Basic Computer Terminology (SANDOVAL) Pics

Macintosh (Apple)

A type of computer that does similar functions as a PC and is best suited for working with graphics. It is developed by Apple and the first version came out in 1984.

Computer

An electronic device that executes the instructions of a program and has four basic functions: input, processing, output and storage.

CPU

Central Processing Unit. The hardware within a computer that carries out the instructions of a computer program by performing the basic arithmetical, logical, and input/output operations of the system.

Software

Computer programs or instructions that tell the computer how to work. Related terms such as programs, applications, scripts, and instruction sets all fall under this category. Installing new programs or applications on your computer is synonymous with installing new _______ on your computer.

Motherboard

Holds the computer's hardware subcomponents. A circuit board containing the principal components of a computer or other device, with connectors into which other circuit boards can be slotted.

ROM

Read only memory or permanent memory. This is memory containing hardwired instructions that the computer uses when it boots up, before the system software loads. In PCs, the instructions are read from a small program in the ROM, called the BIOS (Basic Input/Output System)

PC

Stands for "Personal computer" and is best suited for general business functions. It is what you use in this classroom on a daily basis to complete your school work.

Storage

Stores results (saving). A technology consisting of computer components and recording media used to retain (save) digital data.

Memory

Tells the processor how to store and use immediate data. RAM and ROM are types of this.

Processor (microprocessor)

The "brains" of the computer. A small chip that resides in computers and other electronic devices. Its basic job is to receive input and provide the appropriate output. While this may seem like a simple task, modern _________ can handle trillions of calculations per second.

Operating System (OS)

The foundation software that runs the computer. Application programs usually require this to function.

Hardware

The physical parts of the computer. Refers to the physical parts or components of a computer such as the monitor, mouse, keyboard, computer data storage, hard drive disk (HDD), system unit (graphic cards, sound cards, memory, motherboard and chips), etc. all of which are physical objects that can be touched.

Input

To accept data. Any peripheral (piece of computer hardware equipment) used to provide data and control signals to an information processing system (such as a computer).

Processing

Processes data. An instance of a computer program that is being executed. It contains the program code and its current activity.

Output

Produces Output. Any piece of computer hardware equipment used to communicate the results of data processing carried out by an information processing system (such as a computer) which converts the electronically generated information into human-readable form.

RAM

Random access memory, which is a type of temporary memory. Every time you open a program, it gets loaded from the hard drive into the _______. This is because reading data from the _____ is much faster than reading data from the hard drive.