Intro to IT (Deck 1)

Virtual Machine

A VM (virtual machine) is a software program that is capable imitating a physical device, such as a computer. A good example of a software application capable of doing this is VMware.

Commands vs. Programs

A command is an instruction that is given to a program or operating system to perform an action.

Programming language

A programming language is a computer language programmers use to develop software programs, scripts, or other sets of instructions for computers to execute. Although many languages share similarities, each has its own syntax. Once a programmer learns the languages rules, syntax, and structure, they write the source code in a text editor or IDE. Then, the programmer often compiles the code into machine language that can be understood by the computer. Scripting languages, which do not require a compiler, use an interpreter to execute the script. The top 10 languages are: JavaScript, Java, Python, PHP, C++, C#, TypeScript, Shell, C, and Ruby.

Script

A script or scripting language is a computer language with several commands within a file capable of being executed without being compiled. Examples of server-side scripting languages include Perl, PHP, and Python. The best example of a client side scripting language is JavaScript. Advantages of scripts: - Open source, allowing users to view and edit the script if needed. - Does not require the file to be compiled, but may be when necessary. - Easy to learn and write. - Easy to port between different operating systems. - Much faster to develop than an actual program - some individuals and companies write scripts as a prototype for actual programs. Disadvantages of scripts: - Open source, allows others to view source code, which may be prohibited by some companies. - Requires the user to install an interpreter or separate program before the script can run. - In some situations, they may be slower than a compiled program.

Shell

A shell is a software program used to interpret commands that are input via a command-line interface, enabling users to interact with a computer by giving it instructions. Some examples of shells are MS-DOS Shell (command.com), csh, ksh, PowerShell, sh, and tcsh.

Hardware

Abbreviated as HW, hardware is best described as any physical component of a computer system containing a circuit board, ICs, or other electronics. A perfect example of hardware is the screen on which you are viewing this page. Whether it be a monitor, tablet, or smartphone, it is hardware. Without any hardware, your computer would not exist, and software could not be used. Below is a list of external hardware or hardware found outside a computer. Flat-panel, monitor, and LCD Gamepad Joystick Keyboard Microphone Mouse Printer Projector Scanner Speakers USB thumb drive Below is a list of internal hardware or hardware found inside a computer. CPU (central processing unit). Drive (e.g., Blu-ray, CD-ROM, DVD, floppy drive, hard drive, and SSD). Fan (heat sink) Modem Motherboard Network card Power supply RAM Sound card Video card

Commercial Software

Any software that must be purchased to be used. The complete opposite of a commercial software program would be freeware.

Third Generation (1965 - 1971)

Integrated Circuits

Technology

Sometimes abbreviated as tech, technology is knowledge or a set of tools that helps make things easier or resolve problems.

Programs vs. Scripts

When a program is created, it's compiled into a language that the computer can understand. Once compiled, the program does not need any other programs to run as long as the computer has the required operating system and platform. A script is not compiled and needs an interpreter to translate the script into something the computer understands. Without an interpreter, the script cannot run on the computer. However, once installed, a script can run on any platform without needing to be re-written.

Computer systems

When referring to a computer, system or system unit is used to distinguish the complete computer. See our computer definition for full information about a computer. When referring to an Apple Macintosh, System is the computer's operating system, or macOS. System is commonly followed by a number, for example, System 7.

Kernel

When referring to an operating system, the kernel is the first section of the operating system to load into memory. As the center of the operating system, the kernel needs to be small, efficient, and loaded into a protected area in memory, to prevent overwriting. It can be responsible for such things as disk drive management, interrupt handler, file management, memory management, process management, etc.

Integrity

When referring to network or data security, integrity, also know as data integrity, is data that is intact. More specifically, data that may only be accessed, modified, or copied by those who are authorized to do so. Any data with lost integrity is said to be compromised.

Wisdom

Wisdom is knowing the right thing to do.

Service

With computer software, a service is software that performs automated tasks, responds to hardware events, or listens for data requests from other software. In a user's operating system, these services are often loaded automatically at startup, and run in the background, without user interaction. For example, in Microsoft Windows, many services are loaded to accomplish different functions. They respond to user keyboard shortcuts, index and optimize the file system, and communicate with other devices on the local network. An example of a Windows service is Messenger, which allows users to send messages to other Windows users.

