VOCABULARY

Computer - An electronic device used for processing data. The physical parts that make up a computer (the central processing unit, input, output, and memory) are called hardware. Programs that tell a computer what to do are called software.

Information processing - Capturing, storing, updating and retrieving data information.

Personal computer (microcomputer) - A computer that serves one user at a time.

Hardware - The physical parts of the computer system that you can touch and feel such as the CPU (central processing unit), keyboard, monitor, and computer case.

System unit - Example: CPU, main memory, electronic components, drive bays for storage.

Microprocessor - The main processing unit of a computer or information processing device; acts as the "brain" on the machine carrying out instructions, performing calculations, and interacting with all the components used to operate the computer. Handles the fetch, decode, and execute steps of the computer system.

Chip - An integrated circuit. A thin piece of silicon that contains all the components of an electronic circuit.

Embedded processor - A chip designed with a specific set of usable instructions. The user cannot change the instructions an embedded processor can understand.

Integrated circuit - A complete circuit on a chip built by a chip fabrication process.

Motherboard (also called systemboard) - The main circuit board of a computer housing the microprocessor and providing the means of connecting all the components--including memory sockets and expansion slots--that make up the computer.

Expansion slot - A connector designed to allow the addition of printed circuit boards--daughterboards--to the motherboard, for adding special control units such as soundboards

Disk drive - A mechanism that holds, spins, reads, and writes either magnetic or optical disks.

Secondary storage devices - Permanently stores data. (Floppy disk, hard drive)

DVD - A type of optical disc that uses the same diameter as a CD and looks like a CD, but has a significantly higher storage capacity, sometimes more than 25 times the digital storage of a compact disc.

Palmtop - An electronic organizer.

Desktop - Sits on desk with separate monitor.

Tower - An upright case with more room.

Input - The data that is entered into a computer. The act of entering data into a computer.

Input devices - Examples - keyboard, mouse, joy stick, track ball, and scanner.

Keyboard - A computer input device that uses a set of keys to put data into the computer.

Scanner - A computer input device that can read text, images and barcodes, and translate them into digital code.

Output - The computer-generated information that is displayed to the user in some discernible form such as a screen display, printed page, or sound.

Output devices - Examples - monitor, printer, speakers, projector.

Peripherals- Extra attachments and capabilities. Examples - modem, microphone, camera.

Software - Computer program that gives detailed set of instruction to tell the computer exactly what to do.

Operating system - The system necessary for a computer to operate.

Application - A program that helps the user accomplish a specific task; for example, a word processing program or a spreadsheet program. Application programs should be distinguished from system programs, which control the computer and run those application programs, and utilities, which are small assistance programs.

Networks - Multiple computers linked together.

Server - Designed to support a computer network that allows user to share data, software and peripherals.

Memory - A place to store information; see RAM, ROM.

Byte - 8 bits = 1 character, series of O’s and 1’s

Random Access Memory (RAM) - Temporary storage memory chips that form the computer’s primary workspace; contents are lost if the power is disrupted. This form of primary storage can be read and written to many times.

Read Only Memory (ROM) - Storage memory chips that are able to maintain their contents if the power is disrupted. This form of primary storage chips has their stored content entered at the time of their fabrication and can be written to only once.

Internet - a global network connecting millions of computers, linking more than 100 countries for the exchange of data, news and opinions.

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