What is a Computer Vocabulary Terms
Byte
One of these is the equivalent of 8 bits of data
Bit
a binary digit, the smallest unit of data, a 1 or a 0
General purpose computer
a computer that can run many different programs (e.g. a smartphone)
Special purpose computer
a computer that has a fixed program (e.g. a calculator, a watch, a car's brakes)
Computer
a machine that processes information under the control of a program
High-level language
a programming language that is human readable (App Inventor) and provides the programmer with easy to understand abstractions
Machine language
a programming language that is machine readable (binary code), closer to the machine hardware, and provides abstractions that are difficult for the programmer to understand.
Program
a sequence of instructions that controls the computer. To run, it must be loaded into the computer's memory where the CPU executes it one instruction at a time.
Compiler
a software that translates source code (human readable code) into binary code
RAM (random access memory)
also called main memory stores the computer's programs and data temporarily while power is on
Input devices
bring data and programs into the computer (e.g. mouse, keyboard)
Motherboard
houses the computer's main electronic components
Operating System
is a collection of computer software that manages hardware resources and provides common services for computer programs. MacOS, Windows, Android, Linux, iOS are examples of this
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
is the hardware that carries out the instructions of a computer program
Integrated Circuit
packed with millions of electronic components
Memory
physical device used to store information for use in a computer or other digital electronic device (e.g. disk drive, flash drive)
Applications
program or group of programs designed for end users such as Firefox, Excel, Word, Angry Birds, etc.
Chips
the computer's electrical components are composed of these very tiny integrated circuits (ICs)
Hardware
the computer's electronic and mechanical components
Software
the programs that control computers
Output devices
transmit data to other computers or to users (e.g. printer, monitor)