Chapter-1 Basic Knowledge of Computer

Meaning and Definition of a Computer 

The word computer is derived from the term compute, meaning “to calculate.” Human societies have always relied on calculation—whether for trade, engineering, navigation, administration, or scientific inquiry. While simple arithmetic can be performed manually, complex calculations demand greater time, accuracy, and consistency. The desire to reduce effort and improve precision led to the development of machines that could perform calculations automatically.  

A computer is an electronic device that accepts data as input, processes it according to a predefined set of instructions (a program), produces meaningful output, and stores results for future use. Computers perform both arithmetic operations (numerical calculations) and logical operations (comparisons, decisions, and control). Because computers handle information through automated processing, the broader process is often described as Electronic Data Processing (EDP).  

Definition: 

A computer is an electronic machine that operates under the control of instructions; it accepts input data, processes the data according to predefined rules, stores the results, and retrieves them when required