Component

With hardware, a component or part is one hardware unit designed to connect to and function as part of a larger system. For example, an integrated circuit can be considered a component of the motherboard, and a video card can be considered a computer component. Components in a computer: CPU (processor). Disc drive: CD-ROM, CD-RW, DVD, or Blu-ray. Expansion card: ISA, PCI, AGP, and PCI-X. Fan (heat sink). Floppy drive. Hard drive: HDD and SSD. IDE cable (data cable), new computers use SATA. Motherboard (see page for motherboard components). PSU (power supply). RAM (memory).

Compiling vs. Interpreting

A compiled program generally performs better for the end user, because its machine code can be highly optimized during the compilation process. In contrast, interpreted languages can offer unique benefits to the programmer. Many computer languages can be either compiled or interpreted.

Developer

A dev or developer is an individual who is responsible for creating or working on the development of a product or service. Most developers utilize one or more programming languages to develop their product or service. They may work alone or on a team, and may develop part of or all a product or service. Companies like Microsoft and Oracle employ many developers, due to the complexity of the products and services they develop and sell to customers. For example, a software developer is an individual that may create a new software program or maintain an existing software program. A web developer is an individual that creates or updates web pages, utilizing HTML, JavaScript, or other web programming languages. Alternatively called a coder or software developer, a programmer is an individual who writes code or creates software for a living. Many programmers who program for a profession have a college degree in computer science. While each job differs, most programmers are responsible for creating the software program or parts of a program, debugging problems, or adding onto a program. Ada Lovelace is credited as being the world's first computer programmer.

Hard Drive

A hard disk drive (sometimes abbreviated as a hard drive, HD, or HDD) is a non-volatile data storage device. It is usually installed internally in a computer, attached directly to the disk controller of the computer's motherboard. It contains one or more platters, housed inside of an air-sealed casing. Data is written to the platters using a magnetic head, which moves rapidly over them as they spin. Internal hard disks reside in a drive bay, connected to the motherboard using an ATA, SCSI, or SATA cable. They are powered by a connection to the computer's PSU (power supply unit).

Pointing device

A pointing device, or sometimes called a pointing tool, is a hardware input device that allows the user to move the mouse cursor in a computer program or GUI operating system. Using a pointing device, you can point at or manipulate any object or text on the screen. For example, using a pointing device you could point at and select an icon from a list of icons. Below are examples of pointing devices that can be used on a computer. Camera mouse Computer mouse (shown in picture) Finger on touch screen Footmouse J mouse Joystick Leap Motion Light pen (pen) Stylus Trackball TrackPoint Touchpad Keyboard (Can be used to move the mouse pointer.)

Translator

A translator or language translation program is a software application or service that translates text or speech from one language to another. Translators can also interpret programming code, converting it to instructions that a computer can understand and execute. For example, a compiler is an example of a translator that takes a programming language (e.g., C++) and translates into machine language or assembly language the computer can understand.

Utility

A utility or software utility is computer system software intended to analyze, configure, monitor, or help maintain a computer. Usually, a utility is smaller than a standard program and may be included with an operating system or installed separately.

Generation

Abbreviated as gen, generation refers to a computer or components released because of new hardware or technology. For example, the IBM-compatible Intel Pentium and Intel Pentium II are two different generations of computer processors. There are also multiple generations of computers. The ENIAC and Apple II are examples. When a new generation of technology is released, it may include new capabilities and features that make previous generations incompatible or obsolete. Computer generations are based on when major technological changes in computers occurred, like the use of vacuum tubes, transistors, and the microprocessor.

Technician

Also called a support specialist, a technician is an individual capable of providing technical support or assistance to users with computer hardware or software. Commonly, a technician has years of experience with computers, software, and related hardware.

Shareware

Also called demoware or trial software, shareware is a limited version of software intended to demonstrate its features on the user's computer before purchase. It can be downloaded and installed on the user's computer, and shared with other users, free of charge. If the user likes the software, the full-featured version of the software can be purchased from the software publisher. The idea behind shareware is "try before you buy." The shareware model lets you try the program to make sure it's something you find useful or enjoy. And importantly, it lets you make sure the program works on your computer before you spend any money on it.

CPU

Alternately called a processor, central processor, or microprocessor, the CPU (pronounced sea-pea-you) is the central processing unit of the computer. A computer's CPU handles all instructions it receives from hardware and software running on the computer. For example, the CPU processed the instructions to use a web browser to open and display this web page on your computer.

System unit

Alternatively called a box, main unit, and system box, a system unit is the case containing all the main parts of a computer.

