unit is the main part of the computer j it read data from a CD_ROM disk
Language work: Short relative clauses
We can join these sentences by using a relative clause
2) It allows basic file-sharing and multi-player gaming
1) + 2) Her house has a network which allows basic file-sharing and multi- player gaming
Relative clauses can be condensed by removing the relative word and converting the verb to its '-ing' form This method simplifies the structure while retaining the meaning.
Her house has a network allowing basic file-sharing and multi-player gaming
Note how these two sentences are joined by a relative clause
3) The technology is here today
4) The technology is needed to set up a home network
3) + 4) The technology which is needed to set up a home network is here today
Relative clauses like this with passive verbs can be shortened by omitting the relative word and the verb ‘to be’.
The technology needed to set up a home network is here today
Now link each group of sentences into one sentence using short relative clause
1 a The technology is here today b It is needed to set up a home network
2 a You only need one network printer b It is connected to the server
3 a Her house has a network b It allows basic file-sharing and multi-player gaming
4 a There is a line receiver in the living room b It delivers home entertainment audio to speakers
5 a Eve has designed a site b It is dedicated to dance
6 a She has built in links b They connect her site to other dance sites
7 a She created the site using a program called Netscape
Composer b It is contained in Netscape Communicator
8 a At the centre of France Telecom’s home of tomorrow is a network b It is accessed through a Palm Pilot-style control pad
9 a The network can simulate the owner’s presence. b This makes sure vital tasks are carried out in her absence
10 a The house has an electronic door-keeper b It is programmed to recognize you c This gives access to family only
Using short relative clauses is one way of reducing sentences Other ways of reducing sentences are:
Taking out relative pronouns where possible e.g The software (that) we bought last year
Omitting qualifying words (adjectives, or modifying adverbs) e.g (quite) complex/(very) similar
Taking out that in reported speech or thoughts
e.g It is well known (that) computers…
I think (that) there’s something wrong with this program.
e.g Macintosh computers were designed with a clear aim: to facilitate the user’s interaction with the computer.
= Macintosh computers were designed to facilitate the user’s interaction with the computer.
Writing
Summarize the text in Task 2 in 70 – 75 words You may like to follow these steps
1 Read through the whole text again and think of a suitable title for it
2 Make sure you understand all the main points Go through the text and underline the relevant information in each paragraph
3 Make notes about the main points:
Omit repetitions and unnecessary phrases
Leave out details, such as examples E.g notes on the first paragraph: In the past, only experts used computers
But now, emphasis on user-friendly interfaces
4 Make sentences from the notes and connect the sentences by using linking words (and, but, also, because, that’s why, in fact, therefore, etc.) Write your first draft
5 Improve your first draft by reducing sentences
6 Check grammar, spelling, and punctuation Write the final version of your summary
Spreadsheets
Vocabulary
Match the terms in the box with the explanations below a formul b cell c sales d payroll e shares f revenue g interest h expenses
1) A sum of money that is charged or paid as a percentage of a larger sum of money which has been borrowed or invested, e.g High rates./ 7 percent
2) The intersection of a column and a row in a spreadsheet, e.g the ~ B2
3) The quantity sold, e.g The ~ of PCs rose by 10 percent last year
4) The income – or money – received by a company or organization, e.g The annual ~ of this multinational company is…
5) A ~ in a company is one of the equal parts into which the capital of the company is divided, entitling the holder of the ~ to a proportion of the benefits, e.g £10 ~s are now worth £11
6) Financial costs; amounts of money spent, e.g Travelling ~
7) A function or operation that produces a new value as the result of adding, subtracting, multiplying, or dividing existing values, e.g If we enter the ~
8) 1 A list of people to be paid and the amount due to each 2 Wages or salaries paid to employees, e.g He was on the company’s ~.
Language work: Prepositions of place
A Study these examples of prepositions of place
1 Data moves between the CPU and RAM
2 Data flows from ROM to the
3 A program is read from disk into memory
4 Data is transferred along the data bus
5 The address number is put onto the address bus
6 The hard disk drive is inside a sealed case
7 Heads move across the disk
8 Tracks are divided into sectors
B Now complete each sentence using the correct preposition
1) The CPU is a large chip ……… the computer
2) Data always flows ……… the CPU ……… the address bus.
3) The CPU can be divided ……… three parts.
4) Data flows ……… the CPU and memory.
5) Peripherals are devices ……… T he computer but linked ……… it
6) The signal moves ……… the VDU screen ……… one side ……… the other
7) The CPU puts the address ……… the address bus.
8) The CPU can fetch data ……… memory ……… the data bus.
Graphic representation
A Look at the graph below and, with the help of a partner, check that it is an exact visual representation of the spreadsheet in Task 1
B Can you calculate the net profits of this firm during the period 1997-98?
C What type of image is this: a pie chart, a bar chart, an area graph, or a line graph?
D What is the advantage, if any, of displaying information as a graph, rather than as a spreadsheet?
Extension
A Spreadsheet programs are also used to make out invoices Look at the invoice below and fill in the blanks with the right words from the box
Quantity Description Price VAT (Value Added Tax)
B Have you got a spreadsheet program at work or school? If so, try to produce a similar invoice
Companies often use databases to store information about customers, suppliers and their own personnel Study the illustrations and then try to answer these questions
2) Which tasks can be performed by using a database? Make a list of possible applications
3) What do the terms mean in your language: file, record, field?
A Here is a part of an article about databases First, read all the way through and underline the basic features of a database
Basic features of database programs
A database serves as an electronic filing cabinet, allowing you to efficiently store, organize, and retrieve extensive collections of related information on a computer This powerful tool offers various features and applications that enhance data management and accessibility.
Information is entered on a database via fields Each field holds a separate piece of information, and the fields are collected together into records
An employee record typically includes essential information such as name, address, telephone number, age, salary, and length of employment These records are organized into files that can store substantial amounts of data Updating files is straightforward, allowing for modifications to existing fields, the addition of new records, or the removal of outdated ones Utilizing effective database software enables businesses to monitor stock, sales, market trends, orders, invoices, and other critical details that contribute to company success.
Database programs offer the ability to automatically search for and retrieve records containing specific information, allowing users to perform searches across multiple fields simultaneously For instance, a managing director can easily access all relevant data by querying various criteria at once.
78 customers that spend more than £7,000 per month, the program would search on the name field and the money field simultaneously
A computer database offers significantly faster consultation and updates compared to a traditional card index system Additionally, it requires much less physical space and allows for automatic sorting of records in numerical or alphabetical order based on any chosen field.
The best packages also include networking facilities, which add a new dimension of productivity to businesses
Managers across various departments benefit from direct access to a shared database, enhancing collaboration and efficiency Security measures enable selective file sharing on a network, allowing control over who can view specific information User-defined passwords can safeguard different aspects of the program, ensuring sensitive data, such as employee personal details, can be shared without exposing confidential information like commission rates.
In short, a database manager helps you control the data you have at home, in the library or in your business
B Now make a list of the words you don’t understand Can you guess their meaning? Compare your ideas with other students
C Using the information in the text, complete these statements
2) Information is entered on a database via ……… ………
5) The advantages of a database program over a manual filing system are …
6) Access to a common database can be protected by using ………
Language work
To protect your eyes, you should wear sunglasses that block UV rays when outdoors You must take regular breaks from screens to reduce eye strain You ought to maintain a proper distance from your computer or mobile device while using them You can consider using artificial tears to keep your eyes moist You should schedule regular eye exams to monitor your eye health.
Position your keyboard at the same height as your elbows
Don’t use a monitor that is fuzzy or distorts the image
You should position your keyboard at the same height as your elbows You ought to position …
You shouldn’t use a monitor that is fuzzy or distorts the image = You ought not (oughtn’t) to use …
1) Do not stare at the screen for long periods of time
2) Avoid placing the monitor so that it reflects a source of bright light, such as a window
3) Keep the screen clean to prevent distorting shadows
4) If you work in an office with a large number of computers, don’t sit too close to the sides or backs of the monitors
5) Buy a protective filter that cuts down the ELF (extremely low frequency) emissions
A How many kinds of printers can you think of? Make a list
B Read the text below and label these types of printers
The resolution depends on the number of pins (9 or 24)
The quality (resolution) of the images ranges from 180 to 720 dots per inch (dpi)
Provides high quality output – a resolution of 600/1200 (dpi)
Provides the highest resolution – more than 2,000 dpi
Provides high quality for linework
Printing is the crucial final step in document creation, facilitated by printers connected to your computer Since various printer types yield significantly different results, this guide will assist you in understanding their differences.
42 you decide which one is most suitable for your needs
Dot-matrix printers use pins to print the dots required to shape a character
They print text and graphics and nowadays some of them can print up to
Dot matrix printers operate at a speed of 450 characters per second (cps), but they deliver low-resolution output at 72 or 144 dots per inch While this quality is adequate for preliminary drafts, it is not advisable for reports or books intended for a broad audience Although they are slower than laser printers, dot matrix printers are significantly more affordable, making them a cost-effective option for basic printing needs.
Ink-jet printers are a popular type of non-impact printer that work by projecting tiny ink droplets onto paper to create images They are known for their speed, quiet operation, and affordability compared to laser printers Additionally, many ink-jet models offer impressive print quality, with resolutions reaching up to 720 dpi.
Laser printers operate by scanning images with a laser beam and transferring them to paper using special ink powder, achieving impressive speeds and high resolutions of 600/1200 dpi Constant improvements enhance their performance, making them the preferred choice for experts due to their scalable fonts, ability to emulate various language systems, and capability to produce high-quality graphics Despite their numerous advantages, laser printers remain relatively expensive.
C Read the text again and complete this table with the most relevant information Then compare your notes with a partner
Technical specifications and other features
Reference signals: Read the text and say what the underlined words refer to
Printing is the crucial final step in document creation, facilitated by printers connected to your computer With various types of printers available, each offering distinct results, this guide aims to assist you in selecting the printer that best meets your specific needs.
Dot-matrix printers utilize pins to create dots that form characters, enabling them to print both text and graphics Modern models can achieve impressive speeds of up to 450 characters per second (cps).
Read the advertisements for printers below, and then with your partner, answer the questions See who in your group/class can finish first
1) How many laser printers are advertised here?
2) Is there a printer that operates by spraying ink droplets onto paper?
3) Which laser printer offers the highest resolution or output quality?
4) Which printer is the most expensive?
5) Which one would you recommend to a friend who does not have much money?
6) Which one has more internal fonts?
7) A printer language is software that tells printers how to print a document Can you find two types of laser printer languages?
8) What connectivity features are offered by the Turbo Laser Writer QR?
9) A very common feature in advertisements is the use of abbreviations Find the abbreviations for these expressions: dots per inch, characters per second, pages per minute, small computer system interface, and liquid- crystal display
Workgroup laser printer 15 pages per minute 600 dpi for graphics 36 MB of
RAM Includes Adobe PostScript and
Hewlett Packard PCS printer languages
75 resident fonts Connectivity: one bi- directional parallel port, one LocalTalk port, and one Ethernet port for networks
Dot-matrix printer with 24 pins Prints text and graphics 450 cps Compatible special interface Free unlimited hotline support for our customers One year on-site maintenance
Color printer 40 Adobe PostScript fonts
36 MB RAM with a SCSI interface for an optional 20 MB hard disk
Parallel, serial and AppleTalk interfaces
Two 200 sheet selectable input trays
HP plotter emulation Thermal printing system 30-day money-back guarantee
1 year’s on-site parts and labor and £2,249
Comes with PostScript language and PCL (printer control language) Telephone hotline support
Resolution: Up to 4800 x 1200 optimized dpi on premium photo paper
Paper input capacity: Up to 150 sheets
Reliable color printer with cost-effective features for the home or office on a budget
Personal laser printer, 5 pages per minute 4 MB RAM expandable to 64
MB Parallel interface 200 sheet input tray 35 resident fonts One-year on-site maintenance Prints on a wide range of materials and sizes £649
IV Language work: Revision of comparison
A Study the sentences below and do the following:
Draw a circle around comparatives and a rectangle around superlatives
1) Dot-matrix printers are cheaper than laser printers
2) A photosetter is the fastest output device
3) A thermal wax printer is more expensive than a monochrome laser printer
4) The Micro Laser XT is the most reliable of all
5) Personal laser printers cost less than ordinary laser printers They also weigh less and require less space
6) My printer has more resident fonts than yours
7) This printer offers laser quality at a lower price
8) Monochrome printers operate faster than color ones
9) Dot-matrix printers are too slow
10) Dot-matrix printers are not quick enough
Describe to your partner the characteristics of the printer you would like to use Give reasons (Does your ideal printer look like the one below?)
