Section A: Computer Fundamentals and Digital Device Components

What does IPOS Stand For?

Input - Processing - Output, with Storage

What is input?

Whatever is typed, submitted, or transmitted to a computer

What is output?

The result produced by a computer

What handles processing in a computer?

The CPU (Central Processing Unit)

What is a computer program?

Instructions that tell a digital device how to carry out processing task

What is the stored program concept?

A series of instructions for a computing task can be loaded into a computer’s memory

Why does the stored program concept distinguish computers from simpler digital devices?

It allows a computer to switch between different computing task instead being limited to one specific task

What is application software?

Programs that help a person carry out a task

What is a system software?

Software that helps the computer system monitor itself and function efficiently. An operating system is an example

Example of application software?

Microsoft Word and Powerpoint

Which are system software?

IOS, Windows, and Android

What is an integrated circuit (IC)?

A set of microscopic electronic circuits etched onto a thin slide of semiconducting material

What are 3 common terms for an integrated circuit?

Computer chip, microchip, chip

What are semiconductors?

Materials with properties between a conductor and an insulator

Give 2 examples of semiconductors

Silicon and germanium

What are three other names for a system board?

Motherboard and main board

What does a system board do?

It houses the essential chips and provides connecting circuitry between them

What is a form factor?

The size and dimensions of a device or component

What is the system unit?

The part of a digital device that holds the system board

What three form factors should you know?

Component, clamshell, slate

What 4 components of a digital device require maintenance?

System unit, keyboard, screen, battery

What are 4 cleaning mistakes to avoid?

Using harsh cleaning products, immersing a device in liquid, allowing cleaning agents to drip onto keyboards/touchpads, Spraying cleaning agents directly onto the device

What should you do instead of spraying cleaner directly onto a device?

Spray it onto a cleaning cloth

What 4 basic system-unit maintenance practices?

Keep it clean, prevent overheating, protect it from damage, and protect it from electrical surges

What should you use to dust the system unit?

A clean microfiber cloth

What should you use to remove dust from fan vents?

A low vacuum setting

How can you protect a device from physical damage while transporting it?

Use a protective case or carrying bag

How can you protect a device from electrical surges?

Plug it into a surge-protected outlet

What are 6 steps to extend battery life/lifespan?

Charge when the low-battery indicator comes on,

Avoid totally discharging the battery

Remove the device from the charger when fully charged

If the device becomes hot, turn it off

Disable unused apps that constatly connect to the Internet

Use airplane mode when there is no cell coverage