Computer Systems Test Flashcards
Difference between data and information?
Data: is the raw material waiting to be processed. Once processed, it becomes information.
Information: Processed and manipulated according to instructions into a meaningful form.
Define Data
Data: is the raw material waiting to be processed.
Once processed, it becomes information.
Define Information
Information: is processed and manipulated according to instructions into a meaningful form.
Define Hardware
Physical components of a computer.
Define software
Programs used to run the computer and make it do certain tasks.
Define Network
Multiple people can access the data all at once.
Difference between Hardware and Software?
Hardware: Physical components of a computer.
Software: Programs used to run the computer and make it do certain tasks.
What is the Input unit?
Input unit- converts data into a form the computer understands (electrical pulses) and sends it to the CPU.
e.g. keyboard, mouse, microphone, bar code reader
What is the output unit?
Output unit- converts the processed information back into a form that humans understand (texts, images, sound) and makes it available for use.
e.g. printer, speaker, plotter
Secondary Storage purpose
Stores additional data, information and programs outside of the CPU itself, although it can be built into the system unit cabinet
· Storage devices and storage media that are not always directly accessible by a computer.
· E.g: external hard drives, USB flash drives, and tape drives, CDs and DVDs, floppy disks,
Function of CPU
Control: tells instructions where to go
ALU: Arithmetic Logic Unit, mathematical equations
Memory: ROM and RAM stores the instructions
CPU: manipulates data into a meaningful form according to instructions.
Located on a single chip called the Micro-processor.
ROM Purpose
Stands for “Read Only Memory”
Typically contains special instructions for detailed computer operations- e.g. to start the computer.
Only to read (i.e. fetch) data and instructions.
cannot be altered or erased.
Contents are permanently stored.
ROM is where the built in instructions that come with the computer are stored.
RAM Purpose
Stands for “Random Access Memory”
You can store, fetch and alter it.
Information in RAM is temporarily stored during processing and is lost when the computer is turned off or loses power.
This is where the information that comes from an external storage device or an input device is stored, as well as the results of processing.
· Made up of small memory chips that form a memory module.
· These modules are installed in the RAM slots on the mother board of your computer.
System Clock purpose
· Controls the speed of operations in a computer, measured in hertz.
· One megahertz = 1 million cycle (beats) per second.
The faster the clock speed, the faster the computer can process information.
Expansion Slot purpose
Adjust the computers capabilities allowing other external devices to connect to the computer.
Add more system cards to the computer.
