Processing
Processing is the second stage of computing: the actual manipulation of data by the computer. Computers were designed initially as tools to carry out the tedious task of "number crunching" and then, later, to store large amounts of often redundant data. Today, computers not only fulfill ever-expanding scientific and business roles, but they also fill our lives with education, entertainment, organization, information processing, and-occasionally-frustration. As we enter this new century, computers have become a necessity of life and are often taken for granted. Even for people who do not own or use a personal computer, they are an increasing part of everyday life. And computer technology hides in many everyday appliances. Microprocessors run most of our mechanical and electronic devices, including cars, cameras, VCRs, microwave ovens, telephones, and the checkout system at the supermarket.