Course Name: Computer Basics & PC Software
Course Code: BCS-111

This introductory course, part of the BCA_NEW program, provides a foundational understanding of computers and their essential components. It covers the fundamental concepts of computer hardware, including the various components and basic computer architecture. The course also introduces computer software, focusing on operating systems and their core functionalities. Additionally, it explores open-source software technologies and their applications in real-world scenarios. The course concludes with an exploration of computer applications in diverse fields, such as web applications, social networking, and collaborative tools like wikis.

Course Name: Computer Basics & PC Software Lab
Course Code: BCSL-013

The Computer Basics & PC Software Lab (BCSL-013) provides practical exposure to the key software tools and operating systems discussed in the theory course. This hands-on lab course aims to familiarize students with basic operations across a range of essential software and applications.

Lab Objectives:

Operating Systems: Hands-on experience with Windows and Linux environments, focusing on basic system operations and file management.

Word Processors: Practical sessions using word processing software such as OpenOffice and MS Word to create, format, and manage documents.

Spreadsheets & Graphics: Working with spreadsheet software for data management, calculations, and creating simple charts and graphs.

Presentation Software: Developing multimedia presentations using PowerPoint, including the use of animations and sound effects.

Email Management: Setting up and managing email accounts, using address books, spam filtering, and email organization tools.

Internet Tools: Practical usage of browsers, search engines, discussion forums, and wikis for collaborative learning and information sharing.

This lab-based course equips students with the essential practical skills needed for effective use of computers in both academic and professional settings.

Key Highlights:

• Fundamental computer basics
• Operating systems overview
• Software applications
• Internet & technology
• Computer hardware essentials
• Basic troubleshooting techniques

Syllabus of Computer Basics and PC Software (BCS-111 )

BLOCK 1: Basics of Computer Hardware

Unit 1: Computer Their Origin and Applications

A bit of history highlighting the concepts, Abacas, Difference Engine, Electromagnetic Computers, Discrete components, IC circuits, Current hardware Platforms, Description of current applications of computers highlighting the role of computers, and Limitations of Computers.

Unit 2: Functioning of a Computer

Components of a computer and their role, Number system, Codes ASCII Unicode. Concept of Instruction – a simple example, Role of ALU and CU with the help of an example.

Unit 3: Memory System

Type of memories and their characteristics, What is the need for memory hierarchy? Memory Hierarchy with examples of each level and current trends in memory.

Unit 4: I/O Devices and their Functions

I/O devices, Current trends in I/O

Unit 5: My Personal Computer

Explain the configuration of the PC and its components with respect to the identification of various components so that a student can relate all the terms discussed in Units 1 to 4 to this configuration.

BLOCK 2: Basics of Computer Software

Unit 1: Software Evolution Different types of software and its evolution, System and application software, Utility software, Perverse software, and Open Source software.

Unit 2: Operating System Concepts

Need and Functions, Type of OS starting from Batch, Multi-programming and real-time Network and distributed OS, Web OS, Examples of OS and their features.

Unit 3: Concept of Programming Languages

Some basic constructs are editors, Compilers and interpreters, and Assemblers.

Unit 4: Computer Applications

Concepts of Open Source Software, Philosophy – licensing, copyright. Project Management Software, Timesheet system, Office Applications, Word Processing – Creating a Memo for a number of people, Spreadsheet – Creating a sheet of Income & deduction and calculation of IT Database – a small application with data records, a form, a query and a report. Email – Sending mail to a number of people in a group.

BLOCK 3: Internet Technologies

Unit 1: Networking and Internet Basic of Networking Concepts, Advantages of Networking, Basic Model of Networks, Network Devices, TCP/IP, Web addresses, DNS, IP addresses.

Unit 2: Web Applications I

Browsing, E-mail, Messenger/Chat

Unit 3: Web Applications II

Blogging, E-Learning and wiki, Collaboration, Social Networking.

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BCSL-013: Computer Basics and PC Software Lab