Exercise Workbook for Beginning AutoCAD 2005
Use this easy-to-follow, self-study guide to learn the basics of AutoCAD through step-by-step lessons and non-intimidating exercises.
TABLE OF CONTENTS Exercise Workbook for Beginning AutoCAD 2005
Lesson 1
PART 1: UNDERSTANDING COMPUTERS
A BRIEF HISTORY OF COMPUTERS AND SOFTWARE.
The first computers were developed in the 1950s, shortly after the transistor was invented. In the mid 1960s General Motors, Boeing and IBM began developing CAD programs, but the development was slowed by the high cost of computer hardware and programming.
In 1971, Ted Hoff developed the first microprocessor. All circuitry of the central processing unit (CPU) was now on one chip. This started the era of the personal computer (PC). In the 1980s, additional improvements to the microprocessor changed the mainframe computers to powerful desktop models.
Of course, computer software was advancing along with the computer hardware. CAD started as a simple drafting tool and has now evolved into a powerful design tool. CAD has progressed from two-dimensional (2-D) to three-dimensional (3-D), to surface modeling and to solid modeling with animation. Each generation has become more powerful and more user friendly.
HARDWARE
Microprocessor
The complex procedure that transforms raw input data into useful information for output is called "processing". The processor is the "brain" of the computer. The processor interprets and carries out instructions. In personal computers the processor is a single chip plugged into a circuit board. This chip is called a microprocessor.
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The CPU is the term used for the computer's processor. The CPU contains the intelligence of the machine. It is where the calculations and decisions are made.
Memory (RAM)
Your CPU needs memory to hold pieces of information...
Copyright Cheryl R. Shrock 2004 under license agreement with Books24x7