Lesson 5 I/O devices for the disabled
Working in pairs or small groups, look at the pictures and discuss these questions Use the phrases in the box to help you
1) What sort of difficulties do you think are experienced by computer users with limitations of vision or mobility?
2) What types of devices could be helpful to blind users?
3) How can a person with mobility limitations communicate with a computer?
4) Think of possible tools or solutions
Key words blind person magnification software
Braille printer adaptive switch motor-impaired person adapted keyboard on-screen keyboard voice recognition system screen-pointing device speech synthesis system optical head pointer
A Read the text below and find:
1) Two examples of speech synthesis systems
2) The kind of software which is recommended for someone with partial vision
3) The speed of the Juliet Braille printer
4) The ways adaptive switches can be activated
5) The function of voice recognition devices
6) The devices used by the disabled person at the Center for the Handicapped in Seattle
7) How the blind student interacts with the machine
Sal possesses the essential traits of a successful telemarketer, including intelligence, sociability, and determination However, his blindness raises concerns for Phillis regarding his ability to access the company’s database and read office communications Additionally, she is worried about the potential costs associated with adapting the workplace to meet his needs.
Phillis must accommodate him, since her company is in the US, and therefore subject to the Americans with Disabilities Act or ADA # But she needn’t worry The latest adaptive technology for personal computers provides a cost-effective way to allow Sal and workers with other disabilities to do their job with independence
To successfully integrate adaptive technology into a computer for a disabled worker, it is essential to first identify their specific needs For blind users, effective computer use often requires specialized adaptations and technologies tailored to enhance their accessibility and functionality.
48 such as speech synthesis, magnification,
Braille and OCR One example of a speech-synthesis system is VertPro from
This product can read MS-DOS- based word processors, databases, spreadsheets, and other text-based software Window Bridge from Syntha-
Voice can verbalize both MS-DOS and
For someone with limited but usable vision, a software magnification package may be appropriate
Magnification software can enlarge text appearing on the screen by up to 16 times
For Braille output, the Juliet printer from Enabling Technologies interfaces to any standard serial or parallel port
This printer can emboss Braille on both sides of a page at a speed of 40 characters per second The Reading
Edge OCR from Xerox Imaging
Systems and the Arkenstone Open Book
Unbound from Arkenstone can read printed material to blind people and send the text to a PC
To adapt equipment for motor- impaired workers unable to type on standard keyboard, you can employ adapted keyboards, head pointers, and Morse code systems
Users can utilize external adaptive switches to navigate menu options or virtual keys on an on-screen keyboard These adaptive switches are available in various forms and can be activated through eye movements, breath control, or other consistent muscle movements.
Morse code systems offer an alternative method for controlling computers, utilizing adaptive switches and specialized software This approach is particularly beneficial for individuals who are unable to use a full keyboard but can physically press at least one key.
Voice-recognition systems permit people to issue verbal commands to a computer to perform data entry
(Adapted from ‘Computers for the disabled’, Joseph J Lazzaro, BYTE Magazine, June 1993)
* Someone who markets products by phone
# This makes it illegal for employers to discriminate against people with disabilities
B Match the terms in the box with the explanations below a disability b Braille c port d interface e Morse code f speech synthesizer
1) A system of writing and reading (using raised dots) for blind people, to enable them to read by touch
4) A system of dots and dashes, or short and long sounds, representing letters of the alphabet and numbers
5) A hardware device used in conjunction with a screen reader program to convert screen contents into spoken words
6) Channels and control circuits which allow different parts of a computer to communicate with one another It also refers to the part of the system that allows a user to interact with programs
Dear Mike Hartley, I am reaching out to inquire about the latest advancements in computers designed specifically for individuals with disabilities As the director of the Adaptive Technology Project for the Blind, your expertise would be invaluable in understanding the features and accessibility options available Additionally, I would appreciate any recommendations on resources or programs that support the integration of adaptive technology in everyday use Thank you for your assistance in helping to enhance the digital experience for those with disabilities Sincerely, [Your Name]
- Begin by saying why you’re writing: I’m writing to…
- Ask for information about specific I/O equipment for deaf, blind, and motor- disabled workers: I would like to know…
Ask for a free handbook about how to add adaptive technology to personal computers: I would be very grateful if…
- End the letter appropriately: I look forward to hearing from you soon
IV Language work: Compound nouns
The language of computing in English contains an ever-increasing number of compound nouns, that is, a group of two or more nouns which act as a single noun
Examples memory capacity an address bus an arithmetic unit information systems a bar code scanner a computer keyboard
It is important to be able to recognize how such compounds are formed in order to understand what they mean
The internet and email
A In pairs, discuss how you would define the Internet
B Make a list of all the things you can use the Internet for
A Read Part 1 of the internet FAQs and choose the correct answers
1) The internet was a Invented in the mid-90s b Popular in the 1960s c Probably created in the USA
2) Which term describes any fast, high-bandwidth connection? a Broadband b Dial-up connection c Wi-Fi connection
3) The power-line internet provides broadband access through a Telephone lines b Satellites c Electrical power lines
4) Which device converts computer data into a form that can be transmitted over phone lines? a ADSL b A mobile phone c A modem
5) The standard protocol that allows computers to communication over the Internet is called a An IP address b TCP/IP c HTTP
6) The geographical region covered by one or several access points is called a a Wireless access point b Hotspot c Wireless network device
How old is the Internet (the Net)? When was it created?
It’s hard to say exactly The research that led to what we now know as the Internet was begun in the 1960s
Again, it’s hard to say exactly who created it The initial research was carried out by the Advanced Research Projects Agency in America, funded by the US government
Did the Internet become popular quickly?
It took many years for the Internet to become popular around the world
It’s only really since the mid-90s that the Internet has been a part of our daily lives
How do you get online?
To get connected, you need a computer, the right connection Software and a modem connected to the phone line You also need an account with an Internet
Service Provider (ISP), which acts a gateway between your PC and the rest of the
How fast are today’s internet connections?
Today, ISPs offer a broadband, high-speed connection The most common types are cable-offered by local cable TV companies-and ADSL (Asymmetric
Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) utilizes phone lines to deliver faster internet speeds compared to traditional dial-up connections Additionally, some electricity networks offer broadband access through a technology called power-line Internet, which allows low-cost internet access via power plugs, although it is still under development.
How long has broadband existed?
How much does broadband access cost?
It depends on which company you choose Nowadays, some companies even offer free broadband
Why do you need a modem?
A modem (modulator/demodulator) converts digital signals into analogue signals so that data can be transmitted across the phone or cable network
What does TCP/IP mean?
TCP/IP, or Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol, serves as the fundamental language for data transfer across the Internet, functioning similarly to an operating system for the web Each computer connected to the Internet is assigned a unique identifier, ensuring seamless communication and data exchange.
Are there other ways of accessing the Internet?
Alternative methods for internet access encompass Wi-Fi, satellite connections, mobile phones, and TV sets with modems Wi-Fi-enabled devices, such as laptops and PDAs, can connect to the internet when in proximity to wireless access points known as hotspots, commonly found in cafes, parks, and campuses Satellite services provide internet access in remote areas where terrestrial connections are unavailable, such as on ships at sea.
High-end mobile phones provide access through the phone network
B In pairs, discuss which of the internet systems (1-6) you would use to do the tasks (a-f) then read Part 2 of the FQAs and check your answers
1 Email a Transfer files from the Internet to your hard drive
2 The Web b Send a message to another person via the Internet
3 Newsgroups c Have a live conversation (usually typed) online
4 Chat and IM d Connect to a remote computer by entering instructions, and run a program on it
5 FTP e Take part in public discussion areas devoted to specific topics
6 Telnet f Download and view documents published on the Internet
Email lets you exchange messages with people all over the world Optional attached files can include text, pictures and even audio and animation
A mailing list uses email to communicate messages to all its subscribes – that is, everyone that belongs to the list
Which email program is the best?
Outlook Express is a popular program, but many users use web-based email accounts such as Hotmail
The Web is made up of billions of documents hosted on web servers that utilize the HTTP protocol Users navigate the Web through web browsers, which enable them to search for, view, and print web pages.
How often are web pages updated?
It depends entirely on the page Some are updated thousands of times a day
Chat and Instant Messaging (IM)
Chat and Instant Messaging technologies allow you to have real-time conversations online, by typing messages at the keyboard
File Transfer Protocol (FTP) enables the transfer of files over a TCP/IP network, and this functionality is now integrated into web browsers Users can easily download programs, games, and music files from remote computers directly to their hard drives.
Telnet is a protocol and a program used to log onto remote computer systems
It enables you to enter commands that will be executed as if you were entering them directly on the remote server
Newsgroups are public discussion platforms within the Usenet system, where users contribute by posting articles and responding to others, forming message threads To access and engage with newsgroups, a newsreader is required, which can be a standalone application or integrated into a web browser.
How many newsgroups are there?
There are approximately 30,000 active newsgroups
Where can you find newsgroups?
Many newsreaders enable users to download newsgroup addresses provided by their ISP's news server Alternatively, users can access web forums, which offer similar functionalities without the need for additional software.
C Find words and phrases in part 2 with following meanings
1) A system used to distribute email to many different subscribers at once (in Email paragraph)
2) A program used for displaying web pages (in The Web paragraph)
3) To connect to a computer by typing your username and password (in Telnet paragraph)
4) A series of interrelated messages on a given topic (in Newsgroups paragraph)
5) A program for reading Usenet newsgroups (in Newsgroups paragraph)
A Look at the HELP box and then make a question about Sue Clarke for each of her answers
I use the Internet to find information requested by clients
I’ve been doing this job for six months
In questions, we normally place the auxiliary verb before the subject
Are there other ways of accessing the
If there is no other auxiliary, we use do/does (present simple) or did (past simple)
Did Internet become popular quickly?
There are many question words in
English which we use to find out more information than just yes or no
What does TCP/IP mean?
Which email program is the best?
Where can you find newsgroups?
How often are web pages updated?
How long has broadband existed?
Why do you need a modem?
How much does broadband access cost?
How many newsgroups are there?
How do you get online?
How fast are today’s internet connections?
How old is the Internet?
B In pairs, make questions using these prompts Then practice asking and answering the questions
Example: When / first / use the Internet when did you first use the Internet?
1) What type of internet connection / have at home?
2) How fast/ your internet connection?
3) How much / pay for broadband access?
4) How often/ access the internet?
7) Do / use you mobile phone to access the Internet?
8) Do / use the internet in public spaces using Wi-Fi?
10)How many newsgroups / subscribe to?
The web
A typical web page
Read the text and label the features on the screenshot with the terms in bold
A URL, or Uniform Resource Locator, is the address of a file on the Internet, typically formatted like this: http://www.24h.com.vn/abc.
A URL begins with "http://" which stands for Hypertext Transfer Protocol, indicating that the program should retrieve a web page The "www" signifies the World Wide Web, while "24h.com.vn" is the domain name of a Vietnamese server hosting the website Other common top-level domains include com for commercial sites, edu for educational institutions, org for organizations, and net for networks The "abc" portion represents the directory path where the specific web page resides URL components are delineated by symbols such as dots, slashes, and colons Additionally, some sites may start with "ftp://", which is a File Transfer Protocol used for transferring files between computers.
The toolbar features navigation icons that allow users to easily move back or forward between pages Additionally, it provides quick access to the home page and the option to halt any ongoing transfers when circuits are busy.
