Key Words Flashcards
algorithm
A set of instructions that achieve a task
sequence
Following instructions one after the other
variable
A named container for a value (which can be inspected or altered by the program)
iteration
A repeated set of instructions – common loops include forever, while true, while
selection
A choice of which set of code to follow is dependent on a true of false question – common selections are “if then else”, “when..do”
program
A set of algorithms that have been created to solve a problem – commonly known as apps (application software)
input
A method of entering data onto a computer system, usually with an input device, such as a keyboard or mouse
output
A method of displaying information to a user e.g. a screen
LED
Light emitting diode, a light. They now come in several different colours including red, yellow, amber, white, green and blue
CPU
The central processing unit – every command passes through the CPU
RAM
Random access memory, very fast, volatile data storage, contains the operating system, current programs and data
ROM
Read only memory, non-volatile memory, contains the boot strap and BIOS
volatile
Data is lost when the machine is turned off
BIOS
Basic input and output system
motherboard
A circuit board that connects all of the other components
