Chapter 1: Introduction to Computers Flashcards – Cram.com

Computer

Electronic device, operating under the control of instructions stored in its own memory, that can accept data, process the data according to specified rules, produce results, and store the results for future use.

Computer literacy

Having a current knowledge and understanding of computers and their uses. See also digital literacy.

Data

Collection of unprocessed items, which can include text, numbers, images, audio, and video.

Desktop computer

Computer designed so the system unit, input devices, output devices, and any other devices fit entirely on or under a desk or table.

Embedded computer

Special-purpose computer that functions as a component in a larger product.

Graphical user interface

Type of user interface that allows a user to interact with software using text, graphics, and visual images, such as icons.

Hardware

Electric, electronic, and mechanical components contained in a computer.

Information

Processed data that conveys meaning and is useful to people.

Input device

Any hardware component that allows users to enter data and instructions into a computer.

Installing

Process of setting up software to work with the computer, printer, and other hardware components.

Output device

Any hardware component that conveys information to one or more people.

Internet

Worldwide collection of networks that connects millions of businesses, government agencies, educational institutions, and individuals.

Mainframe

Large, expensive, powerful computer that can handle hundreds or thousands of connected users simultaneously, storing tremendous amounts of data, instructions, and information.

Network

Collection of computers and devices connected together, often wirelessly, via communications devices and transmission media, allowing computers to share resources.

Program

Series of instructions that tells a computer what to do and how to do it. Also called software.

Run

Process of using software.

Software

Series of instructions that tells a computer what to do and how to do it. Also called a program.

Server

Computer that controls access to the hardware, software, and other resources on a network and provides a centralized storage area for programs, data, and information.

Supercomputer

Fastest, most powerful, and most expensive computer, capable of processing more than 135 trillion instructions in a single second.

Storage device

Hardware used to record (write and/or read) items to and from storage media.

Storage media

The physical material on which a computer keeps data, instructions, and information.

Tablet PC

Special type of notebook computer that resembles a letter-sized slate, which allows a user to write on the screen using a digital pen.

Web

Worldwide collection of electronic documents called Web pages, the Web is one of the more popular services on the Internet. Also called the World Wide Web.