Cable

Alternatively called a cord, connector or plug, a cable is one or more wires covered in plastic that transmit power or data between devices or locations. The picture is an example of what the power cord may look like for your computer or monitor. The power cord is one example of thousands of other cables found in and around computers. There are two main types of computer cables, a data cable and a power cable. A data cable is a cable that provides communication between devices. For example, the data cable (i.e., DVI, HDMI, or VGA) that connects your monitor to your computer allow it to display a picture on the monitor. Other popular examples of data cables include the CAT5, IDE/EIDE, SATA, and USB cables. A power cable is any cable that powers the device. For example, the power cord that connects to your computer and a Molex style cable inside the computer are examples of power cables.

Administrator

Alternatively called an admin, administrator, and gatekeeper, root is a superuser account on a computer or network and has complete control. When referring to a Unix and Linux computer, this user is often known as root. On a Windows computer and on a network, this user is often called an administrator. However, each of these terms is interchangeable. When dealing with computers, there can be many different administrators in a company. Listed below are a few examples of the different administrators a company may employ. Types of network administrators: - DBA (Database Administrator) - IT, LAN, or Network Administrator - Linux Administrator - Individual responsible for Linux systems. - System Administrator (sysadmin) - Individual responsible for managing the users and system settings of computers.

Peripheral

Alternatively called an auxiliary device, a peripheral is a hardware input device or output device that gives a computer additional functionality. Peripheral devices, however, are not essential for the computer to perform its basic tasks; they are an enhancement to the user's experience.

User

Alternatively called an end user, a user is any individual who is not involved with supporting or developing a computer or service. For example, you are the end-user of the computer you are using when you call technical support for help. Generic types of users: Computer users can be broken up into the following groups based on how experienced the computer user is with a computer. Advanced user, hardcore user or power user: - A user with advanced knowledge about computers software and hardware that require no assistance. Casual user or regular user: - A user who has some computer experience and can navigate and use the computer without much assistance. Basic user, beginner, novice, or newbie: - A user who started using a computer and requires lots of assistance.

Freeware

Alternatively called free software, freeware is software that is made available 100% free as long as it remains unmodified. The complete opposite of freeware is commercial software. Unlike open-source software, freeware cannot be modified and is often only licensed to be used by non-commercial users.

IPOS

Alternatively called information processing cycle, IPOS (input, processing, output, and storage) is a series of events that allow a computer to work. Information processing cycle steps Below are brief explanations of each step in the information processing cycle, with examples of the steps. Input Information (input) is entered into the computer using an input device. For example, using a keyboard to type a person's name into a computer. Processing Perform operations (processing) on the data to get information. For example, the computer processes the user's name entered in the input step. Output Present the results (output) of what was processed. For example, if the computer processed the inputted user's name and found results, those results would be displayed. Storage Store the data and information in temporary storage while used, and then optionally on a storage device for permanent storage. For example, if after inputting the person's name, the person's record was opened and updated, it could be stored for future reference.

RAM

Alternatively called main memory, primary memory, or system memory, RAM (random-access memory) is a hardware device that allows information to be stored and retrieved on a computer. RAM is usually associated with DRAM, a type of memory module. Because data is accessed randomly instead of sequentially like it is on a CD or hard drive, access times are much faster. However, unlike ROM, RAM is a volatile memory and requires power to keep the data accessible. If the computer is turned off, all data contained in RAM is lost. Types of RAM: Over the evolution of the computer, there have been different variations of RAM. Examples are DIMM, RIMM, SIMM, SO-DIMM, and SOO-RIMM.

Support

Alternatively called technical support and user support, support describes a group of individuals or help documents used to assist users with a product or group of products. Support is commonly required when an end user experiences a problem or wants additional information on a product. When making a phone call or sending an e-mail, you're making a support request. These requests are handled by one or more technicians who often track the request using a ticket or unique id. For example, when sending Computer Hope a question, it's assigned a CHID number (e.g., CHID: 123456). That unique number can track the progress of the answer to the question and reference the history of the question.

Bus

Alternatively known as an address bus, data bus, control bus, or local bus, a bus is a link between components or devices connected to a computer. For example, a bus carries data between a CPU and the system memory via the motherboard.

Operating System

An operating system or OS is software installed on a computer's hard drive that enables the computer hardware to communicate and operate with the computer software. Without a computer operating system, a computer and software programs would be useless. With earlier computers, the user interacted with them using a command line interface, which required memorization of commands. Today, almost every computer uses a GUI (Graphical User Interface) operating system that's easy to use and operate.

Program

As a verb, to program a computer is the writing of instructions, statements, or commands that instruct the computer how to process data. There are several programming languages used to program a computer. As a noun, a program, also called an application or software, is a set of instructions that process input, manipulate data, and output a result. For example, Microsoft Word is a word processing program that allows users to create and write documents.