Tab buttons allow simultaneous viewing of multiple sites, while the integrated search box facilitates information retrieval A lit feed button indicates that the site provides RSS feeds for automatic updates If a web page fails to load, refreshing the page will reload it To easily revisit a website later, you can bookmark it or add it to your favorites, and simply click on "show favorites" to access it again.
Most websites include clickable image links and hypertext links, collectively referred to as hyperlinks, which direct users to other web pages when selected.
Language work: collocations 2
A Look at the HELP box and then match the words on the left (1-6) with the words on the right (a-f) to make collocations There may be more than one possible answer
6 official a friends b photos c action d website e encyclopedia f player
B In pairs, make sentences using the collocations above
C Find the collocations in these sentences and say what type they are
1) Once you are online, you can browse the Web, visit chat rooms or send and receive emails
2) Instant messaging can be a great way to communicate with friends
3) This software may not be fully compatible with older operating systems
4) Most webcam plug into a USB port
5) This highly addictive game will keep you playing for hours
6) Companies are starting to use virtual reality on their websites
A collocation is a pair or group of words that are often used together For example, we say make phone call, not do phone calls
Here are some common types of collocation
Highly sensitive information Freely available on the Web
Mathematical formulas Up-to-date information
The world online often collocates with other words and can function as adjective or adverb
Adjective: They post opinions on online journals
Adverb: a podcast is an audio recording posted online
D Complete the extracts with words from the box
Authorization Fake Internet auction Shopping cart
1) Occasionally I also buy things on………….sites such as eBay where people offer and sell things to the highest bidder
2) First you enter a site dedicated to e-commerce and………… their products
3) Then you put the items you want to buy into a virtual…………-a program that lets you select the products and buy with a credit card
4) You may have to……….with a username and a password…
5) …for some transactions, you will be required to use a TAN, a transaction………number
6) Be aware of phishing – you may receive………….emails claiming to be from your bank and asking for personal information or account details in an attempt to……….you identity.
Language work: the prefixes e- and cyber-
Look at the HELP box and then complete these sentences
1 A………….is an employee who uses his company’s internet connection during work hours to chat with friends, play games, etc
2 An ……….is a postcard sent via the
3 An……….is a small magazine or newsletter published online
4 In a………… you can use computers with internet access for a fee
5 Examples of……….include internet fraud, digital piracy, theft of confidential information, etc
6 In the future, all elections will be carried out using………
7 You can now sign legal documents online using an……….
8 ………will revolutionize the way we take exams
9 ……… can be used on some websites instead of real money to make purchases It reduces the risk of fraud
10 An……… is like the paper version, but in digital form
The "e-" prefix signifies electronic, denoting activities that occur online or on computers Common examples include e-business or e-commerce, which refers to business conducted over the Internet, along with e-cards, e-learning, e-zines, e-voting, e-signatures, e-assessments, e-cash, e-books, and e-pals.
There are often spelling variations, with or without a hyphen, so always check your dictionary
The term "cyber" originates from cybernetics and is used to refer to concepts associated with computer networks Common examples include cybercafé, which denotes an internet café, as well as terms like cybercrime, cyberculture, cyberslacker, and cyberspace, all highlighting the digital landscape's influence on modern society.
What do you use the Web for?
In pairs, discuss these questions Give reasons for your answers
1 what is your favorites search engine to find information on the Web? Why?
2 Do you download music or video clips from the Web? Do you pay for them?
3 Do you buy things online? Is it better to buy online or go to a shop?
4 Have you ever listened to the radio or watched TV online?
5 Do you use the Web to do school/university assignments or projects? How?
Internet security
On alert
A In pair, discuss these questions
3) How easy do you think it is to infiltrate the Internet and teal sensitive information?
4) How can you protect your computer from viruses and spyware?
A Match the captions (1-4) with the pictures (a-d)
1 A secure website can be recognized in two ways: the address bar shows the letters https and a closed padlock or key is displayed at the bottom of the screen
2 You have to type your username and password to access a locked computer system
3 This program displays a message when it detects spyware and other unwanted software that may compromise your privacy or damage your computer
4 Private networks use a software and/or hardware mechanism called a firewall to block unauthorized traffic from the Internet a………. c……… b………… d……….
Security and privacy on the Internet
A Read the text quickly and see how many of your ideas from 1A Question are mentioned
B Read the text more carefully and answers these questions
1) Why is security so important on the Internet?
2) What security features are offered by Mozilla Firefox?
3) What security protocol is used by banks to make online transactions secure?
4) How can we protect our email and keep it private?
5) What methods are used by companies to make internal networks secure?
6) In what ways can a virus enter a computer system?
7) How does a worm spread itself?
Security and privacy on the Internet
The Internet offers numerous advantages, but it also poses risks such as exposure to hackers who may infiltrate computer systems for entertainment, data theft, or virus distribution To ensure the security of our online transactions, it is essential to implement effective protective measures.
Security is crucial when you send confidential information online
When purchasing a book online, you enter your credit card information into an order form that travels through multiple computers to reach the bookstore If any of these intermediary systems are compromised by hackers, your sensitive data could be exposed and copied.
To enhance your online safety, it's crucial to set your web browser's security alerts to high In Mozilla Firefox, a lock icon indicates a secure website, and you have the option to disable or delete cookies, which are small files stored on your hard drive by web servers for user recognition.
PC when you return to their site
When utilizing online banking services, ensure they implement digital certificates, which function as digital identification cards for both users and web servers Additionally, it is crucial to use a browser that complies with SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) standards for enhanced security.
Socket Layer), a protocol which provides secure transactions
When you send an email, it is temporarily stored on multiple computers along its journey across the internet, making it vulnerable to unauthorized access by individuals who illegally breach computer systems.
To safeguard a message, it must be encased in a virtual envelope through encryption Pretty Good Privacy (PGP) is a notable freeware program developed by Phil Zimmermann, specifically designed for private email communication.
Private networks are vulnerable to intruders seeking sensitive information like Social Security numbers and bank accounts To safeguard this critical data, companies often engage security consultants to assess risks and recommend protective measures Common protection methods include access control through passwords, firewalls, and encryption systems Encryption transforms data into a secure code that can only be accessed by individuals with the appropriate key, while decryption restores the encrypted data to its original format.
Malware protection Malware (malicious software) are programs designed to infiltrate or damage your computer, for example viruses, worms, Trojans and spyware
Viruses can infiltrate a computer through infected discs inserted into the disc drive or through online downloads In contrast, worms are self-replicating programs that spread by attaching themselves to emails, automatically sending copies to all contacts in the user's address book.
A Trojan horse is disguised as a useful program; it may affect data security Spyware collects information from your
PC without your consent Most spyware and adware (software that allows pup- ups- that is, advertisements that
91 suddenly appear on your screen) is included with “free” downloads.
To safeguard your PC, avoid opening email attachments from unknown senders and exercise caution when downloading files online Regularly update your antivirus software to defend against the constantly evolving landscape of new viruses.
Language work: the past simple
Requirements: Need to, have to, must, be + essential, critical
Note how we describe requirements of particular jobs:
1 You need to be able to empathise with the person at the other end of the phone
2 IT managers have to take responsibility for budgets
3 You must be interested in your subject
4 You must have worked for at least two years in systems analysis
5 Experience with mainframes is essential/ critical
We can describe things which are not requirements like this:
6 You don’t need to have a degree in computing science
We can also treat need as a modal verb and use the negative form needn’t:
7 You needn’t have a degree in computing science
Have to is an ordinary verb
Its negative form is made in the usual way:
8 You don’t have to be an expert in everything
Mustn’t has a quite different meaning It means it is important not to do something It is used for warning, rules, and strong advice For example:
9 You mustn’t make unauthorized copies of software
A Now fill in the blanks with the appropriate form of the verbs, need to, have to, and must , to make sensible statements More than one answer is possible in some examples
1) Technical qualifications ………… to be renewed at intervals to ensure they do not go out of date
2) You ………… become an expert in too narrow a field.
3) You ………… to have good communication skills to become an IT
4) You ………… be an expert in hardware to become a programmer
5) You ………… have worked with IBM mainframes for at least two years
6) You ………… be able to show leadership.
7) You ………… have a degree but it ………… be in computing science
8) You ………… to have experience in JavaScript
9) You ………… be able to use C++
10) These days you ………… study BASIC
B Study these requirements for different jobs in computing advertised on the Internet Then describe the requirements using the methods studied in this unit
Min 2 yrs work in systems programming
1 yr exp of VTAM, NCP, SSP, NPM, IBM 3745-900 hardware
Authorized to work in the EU
3 yrs exp SAP Basic Technical
Team player with strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Ability to communicate issues and solutions and manage time effectively
Webmaster Cisco Technician IS Manager
Excellent skills in the surrounding technologies
Min 2 yrs work in support
Knowledge of NT and Netware
Experience of ERP systems implementation
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MODULE 5 FACES OF THE INTERNET
Lesson 1 The internet and email
A In pairs, discuss how you would define the Internet
B Make a list of all the things you can use the Internet for
A Read Part 1 of the internet FAQs and choose the correct answers
1) The internet was a Invented in the mid-90s b Popular in the 1960s c Probably created in the USA
2) Which term describes any fast, high-bandwidth connection? a Broadband b Dial-up connection c Wi-Fi connection
3) The power-line internet provides broadband access through a Telephone lines b Satellites c Electrical power lines
4) Which device converts computer data into a form that can be transmitted over phone lines? a ADSL b A mobile phone c A modem
5) The standard protocol that allows computers to communication over the Internet is called a An IP address b TCP/IP c HTTP
6) The geographical region covered by one or several access points is called a a Wireless access point b Hotspot c Wireless network device
How old is the Internet (the Net)? When was it created?
It’s hard to say exactly The research that led to what we now know as the Internet was begun in the 1960s
Again, it’s hard to say exactly who created it The initial research was carried out by the Advanced Research Projects Agency in America, funded by the US government
Did the Internet become popular quickly?
It took many years for the Internet to become popular around the world
It’s only really since the mid-90s that the Internet has been a part of our daily lives
How do you get online?
To get connected, you need a computer, the right connection Software and a modem connected to the phone line You also need an account with an Internet
Service Provider (ISP), which acts a gateway between your PC and the rest of the
How fast are today’s internet connections?
Today, ISPs offer a broadband, high-speed connection The most common types are cable-offered by local cable TV companies-and ADSL (Asymmetric
Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) utilizes phone lines to deliver faster internet speeds compared to traditional dial-up connections Additionally, some electricity networks offer broadband access through a technology called power-line Internet, which allows for low-cost connectivity via power plugs, although it is still under development.
How long has broadband existed?
How much does broadband access cost?
It depends on which company you choose Nowadays, some companies even offer free broadband
Why do you need a modem?
A modem (modulator/demodulator) converts digital signals into analogue signals so that data can be transmitted across the phone or cable network
What does TCP/IP mean?
TCP/IP, or Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol, is the fundamental language for data transfer on the Internet, functioning similarly to an operating system for the web Each computer connected to the Internet is assigned a unique identifier, ensuring seamless communication and data exchange.
Are there other ways of accessing the Internet?
Alternative internet access methods include Wi-Fi, satellite, mobile phones, and TVs with modems Wi-Fi-enabled devices like laptops and PDAs can connect to the internet when near wireless access points, commonly found in hotspots such as cafés, parks, or campuses Satellite services provide connectivity in remote areas where terrestrial options are unavailable, such as on ships at sea.
High-end mobile phones provide access through the phone network
B In pairs, discuss which of the internet systems (1-6) you would use to do the tasks (a-f) then read Part 2 of the FQAs and check your answers
1 Email a Transfer files from the Internet to your hard drive
2 The Web b Send a message to another person via the Internet
3 Newsgroups c Have a live conversation (usually typed) online
4 Chat and IM d Connect to a remote computer by entering instructions, and run a program on it
5 FTP e Take part in public discussion areas devoted to specific topics
6 Telnet f Download and view documents published on the Internet
Email lets you exchange messages with people all over the world Optional attached files can include text, pictures and even audio and animation
A mailing list uses email to communicate messages to all its subscribes – that is, everyone that belongs to the list
Which email program is the best?
