Computer Applications in Business

Dr.Vijayalakshmi. C

V sem
 Module 1: Computer System Systems Introduction
 High speed electronic data processing Machine

 Stores, Retrieves, Processing data

 Composed of Hardware and Software.

“A computer is a system which consists of interrelated

components that performs the basic system functions of
input, processing, output, storage and control”
 Basic Components

INPUT: Entering data and programs into computer system.

Eg: Keyboards, Mouse, Scanners

PROCESSING: Task of arithmetic and logical operations. CPU Includes ALU and Control Unit.

OUTPUT: Storing the result as output.

Eg: Monitors, Printers, Speakers and Projectors

STORAGE: Storing data and instructions before and after processing

CONTROL: Controls the entire computer system. Control operations like input, processing and
output performed by control unit.
 Basic Structure of a Computer
INPUT CPU OUTPUT
1) Input Unit- Information entered through input devices like keyboard, mouse etc.

2) Output Unit- Displays the results of processing and sending data to us through monitor,
printers etc.

3) Memory Unit- Stores data and instructions being processed.

RAM-Random Access Memory-stores data temporarily in device

ROM-Read only memory- only read data, also storage media permanently.

1) ALU (Arithmetic Logical Unit)- Addition, subtraction. performs arithmetic and logical
operations

2) Control Unit- Brain of computer, managing and coordinating all other components
 Features of New Generation Computer

 Speed of Operation- very fast calculations, speed of computer is expressed in micro seconds

 Accuracy- Correct data with correct program the results will be correct. Wrong input wrong output.

 Storage- Computer save a large amount of data and instructions which human brain cannot. Storage
devices are also available. (hard disk)

 Versatility- Every field (Railway Reservation, Banks, hotels, weather forecasting)

 Automatic Operation-Carry out task until stop instruction is given.

 Diligence- highly energetic

 Complexity- Complex mathematical model can be analysed.

 Reliability- Trust is high

 PARTS OF NEW GENERATION COMPUTER
1) Computer Case- built with steel or aluminum,(motherboard, CPU, power
supply) Computer in different sizes.

2) Central Processing Unit- CPU is the part of a computer which executes

instructions given in the form of programs. Brain of a computer.All PCs contain
microprocessor.

3) Motherboard- Large printed circuit board within a personal computer. Many

other components connect directly or indirectly to the motherboard.

4) Main Memory- Important kinds of memory RAM and ROM. ROM computers
can read, with RAM computers can read and write to that memory.
5) Hard Disk- Magnetic disks are also known as Hard disks, storage medium
6) Video Card- responsible for what you see in monitor. Computer have GPU
(Graphic Processing Unit) built in motherboard instead of having separate video
card.

7) Visual Display Unit- Monitor, powerful output device which is used to see data,
graphics, images and all types of information.

8) Card Reader- Interchange of data such as photographs from digital cameras is

made possible by installation of a card reader. It also allows computer to read data
from various cards like credit card, debit card, memory card.
 Peripherals of a New Generation Computer

 Peripherals is piece of computer hardware that is added to a

host computer
 Peripherals of a New Generation Computer
Headset Removable
(With storage.
Webcam microphone, CD
(Video speakers ) DVD
capturing Pen drives
device)
Peripherals
Network Card
of Computer
Sound cards system (communicate
and speakers through
(generates computer
audio signal) network)
Printers USB
(Hard copy of (universal
a document) serial bus)
 INPUT AND OUTPUT DEVICES
INPUT DEVICES
 Keyboard Scanners
 Mouse Microphone
 Trackball Magnetic ink Character Recognition (MICR)
 Touchscreen Optical Mark Recognition (OMR)
 Touchpad Bar Code Reader
 Light pen
 Graphics Tablet
 Digital Camera
 Webcams
 Joystick
 OUTPUT DEVICES
1) Monitors- Screen or display

 CRT- Cathode Ray Tube Monitor- Most Inexpensive monitor, Display available
in blue green, orange, yellow & B&W. High power consumption.

 LCD flat Panel Monitor- Liquid Crystal Display-Used in Laptop computers, flat
screen monitors.

 TFT-LCD Monitor-Thin Film Transistor- Better control on pixels.