OOP

Coined by Alan Kay, object-oriented programming, also known as OOP or OO programming, is a programming language paradigm. In an object-oriented program, the code can be structured as reusable components, some of which may share properties or behaviors.Object-oriented programming can improve the developer's ability to quickly prototype software, extend existing functionality, refactor the code, and maintain it as it's developed.

Compiled

Compile is the creation of an executable program from code written in a compiled programming language. Compiling allows the computer to run and understand the program without needing programming software used to create it. When a program is compiled it is often compiled for a specific platform (e.g., IBM platform) that works with IBM compatible computers, but not other platforms (e.g., Apple platform).

Memory

Computer memory is any physical device capable of storing information temporarily, like RAM (random access memory), or permanently, like ROM (read-only memory). Memory devices utilize integrated circuits and are used by operating systems, software, and hardware.

Analysis

Data analysis is when a data analyst collects, cleans, interprets, and models data to help companies solve questions and problems related to that data. In general, an analysis is a detailed examination of anything with the hope of learning as much as possible.

Help desk

Department or Job designed with assisting users with their computer-related questions and issues. A help desk only supports employees in the same company or third-party companies under special contacts.

Ethical Computing

IT is a system of moral principles a person should follow while using a computer at their home, school, and office. The Computer Professionals for Social Responsibility has developed the following Ten Commandments of Computer Ethics as a guideline of how to be ethical on your computer. Ten Commandments of Computer Ethics 1. Thou shalt not use a computer to harm other people. 2. Thou shalt not interfere with other people's computer work. 3. Thou shalt not snoop around in other people's computer files. 4. Thou shalt not use a computer to steal. 5. Thou shalt not use a computer to bear false witness. 6. Thou shalt not copy or use proprietary software you have not purchased. 7. Thou shalt not use other people's computer resources without authorization or proper compensation. 8. Thou shalt not appropriate other people's intellectual output. 9. Thou shalt think about the social consequences of the program you are writing or the system you are designing. 10. Thou shalt always use a computer in ways that insure consideration and respect for your fellow humans.

Interpreted

In computer programming, an interpreted programming language does not need to be compiled before its programs are executed. Instead, another program, called an interpreter, reads the program line by line, translates, and executes it on the fly at run time.

Hub

In general, a hub refers to a hardware device that enables multiple devices or connections to connect to a computer. An example is a USB hub, which allows multiple USB devices to connect to one computer, even though that computer may only have a few USB connections.

Data

In general, data is any set of characters that is gathered and translated for some purpose, usually analysis. If data is not put into context, it doesn't do anything to a human or computer. There are multiple types of data. Some more common types of data include the following: - Single character - Boolean (true or false) - Text (string) - Number (integer or floating-point) - Picture - Sound - Video

Knowledge

In general, knowledge is the familiarity or understanding of a topic that's gained through experience or study. For example, someone with computer knowledge has a broad understanding of computers, and the software and hardware used on a computer. _______________________________________________________________________________________ Knowledge is a dynamic combination of experience, values, contextual information, expert insight, and grounded intuition that provides an environment and framework for evaluating and incorporating new experiences and information. It originates and is applied in the minds of knowers. The key term associated with knowledge is context.

System clock

In general, the clock refers to a microchip that regulates the timing and speed of all computer functions. In the chip is a crystal that vibrates at a specific frequency when electricity is applied. The shortest time interval any computer can observer is one clock cycle, or one vibration of the clock chip. The speed of a computer processor is measured in clock speed, for example, 1 MHz is one million cycles, or vibrations, a second. 2 GHz is two billion cycles, or vibrations, a second. A system clock or system timer is a continuous pulse that helps the computer clock keep the correct time. It keeps count of the number of seconds elapsed since the epoch, and uses that data to calculate the current date and time.

Information

Information is defined in terms of data, information, knowledge, and wisdom. Information is a collection of processed data from a variety of sources.

Fourth Generation (1971 - Present)

Microprocessors

Device drivers

More commonly known as a driver, a device driver or hardware driver is a group of files that enable one or more hardware devices to communicate with the computer's operating system. Without drivers, the computer could not send and receive data correctly to hardware devices like printers.

Open source

Open source describes a program or file that can be freely modified by anyone. Open source allows users or organizations to adjust the program's functionality to perform for their specific needs. There are numerous open source licensing agreements a program or file may follow. Therefore, it is best to refer to the appropriate documentation to see what the original developer allows and prohibits.

