Computers and Mobile Devices: Evaluating Options for Home and Work – Vocabulary

A comprehensive set of key vocabulary terms and definitions covering computers, mobile devices, servers, peripherals, and health considerations from Module 3.

Laptop (Notebook Computer)

A thin, lightweight mobile computer with a screen in its lid and a keyboard in its base.

Tablet

A thin, lightweight mobile computer that has a touch screen as its primary input.

Desktop Computer

A personal computer designed to remain stationary, with components that fit on or under a desk.

Handheld Computer

A computer small enough to fit in one hand, often used for inventory or data collection tasks.

Stick Computer

A small computer about the size of a USB flash drive that plugs into an HDMI port.

Server

A computer dedicated to providing one or more services to other computers or devices on a network.

Rack Server

A server housed in a slot of a metal frame (rack) with multiple mounting slots.

Blade Server

A server packaged on a single circuit board, or blade, that fits in a blade enclosure.

Tower Server

A stand-alone server built in an upright cabinet that stands vertically.

Application Server

Dedicated server that stores and runs apps.

Backup Server

Dedicated server that backs up and restores files, folders, and media.

Database Server

Dedicated server that stores and provides access to a database.

Domain Name Server (DNS)

Dedicated server that stores domain names and corresponding IP addresses.

File (Storage) Server

Dedicated server that stores and manages files on a network.

FTP Server

Dedicated server that stores files for upload or download via FTP.

Game Server

Dedicated server that provides a central location for online gaming.

Home Server

Dedicated server that provides storage, Internet, or other services in a household.

List Server

Dedicated server that stores and manages email lists.

Mail Server

Dedicated server that stores and delivers email messages.

Network Server

Dedicated server that manages network traffic.

Print Server

Dedicated server that manages printers and documents being printed.

Web Server

Dedicated server that stores and delivers requested webpages.

Virtualization

Using software to allow one physical server to emulate multiple virtual servers.

Server Farm

A network of several servers in a single location working together.

Mainframe

A large, powerful, expensive server that handles hundreds or thousands of users simultaneously.

Terminal

A computer with limited processing power that sends data to and receives data from a host computer.

Thin Client

A terminal that resembles a desktop but has limited capabilities and components.

POS Terminal

Point-of-sale terminal used to record purchases, process cards, and update inventory.

ATM

Automated teller machine; a self-service banking terminal connected to a host computer.

Self-Service Kiosk

Freestanding terminal with a touch screen that allows users to perform specific tasks independently.

Financial Kiosk

Kiosk for paying bills, adding money to prepaid cards, and other financial activities.

Photo Kiosk

Kiosk that prints photos and may allow basic photo editing.

Ticket Kiosk

Kiosk that prints tickets for travel or entertainment venues.

Vending Kiosk

Kiosk that dispenses items such as DVDs after payment.

Visitor Kiosk

Kiosk that manages and tracks visitor check-ins.

Supercomputer

The fastest, most powerful, and most expensive type of computer, capable of trillions of instructions per second.

Cloud Computing

Environment that provides resources and services accessed via the Internet.

Smartphone

Internet-capable phone that includes apps such as calendar, email, browser, and more.

SMS (Short Message Service)

Text messaging service for sending short text messages between devices.

MMS (Multimedia Message Service)

Messaging service that allows sending images, videos, and other multimedia content.

Digital Camera

Mobile device that captures and stores photos digitally.

Point-and-Shoot Camera

Digital camera with a built-in lens and automatic settings.

SLR Camera

Single-lens reflex digital camera with interchangeable lenses and attachments.

Smart Digital Camera

Digital camera with built-in Wi-Fi or mobile OS for advanced connectivity.

Resolution

The number of horizontal and vertical pixels in a display.

Pixel

The smallest element in an electronic image.

Portable Media Player

Mobile device for storing, organizing, and playing or viewing digital media.

Digital Media Player (Streaming Media Player)

Device that streams digital media from a network to a TV or other entertainment device.

E-Book Reader (E-Reader)

Mobile device primarily for reading e-books and other digital publications.

Wearable Device

Small computing device designed to be worn, such as activity trackers, smartwatches, or smart glasses.

Game Console

Mobile computing device designed for single-player or multiplayer video games.

Handheld Game Device

Small mobile gaming device with built-in screen, controls, and speakers.

Embedded Computer

Special-purpose computer functioning as a component within a larger product.

Port

Point where a peripheral attaches to or communicates with a computer or mobile device.

Connector

Hardware that joins a cable to a port.

USB Port

Universal Serial Bus port that can connect up to 127 peripheral devices with one connector.

Port Replicator

Device that provides multiple ports for a mobile computer, often via one connection.

Docking Station

Device that provides desktop-style connections for a laptop or tablet.

Bluetooth

Short-range wireless technology for device-to-device connections.

Wi-Fi

Wireless networking technology that uses radio waves to provide high-speed Internet and network connections.

NFC (Near Field Communication)

Short-range wireless technology enabling devices to communicate when close together.

Surge Protector (Surge Suppressor)

Device that protects electronics from overvoltage by stabilizing current flow.

Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)

Device with surge protection and batteries that provide power during outages.

Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI)

Injury or disorder of muscles, nerves, tendons, or joints due to repetitive motions.

Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS)

Technology-related eye condition caused by prolonged screen use.

Ergonomics

Applied science of designing workplaces for comfort, efficiency, and safety.

Technology Addiction

Condition in which technology use consumes a person’s entire social life.