Question | Answer |
Application software | also called productivity software; helps you perform a specific task, such as word processing or spreadsheets |
Byte | a unit of computer information or data-storage capacity that consists of a group of eight bits and that is used especially to represent an alphanumeric character |
Central Processing Unit (CPU) | also known as the microprocessor; the brains of the computer |
Computer | electronic device that receives data, processes data, stores data, and produces a result |
File extension | the part of a file name that comes after the period called a “dot” |
File name | the name assigned for identification |
Folder | a way to organize files into manageable groups |
Hardware | the tangible, physical equipment that can be seen and touched |
Hertz | a unit of frequency equal to one cycle per second |
Input devices | enable the user to input data and commands into the computer |
Mainframe computers | large, powerful computers that are used for centralized storage, processing, and management of very large amounts of data |
Microcomputer | sometimes called a personal computer; used at home or at the office by one person; can fit on top of or under a desk |
Minicomputer | type of computer that is designed to serve multiple users and process significant amounts of data; larger than a microcomputer, but smaller |
Motherboard | a circuit board that contains all of the computer system’s main components |
Output devices | enable the computer to give you the results of the processed data |
Random Access Memory (RAM) | where instructions and data are stored on a temporary basis; this memory is volatile |
Read-Only Memory (ROM) | permanent storage; instructions are burned onto chips by the manufacturer |
Supercomputers | largest and fastest computers, capable of storing and processing tremendous volumes of data |
Universal Serial Bus (USB) | standard for computer ports that support data transfer rates of up to 12 million bits per second |