Outlook Express is a popular program, but many users use web-based email accounts such as Hotmail
The Web is made up of billions of documents hosted on web servers utilizing the HTTP protocol Users explore the Web through web browsers, which enable them to search, view, and print web pages.
How often are web pages updated?
It depends entirely on the page Some are updated thousands of times a day
Chat and Instant Messaging (IM)
Chat and Instant Messaging technologies allow you to have real-time conversations online, by typing messages at the keyboard
File Transfer Protocol (FTP) enables the transfer of files over a TCP/IP network, and this functionality is now integrated into web browsers Users can easily download programs, games, and music files from remote computers directly to their hard drives.
Telnet is a protocol and a program used to log onto remote computer systems
It enables you to enter commands that will be executed as if you were entering them directly on the remote server
Newsgroups are public discussion forums within the Usenet system, where users contribute by posting and responding to articles, forming interconnected message threads To access newsgroups and engage in reading and posting messages, you need a newsreader, which can be a standalone application or integrated into a web browser.
How many newsgroups are there?
There are approximately 30,000 active newsgroups
Where can you find newsgroups?
You can download newsgroup addresses from your ISP's news server using a newsreader, or alternatively, you can access web forums that offer similar functionality without the need for additional software.
C Find words and phrases in part 2 with following meanings
1) A system used to distribute email to many different subscribers at once (in Email paragraph)
2) A program used for displaying web pages (in The Web paragraph)
3) To connect to a computer by typing your username and password (in Telnet paragraph)
4) A series of interrelated messages on a given topic (in Newsgroups paragraph)
5) A program for reading Usenet newsgroups (in Newsgroups paragraph)
A Look at the HELP box and then make a question about Sue Clarke for each of her answers
I use the Internet to find information requested by clients
I’ve been doing this job for six months
In questions, we normally place the auxiliary verb before the subject
Are there other ways of accessing the
If there is no other auxiliary, we use do/does (present simple) or did (past simple)
Did Internet become popular quickly?
There are many question words in
English which we use to find out more information than just yes or no
What does TCP/IP mean?
Which email program is the best?
Where can you find newsgroups?
How often are web pages updated?
How long has broadband existed?
Why do you need a modem?
How much does broadband access cost?
How many newsgroups are there?
How do you get online?
How fast are today’s internet connections?
How old is the Internet?
B In pairs, make questions using these prompts Then practice asking and answering the questions
Example: When / first / use the Internet when did you first use the Internet?
1) What type of internet connection / have at home?
2) How fast/ your internet connection?
3) How much / pay for broadband access?
4) How often/ access the internet?
7) Do / use you mobile phone to access the Internet?
8) Do / use the internet in public spaces using Wi-Fi?
10)How many newsgroups / subscribe to?
Read the text and label the features on the screenshot with the terms in bold
The URL, or Uniform Resource Locator, is the address of a file on the Internet, typically formatted like this: http://www.24h.com.vn/abc.
A URL consists of several components: "http://" indicates the Hypertext Transfer Protocol, directing the browser to access a web page, while "www" stands for the World Wide Web The domain name, such as "24h.com.vn," identifies the server hosting the website, which in this case is a Vietnamese company Other common top-level domains include ".com" for commercial sites, ".edu" for educational institutions, ".org" for organizations, and ".net" for networks The directory path, represented by "abc," specifies the location of the web page URL components are separated by dots, slashes, and colons, and some URLs may begin with "ftp://," which indicates a file transfer protocol for copying files between computers.
The toolbar features navigation icons that allow users to easily move back or forward between pages, access the home page, or halt a current transfer when circuits are busy.
Tab buttons allow simultaneous viewing of multiple sites, while the built-in search box enables easy information retrieval The illuminated feed button indicates that the site offers RSS feeds for automatic updates If a web page fails to load, refreshing the page reloads it To easily revisit a website, you can bookmark it or add it to your favorites, which you can access later by clicking on the favorites option.
Most websites incorporate clickable image links and hypertext links, collectively referred to as hyperlinks, which direct users to other web pages when selected.
A Look at the HELP box and then match the words on the left (1-6) with the words on the right (a-f) to make collocations There may be more than one possible answer
6 official a friends b photos c action d website e encyclopedia f player
B In pairs, make sentences using the collocations above
C Find the collocations in these sentences and say what type they are
1) Once you are online, you can browse the Web, visit chat rooms or send and receive emails
2) Instant messaging can be a great way to communicate with friends
3) This software may not be fully compatible with older operating systems
4) Most webcam plug into a USB port
5) This highly addictive game will keep you playing for hours
6) Companies are starting to use virtual reality on their websites
A collocation is a pair or group of words that are often used together For example, we say make phone call, not do phone calls
Here are some common types of collocation
Highly sensitive information Freely available on the Web
Mathematical formulas Up-to-date information
The world online often collocates with other words and can function as adjective or adverb
Adjective: They post opinions on online journals
Adverb: a podcast is an audio recording posted online
D Complete the extracts with words from the box
Authorization Fake Internet auction Shopping cart
1) Occasionally I also buy things on………….sites such as eBay where people offer and sell things to the highest bidder
2) First you enter a site dedicated to e-commerce and………… their products
3) Then you put the items you want to buy into a virtual…………-a program that lets you select the products and buy with a credit card
4) You may have to……….with a username and a password…
5) …for some transactions, you will be required to use a TAN, a transaction………number
6) Be aware of phishing – you may receive………….emails claiming to be from your bank and asking for personal information or account details in an attempt to……….you identity.
III Language work: the prefixes e- and cyber-
Look at the HELP box and then complete these sentences
1 A………….is an employee who uses his company’s internet connection during work hours to chat with friends, play games, etc
2 An ……….is a postcard sent via the
3 An……….is a small magazine or newsletter published online
4 In a………… you can use computers with internet access for a fee
5 Examples of……….include internet fraud, digital piracy, theft of confidential information, etc
6 In the future, all elections will be carried out using………
7 You can now sign legal documents online using an……….
8 ………will revolutionize the way we take exams
9 ……… can be used on some websites instead of real money to make purchases It reduces the risk of fraud
10 An……… is like the paper version, but in digital form
Internet issues
A In small groups, look at the list of cybercrimes and discuss these questions
1) Which crimes are the most dangerous?
2) Is it fair or unfair to pay for the songs, videos, books or articles that you download? Should copyright infringement be allowed online?
3) What measures can be taken by governments to stop cybercrime?
4) Do you think governments have the right to censor material on the Internet
5) Personal information such as our address, salary, and civil and criminal records is held in databases by marketing companies Is our privacy in danger?
Piracy – the illegal copy and distribution of copyrighted software, games or music files
Plagiarism and theft of intellectual property – pretending that someone else’s work is your own
Phishing, also known as password harvesting fishing, involves the deceptive practice of acquiring sensitive information such as online banking passwords and credit card numbers through fraudulent emails that appear to originate from legitimate organizations Victims often mistakenly trust these messages, believing they are from their bank, and unwittingly provide their security details.
IP spoofing – making one computer look like another in order to gain unauthorized access
Cyberstalking – online harassment or abuse, mainly in chat rooms or newsgroups
Distribution of indecent or offensive material
B Write a summary of your discussion on PowerPoint and present it to the rest of the class
CREATIVE SOFTWARE
In this module, you will learn how to:
Identify the functions of different graphics tools
Understand specific aspects of desktop publishing and multimedia applications
Write a letter to a newspaper asking for information about the hardware and page- layout software used for its production
Multimedia
Multimedia is here!
Look at the cover for Encarta ’05
What types of data are integrated in multimedia applications?
A Read the texts and match them with the headings in the box below
Sound, Music, MIDI CD-ROM titles full of pictures, action and sound!
The potential of using multimedia
CD-ROM is more than just heavy metal
Multimedia applications have primarily been utilized in information, training, and entertainment sectors Institutions such as museums, banks, and real estate agencies employ multimedia kiosks to enhance visitor engagement Companies are also developing training programs on optical disks, while marketing managers leverage presentation software like Microsoft PowerPoint and Lotus Freelance Graphics to create impactful business presentations By incorporating moving images, sound, and music, these tools not only inform but also emotionally engage viewers, making their messages more memorable.
Sound plays a crucial role in multimedia, effectively capturing participants' attention, setting the mood, and emphasizing key points The primary tool for delivering sound is the hardware soundboard, which features two key functionalities: a built-in stereo synthesizer with an audio amplifier for instant sound, music, and speech when connected to speakers, and a musical instrument digital interface (MIDI) that enables communication between electronic musical instruments and MIDI-equipped devices or PCs.
Between 80 and 90 percent of all multimedia applications are distributed on CD- ROM, some just on CD, some on several media (as with Autodesk’s Multimedia Explorer, which comes with both a CD-ROM and diskettes) The reason for CD-ROM’s popularity in multimedia is simple –a single CD can contain 650 MB of data That’s over 500 floppy disks’ worth of programs, sound, and graphics The newest CD-ROM standard, CD-ROM XA (for eXtended Architecture) uses data compression to fit even more on these shiny discs Many XA drives are also compatible with Kodak’s PhotoCD technology, which digitizes photographs and places them on a CD-ROM
Electronic encyclopedias combine text, images, and audio, often featuring a video section with full-motion visuals For instance, Compton's Encyclopedia allows users to explore information about whales, view photos, listen to their songs, and watch animated sequences depicting their movements in the ocean Similarly, Grolier offers a rich multimedia experience for various topics.
Encyclopedia lets you read about birds, view pictures of birds, and listen to recordings of their songs
CD-ROMs offer a variety of educational resources, including dictionaries, guides, and courses covering topics such as history, science, and literature A notable example is Microsoft's Cinemania, which provides extensive information on thousands of films, including photographs, reviews, biographies, and dialogues.
(Section 2 and 3 adapted from ‘Updating to multimedia’ in PC Upgrade, June 1993)
B Read the texts again and correct these statements There is a technical mistake in each of them
1) Multimedia applications do not use huge amounts of data
2) You don’t need to have a soundboard on your PC to hear speech and music
3) Most multimedia software is distributed on magnetic disks
4) Kodak’s PhotoCD technology is not compatible with many CD-ROM drives
5) There are no language courses available on CD-ROM
D Match these terms in the box with the explanations b Computer animation c Video computing d MIDI interface e CD-ROM player f Multimedia control panels
1) Small programs inside the OS designed to work with audio and video files
2) A code for the exchange of information between PCs and musical instruments
3) A drive used to handle CD-Rom disks
4) Manipulating and showing moving images recorded with a video camera or captured from a TV or video recorder
5) Images which move on the screen.
Language work: If – clauses
When you want to talk about a possible situation and its consequences, you use a conditional sentence Here, we examine two types of conditionals
(present + simple), (will + verb) E.g If you click on the speaker icon, you’ll get a piece of dialogue from the movie
In the main clause, we can also have modal (can), an imperative, or a present tense verb
(past simple), (would + verb) E.g If I had the money, I would (I’d) invest in a multimedia upgrade kit Other modals (could, should, might) may appear in the main clause
Read these sentences, then identify the tenses used in the if-clause and in the main clause
1 If you upgrade your PC, you’ll be able to run multimedia applications.
2 If the marketing manager had a multimedia system, she could make more effective presentations
B Put the verbs in brackets into the correct form
1) If I (get) ……… a sound card, I’ll be able to create my own music with a MIDI
2) If the system (have) ……… a SuperVGA card, we would obtain a better resolution
3) You won’t be able to play CD-ROM disks if you (not have) ……… a CD-ROM drive
4) If you (come) ……… to the annual computer exhibition, you could see the new Macs
5) If I could afford it, I (buy) ……… a Multimedia PC
C Match the sentences in Column A with appropriate sentences from Column
B Then join each action and effect using an if-sentence
2 You press Ctrl + Alt + Del in Windows
5 You used a better search engine
6 You forget to save regularly
7 You hold down the mouse button over an icon
8 You used an LCD display
Dragging Column B across the screen enhances your workspace, providing more desk space while allowing you to connect to a telephone line This action can speed up your computer and display a list of active programs Additionally, you can make a copy of the screen for reference, although there is a risk of losing data By utilizing these features, you can find more relevant results efficiently.
