Hardware and Software

CPU

Central Processing Unit; the brain of the computer.

Output

Displays the results of processing.

Dot Matrix Printer

Uses a pattern of dots to form words and images on paper.

CD-ROM

a compact disk that reads only memory.

Storage

a device that holds data.

Hard Disk/Drive

a device that holds information such as software and files.

File

a document stored on a disk.

PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants)

a handheld device that is often used in conjunction with a desktop or other PC.

Hard Copy

a printed copy of output.

Virus Protection Software

a program that protects a computer from damaging computer viruses.

Microcomputer

a small computer in which the central processing unit or CPU is a single silicon chip.

Disk

a storage device.

Computer

an electronic device that receives data, processes data, stores data, and produces a result.

Local Area Networks (LAN)

computers connected together in a relatively close location such as in the same building or department.

Keyboard

contains numbers, letters, symbols, and function keys; looks like a typewriter.

System software

controls the operation of a computer.

Laptop computer

designed to be small enough and light enough to be used on your lap.

Notebook computer

designed to be used on a desktop but still small enough to be portable.

Desktop computer

designed to be used on a desktop.

Processing

executes instructions given to the computer.

IPOS

input, processing, output, and storage.

Supercomputer

most powerful computer used to do things like predict hurricanes and navigate satellites.

Data

new facts entered into the computer to be processed, which consist of text, numbers, sounds, and images.

Soft Copy

output that is not in printed form; such as what is seen on the monitor.

Hardware

physical parts of a computer.

Web TV

provides easy access to the Internet without a having to have a traditional computer.

RAM

random access memory; temporary storage.

ROM

read only memory; Permanent storage.

Personal computers

smaller and less powerful than the other types of computers.

Application software

software designed to meet the user's need; performs a specific task.

Inkjet printer

sprays ink through small holes to form words and images on paper.

File server

the central computer where the data and software for local area network computers are stored.

Receiver

the computer receiving the message.

Sender

the computer that is sending the message.

Information Processing Cycle

the interactions of humans and computers that consist of input, processing, output, and storage.

Channel

the media that carries or transports the message. (telephone wire, coaxial cable, microwave signal, or fiber optic)

Control Unit

the part of the computer that directs instructions.

Input

the process of entering information into a computer.

Protocol

the rules that govern the orderly transfer of data sent.

Ergonomics

the science of designing equipment and workspace for a comfortable and safe working environment

Mainframes and minicomputers

used by business and government to process large amounts of information.

Laser Printer

uses light beams to form words and images on paper.

Network

when computers are connected to other computers that can share information and sometimes hardware (printers)

Wide Area Networks (WAN)

when local area networks are expanded to include several local area networks within a city, state, region, territory, country, continent, or the world.

Modem

Modulator - Demodulator. A device that connects the computer to a telephone line.

Service Technician

One who repairs hardware and software problems.

Scanner

Prints copies like a photocopier.

Software

Programs that tell the computer what to do.