Ch. 3 The Visible PC Flashcards
What are the two categories of programs?
- Applications
2. Operating Systems (OS)
Applications
Programs that get work done on a computer
Operating System (OS)
The support program that facilitates the installation and operation of applications on the computer
4 Stages of computer function
- Input
- Processing
- Output
- Storage
Input
The user inputs data to the computer
Processing
The computer runs calculations to process the data the user input
Output
Some form of response to the input of data by the user (e.g., the monitor displays something or a printer prints a document)
Storage
The computer stored input data and the results of processing
System Unit
The pc tower and everything contained within it
Peripherals
Every piece of equipment that attaches to the system unit to perform input and output (e.g., keyboard, mouse, monitor, printer, speakers, etc.)
Port
A hole on the system unit that accepts the plug of a peripheral (e.g., USB port, FireWire port, or ethernet port)
Plug
A type of projection on a peripheral that plugs into a matching port on the system unit (e.g., an RJ-45 jack)
Jack
Another name for Port
Connector
Another name for port or jack
mini-DIN connector
PS/2 connector, DIN-6;
6 pins;
Used for mice (light-green), keyboards (purple), subwoofers, and old video cards to connect to TVs
USB
Universal Serial Bus;
A general purpose port that accepts any number of devices;
Comes in 3 (at least) sizes: A, B, and mini-B;
Hot-swappable;
USB devices can be powered through the port
Hot-swappable
A term referring to the ability to insert and remove devices from a computer without having to restart