 LED-Light Emitting Diode-Energy efficient, longer lifespan and need less power.
TFT LCD Monitor
Better control on pixels
 OUPUT DEVICES
2) Printers-Visual Output, paper output hardcopy
a) Impact Printers- When part of printer impact or presses the paper to
print a character is Impact printer
-Dot Matrix Printers-Each letter is formed with a series of dots. Used a
head that passed left and right over the paper.
b) Non impact printers-Does not touch paper while printing, it uses
chemicals, heat or electric signals.
-Laser Printers-Fastest Printer, can print 120-300 pages per minute.
-Inkjet printers-Work spraying ionized ink at a sheet of paper, slow,low
price
-Plotter-Used to print Graphical output on paper.Drawing maps, graphs,
drawings, charts.
Plotter
 Limitation of Computers

 Lackof Commonsense- Computer does not possess thinking

power.

 Inability to correct- Computer cannot correct wrong data.

 Dependence of Human Assistance- Computer cannot work

independently
 USE OF COMPUTER
 EDUCATION- Computer is used by kids to research scholars
 SCIENCE-Astronomy to zoology, Medical needs like MRI Computer
is used.
 COMMUNICATIONS- Computers transformed communication
through technology. Internet.
 BUSINESS- Computer and Internet are partners of business.
 GOVERNMENT-Government agencies databases are interlinked

making easier to monitor

 Factors to be considered while selecting Computer
 Usability-Determine if the computer is primarily for personal use (e.g.,
entertainment, social media, basic tasks) or business use (e.g., demanding
software, large datasets, professional applications).

 Price-Set a realistic budget and prioritize features based on your needs

 Type of operating system-Choose an OS that is compatible with your hardware

and desired software.

 Size-Some prefer larger laptops and some smaller.

 Peripherals-Better buy system with DVD combo.

 Factors to be considered while selecting Computer
 Brand- Sony, HP etc
 RAM-For using a lot of data processing more RAM is always better.
 Processor (CPU) speed-The "brain" of the computer, affecting processing speed.
Choose a processor with sufficient cores and clock speed for your tasks.
 Hard Disk-HDDs provide more capacity for larger files.
 Warranty-Consider the warranty and customer support offered by the
manufacturer.
 IMPORTANCE OF COMPUTERS IN BUSINESS
 Generating new business ideas-Search new business ideas.

 Executing business ideas and plans-Marketing budget, seminars, meetings.

 Hiring Employees- Accessing website and online job portal to hire employees.
 Cost Reduction-Use of robots, AI, Business intelligence reduced the cost of business
activities.
 Marketing and Advertising materials-Computers allow businesses to create and manage
marketing campaigns, analyze customer data, and track the effectiveness of their
marketing efforts.
 Advertise and market products and services-Online marketing is the fastest way for
advertising

 Global Marketing-Through online shopping business can reach wider audience.

 IMPORTANCE OF COMPUTERS IN BUSINESS
 Increase the demand of products and services-Remarket the products using internet

 Communication-Business can communicate with customers during offhours.

 Accounting-Tax reports are available; computer allows to input financial data of a

business.

 Storage-Can store millions of files using computers.

 Documents and Reports

 Employee Education-Educate employees on software, company policies, online webinar.

 Research
 Computer Networks

A computer network is a collection of interconnected

computing devices that share data, resources, and information

 Computers are widely used in sending and receiving

information.

 Rapid advancement in technology led to the creation of

communication networks
 COMPONENTS OF NETWORKS
 Network Interface Cards (NICs): This device that enables a computer to talk
with other computer/network. These devices are connected to nodes to
communicate with each other.

 Hubs: It is a main point distribution center. This device splits a network

connection into multiple computers. Computers are connected to a hub via
twisted pair cabling. Replaced by switches and routers.

 Switches: A network switch or bridge connects multiple network segments.It is

small hardware device that joins multiple computers together within one Local
Area network.
 Cables and connectors-Cable is a one way transmission media which can
transmit communication signals.

types- Twisted pair wire, Coaxial cable, Fibre optic cable.

 Modems- Used for signal conversion. The process of converting digital signal
into analog then back to digital form is known as modulation and demodulation.

2 types of modems

Internal modems – in Motherboard

External Modems-plug into connectors.

TYPES OF NETWORK
 NETWORK BASED ON DISTANCE

1 LAN (LOCAL AREA NETWORK)-LAN connects network that connects

information processing devices within limited geographical area such as building,

manufacturing plant, educational institution etc.

All computers in an office is connected to each other through central hub and

communicate to each other.