D Describe the consequences of these actions using an if-sentence
1) you don’t virus-check floppies
2) there was a power cut while you were using your computer
5) you press the delete key
7) you double-click on an icon
8) you use power-saving options
Multimedia on the Web
Read the text and find:
1) the function of the extension that is usually added to a file name
2) the language used to create the majority of text files on the Web
3) the graphics interchange format created by CompuServe to compress images
4) the small program (plug-in) that lets you hear audio recordings on the net
5) the most popular video formats
6) the format created by the Moving Picture Experts’ Group to capture, store and play back movies
7) the extension for the files that can be decompressed with a program like
Web pages incorporate various multimedia elements, including text, graphics, audio, video, and animations Typically, a three-letter file extension is appended to the file name to indicate its format or type when saved on disk.
The most common text extensions are txt, pdf, doc and htm (or
html) Most of the text files that you find on the Web have the extension htm, created with the hypertext markup language
Web graphics encompass various elements such as pictures, photos, paintings, image maps, and buttons The predominant formats used for these graphics are gif, a standard image format developed by CompuServe, and jpg or jpeg, created by the Joint Photographic Experts Group.
The Internet is a great place to find and hear hit songs, movie soundtracks, and recorded interviews The most common formats are these:
wav: wave files can be played with Sound Recorder included with Windows
ra or ram: files generated by RealAudio, a plug-in you can download from the Web
You can see cartoons and movie clips on the Web, but you need the appropriate software Video files are usually stored in: avi, mov and mpg (or mpeg) formats
To watch MPEG videos, simply use Video for Windows; however, for producing high-quality movie clips, a dedicated MPEG expansion card is essential Additionally, animation and 3-D environments are available, with two standard tools designed for manipulating these animated worlds.
99 are VRML and Java To view a virtual animation, you need a program like QuickTime VR
When you download files, they’re probably compressed Windows files have a zip extension Macintosh files usually have a sit extension and are opened with StuffIt
Web design
A typical home page
In pairs, discuss these questions
1) Why do companies have websites?
2) What is the difference between a website and a web page?
4) Do you have a blog or personal website? Describe the home page to your partner
Web page design
A Read the text and find the following
1) The language used to create web documents
2) The type of software that lets you design web pages without writing
3) The format invented by Adobe to distribute text files over the Internet
4) A method of displaying multiple HTML documents in the same browser window
5) Three common graphics formats used on websites
6) Three popular formats used to store and play back video
Web page design HTML and web editors
The code behind most web pages is
HTML, or Hypertext Markup Language, is made up of commands known as tags that instruct web browsers on how to display text and images You can view the HTML source code of any webpage by selecting the Page Source option in your browser However, learning HTML is not necessary for creating your own website; instead, you can utilize a word processor with web design features or a dedicated web editor like Macromedia Dreamweaver or Microsoft FrontPage, which are user-friendly tools for website creation.
101 friendly and WYSIWYG (What You
See Is What You Get) Different buttons and menu items let you design a page without writing HTML
HTML files have this basic structure:
Have heading text that begins with
, which has a title enclosed between tags and ends with
Have body text that starts with , where you place the contents of the actual document (i.e text, images, links, etc.) and ends with
You can create link to other web pages by using the tag active text
There are a number of different elements that you can use on a web page:
Text – displayed in a variety of fronts and sizes Most text files are available in two formats: HTML of
PDF (the portable document format that can be viewed with Acrobat
Background – the underlying colors and patterns of a web page
Tables – with columns and rows, used to position images and text on a page
Frames – rectangular areas that allow the display of different pages in the same browser window
Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) serve as a powerful tool for enhancing the visual presentation of web documents While HTML allows for the specification of fonts, text styles, and background colors, CSS has become the preferred method for applying styles across websites, ensuring a more streamlined and efficient design process.
CSS This makes, it easy to apply presentation changes across a website
Graphics, clip art, icons, background templates, wallpapers, and transparent images are essential visual elements in digital content Common image formats include jpg (Joint Photographic Experts Group), best suited for colorful images; gif (Graphics Interchange Format), ideal for images with limited colors; and png (Portable Network Graphics), which supports up to 16 million colors.
Hyperlinks are highlighted text or images that serve as links to other pages, enabling information sharing To keep your audience updated, consider using RSS feeds, which allow subscribers to receive updates on blogs, news, and podcasts Before launching your content, it's essential to verify that all links are functioning correctly.
Incorporating audio files into your website can enhance user experience, allowing you to add songs, podcasts, and more The most popular audio formats for web design include wav (Windows Wave Audio), ra (RealAudio), and mp3.
Full-motion video is stored in these formats: avi (audio video interleave), mov (QuickTime movie) and mpg
If you want to inject something special into you web pages, you can use Adobe Flash to include interactive animations and streaming audio
You can enhance your web content by incorporating Java applets, which are small programs that facilitate the creation of interactive files Animations consist of a sequence of independent images that combine to create the illusion of motion To view or hear these files, it is essential to have the appropriate plug-in, an auxiliary program that extends your web browser's functionality.
B Read the text again and then match the sentence beginnings (1-6) with the correct ending (a-f)
2) Cascading Style Sheets are the way
3) A hyperlink is any clickable text
4) A plug-in is a small program
5) Java applets are used to provide
6) RSS feeds are summaries of web content a Image or button that takes you to another place on the Web b Used for handling audio, video and animation files c Are called tags d Interactive features to web applications e To define the presentation of web pages, from fonts and colors to page layout f Published in the Really Simple Syndication format for download
Language work: modal verbs
A Underline all the modal verbs in the above text and then look at the HELP box Which modal verb from the HELP box does not appear in the text? Can you think of any other modal verbs?
We use modal verbs to add extra meaning to the main verb They are followed by infinitive without to
Modal verbs are used in the following ways:
You can/could use Adobe Flash to include interactive animations
You may like to insert songs, podcasts, etc
"Can" and "could" are frequently interchangeable when discussing possibilities, while "may" and "might" indicate weaker possibilities and typically precede the verb For example, "It is possible you will like" illustrates this usage.
Can/Could/May I use your mobile phone?
May is more formal than can or could
They are looking for artists who can draw and design web pages
Could is the past tense of can and is used to talk about ability in the past
To talk about obligation or necessity
To see or hear all these files You must have the right plug-in
…you needn’t learn HTML in order to build your own website
Needn’t means don’t need to or don’t have to and is used to express a lack of obligation
Before going live, you should check that all the links work
B Complete these sentences with suitable modal verbs from the HELP box There may be more than one possible answer
1) With Java, I………… include some attractive banners on my website
2) With a web editor, you…… create a web document easily
3) These days, you………….learn how to use complicated HTML codes Modern web design software is user-friendly and converts a visual layout into HTML code
4) Once live, you…………update your website regularly
5) To view a PDF file, you……….have Adobe Acrobat Reader
6) Websites with graphics are more inviting than those written in plain text, so you………… like to insert some graphics into your documents.
7) ………I use your laptop? I need to print out this report.
C In pairs, discuss at least two things
1) You can now do more easily because of the Internet
2) You could do better if you had a faster internet connection
3) That may/might happen to the Internet in the next ten years
4) You must consider when designing a website
5) You should take into account when choosing which PC to buy.
Blogs
A In pairs, discuss these questions
2) Which blogs do you read regularly?
B Imagine you wanted to start your own blog In pairs, discuss these questions
1) Why would you start your own blog – to write a diary of your thoughts or to share you expertise on a particular topic?
2) What types of media would you include – text, photos, video, audio (including podcasts)?
3) Would you insert links to other blogs? Which ones?
4) Would you focus on a particular subject or have a mix of several topics?
5) Which site would you use to host your blog?
PROGRAMING / JOBS IN ICT
In this module, you will learn how to:
Understand basic concepts in programming, and acquire vocabulary connected with it
Recognize acronyms and abbreviations associated with programming
Ask and answer questions about computer languages
Discuss the professional skills and personal qualities required for the jobs of senior programmer and DTP operator
Write a letter applying for a job
Program design
Language work: Infinitive constructions
- It is difficult to use machine code
After modal verbs with to: ought to, used to
- I ought to make a back-up copy
- Using a computer is much easier than it used to be
After modal and auxiliary verbs without to: can, could, may, might, shall, should, will, would, would rather, would sooner
- Unfortunately, computers can’t understand English
- I’d rather buy a game than a spreadsheet
B Make sentences as in the example
Not easy/write instructions in Pascal
It is not easy to write instructions in Pascal
1) advisable/test the program under different conditions
2) expensive/set up a data-processing area
3) unusual for a program/work correctly the first time it is tested
4) difficult for students/learn FORTRAN
5) important/consider the capabilities of the programming language
6) quite easy/write instructions in BASIC
C Now look again at the reading passage in Task 2 Underline the infinitive constructions after modal verbs
Unfortunately, computers cannot understand ordinary spoken English…
D Look at these pairs of examples and decide where there is an ‘important’ change in meaning
1 a I remember shutting down the computer before I left the room b Please, remember to buy the new program
2 a They stopped to look at the flowchart
108 b They stopped looking at the flowchart
3 a I like studying C language b I like to study C language in the evenings
4 a It has started to rain b It has started raining
5 a He needs to work harder b This hard disk needs repairing
Languages
Language work: Would, Revision of time clauses
We use ‘would’ in conditional sentences For example:
If you spilled coffee on the keyboard, you would damage it
Often the condition is implied, not stated For example:
(If I had time) I’d like to build in new links.
(If I had to make a choice) my favorite site would have to be the Internet Movie Database
What is the implied condition in this extract?
I would look at other sites too for good ideas
B Complete the gaps in this dialogue with ‘will’ or ‘would’ or the reduced forms ‘’ll’ and ‘’d’ where appropriate.
A What ……… 1 you do when you finish your diploma?
B I ……… 2 like to take a course in multimedia
B If I choose the certificate, it ……… 4 take 6 months but if I chose the master’s, it ……… 5 take a full year
A What ……… 6 be the advantage of the master’s?
B I guess I ……… 7 have better job prospects
B It depends on my finals If I do well, I ……… 9 go for the master’s.
C Link these statements using an appropriate time clause
1 a You click the mouse pointer on the file b It is highlighted
2 a You cannot save a file b You name it
3 a The files are transferred b The transfer is graphically displayed
4 a Remove any floppies b You close down the computer
5 a The OK button is clicked b The copying process begins
6 a The percentage of file transferred is displayed b Your browser downloads from the Internet
7 a The virus is not activated b You open the infected file
8 a You repair a PC b Ensure the machine is disconnected
9 a Don’t open an email attachment. b You have virus-checked it
10 a You add memory b Change the BIOS settings.
Speaking
A short description of BASIC
Read the passage and complete it with verbs in brackets in the correct form
BASIC is a general purpose high-level programming language, originally designed (develop) ……… 1 program in conversational mode The name BASIC (stand) ……… 2 for Beginner’s All-purpose
Symbolic Instruction Code, commonly known as BASIC, is widely found on most microcomputers due to its user-friendly nature and ease of learning BASIC comprises two main components: source language statements that form the program and system commands that allow users to control and edit the program This language enables users to interact with the program during execution, facilitating real-time data input.
……… 9 while the program is running Each instruction is (give)
……… 10 a line number which defines the logical sequence of statements within the program Some well-known system commands in BASIC are: RUN, which executes a program (hold) ……… 11 in a BASIC file; LIST,
111 which prints a listing of a program on the screen; and DELETE, which (remove) ……… 12 a program from a file
Many PC manufacturers have embraced BASIC, but currently, there are so many versions and extensions that programs created for one type of PC are not easily transferable to others.
