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Module 1 L 1
Computers and computer systems
Term | Definition |
---|---|
Arithmetic/logic unit (ALU) | Section of central processing unit that performs arithmetic computations and logical operations. |
Binary | Machine language that is made up of only 0s and 1s. |
Bit | A single zero or a single one in machine language. |
BIOS ROM | A type of computer chip where instructions for starting up the computer are stored. |
Byte | A single character in computer language, eight bits are equal to one byte. |
Central processing unit (CPU) | Microprocessor that is the brains of the computer. |
Circuit Board | Thin plate or board that contains electronic components. |
Computer | An electronic device that recieves data (input), processes data, stores data, and produces a result (output). |
Control Unit | Coordinates all of the processor's activities. |
Data | Text, numbers, sound, images, or video. |
Dual-core processor | A single chip that contains two seperate processors. |
Embedded Computers | Perform specific tasks and can be found in a range of devices such as a digital watch or an MP3 player. |
File allocation table (FAT) | A special log on a magnetic storage disk where each track is labeled and given a location. |
Hard disks | Used to store data inside the computer; removable versions also available. |
Hardware | The acual machine-wires, transistors, and circuits-in a computer system. |
Information | Output produced by a computer. |
Memory | Short term or long term way to store a file or information. |
Mobile devices | Small general-purpose computers that can generally fit into the palm of your hand. |
Motherboard | Circuit board mounted in a computer case that contains integral components. |
Multicore processor | An expansion that provides for more than two seperate processors. |
Network drive | A hard drive or a tape drive located on a computer other than the user's local system. |
Notebook computers | Small personal computers that contain the monitor with a built-in keyboard; also called a laptop computers. |
Random access memory (RAM) | Short term memory located on the motherboard that the computer can read from and write to temporarily. |
Read-only Memory (ROM) | Stores specific instructions needed for computer operations. |
Remote storage | Used to extend disk speace on a server and eliminate the addition of more hard disks or other storage devices. |
Server | A general-purpose computer that can support few users or hundreds of user. |
Software | Instructions or programs for controlling the computer. |
Supercomputer | Fastest type of computer, used for specialized applications to process enormous amounts of data. |
Tablet PC | Personal computer similar in size and thickness to a notepad. |
Tracks | Circles on a magneticstorage device where data is stored or retrieved. |