They make sure that these machines are used as efficiently as possible. Operators must solve problems that occur. They must also anticipate problems before they occur and take preventive action. Duties of computer operators vary with the size of the employer and type of equipment. Operators of small computer systems run both the computer and peripheral equipment.
Peripheral equipment includes printers, disk drives, and tape readers.
They set equipment controls and load tapes, disks, and paper. While the computer is running, computer operators monitor the computer console and respond to messages that appear on the screen. Messages show how each job is running. If an error message occurs, operators must find and solve the problem or terminate the program. Operators document problems and save printouts.