CSC 200

1
CSC 200

• An Introduction
• Length 2352

2
Algorithms

• A method for solving a problem
• Definition from Brookshear
• An ordered set of unambiguous, executable steps
  defining a terminating process
• Software
• Hardware

3
Examples of Algorithms

• Long Division
• Euclidian Algorithm
• Greatest common divisor
• Some problems cannot be solved by algorithms
• Other problems are easily stated but impossible
  to carry out in real time
• Encryption Algorithms
• Algorithms need not be mathematical

4
Computing Machines and Devices

• Early Devices Abacus
• Gear based machines
• Jacquard loom
• Babbage machines
• Punch card storage and paper tape
• Mechanical relays and vacuum tubes
• ENIAC University of Pennsylvania
• 30 feet by 50 feet in size

5
Factors of Computing

• Size has decreased
• Cost has decreased
• Eniac actually cost about 450,000
• Storage capacity has increased
• Speed has increased
• Reliability has increased
• Availability has increased

6
Personal Computers

• IBM PC first introduced in 1981
• Open architecture made current machines possible
• Microsoft software has become important
• Much software is Open Source

7
Computer Science is the Study of Algorithms

• Algorithm Discovery
• Applied Algorithms
• Communication, Limits, Features, Usage
• Algorithm Method for solving a problem