BTE_210_Flashcards
Term
Definition
Supercomputer
The fastest computers available, used by large organizations for computationally demanding tasks.
Mainframe Computer
High-performance computers capable of handling millions of transactions per day.
Midrange Computer (Minicomputer)
Smaller, relatively inexpensive computers with some mainframe capabilities.
Microcomputer (PC)
The smallest and least expensive category of general-purpose computers.
Desktop PC
A standard personal computer with a separate monitor and keyboard.
Thin-Client System
Desktop computers that rely on network access for applications rather than local installations.
Laptop (Notebook)
Small, portable computers designed for ease of transport and use.
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The ‘brain’ of the computer that manipulates data and controls tasks.
Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)
Performs simple math and logic operations within the CPU.
Control Unit (CU)
Manages and coordinates the components of the computer.
Cache Memory
High-speed memory that stores frequently used data close to the CPU.
Primary Storage
Temporarily stores data and program instructions during processing.
Registers
Small, high-speed storage areas within the CPU.
Random Access Memory (RAM)
Stores active programs and data being used.
Read-Only Memory (ROM)
Permanent storage for essential system instructions.
Secondary Storage
Long-term storage for data and programs.
Solid State Drive (SSD)
A type of secondary storage using memory chips instead of moving parts.
Optical Storage Device
Uses lasers to read and write data (e.g., CDs, DVDs).
Flash Memory
Nonvolatile storage with no moving parts, using less power than traditional drives.
Bit
The smallest unit of data in computing, representing a binary value (0 or 1).
Byte
A group of 8 bits, representing a character or unit of data.
Input Device
Hardware that allows users to enter data into a computer (e.g., keyboard, mouse).
Output Device
Hardware that displays or delivers results from a computer (e.g., monitor, printer).