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Hardware terminology
Hardware Stufs
Term | Definition |
---|---|
Hardware | Computer's physical components |
Software | Instruction set for hardware, uses hardware for input, processing, storage, and output |
Binary Number System | Writes and reads in two states |
Bit | Short for “binary digit”, smallest unit of computing |
Byte | Eight bits, Used for counting, calculation, storage operations |
Motherboard | Largest, most important circuit board |
CPU | Reads input, processes data, writes data to storage |
Chipset | Group of microchips on the motherboard controlling data flow |
Primary Storage | Temporary storage used by the processor |
Secondary Storage | Enables data to persist after machine turned off |
RAM | Temporary Memory for the Processor. Also known as Primary Storage |
Hard Drives | Long-Term storage of memory, also know as Secondary Storage |
Optical Drives | Reads and writes information on a disk |
Traces | Fine lines on top and bottom of the motherboard’s surface |
Bus | System of pathways, transmission protocols |
Video Card | provides a port for the monitor |
Sound Card | provides ports for speakers and microphones |
Network Card | provides a port for a network cable |
Power Supply | Converts AC voltage external source to DC voltage |
BIOS (Basic Input/Output System | Data and instructions stored on ROM chips |
CMOS RAM | includes date, time, port configurations Flash ROM |