Overview of a Computer Flashcards
What is a computer?
A multi-purpose electronic tool that can receive data (input), process the data, produce results, and output them.
What does data refer to?
Raw, unprocessed facts.
What is the result of processing data called?
Information, which should be useful and meaningful.
What is the IPO model in computing?
Input, Process, Output model.
What are Single Board Computers used for?
Demonstration or development systems, for educational purposes, or as embedded computer controllers.
List advantages of using computers.
- Fast and accurate
- Good at repetitive tasks
- Do not get tired or complain
- Multi-purpose
- Faster communication
- Excellent at keeping records
- Various methods to process and analyze data.
List disadvantages of using computers.
- Only as good as the data fed to them
- Limited number of physical applications
- Can be very expensive
- Cannot think or solve problems
- Need trained programmers and operators
- Require specially developed software
- Quickly become outdated.
What is the function of servers in computing?
Used in network environments to help run a network of linked computers.
What are Consumer Tablets designed to do?
Controlled through touch screen interfaces and usually have WiFi, Bluetooth, and 3G communication built in.
Define embedded computers.
An integral component of most embedded systems, designated to perform a highly specific function.
What does wearable computing refer to?
Computer-powered devices or equipment that can be worn by a user.
What is system software?
A type of computer program designed to run a computer’s hardware and application programs.
What types of system software exist?
- Operating System (OS)
- Utility software
- Device Drivers
- Command-line interface (CLI).
What is the role of utility software?
Helps to analyze, configure, optimize, and maintain the computer.
What is the purpose of device drivers?
Provide functionality to operate and control hardware connected to or built into the computer.
What is data warehousing?
Securely store, manage, and retrieve large amounts of data.
What is data mining?
Process and analyze data looking for valuable information that was previously unknown.
Fill in the blank: The process of transferring data/information from one place to another is called _______.
[Communication]
What can modern POS systems in supermarkets do?
Use barcodes and scanning to manage inventory accurately.
How do ICT systems help cellphone companies?
Track sales, monitor network status, and maintain staff records.
What information can an ICT system provide about call usage?
- Number of calls made
- Duration of each call
- Total minutes used
- Data transferred.
True or False: Computers can think and solve problems independently.
False.
