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Computer Hardware
Computer Hardware terms
Term | Definition |
---|---|
CPU | The chip located inside the system unit of a computer that performs the processing for a computer |
GigaHertz | Speed of a processor counted by billions of ticks per second |
MegaHertz | Speed of a processor counted by millions of ticks per second |
System unit | The container that holds the motherboard and keeps components safe. |
Motherboard | The main circuit board of a computer to which all computer system components connect. |
BIOS | Basic Input/Output System Lowest level software in the computer that acts as an interface between the hardware of the operating system. |
ROM | Read Only Memory Contain permanently written data called firmware that loads the operating system when first powered on |
Cache | Small, high speed memory between the processor and system memory. Faster than RAM |
Hard disk drive | A storage system consisting of one or more metal magnetic disks permanently sealed with an access mechanism inside its drive |
Megabyte | Storage measurement in millions of bytes |
Gigabyte | Storage measurement in billions of bytes |
Terabyte | Storage measurement in trillions of bytes |
RAM | provides a high speed, temporary location for the computer to hold data and program instructions |
Bit | The smallest unit of computing, consists of either a 0 or 1 (on or off) |
Byte | 8 bits makes 1 byte |
Video Graphic Adapter | Enables the connection of a monitor and may provide additional graphics capabilities |
Network Interface card | Enables a PC to connect to a network |
Optical Drive | Adds read and write capabilities to your computer for portability |
Moniter | A display device that projects images onto a display screen |