Introduction

Abstract

A computer is an electronic machine which is capable of performing accurate calculations and movements of information, reliably and at high speed (typically one million per second). It can execute repetitive tasks as combinations of the simple ‘instructions’ which it stores and understands. These instructions relate to calculations on, and movements of, numbers in the computer’s memory or ‘store’—comparisons of the numbers—and directions as to which instruction to do next. The computer is thus a suitable tool for the solution of problems which are well defined, involve large numbers of calculations and/or process large volumes of information. Applications vary from calculations of flight paths to automating all banking transactions.