2) Writing.

Toshiko Horie, from Japan, is interested in the job of computer operator as advertised below. Use her notes to write a letter applying for the job. You can start like this: I'm writing to apply for...

International Mercury Computers requires Computer Operators

We have vacancies for experienced operators to work on their own initiative in a busy company. You will be responsible for the day-to-day running of our data-processing equipment.

You must be highly communicative and have good problem-solving skills. We can offer an excellent salary, training and good promotional prospects to the right candidate.

Send your CV and a covering letter to James Taylor, international Mercury Computers, 37 Charles Place London W106XX FAX 0171•323•0571

Notes for the Curriculum Vitae:

— Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English

— Computer Sciences degree from Tokyo University, Japan.

— Knowledge of both Macintosh and Windows environments

— Two years experience working on “Linear Directa”, a local magazine for computer’s users

— Present job: Computer operator for Graphic Colour SL. This involves data control and editing, data preparation, and computer operating

— Reasons for applying: want to develop operating skills and move into management.

Unit 5. Electronic communications

1) Answer the following questions.

1. How can a PC be connected to another computer?

2. What data communication systems can you think of? Make a list.

2) Reading.

A. Match the data communication services (a) with the requirements (b). Then read the passage and check your answers.

a) 1. fax; 2. electronic mail (e-mail); 3. teletext; 4. local bulletin board system (BBS); 5. commercial online service;

b) 1. to send a personal message to a friend who is at a different workstation; 2. to send a copy of a paper document - for instance, a scientific article – from Trento University to Cambridge University; 3. to access massive databases containing all kinds of information, or to be connected with an airline reservations service; 4. To receive shareware and public domain programs from a user group; 5. to find out weather forecasts and sports information from the television.

Text . Channels of communication. What are 'telecommunications'?

This term refers to the transmission of information over long distances using the telephone system, radio, TV, satellite or computer links. Examples are two people speaking on the phone, a sales department sending a fax to a client or someone reading the teletext pages on TV. But in the modern world, telecommunications mainly means transferring information from one PC to another via modem and phone lines (or fibre-optic cables).

What can you do with a modem?

A modem is your computer's link to the external world. With a modem you can exchange e-mail and files with friends and colleagues: you can access the Web and search for information about the stock market, current affairs, entertainment, etc.; you can participate in newsgroups and live conversations; you can make bank transactions and buy things from the comfort of your home. You can also access your office from your computer at home or your laptop in a hotel room.

Today a lot of companies find it more efficient to have some employees doing their work at home. Using a modem, they transfer their work into the office where it is printed and distributed, The list of applications is endless.

What do you need to telecommunicate?

You just need a PC (or a terminal}, a modem connected to the computer and the telephone line, and communication software. Once you have installed and configured your modem, you can communicate with people through bulletin boards and online services.