Jobs in ICT
IT professionals
Complete these definitions with jobs from the box
Software engineer Computer security specialist
Blog administrator Help desk technician DTP operator Hardware engineer Network administrator webmaster
1) A……… designs and develops IT devices
3) A………….edits and deletes posts made by contributors to a blog
4) A………….uses page layout software to prepare electronic files for publication
5) A……… manages the hardware and software that comprise a network
7) A…………works with companies to build secure computer systems
8) A………… helps end-users with their computer problems in person, by email or over the phone
Job advertisements
Discuss if you would like to apply for one of the jobs Give reason answers
Required for a leading financial magazine
We are looking for a bright, competent QuarkXpress operator with at least three years’ experience in design and layout Skills in Photoshop, Freehand or Illustrator an advantage
Ability to work in a team and to tight deadlines is vital
Please apply in writing, with CV and samples of your work, to Tom Parker, Production Manager, Financial Monthly, Stockton Street, London
SENIOR PROGRAMMER required by DIGITUM-UK, a leading supplier of business systems to the insurance industry
You will engage in comprehensive software development tasks, including analysis, design, coding, testing, debugging, and implementation A minimum of two years of experience in COBOL or C++ is required.
As we are active in Europe, fluency in French, Italian or another
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn new skills and develop your career
Send your CV to CHRIS SCOTT, PERSONNEL MANAGER,
DIGITUM-UK, 75 PARKSHILL STREET, LONDON SW14
A letter of application
A Read the letter of application below and answer these questions
1) Which job is Sarah Brown applying for?
2) Where did she see the advertisement?
3) How long has she been working as a software engineer?
4) What type of programs has she written?
5) When did she spend three months is Spain?
I am writing to apply for the position of Senior Programmer, which was advertised on
28 th March in The Times
I graduated in May 2007 and did a work placement with British Gas as part of my degree
Before taking my present job I worked for a year with NCR I stayed in this job
(2)……….the last three years I have been working as a software engineer for
Intelligent Software I have designed four programs in COBOL for commercial use, and
(3)……… January I have been writing programs in C for use in large retail chains
These have been very successful and we have won several new contracts in the UK and
Europe on the strength of my team’s success.
Over the past two years, I dedicated three months in Spain to testing our programs and visited Italy multiple times, which has given me a foundational understanding of both Spanish and Italian I am now eager to take on more responsibility and seek challenging work, as well as the chance to explore a new industry.
I enclose my curriculum vitae I will be available for an interview at any time
I look forward to hearing from you
B Look at the HELP box and then complete the letter with for, since, ago or until
Language work: the present perfect
A Look at the HELP box and then choose the correct words in brackets to complete these sentences
1) He (‘s never liked/ ‘s never been liking) Maths
2) They (‘ve worked/ ’ve been working) on the project all day
3) John (‘s used / ‘s been using) the computer for hours – he looks really tired
4) How many emails (have you written / have you been writing) to day?
5) She (‘s written / ‘s been writing) this essay since 9 o’clock.
6) They (‘ve interviewed/ ‘ve been interviewing) five candidates today.
Present perfect simple Present perfect continuous
HELP box for, since, ago, until
We use for to refer to a period of time I’ve lived in Liverpool for five years.
We use since to refer to a point in time I’ve been unemployed since May 2007
We use ago with the past simple to say when something happened We put ago after the time period
I got married five years ago
We use until to mean up to a certain time
I stayed at high school until I was 18
We form the present perfect simple with have/has + past participle
I’ve used Microsoft Access for many years
I haven’t used Microsoft Access for years
We use this tense to talk about:
States that started in the past and continue to the present
Since 2006, I’ve been a computer operator for PromoPrint
Past actions that continue to the present, where we put an emphasis on quantity (how many)
I have designed four programs in
Personal experiences, especially with ever and never
Have you ever worked with database?
I’ve never worked with databases
We form the present perfect continuous with have/has been + present participle
Since January I’ve been writing program in C
We use this tense to talk about:
Action which started in the past and are still happening
For the last three years I’ve been working as a software engineer of Intelligent Software
Past actions that continue to the present, where we put an emphasis on duration (how long)
She’s been working all morning
Contrast with the past simple
We use the past simple to talk about events that happened at a specific time in the past that are now finished
I stay in this job until March 2009 Two years ago, I spent three months in Spain
B Make questions using these prompts In pairs, ask and answer the questions
1) Ever/live or work in another country?
2) Ever/ have a bad job interview?
3) Ever/do a job you hated?
6) How many emails / receive today?
7) How many jobs / apply for this year?
COMPUTERS TOMORROW
In this module, you will learn how to:
Talk about different kinds of data communication systems: teletext, fax, local bulletin boards and the Internet
Describe the components and functions of a computer network, in oral and written form
Understand and discuss basic ideas about security and privacy on the Internet
Talk and write about new technologies
Understand predictions about the impact of computers on our lifestyle
Electronic communications
Language work: Making predictions
A prediction refers to a statement regarding a specific topic, indicating what we believe will occur in the future While predictions may vary in certainty based on their context, they can be categorized into three levels: certainty, probability, and possibility Certainty is conveyed through terms like "will," "certain," and "without a doubt." Probability is indicated by words such as "probable," "likely," and "most probably." Lastly, possibility is expressed through various phrases that suggest potential outcomes.
Improbability can be conveyed through terms such as "improbable," "unlikely," and "doubtful," with phrases like "probably not" and "highly improbable" emphasizing the uncertainty In contrast, impossibility is expressed using terms like "cannot," "not possible," and "impossible" for present or future scenarios, while the past is represented with "could not" and "impossible." Understanding these distinctions is crucial for effective communication of likelihood and certainty.
A These expressions are used in sentences in different ways For examples:
1) Notebook computers will definitely be cheaper next year
2) It is (highly) probable/ likely that notebook computers will be cheaper next year
3) Notebook computers may/ might be cheaper next year
4) Perhaps notebook computers will be cheaper next year
5) It is unlikely/ doubtful that notebook computers will be cheaper next year
6) Notebook computers will most probably not be cheaper next year
7) Notebook computers will definitely not be cheaper next year
8) It is impossible that notebook computers will be cheaper next year
B Match the if-clauses (1 to 6) to the main clauses (a to f) to make complete sentences
1 If you never read computer magazines… a …you would be able to access our bulletin board
2 If you never back up your hard disk… b …it is unlikely that you will have a problem with computer viruses
3 If you had a modem… c …we would have a bigger range of typefaces and fonts to choose from
4 If you don’t copy pirated software… d …you will miss important new products
5 If I knew more programming languages… e …I would get a better job.
6 If we bought a better printer… f …you will probably lose some important files
C Complete the sentences with the words in the box Are the sentences first (F) or second (S) conditionals?
121 would not post will be look at will get grows wanted leave Would need will be reduced installed
1 If you ……… your VDU in direct sunlight, it ……… damaged
2 If you ……… your screen for too long, you……… a headache.
3 If you ……… to link your PCs with a mainframe, you ……… to install a network
4 If the market for portable computers ……… , prices ……… even more next year
5 If we ……… a fax machine and email facility, we ……… so many letters each day
D Now make up three first conditional and three second conditional sentences of your own
Internet issues
Language work: The past simple (revision)
A Look at the HELP box and then complete Part 2 of the text with the past simple form of the verbs in the box show spread steal launch affect attempt overwrite be infect
The history of hacking – Part 2
1992- David L Smith (1)………… prosecuted for writing the Melissa virus, which was passed in Word files sent via mail
1997- The German hacker Chaos Computer Club (2)………… on TV how to obtain money from bank accounts
2000- A Russian hacker (3)………… to extort $100,000 from online music retailer CD Universe A Canada hacker (4)………… a massive denial of service attack against website like Yahoo! And Amazon
The ILoveYou virus, cleverly disguised as a love letter, spread rapidly, leading to the shutdown of email systems in numerous companies This worm attached itself to image and sound files, replicating itself in the process.
2001- The Code Red worm (7)……… Tens of thousands of machines
2006- Hackers (8)………….the credit card details of almost 20,000
AT&T online customers However, subscribers to its services (9) (not)………….
We use the past simple to talk about a complete action or event which happened at a specific time in the past
We form the past simple of regular verbs by adding –(e)d to the infinitive
John Draper discovered that a whistle…
We form questions and negatives using did/didn’t
When did Captain Zap hack into the Pentagon?
He didn’t expect that his most famous exploit…
There are many verbs which are irregular in the past simple
Kevin Mitnick began hacking into…
We form questions and negatives for irregular verbs in the same way as for regular verbs The exception is be
When did Kevin Mitnick begin hacking into…?
He didn’t begin hacking until 1974
We form the past passive with the past simple of be + the past participle
IBM international was paralyzed by hackers
He wasn’t sent to prison Why was Nicholas Whitely arrested in 1998?
B Read these landmarks in the history of the Internet and prepare at least five questions in the past simple
Example: what happened in 1969? What did Ray Tomlinson do in 1971?
1969- The US Defense Department establishes ARPANET, a network connecting research centre
1971- Ray Tomlison of BBN invents an email program to send message across a network The @ sign is chosen for its at meaning
1981- IBM sells the first IBM PC, BITNET provides email and file transfers to universities
1982- TCP/IP is adopted as the standard language of the Internet
1988- Jarkko Oikarinen develops the system known as Internet Relay Chat
1991- CERN creates the World Wide Web
1998- Online banking, e-commerce and MP3 music become popular
In 2001, Napster, a platform enabling users to share downloaded music, argued that it neither promotes nor engages in music piracy Nonetheless, a court determined that Napster's technology infringes on music copyright laws.
2004- Network Solution begins offering 100-year domain registration
2006- Americans spend over $100 billion shopping online
C In pairs, ask and answer your questions
A In small groups, look at the list of cybercrimes and discuss these questions
1) Which crimes are the most dangerous?
2) Is it fair or unfair to pay for the songs, videos, books or articles that you download? Should copyright infringement be allowed online?
3) What measures can be taken by governments to stop cybercrime?
4) Do you think governments have the right to censor material on the Internet
5) Personal information such as our address, salary, and civil and criminal records is held in databases by marketing companies Is our privacy in danger?
Piracy – the illegal copy and distribution of copyrighted software, games or music files
Plagiarism and theft of intellectual property – pretending that someone else’s work is your own
Phishing, also known as password harvesting fishing, is a fraudulent technique used to obtain sensitive information like online banking passwords or credit card numbers This is typically executed through deceptive emails that appear to be from legitimate organizations, leading individuals to mistakenly trust the message as coming from their bank Consequently, victims often divulge their security details, putting their financial information at risk.
IP spoofing – making one computer look like another in order to gain unauthorized access
Cyberstalking – online harassment or abuse, mainly in chat rooms or newsgroups
Distribution of indecent or offensive material
B Write a summary of your discussion on PowerPoint and present it to the rest of the class
MODULE 6 CREATIVE SOFTWARE Learning objectives
In this module, you will learn how to:
Identify the functions of different graphics tools
Understand specific aspects of desktop publishing and multimedia applications
Write a letter to a newspaper asking for information about the hardware and page- layout software used for its production
Look at the cover for Encarta ’05
What types of data are integrated in multimedia applications?
A Read the texts and match them with the headings in the box below
Sound, Music, MIDI CD-ROM titles full of pictures, action and sound!
The potential of using multimedia
CD-ROM is more than just heavy metal
Multimedia applications have primarily been utilized in information, training, and entertainment sectors Museums, banks, and estate agents, for instance, employ multimedia kiosks to enhance visitor engagement Additionally, companies create training programs on optical disks, while marketing managers leverage presentation software such as Microsoft PowerPoint and Lotus Freelance Graphics to deliver impactful business presentations These tools effectively combine moving images, sound, and music to emotionally engage viewers, making the conveyed messages more memorable.
Sound plays a crucial role in multimedia, effectively capturing participant attention, setting the mood, and emphasizing key points A popular method for delivering sound is through hardware soundboards, which provide two essential features: a built-in stereo synthesizer with an audio amplifier for instant sound, music, and speech, and a musical instrument digital interface (MIDI) that enables communication between electronic musical instruments and other MIDI-equipped devices or PCs.
