Introduction to Computers: Fill in the Blank

Every computer contains an internal clock, which tells us how fast the CPU can process data. The higher the _________, the faster the CPU.

Clock Rate

During the __________ stage, the software is released for distribution to those who will be using it.

Deployment

The cord connecting your computer to the Internet is called a(n)_______. It looks similar to a phone cord, with wider connectors on the ends.

Ethernet cable

LED monitors take advantage of the ________________ technology, which provides better quality images.

Light Emitting Diodes

We also have a ________ card and a ______card. Their job is to allow the computer to connect to the Internet.

Network, Wireless

______________ attach the power supply to the internal devices. Their job is to supply and distribute power to the computer components.

Power Connectors

The __________converts power from the electrical outlet to the lower voltages your computer parts need.

Power Supply

Sometimes adding more _____ can make more difference than upgrading the CPU.

RAM

On a PC, the _____ stores the BIOS (Basic Input /Output System).

ROM

_____________, on the other hand, are responsible for transferring data between the mother board and storage devices.

Storage Device Cables

Many printers use a _______________, or USB cable to connect to the computer.

Universal Serial Bus

_______________ is a set of computer programs which instruct computer how to complete tasks.

computer software

A ____________ is a program which copies itself and spreads from one computer to another.

computer virus

Hardware maintenance consists of keeping the physical parts of computer______, ______ and _______.

cool, clean, dry

There are certain things which may be beyond your ability. For example, upgrading your ____ can be a tricky task. If it is not done correctly, your computer can be left useless.

cpu

__________, also called defragmenting, works to clean up your hard drive.

defraggin

________ and ________ computers are the most commonly seen microcomputers.

desktop and laptop

External devices, like printers and scanners, need a program called a ________ to help the computer communicate with the device.

driver

Most monitors connect to the computer through a _____________ connector.

dvi

Once you open a file or a program, the software and data will load from the ___________ back to the ______.

hard drive, RAM

Special cleaning solutions can be found at electronic stores. Never use___________ cleaners or _______, as these could ruin computer devices.

household, water

During the _____________stage, the developer begins writing the code, or programming language, for the project.

implementation

The computer's main hard drive is a(n) ___________, because it is located inside the computer.

internal software

If you are a person who travels a lot, or if you have to use your computer in different places, a ________ is a good choice.

laptop

If you are unable to install the program or you get an error, start by making sure your computer meets the ______________.

minimum requirements

Once you open the computer, the first thing you see is a big board, which holds all the components together. We call it the ________, or some times the ____________.

motherboard, mainboard

Microcomputers, different from those giant mainframes and supercomputers, are designed for individuals. In fact, the microcomputer is often called the ______________.

personal computer

During the _______ stage, the software developer identifies the software's requirements, or what it should accomplish.

planning

Because your computer will have many different electronic components, a(n) _________ may be necessary in order to have enough outlets to power a lot of your computer hardware.

power strip

Never open the _____________ to try to fix it, the electricity inside could seriously injure you.

power supply

______________ software assists you in writing computer programs or instructions which make a computer perform certain tasks.

programming

Your new software might require a key or a(n) ____________, which can usually be found either on the software instruction sheet or the back of the CD- or DVD-ROM case.

serial number

n the event of a power surge, such as a lightning strike, the _________ will protect your computer electronics from massive electrical damage.

surge protector

Like a mouse, a touchpad is a pointing device. It features a ___________, which can translate the motion of your fingers to movement on screen.

tactile sensor

Most computers come with a one year warranty. If you think this is not enough, you can choose to purchase an extended warranty from the manufacturer, the retailer, or a _____________.

third party seller

All keyboards are made up of the main ______ area, the ______ keys and the _______ keys. Most desktop and some larger laptop computer keyboards contain a 10-key _______ pad.

typing, function, control, and numeric

Just like human beings, computers communicate through receiving and sending messages. We refer to those message receiving components as _______devices and those which send messages as _____ devices.

input, output