ECS- Unit 3 - Computer Basics

Computer

A programmable machine that receives input, stores and changes data, and provides output in a useful format

Computing

The process of utilizing computer technology to complete a task

Computer Science

The study of the ideas, ways of thinking, languages, software, and hardware needed to solve problems with computers

Computer Hardware

The physical parts and components of a computer

Input Devices

Hardware components that allow a computer user to enter data, commands, and responses

Output Devices

Hardware components that allow the user to view, hear, or touch the information resulting from the computer's processes

CPU

An abbreviation for Central Processing Unit

Central Processing Unit

The key component of a computer system, which contains the circuitry necessary to interpret and execute program instructions

Storage

Hardware components that allow a computer to remember data and instructions either temporarily or permanently

RAM

An abbreviation for Random Access Memory

Random Access Memory

The place in a computer where the operating system, applications, and data in current use are kept so that they can be quickly reached by the CPU

Hard Disk Drive

A spinning mechanism that reads, writes, and stores data and programs for a computer

Solid State Drive

An electronic device - with no moving parts - that reads, writes, and stores data and programs for a computer

Motherboard

A printed circuit board on which the CPU, RAM, and other electronic circuits of a computer are frequently located

Operating System

The software that supports a computer's basic functions, such as scheduling tasks, executing applications, and controlling input and output devices

Video Card (Graphics Card)

An expansion card (circuit board) that connects to a computer motherboard to process and send graphics information to a monitor, screen, or other display device

Sound Card

An expansion card (circuit board) that connects to a computer motherboard to process and send audio information to speakers or headphones

Modem

A hardware device that allows computers to send and receive information to and from other computers; it is essential for internet access

processing

the work done by a computer to turn inputs into outputs; execution of computer programs

Ethernet Port

An opening in a computer for connecting a communication cable; it is the most common type of wired connection between a personal computer and a network of computers (including the internet)

WiFi

The most common type of wireless connection between a personal computer and a network of computers (including the internet)

Bluetooth

A short-range wireless technology that allows communication between computers and other devices, such as input and output devices

VGA Port

The most common analog interface for sending graphic signals from a computer and a monitor

HDMI Port

The most common digital interface for sending graphic and audio signals from a computer to an output device

USB Port

The most common digital interface for connecting peripheral devices (such as mice, keyboards, and printers) to a computer; it can also be used to supply electricity for powering or charging equipment

router

a device that takes a signal from a modem and allows multiple devices to use that signal, usually through ethernet cables or WiFi