HIS COMPUTERS Flashcards
Also referred to as a microcomputer or desktop computer
personal computer
it is a stand-alone computer that contains a central processing unit (CPU), monitor, hard drive, etc., and can be used for processing data
Personalcomputers
A computer with a large amount of memory and storage capacity that stores data accessed by other computers, called clients or workstations
Programs (applications) can also be stored on servers
server
A large-capacity computer designed to support many users at once with little or no downtime
mainframe
often refers to computers compatible with the IBM System/360 series of computers (IBM = International Business Machines)
Mainframe
Computers that, at the time of their production, are on the forefront of processing speed since they contain hundreds of CPUs
supercomputers
Physical parts of the computer
hardware
Executes software instructions
CPU/ central Processing Unit
It runs the operating system and applications, constantly receiving input from the user or active software programs
CPU
It processes the data and produces output, which may be stored by an application or displayed on the screen
CPU
Working memory used for the temporary storage of programs and data
Randm access memory
Content is lost each time computer is turned o
RAM
Part of memory that is permanently protected from being modified, erased, or written over
Not affected by power loss
Used for boot-level and other system instructions
Read-Only Memory
The magnetic-coated metal plate inside the CPU for storing data
Hard Disk
A device that reads data stored on magnetic or optical disk and writes data onto disk for storage
Disk Drive
Compact disks (CDs), Digital Versatile Disks (DVDs)
Store data
Optical Disk
Input/output and information storage components
peripheral devices
Devices that deliver data to a computer e.g., keyboards, barcode readers, computer links or interfaces
Input devices
Devices by which computer delivers data, e.g., printers, monitors
Output Devices
Input/output device that allows computers to communicate over telephone lines
Modem
Programs that tell a computer what to do
software
A program that controls basic functions of a computer, e.g., Windows developed by Microsoft Company, Macintosh developed by Apple Inc.
operating system software
Programs designed to meet the specific needs of users, e.g., word processing
application software
An application program that allows for manipulation of text, e.g., Word by Microsoft, Writer by OpenOffice
Used to write letters, reports, etc.
word processor
Application program to manipulate numbers & perform mathematical calculation, e.g., Excel by Microsoft, Calc by OpenOffice
Used to prepare financial statements, budgets, etc.
spreadsheet
Application program to organize, store, sort, & retrieve data (words or numbers).
database
A program that provides access to the Internet, e.g., Microsoft Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, Firefox, Safari
browser
Malicious software that can damage computers and includes viruses, Trojans, spyware, etc.
malware