 Characteristics of LAN
-Limited Geographical area
-High speed
-Full time connectivity
-Generally, Lower cost than WAN
-Single cable connecting to each device
 Advantages of LAN
-Lower in cost
-Sharing of Resources
-High Speed
-Security
 Disadvantages of LAN
-When number of nodes became increases then performance become decreased
-Area covered is limited
 TYPES OF NETWORK (contd…)
2) WAN (Wide Area Network) –
A computer network which covers broad geographical areas such as state or a country.
It is also used to connect LAN together.
Example of WAN is internet.
 Advantages
Large Geographical area
 Disadvantages
-Complicated and complex
High Cost
Required High performance devices
Low security
Uses very expensive network equipment
3.Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)- is a computer network that connects
users and resources within a metropolitan area, such as a city or a large campus.

Advantages

1. It is wider than a LAN

2. It is large network connctedness.

Disadvantages

Data rate slow compare to LAN

Cost is higher than LAN

It is difficult to manage
4) Personal Area Network (PAN)- a network used to connect devices within an
individual's immediate workspace, typically within a few meters.

Advantages

PANs are efficient, cost effective and convenient.

Security because it is controlled by one person

Disadvantages

Shorter distance up to 10 meter only

Data rate is low compare to other network

5) VPN (Virtual Private Network)- VPN stands for "Virtual Private
Network" and describes the opportunity to establish a protected network
connection when using public networks. VPNs encrypt your internet
traffic and disguise your online identity. This makes it more difficult for
third parties to track your activities online and steal data. The encryption
takes place in real time.
6) Body Area Network (BAN)- This type of network are created by using wearable devices like
smart watches, fitness, bands, and medical devices inside the body like pacemaker

Advantages.

-Used for detection of chronic diseases beforehand

- This technique is used in military for security purposes

- It assists the seamless communication between individual and machine

- DISADVANTAGES

- Restriction in body movements

- Interference of the multi devices that share the channel.

- Lack of integration sensors.

6) Storage Area Network (SAN)
It is a speed network of storage devices that also connects those storage devices
with servers. It si used to connect external storages.
Advantages
-Scalability- It can add multiple devices without limit
-Performance- Own private network
-Uptime- no need to reboots
- Long distance connectivity
- Disaster Recovery- Fast data recovery solution
- Disadvantages of SAN
- It is expensive to implement
- Require high level of skill.
7) Campus Area Network (CAN)
A network infrastructure covering the school university or a corporate
premises.
Advantages
Cost effective
It can be wireless
Multi departmental network
Managed service
Disadvantages
Difficult to manage
8) Home Area Network (HAN)
Computer network that operate within a small area typically home or small office.
It connects home devices like PC mobile phones, tablets, smartphones.
Advantages
Resource sharing- Network resources can be easily shared between devices like
internet sharing
Easy to Manage-Managed by single person
High security
Esay accessible
Disadvantages
If backbone network damaged then whole network become halt
The wave generated from Wi-Fi devices can harm health.
9) Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)
Network is to communicate at a short distances. Areas may range from a single room to an entire
campus. Wi-fi or Bluetooth.
LAN may contain different kinds of devices like mobile phones, laptop, game.

Advantages
Portable
Planning
Installation is quick and easy

Disadvantages
Low bandwidth
Security is difficult
10) Virtual Private Network (VPN)
Private data network that makes use of the public telecommunication infrastructures.
Eg: A company employee goes for meeting out of country and urgently needed company
resources to access then he can access resource by using VPN.

Advantages
Cost effective
Higher Level of Security
Flexible
Mobility- can connect to anywhere in the world

Disadvantages
Public network very slow
Hacking is possible
Computer Applications in Business
Dr. Vijayalakshmi.C
V sem
PPT3
Chapter1-Computer System
 NETWORK BASED ON ADMINISTRATION
1) Peer-to-Peer Network-
 Commonly used computer networks.

 This type of network is very cost effective

 Ten to fifteen numbers can be connected to each other using p2p networking model without
problem

 Peer to peer network allow users to share resources and files located on their computers.

 All computers are considered equal

Advantages
1. In a peer-to-peer network a software application need to be installed on a soingle
computer and shared by every computer in the network
2. They are inexpensive to set up.

Disadvantages
1. Designed to limited number of computers. It will create issues when exceed the
number of computers
2. Less secure than a client server network because security is handled by the
individual computers.
3. Regular training is required for computer users of p2p network
2) Client Server Networks

❑ The difference between the peer to peer and client server model is that peer to peer does not
have any device or computer that controls computers on network whereas client/server model
has one dedicated computer which is called server.

❑ It is called dedicated server

❑ All computers are connected to hub and hub is connected to dedicated server.

