Computer Glossary Flashcards
Computer programs designed for specific uses and relatively easy to use without any technical knowledge of programming.
Application Software
The part of the central processing unit where numerical calculations are performed.
Arithmetic/Logic Unit (ALU)
A duplicate of an original program of data made as a precaution against loss or damage of the original.
Backup
The smallest amount of information a computer can store.
Bit
The space a character, letter or number takes up in the computer. It is made up of a group of eight (8) bits.
Byte
Compact disk read only memory.
CD Rom
A device that manipulates data according to a series of instructions stored in its memory. An electron device that can accept data, perform instructions on the data, and deliver the results of the processed data. By changing the instructions the computer can be made to do a completely different task.
Computer
An organization of hardware and software designed to accomplish the data processing function.
Computer System
A portion of the central processing unit (CPU) that directs the sequence of operations, interprets coded instructions, and initiates the proper commands to execute instructions.
Control Unit
The user tells the programmer what he/she wants to be able to do and the programmer writes a set of instructions (program) to perform the specific task for the particular user.
Customized Software
The information that the computer manipulates
Data
An organized collection of related data.
Database
The process of entering data into a computer system.
Data Input
Any procedure for receiving information and producing a specific result. The rearrangement and refinement of raw data into a form suitable for further use.
Data Processing
The use of a computer to design and print typeset documents.
Desktop Publishing
The words, symbols, or numbers which appear in visual form.
Display
Pictures, charts, diagrams, etc.
Graphics
1,000 Megabytes.
Gigabyte
The physical equipment or device which makes up a computer system, including its input and output devices. Everything except the programs in the computer system.
Hardware
Programming language developed to make the task of programming easier.
High Level Language
The information that is entered into a computer from an outside source. Data entered into a computer system for processing.
Input
A set of several different applications that have been programmed together, permitting data from one application program to be transferred directly to another.
Integrated Software
Abbreviation for Input/Output.
I/O
A set of labeled keys to permit the entry of data into the computer system.
Keyboard
A measure of storage equal to 1,024 bytes.
Kilobyte
A way of linking a number of computers through communication lines so that they can share I/O devices and data.
Local Area Network (LAN)
Instructions consisting of a series of numbers or a coded pattern of digits which convey information between people and machines.
Language
A program written in the basic, simple instructions that the computer understands directly.
Machine Language
A memory size of 1,048,576 bytes.
Megabyte
An area of storage of data inside the computer. It contains the programs and data being used by the computer. The primary storage or most accessible storage of the computer.
Memory
A device for interacting with a monitor.
Mouse
A group of two or more computers linked together electronically that can communicate with each other.
Network
A program that helps to overcome the problems involved in running a computer. It makes sure that the proper programs are in the right place in memory at the right time, handles I/O operations, and allows the computer to work for long periods without the intervention of the operator.
Operating System
The act of transferring data from a primary/internal storage device to a secondary/external storage device.
Output
Software that is designed to be used by anyone who might benefit.
Horizontal Market Software (Prepackaged Software)
The memory that is built into a computer.
Primary Storage (Internal Storage)
Handling or manipulating data.
Processing
A set of instructions arranged in proper sequence that can direct the computer to perform a desired task.
Program
The task of writing a series of instructions that will cause the computer to do something useful.
Programming
The working memory of the computer. It is the useable memory in which data or programs may be to or read from.
Random Access Memory (RAM)
Memory that has been manufactured with predetermined information or programs. Usually used to store the control program of the computer.
Read Only Memory (ROM)
Data storage that is outside the main memory of the computer.
External Storage (Secondary Storage)
A computer’s programs.
Software
