Computers and Data

Computers and Data
In order to understand data we need to process it. In other words, data must be taken through a number of processing stages in order to generate Information. Any technique in which data is retrieved, stored, classified, manipulated, transmitted and/or reported in such a way as to generate information; especially such processing using computers is called Data Processing.
Computers can perform all kinds of processing. From simple and complex calculations, classifications, arranging jumbled text alphabetically and vise versa as well as analyzing pictures and sounds.



Stages in Information Processing
Information is processed in three major stages. This is called the Information processing cycle.
In stage 1, data is collected from various sources. In stage 2, the data is processed by various computer techniques in order for it to make sense to us. The final output in stage 3 is what we call Information. Lastly, the computer stores the information in its memory.
How do Computers Process Information?
We feed the computer with Data using the keyboard and other Input devices. The data input is then sent to the System Unit where it is processed. After the data is processed, the system unit sends the Information to the Monitor or Printer to display what has been processed.

Take a close look at the illustration. It shows how data travels from the keyboard to the system unit, then to the monitor to be displayed.

C:\Main\Webpages\yr1\datapro.jpg

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