Structured programming

Programmer is limited to high level control constructs such as while loops, for loops, and if/else statements and not allowed to use primitive GOTO statements.

Information Technology*

Pronounced as two separate letters (I-T), IT is short for information technology (infotech) and is a department, group of people, or person responsible for a companies technical support. This department is also sometimes known as MIS. _______________________________________________________________________ Information technology is the technology used to create, maintain, and make information available. IT manages and supports the technologies needed to develop, maintain, and use computer hardware and software, along with network connectivity and performance.

Information Systems

Pronounced as two separate letters (i-s), IS is also short for information systems or information services. The IS team or department is responsible for computer, networking, and data management in the company. In some industries, informations systems is the same as IT (information technology).

Proprietary Software

Proprietary software, also known as closed-source software, is copyrighted software that prohibits the redistribution or modification of its program. Legal information about a program is in the license agreement. Proprietary software is also software designed to work on a specific hardware platform or operating system.

Raw Data

Raw data is data that's collected and stored, but not yet been processed. For example, many sites collect data about each person who visits. The information they collect is raw until it is processed and sorted to make it easier for the web designer to understand.

BIOS

Short for Basic Input/Output System, the BIOS (pronounced bye-oss) is a ROM chip found on motherboards that lets you access and set up your computer system at the most basic level. What is included in a BIOS? The BIOS includes instructions on how to load basic computer hardware. It includes a test known as a POST (Power-On Self-Test) that helps verify the computer meets the requirements to boot up properly. If the computer does not pass the POST, you hear a combination of beeps indicating what is malfunctioning in the computer. What are the four main functions of a PC BIOS? POST - Test the computer hardware and make sure no errors exist before loading the operating system. Additional information on the POST is available on our POST and beep codes page. Bootstrap Loader - Locate the operating system. If a capable operating system is located, the BIOS will pass control to it. BIOS drivers - Low-level drivers that give the computer basic operational control over your computer's hardware. BIOS setup or CMOS setup - Configuration program that lets you configure hardware settings, including system settings, such as date, time, and computer passwords.

SQL

Short for Structured Query Language, SQL, originally known as SEQUEL (structured English query language), was developed by Dr. Edgar F. Codd at the IBM research center in 1974. Today, SQL has become the de facto standard database language. SQL statements are used to tell the database server to perform an action or retrieve data.

UPS

Short for uninterruptible power supply, UPS is a hardware device that provides a backup power source in case of a power outage (blackout), brownout, or a surge in power. A UPS provides enough power to prevent unsaved work from being lost with a power failure by allowing the user to save work and shut down. If the outage is short, the computer remains running during the outage.

Software

Sometimes abbreviated as SW and S/W, software is a collection of instructions that enable the user to interact with a computer, its hardware, or perform tasks. Without software, most computers would be useless. For example, without your Internet browser software, you could not surf the Internet or read this page. Without an operating system, the browser could not run on your computer.

Assembly language

Sometimes called assembly or ASM, an assembly language is a low-level programming language. Programs written in assembly languages are compiled by an assembler. Every assembler has its own assembly language, which is designed for one specific computer architecture.

Machine language

Sometimes called machine code or object code, machine language is a collection of binary digits or bits that the computer reads and interprets. Machine language is the only language a computer can understand. The exact machine language for a program or action can differ by operating system. The specific operating system dictates how a compiler writes a program or action into machine language. Computer programs are written in one or more programming languages, like C++, Java, or Visual Basic. A computer cannot directly understand the programming languages used to create computer programs, so the program code must be compiled. Once a program's code is compiled, the computer can understand it because the program's code is turned into machine language.

System Software

System software is software on a computer that is designed to control and work with computer hardware. The two main types or categories of system software are the operating system and the software installed with the operating system, often called utility software. In some cases, the operating system and utility software depend on each other to function properly. Some system software is used directly by users and other system software works in the background. System software can allow users to interact directly with hardware functionality, like the Device Manager and many of the utilities found in the Control Panel

Moore's Law

The observation was that ever since the integrated circuit was developed, the number of transistors contained in them has doubled every two years. Dr. Gordon Moore has admitted that his law cannot be sustained indefinitely and that eventually transistors would reach the limits of miniaturization.

Second Generation (1959 - 1965)

Transistors

First Generation (1946 - 1959)

Vacuum Tubes

Apps vs. Programs

When Apple introduced the iPhone, they popularized the term "app," but an app (application) and program are the same thing. Today, most people think of an "app" as an application on an Apple computer, smartphone, or tablet. A program is thought of as something that runs on a computer (e.g., a Windows computer).