Intro to Computers and Programming Flashcards
What is a Computer?
A programmable electronic device that can store, retrieve and process data.
What are the advantages of a computer?
Reliable, Fast, Does not tire, Follows instructions precisely
What are the disadvantages of a computer?
Cannot analyze problems, Follows instructions more precisely than humans do
What can a computer do?
Simple aritmetic, Comparisons/decision making, Communication
What are the Components of a Computer?
Input devices, CPU, Main Memory, Secondary Memory, Output devices
What is a CPU
Central Processing Unit- fetches and follows a set of simple instructions(also called the processor)
What is the Main Memory?
storage for the executing program and its data in RAM (random access memory). Volatile.
What is secondary memory?
storage for permanent records (files). Non-volatile.
What are the parts of a CPU?
ALU and Control Unit
What is an ALU?
Arithmetic and Logic Unit- performs mathematical operations
What is the Control Unit?
coordinates all of the computer’s operations, performs the fetch/decode/execute cycle.
What are the two types of Software?
Operating Systems and Programs.
What does an operating system do?
allocates the computer’s resources and allows communication between user and computer.
What is a program?
a set of instructions to perform specific tasks.
What is an algorithm?
a set of well defined steps for performing a task or solving a problem.
What is the relationship between an algorithm and a program?
A program is an algorithm that has been translated into a programming language so that the computer and understand and perform the steps.
What is a programming language?
a special language used to write programs.
What are the three types of programming languages?
High-level, Low-level, and Machine
What is a High-Level Language.
designed to be easy for humans to read and to write programs in, but too complicated for the computer to understand.
What is a Low-Level Language?
consists of simple instructions which can be understood by the computer after a minor translation.
What is Machine Language?
written in the form of zeros and ones, can be understood directly by the computer.