Characteristics of Computer

FEATURES OR CHARACTERISTICS OF COMPUTER

By features or characteristics of computer here we refer to certain peculiarities among computer. The following are the features of the today’s computers.

i.                  Accuracy: Computers are very accurate, errors only occur if there is an error in hardware, software or data. When errors occur, it is usually because of some human error since computers can only do what they are programmed to do thus, the output from a computer is always accurate and dependable when both the input data and the processing program are correct.

ii.               Storage Capability: Computers have very large memory of storage capability. Some computers can store billions of characters in small magnetic materials of the size of a mobile handset. New materials like CD-ROM and high capacity hard disks makes it possible for computers to keep large data now and make it as well possible to transfer large data with ease.

iii.            Speed: The speed of computer is measured in megahertz (MHz), that is millions of cycle per second. This makes it possible for it to process at faster rate. This is necessary for producing weather forecasts, performing scientific research and even producing thousand of bills for utility companies.

iv.             Versatile: One of the  characterisics of computer is versatility. Computer can be used for different jobs. As a result, computer usage fit into  any organization such as schools, hospital, banks etc.

v.                Continuous Working:  Computer can work continuously for a long period without much maintenance.

Importance of Computer, Advantages and Disadvantages of Computer

i.              Computer can be used as a medium communication

ii.             It can analyze numeric functions

iii.            Can be used for electronic mail

iv.           Computers are also used for research purposes

v.            Used for planning

vi.           Computer are used for designing document such as memo

vii.          Computer are used for entertainment

viii.        Computer are also used for calculation purposes

Advantages of Computer

a.    Network  is obtainable i.e. linking of two or more computers.

b.    It has the ability of storing many data.

c.     There is a lot of ease while using computer to machine like typewriter.

d.    It has speed when processing data

e.    Computer create possibility for distance learning

f.      It in some instances serve as medium for security 

g.    It gives pleasure.

Disadvantages of Computer

a.    It involves high cost of operation

b.    It can be used to defraud an organization

c.     There is complexity in the use of computer

d.    It expose teenagers to phonographic life

e.    Cost of acquiring computer knowledge is high