Between 80 and 90 percent of all multimedia applications are distributed on CD- ROM, some just on CD, some on several media (as with Autodesk’s Multimedia Explorer, which comes with both a CD-ROM and diskettes) The reason for CD-ROM’s popularity in multimedia is simple –a single CD can contain 650 MB of data That’s over 500 floppy disks’ worth of programs, sound, and graphics The newest CD-ROM standard, CD-ROM XA (for eXtended Architecture) uses data compression to fit even more on these shiny discs Many XA drives are also compatible with Kodak’s PhotoCD technology, which digitizes photographs and places them on a CD-ROM
Electronic encyclopedias combine text, images, and audio, often featuring a video section with full-motion capabilities For instance, Compton's Encyclopedia allows users to explore information about whales, view photos, listen to their songs, and watch animated sequences depicting their movements in the ocean Likewise, Grolier offers similar multimedia experiences for a variety of topics.
Encyclopedia lets you read about birds, view pictures of birds, and listen to recordings of their songs
CD-ROMs encompass a variety of educational resources, including dictionaries, guides, and courses covering subjects such as history, science, and foreign languages A notable example is Microsoft’s Cinemania, which offers extensive information on thousands of films, including photographs, reviews, biographies, and film dialogues.
(Section 2 and 3 adapted from ‘Updating to multimedia’ in PC Upgrade, June 1993)
B Read the texts again and correct these statements There is a technical mistake in each of them
1) Multimedia applications do not use huge amounts of data
2) You don’t need to have a soundboard on your PC to hear speech and music
3) Most multimedia software is distributed on magnetic disks
4) Kodak’s PhotoCD technology is not compatible with many CD-ROM drives
5) There are no language courses available on CD-ROM
D Match these terms in the box with the explanations b Computer animation c Video computing d MIDI interface e CD-ROM player f Multimedia control panels
1) Small programs inside the OS designed to work with audio and video files
2) A code for the exchange of information between PCs and musical instruments
3) A drive used to handle CD-Rom disks
4) Manipulating and showing moving images recorded with a video camera or captured from a TV or video recorder
5) Images which move on the screen
III Language work: If – clauses
When you want to talk about a possible situation and its consequences, you use a conditional sentence Here, we examine two types of conditionals
(present + simple), (will + verb) E.g If you click on the speaker icon, you’ll get a piece of dialogue from the movie
In the main clause, we can also have modal (can), an imperative, or a present tense verb
(past simple), (would + verb) E.g If I had the money, I would (I’d) invest in a multimedia upgrade kit Other modals (could, should, might) may appear in the main clause
Read these sentences, then identify the tenses used in the if-clause and in the main clause
1 If you upgrade your PC, you’ll be able to run multimedia applications.
2 If the marketing manager had a multimedia system, she could make more effective presentations
B Put the verbs in brackets into the correct form
1) If I (get) ……… a sound card, I’ll be able to create my own music with a MIDI
2) If the system (have) ……… a SuperVGA card, we would obtain a better resolution
3) You won’t be able to play CD-ROM disks if you (not have) ……… a CD-ROM drive
4) If you (come) ……… to the annual computer exhibition, you could see the new Macs
5) If I could afford it, I (buy) ……… a Multimedia PC
C Match the sentences in Column A with appropriate sentences from Column
B Then join each action and effect using an if-sentence
2 You press Ctrl + Alt + Del in Windows
5 You used a better search engine
6 You forget to save regularly
7 You hold down the mouse button over an icon
8 You used an LCD display
Dragging Column B across the screen enhances your workspace by providing more desk space and allowing for easier access to active programs This functionality can speed up your computer and help you find more relevant results Additionally, you can connect to a telephone line and make a copy of the screen, though be cautious, as there is a risk of losing data.
D Describe the consequences of these actions using an if-sentence
1) you don’t virus-check floppies
2) there was a power cut while you were using your computer
5) you press the delete key
7) you double-click on an icon
8) you use power-saving options
IV Multimedia on the Web
Read the text and find:
1) the function of the extension that is usually added to a file name
2) the language used to create the majority of text files on the Web
3) the graphics interchange format created by CompuServe to compress images
4) the small program (plug-in) that lets you hear audio recordings on the net
5) the most popular video formats
6) the format created by the Moving Picture Experts’ Group to capture, store and play back movies
7) the extension for the files that can be decompressed with a program like
Web pages can incorporate various multimedia elements, including text, graphics, sound, video, and animation Typically, a three-letter file extension is appended to the file name to indicate its format or type when saved on a disk.
The most common text extensions are txt, pdf, doc and htm (or
html) Most of the text files that you find on the Web have the extension htm, created with the hypertext markup language
Web graphics encompass a variety of visual elements such as pictures, photos, paintings, image maps, and buttons The predominant formats used for these graphics are gif, which was developed by CompuServe, and jpg or jpeg, established by the Joint Photographic Experts Group.
The Internet is a great place to find and hear hit songs, movie soundtracks, and recorded interviews The most common formats are these:
wav: wave files can be played with Sound Recorder included with Windows
ra or ram: files generated by RealAudio, a plug-in you can download from the Web
You can see cartoons and movie clips on the Web, but you need the appropriate software Video files are usually stored in: avi, mov and mpg (or mpeg) formats
To watch MPEG videos, Video for Windows is sufficient, but creating high-quality movie clips requires a specialized MPEG expansion card Additionally, there are options for animation and 3-D environments, with two primary tools available for manipulating these animated worlds.
99 are VRML and Java To view a virtual animation, you need a program like QuickTime VR
When you download files, they’re probably compressed Windows files have a zip extension Macintosh files usually have a sit extension and are opened with StuffIt
In pairs, discuss these questions
1) Why do companies have websites?
2) What is the difference between a website and a web page?
4) Do you have a blog or personal website? Describe the home page to your partner
A Read the text and find the following
1) The language used to create web documents
2) The type of software that lets you design web pages without writing
3) The format invented by Adobe to distribute text files over the Internet
4) A method of displaying multiple HTML documents in the same browser window
5) Three common graphics formats used on websites
6) Three popular formats used to store and play back video
Web page design HTML and web editors
The code behind most web pages is
HTML, or Hypertext Markup Language, is composed of tags that instruct web browsers on how to display text and images To view a web page's source HTML code, simply select the Page Source option in your browser However, learning HTML is not necessary for creating a website; you can utilize a word processor with web design features or a dedicated web editor like Macromedia Dreamweaver or Microsoft FrontPage, which offer user-friendly interfaces for web development.
101 friendly and WYSIWYG (What You
See Is What You Get) Different buttons and menu items let you design a page without writing HTML
HTML files have this basic structure:
Have heading text that begins with
, which has a title enclosed between tags and ends with
Have body text that starts with , where you place the contents of the actual document (i.e text, images, links, etc.) and ends with
You can create link to other web pages by using the tag active text
There are a number of different elements that you can use on a web page:
Text – displayed in a variety of fronts and sizes Most text files are available in two formats: HTML of
PDF (the portable document format that can be viewed with Acrobat
Background – the underlying colors and patterns of a web page
Tables – with columns and rows, used to position images and text on a page
Frames – rectangular areas that allow the display of different pages in the same browser window
Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) serve as a powerful tool for enhancing the appearance of web documents While HTML code can define fonts, text styles, and background colors, CSS has become the preferred method for applying styles to websites.
CSS This makes, it easy to apply presentation changes across a website
Networks
Small networks
In pairs, discuss these questions
2) What are the benefits of using networks?
Networking FAQs
A Look at the FAQs (i - vi) without reading the whole text In pairs, try to answer as many of the questions as you can
B Read the whole text and answer these questions
1) What does PAN stand for?
3) How do you log on to an Internet Service Provider?
4) WiMAX is a type of wireless network What is it used for?
5) What equipment do you need to set up a wireless LAN?
6) What are the advantages and disadvantages of wireless networks?
Networking FAQs i How many types of network are there?
Networks are classified according to different criteria:
(Personal Area Networks) typically include a laptop, a mobile phone and a PDA; LANs cover a building; MANs
(Metropolitan Area Networks) cover a campus or a city; WANs
(Wide Area Networks) cover a country or a continent
In a client-server network architecture, a dedicated server computer stores and distributes information to connected client nodes, while in a peer-to-peer network, all computers possess equal capabilities, allowing them to share files and peripherals directly without the need for a separate server.
Topology, or layout: In bus network, all the computers are connected to a main cable, or bus
In a star network, data is transmitted through a central hub that serves as the main connection point for all devices Conversely, a ring network features devices interconnected in a continuous loop, allowing for data flow among all participants in the network.
A network protocol is a set of rules that enables computers to communicate effectively with one another, with various networks utilizing different protocols; for example, the Internet operates on TCP/IP To install a wired modem router, follow specific steps to ensure proper connectivity and functionality.
A modem router is a device that connects your computer or home LAN to the Internet
Plug one end of the phone cord directly into a phone jack, and the other end into the ADSL port on the router
Plug one end of the Ethernet cable into your computer’s network port and the other end into an Ethernet port on the router
Turn on your computer To set up, or configure, the router, you’ll need to input some parameters, for example your ISP’s name and phone number.
Ethernet ports, so you can connect various PCs to the router via Ethernet cables If you already have a hub or switch connecting a LAN, you only need
127 one cable to connect the hub to the router iii How do I log on to the Internet service Provider?
To access online services, enter your username and password Once logged in, you can check your email, search for information on the web, look up IT terminology in dictionaries, explore new software, and subscribe to RSS feeds and newsletters.
Always remember to log off after using the Internet to reduce the risk of viruses and protect your confidential data from hackers Additionally, understanding wireless networking is essential for maintaining secure online practices.
Wired networks are linked by
Ethernet cables, phone lines, and high-speed fiber optic cables are traditional wired connections, while wireless networks utilize electromagnetic waves, like radio waves, for data transmission The primary types of wireless networks include various technologies that facilitate this communication.
WiMAX – for connecting Wi-Fi hotspots
Wi-Fi – for medium-range distances
GSM – for mobile phones v What do I need to set up a home wireless LAN?
You’ll need computers equipped with a wireless adapter or wireless card, a wireless access point (a wireless router) and a broadband internet connection vi Which is better, a wired or wireless LAN?
Wired LANs, while more challenging to install, offer advantages such as lower costs, faster speeds, and greater reliability In contrast, wireless networks provide the flexibility to roam between access points, but they come with increased security risks and susceptibility to interference.
C In pairs, do this network quiz See which pair can finish first
1) This network typically consists of two or more local area networks, covering a large geographical area a LAN b WAN c Intranet
2) This type of network does not have a dedicated server; all the computers are independent a Peer-to-peer b Client-server c Metropolitan Area Network
3) On this topology, all devices are connected to the same circuit, forming a continuous loop a Star b Ring c bus
4) The language used by computers to communicate with each other on the Internet is called a Ethernet b ADSL c TCP/IP
5) Which cables are used to transfer information for the Internet over long distances at high speeds? a Telephone lines b Ethernet cables c Fiber optic cables
6) Which device allows several computers on a local network to share an internet connection? a An ADSL port b A router c Wireless adapter
7) Which device serves as a common connection point devices in a wireless network? a Wireless access point b Wire router c Wireless adapter
8) Bluetooth is a wireless technology that uses radio waves to transmit data over
128 a Long distances b Medium-range distances c Short distances (ten meters of less)
Language work: phrasal verbs
A Look at the HELP box Do you have the equivalent of phrasal verbs in your language? How do you say the phrasal verbs in the HELP box?
The meaning of some verbs with particle (often called phrasal verbs) can be easily understood form its two parts
Separate network are linked over a public network, the Internet
However, many phrasal verbs have an idiomatic meaning, not predictable from the meaning of its parts carry (= transport); carry out (= execute)
Computer carry out the programs…
Certain particles have similar meanings, regardless of the verb (on/off, in/out, etc.)
(= start the operation of something)
(= stop the operation of something)
Other common phrasal verbs in computing include:
Plug one end of the phone cord into the phone jack
What do I need to set up a wireless LAN?
