Module 1: Computer Basics

Using a Computer
* [Show Transcript] USING A COMPUTER

To turn on a computer, press the power button on the system unit. When you
turn on the computer, lights on the keyboard may blink briefly and you may
also hear a beep. This is an indication that the power-on self test (POST)
has started. The computer performs a sequence of quick tests to check
whether the motherboard, memory, hard drive, and other components are
working. If you hear a series of beeps, the monitor may display a message
indicating that a component is not functioning. For example, if the
keyboard cable is not attached, an error message may report that there is
no keyboard detected.

After POST, the computer starts the operating system. The operating system
controls the computer