In the official GESP C++ Level 1 exam syllabus, in addition to mastering the use of the Dev C++ development tool and the basic syntax of C++ programming through coding (Syllabus 2-13), it also involves the requirements for computer fundamentals (Syllabus 1):
(1) Understand the basic components of a computer (CPU, memory, I/O devices, etc.), understand the basic concepts and common operations of operating systems such as Windows and Linux, and understand the history of computers and their common applications in modern society.
The purpose of this article is to summarize the knowledge points of Syllabus 1 for the C++ Level 1 exam.
1. Basic Components of a Computer
The basic components of a computer can generally be divided into hardware and software. The hardware part includes the CPU, memory, I/O devices, etc., while the software part includes the operating system and application programs.
1.1 Central Processing Unit (CPU)
- Function: The CPU (Central Processing Unit) is the “brain” of the computer, responsible for executing instructions and controlling the operation of various components. The CPU performs arithmetic and logical operations, controls the sequential execution of programs, and coordinates input and output operations.
- Composition:
- Control Unit (CU): Controls the execution flow of programs and directs other components.
- Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): Responsible for all arithmetic and logical operations.
- Registers: High-speed storage used to store data that is about to be processed.
1.2 Memory
- RAM (Random Access Memory): The main memory of the computer, storing programs and data that are currently running. It is volatile, meaning data is lost when power is turned off.
- ROM (Read-Only Memory): Used to store the computer’s firmware (such as BIOS). ROM is non-volatile, retaining data even when power is off.
- Cache: High-speed cache memory used to store frequently accessed data by the CPU to improve its efficiency.
1.3 I/O Devices (Input/Output Devices)
- Input Devices: Such as keyboards, mice, scanners, microphones, etc., used to input data into the computer.
- Output Devices: Such as monitors, printers, speakers, etc., used to display or output data processed by the computer.
- Storage Devices: Such as hard drives, solid-state drives (SSD), optical discs, etc., used for long-term data storage.
2. Basic Concepts of Operating Systems
An operating system (OS) is the foundational software in a computer system, providing an interface for the hardware and managing resources. Common operating systems include Windows, Linux, and macOS.
2.1 Windows Operating System
- Overview: Windows is an operating system developed by Microsoft, widely used on personal computers, laptops, and workstations. Windows provides a graphical user interface (GUI), is intuitive to operate, and supports multitasking and multi-user operations.
- Features:
- Powerful user interface, supporting touch screens and graphical operations.
- Strong compatibility, supporting various hardware devices and software applications.
- Comprehensive security features, such as firewalls and Windows Defender.
- Widely used in home, office, and enterprise environments.
2.2 Linux Operating System
- Overview: Linux is an open-source operating system kernel based on UNIX, widely used in servers, embedded systems, and some desktop computers. The Linux operating system is highly customizable and open-source.
- Features:
- Free and open-source, allowing users to view, modify, and distribute the source code.
- Supports multitasking and multi-user operations, with powerful performance.
- Suitable for servers, supercomputers, and embedded systems.
- Widely used in cloud computing, big data processing, and network services.
- Utilizes both command-line interfaces (CLI) and graphical interfaces (such as GNOME, KDE, etc.).
2.3 Basic Functions of Operating Systems
- Process Management: The operating system is responsible for managing all processes in the computer and scheduling CPU usage.
- Memory Management: The operating system is responsible for allocating and reclaiming memory resources.
- File Management: The operating system provides a file system to manage data storage and access.
- Device Management: The operating system is responsible for managing all hardware devices in the computer, such as printers, monitors, hard drives, etc.
- Security and Permission Management: The operating system provides security features such as user authentication and permission control to ensure system security.
3. The History of Computers and Their Applications in Modern Society
3.1 The History of Computers
The development of computers has gone through several important stages:
- First Generation Computers (1940s-1950s): Used vacuum tubes, were large in size, had slow computing speeds, and were mainly used for military and scientific research. Examples include ENIAC and UNIVAC.
- Second Generation Computers (1950s-1960s): Used transistors, reduced size, increased computing power, and began commercial applications.
- Third Generation Computers (1960s-1970s): Used integrated circuits (IC), making computers smaller and more efficient.
- Fourth Generation Computers (1970s-Present): Used microprocessors, leading to the widespread adoption of personal computers.
3.2 Applications of Computers in Modern Society
Computers are widely used in various fields of modern society, with some important application scenarios including:
- Information Processing and Management: In industries such as finance, healthcare, and education, computers are used for data management, information processing, and automation.
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: Computers provide intelligent solutions for many industries through algorithms and big data analysis, such as natural language processing, image recognition, and autonomous driving.
- Internet and Network Communication: Computers are a core component of the internet, supporting services such as email, social media, online shopping, and cloud computing.
- Entertainment and Creative Industries: Computers are widely used in video games, animation production, and special effects in films.
- Scientific Research and Engineering: In scientific experiments, simulation calculations, engineering design, and drug development, computers provide powerful computing and analytical capabilities for scientists.
- Manufacturing and Industrial Automation: Computer-controlled robots and automated production lines are widely used in manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, and other industries.
Conclusion
The basic components of a computer include the CPU, memory, and I/O devices. Operating systems like Windows and Linux provide management and operational interfaces for computer hardware, supporting multitasking and user interaction. The history of computers has evolved from mainframes to personal computers and now to modern smart devices, profoundly impacting various industries and daily life. Today, computers play a vital role in information processing, artificial intelligence, the internet, entertainment, and scientific research.
All code has been uploaded to GitHub: https://github.com/lihongzheshuai/yummy-code
For details on GESP syllabus points, knowledge expansion, and exercise question lists, see the C++ Learning Project Homepage
The luogu- series questions have been added to Luogu’s Java and C++ Beginner Team, assignment list, available for online assessment, with limited team slots, welcome to join.
The bcqm- series questions can be assessed online in the Programming Enlightenment Question Bank.