Sign up (= register, enroll in a service)
Once connected, you can sign up for RSS feeds, newsletters, etc
Try out (= test or use experimentally)
You can try out new software on their site
Search the Web to find out more information about WiMAX
Fiber optic cables take up less space than copper cables make up ( = constitute, form)
Several LANs connected together make up a WAN fill in (= write the necessary information)
You need to fill in this online form
When the verb has a preposition associated with it, the preposition must precede the object:
You can look for information on the Web
When the particle is an adverb, it can precede or follow the direct object:
You need to type in your username/…type your username in
Turn on the computer/ turn the computer on
If the direct object is a pronoun, the: particle must follow it
You need to type it in
B Complete these sentences with the correct form of a phrasal verb from the HELP box
1) To join the club, ………… this form and send it to our office
2) The CPU……… all the basic operations on the data
3) Digital music…………a lot of space – about 10 MB for every minute of stereo sound
4) Thousands of networks………… the Internet
5) You can use newsgroups to……….about the latest trends, customer needs, etc
C Match the questions (1-6) with the answers (a-f)
1) Why was the hacker arrested?
2) Is it OK to log on to my bank account using public computers in a cybercafé?
3) How do I set up an internet connection at home?
4) Can I download software from your site?
5) How can I add video to instant messaging?
6) What do I need to do sign up for a Yahoo! Email account? a Yes, but always remember to log off after you’ve ended your session. b Yes, you can even try the programs out for a period before you buy them! c Because he broke into a computer system and stole confidential data d Simply install this program and plug the webcam into your computer e You need to install the software for your router Follow the instructions provided by your ISP, probably in the form of a pdf file on a CD f You have to create a username and password and then give some personal details
New technologies
Future trends
A In pairs, discuss these questions
1) What do you think a trend is?
2) What trends in ICT do you think will affect our lives in the future? Make a list
B Match the texts (1-5) with the pictures (a-e) which trends from your list in
Nanotechnology, the science of creating devices from individual atoms and molecules, is poised to significantly influence both business and everyday life These nano devices, measured in nanometers (one billionth of a meter), are anticipated to find applications across various sectors.
Nanocomputers: Chip makers will make tiny microprocessors with nanotransistors, ranging from 60 to 5 nanometers in size
Nanomedicine: By 2020, scientists believe that nano-sized robots, or nanobots, will be injected into the body’s bloodstream to treat diseases at the cellular level
Nanomaterials, particularly carbon nanotubes, are revolutionizing material science due to their superior flexibility, strength, and durability compared to steel and aluminum These innovative materials are set to enhance a wide range of products, including stain-resistant coatings for textiles and scratch-resistant paints for automobiles.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to the development of intelligent machines and programs, a concept that dates back to the 1940s when Alan Turing defined it as a machine's ability to generate conversations indistinguishable from those of a human Robotics is a prominent application of AI, exemplified by Honda's ASIMO, a sophisticated humanoid robot In the near future, engineers are expected to create various types of androids that mimic human form and capabilities Additionally, expert systems, which encapsulate the knowledge of human experts, are being designed for practical use, such as aiding doctors in diagnosing illnesses.
Imagine preparing for a European holiday, you approach your car, which recognizes your voice and unlocks its doors During your journey to the airport, you make a quick stop at an ATM that uses iris recognition technology to identify you, enabling seamless cash withdrawals from your account.
Upon entering the airport, a hidden camera scans your face and compares it to a database of suspected criminals At the immigration checkpoint, you simply swipe a card and place your hand on a metal surface, where the geometry of your hand is matched to the card’s code, allowing the gate to open and granting you access.
Biometrics is revolutionizing identification by utilizing advanced computer technology to recognize individuals through unique physical traits, including fingerprints, facial features, voice patterns, and iris and retina scans.
Adapted from the Richmond Times-Dispatch
Ubiquitous computing, or pervasive computing, seamlessly integrates computer functions into daily life, often in an unobtrusive manner This technology encompasses a range of devices, from smartphones to small sensors embedded in homes, offices, and vehicles, all connected to networks As a result, information can be accessed anytime and anywhere, embodying the essence of ubiquitous connectivity.
In the future, individuals will seamlessly engage with numerous smart devices daily, each equipped with microchips and memory These devices will be discreetly integrated into our surroundings, enabling them to communicate wirelessly and effortlessly with one another.
C Read the text again and answer these questions
1) Which unit of measurement is used in nanotechnology?
2) What are the advantages of nanotubes over regular materials?
3) What will doctors use experts systems for?
4) What featutes are analyzed by biometrics?
5) Which trend refers to computers embedded in everyday devices, communicating with each other over wireless networks?
6) What will the alarm system do if someone breaks into a smart home
7) How will devices be interconnected inside the smart home?
D Find words in the text with the following meanings
1) A microscopic robot, built with nanotechnology (text 1)………
2) A robot that resembles a human (text 2)……….
3) Biological identification of a person (text 3)………
In a smart home, appliances and devices seamlessly collaborate to enhance security and convenience For instance, when a break-in is detected, the system not only alerts the alarm company and police but also activates indoor lights and notifies the homeowner via text Advanced systems like Motorola Homesight can even send real-time images from wireless cameras to smartphones and PCs Additionally, smart homes adapt to individual routines, automatically playing classical music upon the owner's return from work and ensuring that all devices are turned off when the house is unoccupied Through a home area network, various devices—including phones, cable services, home cinemas, touch screens, smart mirrors, and refrigerators—interconnect to create a more comfortable living environment.
Adapted from www.businessweek.com
5) Electrical devices, or machines, used in the home (text 5)…………
Language work: future forms
A Look at the HELP box and then choose the correct words in brackets to complete these sentences
1) In the future, I hope we (‘ll have/ ‘re going to have) robots in the home to help us with the housework
2) Hey, Nick, be careful, you (‘re going to spill/ ‘ll spill) that coffee on the computer!
3) It’s John’s birthday next week We (‘ll give/ ‘re going to give) him a mobile phone
- Don’t worry I (‘ll lend/ ‘m going to lend) you mine
5) The Internet (will probably change/ is probably going to change) the publishing industry in the way that TV changed the movie industry
6) Futurists predict that smart technology (will be/ is going to be) incorporated into fabrics, so you’ll be able to email from your coat!
We use the future simple (will/ won’t + verb) in the following ways:
To make predictions when you don’t have present evidence that something will happen
Nanobots will be injected into the body’s bloodstream to treat diseases
To talk about hopes and promises, especially with the words expect, think, hope and probably
They hope that people will interact naturally with hundreds of smart devices at a time
To describe an instant decision, often when we make an offer
Sure, I’ll help you with your homework
To talk about facts that will inevitably happen
She’ll be 21 in May
We use be going to + verb in the following ways:
She’s going to write a book about ubiquitous computing
To make predictions when you have present evidence that something is going to happen
By all accounts, nanotechnology is going to have a huge impact on business and our daily lives
We use the future continuous (will be
+ -ing form of the verb) to talk about actions in progress at a specific time in the future
In a few years, doctors will be using expert systems to diagnose illnesses
We use the future perfect (will have + past participle) to talk about actions finished at a specific time in the future
Soon, engineers will have built different types of android
B Complete these sentences with the correct future form of the verb in brackets Use the future continuous of future perfect
1) Thanks to ICT, by the year 2030 we (find)………cures for the major diseases of our time
2) In twenty years’time, some people (live)…………in space, perhaps inside a computerized colony
3) By this time next week, I (work) ……… for IBM
4) By this time next month, I (buy)………… that BlackBerry that I’ve been wanting to buy for months
5) Scientists predict that in twenty years’s time nearly everyone (live)………….in smart houses.
C In pairs, discuss these predictions Do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answers Look at the Useful language box to help you
1) Someday, we’ll be talking to computers naturally, like friends.
2) Microchips implanted in our arms will serve as ID cards and contain our medical records
3) Robots will learn to build themselves, without human help
4) Smart homes will be voice-activated
5) Computers will be ubiquitous and almost invisible, embedded into our homes and integrated into our lives.
Making predictions
A Write your own predictions about these topics\
Example: By the year 2030, human labor in industry will have been replaced by robots
Example: Cash will be replaced by electronic money
Example: By the end of this century, every student in every school will have a PC
Example: People in every country will have high-speed access to the Internet with five years
B In pairs, compare your predictions Find out more about your partners’
What do you think about number…? I’m not sure that…….will……
I completely agree/disagree with……Useful language
The Personal Computer
The computer case plays a crucial role in safeguarding and cooling the internal components of a computer system When selecting a case, it’s important to consider attributes such as size, the placement of I/O ports, and the number of internal drive bays.
It needs to be compatible with the form factor of the motherboard in addition to the power supply
A computer case serves as the essential framework that supports and protects internal components while maintaining optimal cooling through airflow facilitated by case fans Typically constructed from materials such as plastic, steel, or aluminum, computer cases come in various styles and designs They also safeguard against static electricity by grounding the internal components Additionally, every computer requires a power supply to convert AC power from the wall into DC power, with the size and shape of the case largely dictated by the motherboard and other internal components.
The form factor of a computer case refers to its size and layout, which primarily includes desktop and tower designs Desktop cases are available in slimline and full-sized variations, while tower cases come in mini and full-sized options.
Figure 1-1 Types of Computer Cases
You can select a larger computer case to accommodate additional components that may be required in the future Or you might select a smaller case that requires minimal space
In general, the computer case should be durable, be easy to service, and have enough room for expansion
Computer cases are referred to in a number of ways: Computer chassis Cabinet Tower Box Housing
You need to consider several factors when choosing a case: Size of the motherboard Number of external or internal drive locations, called bays Available space
When selecting a computer case, it's essential to consider the two primary models: those designed for desktop PCs and those for tower computers The motherboard type dictates the compatible case, requiring precise alignment in size and shape Additionally, systems with numerous components necessitate larger cases to ensure adequate airflow for effective cooling.
Desktop cases optimize space in compact environments by enabling the monitor to be positioned on top of the unit However, the design of these cases may restrict the number and size of components that can be installed.
When selecting a power supply for your motherboard, ensure that the power rating and connection type are compatible While some users prioritize aesthetics and may not care about the appearance of the case, others find it essential For those who value design, there is a wide variety of attractive case options available.
LED indicators on the exterior of a computer case provide crucial information about system power, hard drive activity, and sleep or hibernate status Additionally, all cases feature a vent on the power supply, with some including an extra vent at the back to enhance airflow Certain cases are equipped with multiple vents to effectively dissipate excess heat, particularly when numerous devices are installed in close proximity within the case.
When selecting a computer case, it's essential to consider the two primary models: desktop PC cases and tower computer cases The compatibility of your chosen motherboard dictates the appropriate case type, as both size and shape must align perfectly for optimal performance.
Size If a computer has many components, it will need more room for airflow to keep the system cool
Availablespace desktop cases are designed to optimize space in compact environments by allowing the monitor to be positioned on top of the unit However, this design may restrict the number and size of components that can be incorporated.
Power supply You must match the power rating and connection type of the power supply to the type of motherboard you have chosen
The appearance of a phone case can be a significant factor for many users, while others may prioritize functionality over aesthetics For those who value style, there is a wide variety of attractive case designs available to suit personal preferences.
LED indicators on the exterior of a computer case provide crucial information about the system's status, including power reception, hard drive activity, and whether the computer is in sleep or hibernate mode.
All computer cases feature a power supply vent, and many include an additional vent on the back to facilitate airflow Some cases are equipped with multiple vents to effectively dissipate excess heat, particularly when numerous devices are installed in close proximity within the case.
Select a case that matches the physical dimensions of the power supply and motherboard
When selecting a power supply, it's crucial to ensure it delivers sufficient power for your existing components while accommodating potential future upgrades Opting for a power supply that only meets the current requirements may lead to the need for replacement when you decide to enhance your system with additional components.
The power supply, illustrated in Figure 1-2, transforms alternating current (AC) from a wall outlet into direct current (DC) power, essential for all computer components The three primary power supply form factors are Advanced Technology (AT), AT Extended (ATX), and ATX12V, with ATX12V being the most widely used in modern computers.
A computer can handle minor power fluctuations, but significant deviations may lead to power supply failure To safeguard against such issues, an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is essential A UPS utilizes a power inverter to convert DC current from its built-in battery into AC power for the computer This battery is continuously charged by converting AC supply into DC current, ensuring reliable power delivery and protection against power disturbances.