Computer Basics – Week 1 Vocabulary

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms from Week 1 Introduction to Computing lecture notes.

Computer

An electronic device that stores, retrieves, and processes data to perform tasks such as word-processing, emailing, gaming, and web browsing.

First Generation Computer

1940s-1950s machines that used vacuum tubes for circuitry and magnetic drums for memory, e.g., ENIAC and UNIVAC.

Vacuum Tube

Electronic component that controls electron flow in a vacuum; served as switches and amplifiers in early computers.

ENIAC

(Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer) The first general-purpose electronic computer, containing about 18,000 vacuum tubes.

UNIVAC

(Universal Automatic Computer) The world’s first commercially available electronic computer, introduced in 1947.

Second Generation Computer

1950s-1960s computers that replaced vacuum tubes with transistors, offering smaller size, less heat, and greater reliability.

Transistor

Semiconductor device that amplifies or switches electronic signals; cornerstone of second-generation computers.

IBM 1401

Early transistor-based business computer that popularized in-office computing for medium-sized companies.

Third Generation Computer

1960s-1970s computers that employed integrated circuits, boosting speed and miniaturization.

Integrated Circuit (IC)

Silicon chip containing multiple electronic components (transistors, resistors, etc.) on one substrate.

IBM System/360

Family of compatible mainframes (launched 1964) designed to serve diverse users under a unified architecture.

Fourth Generation Computer

1970s-present computers powered by microprocessors, leading to personal computers and widespread computing.

Microprocessor

Single silicon chip containing a computer’s arithmetic, logic, and control circuitry.

IBM PC

1981 personal computer that connected to TVs or monitors and popularized home and office computing.

Fifth Generation Computer

Present-future computers emphasizing artificial intelligence and advanced parallel processing.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Field focused on creating machines capable of performing tasks that normally require human intelligence.

IBM Watson

IBM’s AI system that showcased natural-language processing and data analysis, sparking interest in business AI.

Supercomputer

Most powerful high-capacity computer class, used by large organizations for complex simulations and calculations.

Mainframe

Large, robust computer offering high processing speed, multitasking, and vast storage for enterprise workloads.

Mid-range Computer

Medium-sized system used by companies for specific tasks such as manufacturing control or departmental processing.

Microcomputer

General-purpose personal computer (desktop or notebook) most commonly used by individuals.

Handheld Computer

Palm-sized device (palmtop) designed for portability and basic computing tasks.

Hardware

Tangible physical components of a computer system, including input, output, storage, and internal parts.

Software

Intangible set of instructions that direct hardware to perform tasks; classified as system or application software.

Input Device

Hardware that allows users to enter data into a computer (e.g., keyboard, mouse).

Output Device

Hardware that presents processed data to users (e.g., monitor, printer).

Memory Device

Component used to store data temporarily or permanently for future use (e.g., RAM, hard drive).

System Software

Programs that manage hardware resources and provide a platform for applications, such as operating systems and utilities.

Application Software

End-user programs that perform specific tasks like word processing, spreadsheets, or web browsing.