Question | Answer |
Arithmetic/logic unit (ALU) | Part of the CPU where all calculations and comparisons take place. |
Bit | In binary, a bit represents a zero or one. |
Byte | Another word for character; generally represented by 8 bits. |
Cache memory | High-speed random access memory that is used to increase the speed of the data-processing cycle. |
Central processing unit (CPU) | Also known as the microprocessor; the brains of the computer. |
Computer system | Input, output, and processing devices grouped together. |
Control unit | That part of the CPU that coordinates all CPU activities. |
Controller | Device that controls the transfer of data from the computer to a peripheral device and vice versa. |
Execution cycle (E-cycle) | Amount of time it takes the central processing unit to execute an instruction and store the results in RAM. |
Expansion slot | Openings on the motherboard where an expansion board, also called an adapter card, can be inserted. |
FireWire | Type of external bus that supports data transfer rates up to 400 Mbps and can connect up to 63 external devices |
Instruction cycle (I-cycle) | Amount of time it takes the central processing unit to retrieve an instruction and complete the command. |
Machine cycle | Made up of the instruction cycle and the execution cycle |
Memory | Also called random access memory or RAM, it is like short-term memory. It stores data while the computer is running. When the computer is turned off or if there is a loss of power, any data in the main memory disappears. |
Modem | Communications hardware device that facilitates the transmission of data. |
Motherboard | Circuit board that contains all of the computer system’s main components. |
Port | Point at which a peripheral device attaches to a system unit so it can send data or receive information from the computer. |
Random access memory (RAM) | Where instructions and data are stored on a temporary basis; volatile memory. |
Read-only memory (ROM) | Permanent storage; instructions are burned onto chips by the manufacturer. |
Universal Serial Bus (USB) | Standard that supports data transfer rates up to 12 million bits per second. |