What is a computer?

What is a computer used for?

A computer, also known as a PC (Personal Computer), can be used for a range of tasks and creative activities, including:

• Using the internet
• Online banking
• Watching TV shows and movies
• Playing games
• Keeping in contact with friends and family.

Types of computer

Computers come in different shapes and sizes. In this course, we’re using a desktop computer in our examples. This type of computer is designed to be used at a desk and is made of separate parts that you connect. There are also desktop computers that combine the separate parts into an all-in-one design.

Laptop computers are designed to be portable so you can use them anywhere. You can find out more about laptop computers in the What is a laptop? course.

Parts of a computer

The physical parts of a computer are known as hardware. These parts include the:

• Computer case: Sometimes called the tower, this is the box that contains circuits, microchips and the bits and pieces that make the computer work
• Screen: Also known as the monitor, this displays what’s happening on the computer
• Keyboard: Allows you type letters, numbers and symbols into the computer
• Mouse: Allows you to point at things you see on the screen and click on them to select them.

What is an app?

Computers come with programs, or apps (short for applications), that allow you to do a range of things. These apps are also known as software. There are thousands of apps available, with each allowing you to do something different.

What is an app? (continued)

Some common apps include:

• Web browser: allows you to access the internet
• Word processor: allows you to write letters or compile documents
• Calculator: allows you to perform simple or complex calculations
• Photos: allows you to store, view and edit photos.

Turning your computer on and off

A desktop computer must be plugged into mains power for it to work. Once plugged in, you’ll need to find the power button and press it once to turn it on.

The power button usually has a symbol on it that looks like a circle with a line through it. The power button is usually on the computer case. You can also turn your computer off by pressing the power button once.

The reset button

Many desktop computers have a second button on the front which is used to reset the computer. Reset means to force the computer to start up again, without shutting down first. It’s important not to press this button accidentally, as you could lose work or data.

The reset button is usually smaller than the power button and may be marked with an R or nothing at all.

Turning the screen on and off

Your computer’s screen will also need to be connected to mains power for it to work. You will need to locate the power button, which is usually under the bottom edge of the screen or sometimes on the front.

Attaching a wired keyboard and mouse

If your keyboard and mouse each have a wire coming from them, they will need to be plugged into your computer case for it to work. A wired keyboard has a USB attachment that can simply be plugged into a USB port in the back or side of the computer case. A wired mouse works the same way, with a USB plug that you attach to your computer.

Attaching a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse

If your keyboard and mouse don’t have any wires coming from them, they will need to be connected to your computer via Bluetooth, once the computer is switched on.

Connecting a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse

To connect your keyboard or mouse to Bluetooth, you’ll need to:

1. Locate Bluetooth from the computer’s settings menu
2. Ensure Bluetooth on your computer is switched to On
3. Open Bluetooth and locate your keyboard or mouse in the list of available devices
4. Follow the steps to connect your keyboard or mouse to your computer’s Bluetooth.

Important things to know before you start

Before you start using your computer, there are some important things you should do.

• Install antivirus software before accessing the internet. This will help to protect your computer from malicious programs that may be present on some websites.
• You should be seated in an ergonomic chair with your back straight and at a height that allows your thighs to be parallel to the floor.

Important things to know before you start (continued)

• Your screen should be at eye height and close enough that you don’t have to strain your eyes to see what’s on the screen
• Your keyboard and mouse should be used in a comfortable position, with your forearm parallel to the floor
• The brightness of your screen should be adjusted so it’s comfortable for your eyes, which may reduce eye strain. You can find out how to do this in another activity.

Well done!

This is the end of the Get to know your computer activity. You’ve learned what a computer is used for, about apps and the different parts, or hardware, that make a computer work.

Up next, learn about your computer’s screen in more detail in the What is a screen? activity.