Introducing The Basics Flashcards
What is a computer?
An electronic machine/device used for the processing and storage of data according to instructions.
What are the four basic functions of a computer?
Input, Processing, Output and Storage.
What makes a computer powerful?
Speed, Storage and Reliability
What makes a computer stupid?
It lacks real understanding and insight.
What is a computer system?
A combination of both the hardware and software of a computer.
What is Hardware?
The physical, tangible components of a computer.
What is software?
The programs/set of instructions that operates the hardware of the computer.
What is data?
Raw, unprocessed factual information
What is information?
Processed data
What is the principle of Modularity?
Systems should be built from cohesive, loosely coupled components.
What is form factor?
The physical size and shape of a piece of computer hardware.
What is the Power Supply?
Component that converts power from the source into the power required to operate the computer.
What is the motherboard?
The central communication point of the computer, where all components are connected.
What is the CPU?
The brain of the computer that carries out instructions.
What is RAM?
Volatile, primary memory of the computer, used to store data for quick access by the CPU.
What is Secondary Memory?
Storage of information for repeated access over time.
What is HDD?
Secondary memory that store data on spinning magnetic disks.
What is Solid State Drive?
Secondary memory, that stores data on flash memory.
What is an input device?
Device that sends data to a computer, permitting user interactions with it
What is an output device?
Device that presents processed information from a computer
What are computer specifications?
Technical description of the components and capabilities of a computer.
What is clock speed?
The number of cycles a CPU performs per second. Measured in Hz.
What is capacity?
The amount of memory that a computer has available for usage. Measured in bytes.
What is Moore’s Law?
The number of transistors in a single integrated circuit, double approximately every 18 months, yet the price stays the same.