❑ If client request a print of document server will send print command to printer and it will be
printed.
Advantages
❑ Process faster access speeds since they support large number of clients
❑ The clients are allowed to function as workstations without sharing resources
❑ Easy to upgrade software applications and files
❑ System wide services can be provided through the server software

Disadvantages
❑ The resources of the computers in the network can become overburdened .
❑ Higher initial setup cost.
 Types of Peer-to-Peer Network
 WIRED ETHERNET NETWORKS

 WIRELESS ETHERNET NETWORKS

 POWER LINE NETWORKS

1)Wired Ethernet Networks

Common type of home network

It is very popular LAN technology due to its inexpensive setup cost and reasonably fast speed.

This type of network is fast with transfer rates up to 1000 MPBS and in expensive to install and
maintain.

Advantages

Fast transferring data

Less Expensive to install than wireless. Ethernet cables, hubs and switches are very cheap

Highly secured

Ethernet, Cables ,hubs and switches are extremely reliable.

2) Wireless Ethernet Networks
Popular home networking arena
Easy to install because it transmits data via radio frequencies instead of cables.
It is very convenient networking solution to setup network of computers in different rooms or in
different floors.
Gives the user freedom to work

Advantages
❑ Cable free Networking
❑ Freedom and mobility to work anywhere in the house
❑ Easy to install
❑ Ideal for notebook users
 Power Line Network
 A power line network, also known as powerline communication
(PLC), uses a building's existing electrical wiring to transmit data,
essentially turning power outlets into network access points. This
technology allows devices to connect to the internet or a local network
without needing separate Ethernet cables or Wi-Fi, especially in areas
where Wi-Fi signals are weak or unavailable.
 Uses of Computer Network

 Information Sharing- Users can easily share files with others on the network,
eliminating the need for physical transfer methods.

 Sharing Hardware-Networks allow for the sharing of other hardware resources

like scanners and storage devices.

 Sharing software and Applications-Software can be shared across a network,

allowing multiple users to access the same applications. ’

 Centralized Administration-Networks enable the centralization of data, making

it easier to manage and access information from a single location.
 E-Mail-Computer networks allow users to send and receive emails and messages,
enabling instant communication between individuals and groups

 Internet Relay Chat (IRC)-IRC, or Internet Relay Chat, is a text-based

communication protocol that enables real-time conversations over the internet.

 Audio/Video Conferencing-Networks facilitate video calls and conferences,

allowing for face-to-face communication over long distances

 Internet Phone-Voice is transmitted over the internet,

 COMPUTER APPLICATIONS IN VARIOUS AREAS OF BUSINESS
 Production- Allow companies to make models of products such as cars and test the models.

 Scheduling- It is important to many business involved in manufacturing and deliveries

 Inventory Management-Computers track inventory levels, automate reordering processes, and

manage stock effectively. One of the central approaches to the success of retail giant Wal Mart
was real time ordering so they can manage the supply chain.

 Capital Budgeting- Various techniques are available for taking decisions on long term
investment programs. Spreadsheet packages, expert system, software packages.

 Budgeting and Forecasting- Budgeting and Budgetary control can be done with the help of
software accounting packages like Tally.

 Marketing-Create websites, stunning ads and complete marketing techniques.

 Accounting-Many firms use accounting software and ledgering systems to ensure efficiency. Keep detailed
records. Track accounts payable, account receivable and sales.

a) Invoicing-Computer based sales processing customers orders and sales transactions. Invoice is issued to customers
to whom goods are sold. All the details are printed using computers.

b) Accounts Receivable-Account receivable system keep records of amounts owned by customers from data
generated by customers purchases and payments.

c) Account Payable- The system takes into account the data generated from purchase and payment made by
suppliers.

d) General Ledger- This system consolidates data received from accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll and
other accounting system. The system involves the control of accounting system.

e) Payroll-The most established application of the computer in business field is processing pay slips to employees.
Calculation of payroll is a difficult job and chances of committing mistakes are high. So all companies
computerize payroll system.
 Prepare Marketing Documents-Adobe photoshop provides many templates can make eye

catching custom marketing materials.

 Marketing and Advertising-Companies market their products using facebook, Instagram,

and other social media sites

 Websites and Advertising-Most companies design a website.

 Customer Interaction- Computers now assist Call centers with answering customer questions

 Customer Relationship Management-CRM App provides contact customers management,

customer service and sales force automation.

 Communication-Email, video conferencing, and collaboration tools facilitate communication among employees

and teams.

 Networking-Networking in real time, over long distances is one of the most important uses of computer in

business.

 Research-Computers are used for simulations, data analysis, and modeling in various scientific and engineering

fields

 Data Mining- Data mining software can help businesses identify patterns and discover new relationships in

historical data. Business that use data mining can boost sales, acquire new customers, improve productions
increase customer satisfaction and predict future business trends.

