CHAPTER 1 Introduction to Computers 1
1．A World of Computers 1
2．What Is a Computer? 2
3．The Components of a Computer 2
4．Why Is a Computer So Powerful? 4
5．Networks and the Internet 4
6．Computer Software 5
7．Categories of Computers 7
8．Computer Applications in Society 7
9．Chapter Summary 8
Key Terms 9
Notes 10
Checkpoint 11
CHAPTER 2 The Internet and World Wide Web 13
1．The Internet 13
2．History of the Internet 13
3．How the Internet Works 13
4．The World Wide Web 14
5．Other Internet Services 18
6．Web Publishing 20
7．Chapter Summary 21
Key Terms 22
Notes 23
Checkpoint 24
CHAPTER 3 Application Software 26
1．Application Software 26
2．Common Application Softwares 28
3．Application Software for Communications 32
4．Learning Aids and Support Tools for Application Software 32
5．Chapter Summary 33
Key Terms 34
Notes 35
Checkpoint 36
CHAPTER 4 The Components of the System Unit 38
1．The System Unit 38
2．Processor 40
3．Data Representation 41
4．Memory 42
5．Expansion Slots and Adapter Cards 44
6．Ports and Connectors 45
7．Power Supply 47
8．Putting It All Together 47
9．Chapter Summary 47
Key Terms 48
Notes 49
Checkpoint 50
CHAPTER 5 Input 52
1．What Is Input? 52
2．What Are Input Devices? 52
3．The Keyboard 52
4．Pointing Devices 53
5．Mouse 54
6．Other Pointing Devices 55
7．Voice Input 57
8．Digital Cameras 57
9．Video Input 58
10．Scanners and Reading Devices 59
11．Putting It All Together 59
12．Chapter Summary 59
Key Terms 60
Notes 61
Checkpoint 62
CHAPTER 6 Output 64
1．What Is Output? 64
2．Display Devices 64
3．CFT Monitors 65
4．Flat-panel Displays 67
5．Printers 68
6．Speakers and Headsets 68
7．Other Output Devices 69
8．Chapter Summary 69
Key Terms 70
Notes 71
Checkpoint 72
CHAPTER 7 Storage 74
1．Storage 74
2．Floppy Disks 75
3．Hard Disks 76
4．CDs and DVDs 76
5．Tape 78
6．PC Cards 79
7．Miniature Mobile Storage Media 79
8．Chapter Summary 79
Key Terms 80
Notes 81
Checkpoint 82
CHAPTER 8 Operating Systems and Utility Programs 85
1．System Software 85
2．Operating Systems 85
3．Operating System Functions 86
4．Operating System Utility Programs 88
5．Types of Operating Systems 90
6．Stand-alone Operating Systems 90
7．Network Operating Systems 91
8．Embedded Operating Systems 92
9．Stand-alone Utility Programs 92
10．Chapter Summary 93
Key Terms 94
Notes 95
Checkpoint 96
Appendix 98
Solutions to Exercises 103