Summary of Topic 1: Introduction to Information Technology

Definition: Information Technology is the use of computer hardware and software to store, retrieve and manipulate information.

Advantages of Information Technology

• To efficiently and effectively access and search for information via the Internet.
• Improves communication through communication technology. 
• Improves data storage and file management.
• To manage finances via online banking

Disadvantages of Information Technology

• Reduce job opportunity
• Security breaches
• Higher cost of hardware and software installation
• Health risks 

 IT Applications in Education

• Learning management system (e.g: Moodle learning management system)
• Library loan system (e.g: UNL Libraries)
• E-learning web sites  

IT Applications in Finance/Banking 

• Online banking (e.g: Maybank2u)
• Electronic payment system (e.g: MEPS)
• Finance investment system (e.g: AmInvestment)

IT Applications in Healthcare

• Surgery stimulation
• Health care websites (e.g: MedlinePlus.com)
• Telepharmacy (e.g: health2u.com)

 IT Applications in Science

• Capsule endoscopy system (e.g: Olympus ENDOCAPSULE 10 System)
• Cochlear implants
• Electrodes implant 

 IT Applications in Travel

• Global Positioning System (GPS) (e.g: Google Maps)
• Online reservation/booking system (e.g: airasia.com) 
• E-Ticketing system (e.g: KTM e-Ticketing System)

IT Applications in Government

• e-Filing
• e-Penyata Gaji dan Laporan
• UPU online 

 Categories of Computers

Supercomputers

• fastest and most powerful type of computer with thousands of processors capable of processing trillions of instructions per second
• highest storage capacity that can store complex and sophisticated applications and can store more than 20,000 times the data and information of an average desktop computer

Mainframes

• a large and powerful computer that can process millions of instructions per second and handle thousands of connected computers
• larger storage capacity that can store data, instructions and information for business applications and activities     

Personal Computers

• a computer based on a microprocessor designed for individuals and businesses, capable to provide computing power for home and office environment
• storage capacity ranges from GB to TB that can store home and office software

Mobile Computers

• a computer based on a microprocessor designed for individuals and businesses, capable to provide computing power for home and office environment
• storage capacity ranges from GB to TB that can store home and office software

Mobile Devices

• a computer based on a microprocessor that contain built-in computing or Internet capabilities
• storage capacity up to GB that can store mobile applications

 Embedded Computers

• tiny specialized microprocessors installed in smart appliances and automobiles
• storage capacity normally in KB