unit 1

Server

A computer that "serves up" information to other computers on a network. Many businesses have them that employees can use to store and share files. It can look like a regular desktop computer, or it can be much larger. They also play an important role in making the Internet work: They are where webpages are stored. When you use your browser to click a link, a web _______ delivers the page you requested.

Game Consoles

A specialized kind of computer that is used for playing video games. Although they are not as fully featured as desktop computers, many newer consoles, such as the Nintendo Wii, allow you to perform nongaming tasks like browsing the Web.

Computer

An electronic device that manipulates information, or data. It has the ability to store, retrieve, and process data.You can use a it to type documents, send email, and browse the Web. You can also use it to handle spreadsheets, accounting, database management, presentations, games, and more.

Hardware

Any part of your computer that has a physical structure, such as the computer monitor or keyboard.

Software

Any set of instructions that tells the hardware what to do. It is what guides the hardware and tells it how to accomplish each task. Some examples include web browsers, games, and word processors such as Microsoft Word.

Televisions

Many now include applications (or apps) that let you access various types of online content. For example, you can view your Facebook news feed or watch streaming movies on Netflix.

Desktop Computer

Many people use them at work, home, school, or the library. They can be small, medium, or large in style, and they usually sit on a desk. Once you add a monitor, mouse, and keyboard, you have what is typically known as a _______________.

Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer (ENIAC)

The first electronic computer __________________ was developed in 1946. It took up 1,800 square feet and weighed 30 tons.

Laptop Computer

The second type of computer you may be familiar with is a ______________. They are battery- or AC-powered personal computers that are more portable than desktop computers, allowing you to use them almost anywhere.

Tablet Computer

These use a touch-sensitive screen for typing and navigation. Because they don't require a keyboard or mouse, they are even more portable than laptops. The iPad is an example of a one.

Mobile Phones

They can do a lot of things computers can do, such as browsing the Internet and playing games. They are often called smartphones.

Mac

This computer was introduced in 1984, and it was the first widely sold personal computer with a Graphical User Interface, or GUI (pronounced gooey). They are made by one company, Apple Inc., and they almost always use the ____ OS X operating system.

PC

This type of computer began with the original IBM ____ that was introduced in 1981. Other companies began to create similar computers, which were called IBM ____ Compatible. Today, this is the most common type of personal computer, and it typically includes the Microsoft Windows operating system.