Unit 1: Computing Fundamentals

AP CSP

Computer Science

The study of computers and how they solve problems.

Hardware

Physical parts of a computer that you can touch.

CPU (Central Processing Unit)

The internal operating unit or "brain" of a computer that processes instructions.

RAM (Random Access Memory)

Temporary memory for running programs.

Hard Drive/SSD

Permanent storage for files and programs.

Input Devices

Piece of computer hardware that allows users to enter data, commands, or other information for processing.

Ex: keyboard, mice, microphone

Output Devices

Piece of computer hardware that receives data from the computer and translates it.

Ex: Monitor, speakers, printer

Software

Programs and applications that tell the computer how to preform tasks

Data

Raw facts or figures with no context.

Information

Organized, meaningful data.

Binary

Common language that all computers use.

Algorithm

Step by step plan to solve a problem.

Sequencing

Putting steps in the correct order

Precision

Giving clear, exact, and detailed instructions to a computer so it can perform tasks correctly.

Computer Device

Any single piece of hardware or equipment that c an perform computing tasks or interact with a computer

Computer System

Complete setup that can take input, process it, store data, and produce output

Computing

Process of using computers to solve problems, create systems, and process information

Sequential Computing

Steps and tasks are performed in order, one at a time.

Parallel Computing

When a problem is divided into small tasks that can run at the same time on multiple processors or cores (on the same computer.)

Distributed Computing

When a big problem is split into smaller parts, and each part is handled by different computers connected over a network. After all computers finish their parts, the results are combined to get the final answer.

Computer Network

Group of computers and devices that are connected so they can share information and resources.

Internet

The world's largest network, connecting millions of computers worldwide.

Protocols

Rules that allow computers to communicate effectively.

Data Streams

Information is passed through this in chunks of data called packets.

Metadata

"data about data." It gives extra

information that describes, explains, or helps manage

the main data.

Path

The route that data takes from one device to another across the network.

Routing

The process of finding the best path for data to travel.

Scalability

Networks can grow as more devices join without slowing down.

Bandwidth

The amount of data that can travel

through the network at one time.

Fault Tolerance

If one path fails, the network finds

another way to deliver data.

Redundancy

Having backup components in a network.