 Human Resource Management-HR software stores employee information, tracks performance, and manages
payroll and benefits.
 INTERNET
 Internet is worlds largest computer network.
 The word internet is coined from the word interconnection and
network.
 It is the network of networks.
 It was created as project for the US department of defence.
 HISTORY OF INTERNET

 The Internet's history began in the 1960s with the US Department of Defense's ARPANET, a
project focused on packet switching for communication between research institutions. This
evolved into the global network we know today, with the introduction of TCP/IP protocols and
the World Wide Web.
 Features of Internet
 This global network is not owned by any single individual, company or country

 It has no central controlling body

 Information is available In different format.

 It can handle increase in the number of users.

 The only way to connect globally

 Internet most important source of information

 Internet Access
1) Dial Up Connection-A dial-up connection is an obsolete internet access method that uses a standard
telephone line and a modem to connect to the internet. The computer which provide internet access is Host and te
computer receives access is client or terminal.

Dial up accounts need-Computer, Modem, Telephone Connection, Internet browser.

2) Broadband-a high-speed internet connection that allows for the transmission of large amounts of data quickly.
 DSL (Digital Subscriber Line):Uses existing copper telephone lines to transmit data. Speed can be affected by
distance from the provider's central office.

 Cable: Utilizes the same coaxial cables that deliver cable TV signals. Internet speed can vary depending on the
number of users in a given area.

 Fiber Optics: Employs thin strands of glass or plastic to transmit data as light signals, offering very high speeds
and reliable connections.
3) WiFi -

Wi-Fi, a wireless networking technology, enables devices to connect to the internet and exchange
data using radio waves. It's a common way for computers, smartphones, and other devices to
access the internet wirelessly. Wi-Fi relies on a wireless router, which acts as a central point for
connecting devices to the network and the internet.

Wi-Fi is widely used for connecting to the internet at home, in public places like coffee shops and
libraries, and in various other environments.
 INTERNET PROTOCOLS

 The Internet Protocol (IP) is a fundamental set of rules that governs how data is transmitted
across networks, including the internet. It acts as a communication protocol, enabling devices
to send and receive information by assigning unique addresses (IP addresses) and defining
how data packets should be formatted and routed.
 Facilities Available on the Internet
 E-Mail

 FTP

 USENET

 TELNET

 INTERNET RELAY CHAT

 WORLD WIDE WEB

 World Wide WEB
 www" stands for the World Wide Web, a system of interconnected documents (webpages) accessed through the
internet. It's a vast collection of websites and online resources, accessed through web browsers using the internet. The
World Wide Web was invented by Tim Berners-Lee in 1989.

 Web pages: A web page is a single document on the World Wide Web, typically written in HTML, that can be viewed
in a web browser. It can contain text, images, videos, and links to other web pages. A website is a collection of related
web pages.

 Hyper Text Markup Language: HTML stands for Hyper Text Markup Language. HTML is the standard markup
language for creating Web pages. HTML describes the structure of a Web page. HTML consists of a series of
elements. HTML elements tell the browser how to display the content

 Web Browsing: Web browsing, also known as surfing the web, refers to the activity of accessing and viewing
information on the World Wide Web using a web browser

 Web Browsers:A web browser is a software application that allows users to access and view information on the
World Wide Web
 Search Engines

 A search engine is a software system that provides hyperlinks to web

pages, and other relevant information on the Web in response to a
user's query.
 Business Use of Internet
 Access to database

 Electronic Commerce

 Electronic Mail

 Conferencing

 Worldwide audience

 Provide product information

 Save on Literature Costs

 East access to Customer service representatives

 Recruit new employees

 Provide online service

 Eliminate the middleman

 Entertainment programs
 Social Media

 Social media refers to online platforms that enable users to create,

share, and exchange information, ideas, personal messages, and
other content.
 Features of Social Networks
 Profile page
 Find and link to friends or connections
 Privacy controls
 The ability to send public and private messages
 Ability to share various digital objects and information
 Types of Social Networks

Facebook
Twitter
Youtube
Linkedln
 Social Media and its Uses in Business
 Generating Revenue
 Gain Valuable Customer information
 Attracting Customers
 Brand Development
 Customer acquisition
 Run targeted ads with real time results
 Direct Customer interaction
 Generate more sales
 Provide rich customer experiences
 Increase website traffic
 Information about competitors
 Networking
 Geotarget content
 Build relationships
 Recruitment
 Effective and inexpensive