Computers
as a Second LanguageComputers
as a Second LanguageHardware and Software
SUMMARY
OF HARDWARE & SOFTWARE One
observation is consistent about computer hardware and software -- the
range of products constantly grows and the prices consistently fall. In
the early 1980's, computers were limited to displaying numbers and basic
text. They were used for accounting and word processing. Today,
computers are capable of displaying full motion video, and playing Hi-Fi
audio.A
top-rated, fully equipped PENTIUM computer today, costs less than a
basic business computer from 1980 equipped with a monochrome screen,
8 KB (YES, kilobytes) of RAM, and a lowly 5.25 inch
floppy disk drive.Computers
with voice recognition are available now. Instead of
having to type your documents, you can dictate them to a word processor!
Many of the computer's functions may be directed vocally. For example,
you say "PRINT" and the computer will output your letter to
the laser printer. You say "COFFEE" and the computer will
deliver a cup of steaming hot coffee to your desk -- well, maybe not
today... but never say never.The
Internet is proving to be an excellent resource for global
communications. As the technology improves, you will see full motion
video (with audio) delivered over the Internet. Imagine being able to
transmit a video letter of your son's
birthday party to his grandparents in England.Now
is an excellent time to become involved with computers. There are
thousands of small businesses that have become viable simply because of
the personal computer. With the technology changing rapidly, it's
important to purchase a computer that can be readily upgraded.
Many users become disillusioned because their computers become obsolete
within a year. A carefully purchased system will allow older components
to be replaced with new ones as your needs and interests grow. |
