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A computer is a machine that can be programmed to automatically carry out sequences of arithmetic or logical operations (computation). Modern digital electronic computers can perform generic sets of operations known as programs. These programs enable computers to perform a wide range of tasks. The term computer system may refer to a nominally ...
Computer simulation, one of the main cross-computing methodologies. Computing is any goal-oriented activity requiring, benefiting from, or creating computing machinery. [1] It includes the study and experimentation of algorithmic processes, and the development of both hardware and software. Computing has scientific, engineering, mathematical ...
Personal computer. An artist's depiction of a 2000s-era desktop-style personal computer, which includes a metal case with the computing components, a display and a keyboard (mouse not shown) A personal computer, often referred to as a PC, is a computer designed for individual use. [1] It is typically used for tasks such as word processing ...
v. t. e. An operating system (OS) is system software that manages computer hardware and software resources, and provides common services for computer programs. Time-sharing operating systems schedule tasks for efficient use of the system and may also include accounting software for cost allocation of processor time, mass storage, peripherals ...
A different model of computer use was foreshadowed by the way in which early, pre-commercial, experimental computers were used, where one user had exclusive use of a processor. [36] Some of the first computers that might be called "personal" were early minicomputers such as the LINC and PDP-8 , and later on VAX and larger minicomputers from ...
The history of the personal computer as a mass-market consumer electronic device began with the microcomputer revolution of the 1970s. A personal computer is one intended for interactive individual use, as opposed to a mainframe computer where the end user's requests are filtered through operating staff, or a time-sharing system in which one large processor is shared by many individuals.
Information technology is a branch of computer science, defined as the study of procedures, structures, and the processing of various types of data. As this field continues to evolve globally, its priority and importance have grown, leading to the introduction of computer science-related courses in K-12 education.
The term " computer ", in use from the early 17th century (the first known written reference dates from 1613), [1] meant "one who computes": a person performing mathematical calculations, before calculators became available. Alan Turing described the "human computer" as someone who is "supposed to be following fixed rules; he has no authority ...