Computer Applications

Computer Applications

Computers can help students perform mathematical operations and solve difficult problems rapidly. They can be used to access the Internet, teach courses such as CAD (computer-aided design), programming, language, mathematics, etc. PCs (personal computers) are also used for many other purposes: for example, schools use databases to keep records of students, teachers, and materials.

Race organizers and journalists rely on computers to provide them with the current positions of riders and teams. Workstations in the race buses provide the timing system and give up-to-theminute timing information to TV stations. In the press room, several PCs give real-time information on the state of the race. Computer databases are also used in the drug-detecting tests for competitors.

Computers store information about the amount of money held by each client and enable staff to access large databases and to carry out financial transactions at high speed. They also control the ATMs (automatic teller machines) which, by the use of a personal coded card, give money to clients.

Airline pilots use computers to help them control the plane. For example, monitors display information about fuel consumption and weather conditions. In airport control towers, computers are used to manage radar systems and regulate air traffic. On the ground, airlines are connected to travel agencies by computer. Travel agents use computers to find about the availability of flights, prices, times, and many other details.