Computer Abstractions and Technology – Introduction to Computer System

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms from Unit I: Introduction to Computer System.

Computer

A fast electronic calculating machine that receives digitized input, processes it according to stored instructions, and produces meaningful output.

Program

An internally stored list of instructions that directs a computer’s processing tasks.

Computer Memory

The internal storage that holds programs and data for immediate or later use by the processor.

Data

Raw, unorganized facts and figures fed into a computer.

Information

Data that has been processed, organized, and given context to be meaningful and useful.

Input Operation

The act of entering instructions or data into a computer through an input unit.

Output Operation

The delivery of processed information or data from a computer via output devices.

Storage Operation

Saving data and programs in memory so they can be processed immediately or in the future.

Processing Operation

CPU execution of arithmetic and logical operations on data.

Primary Memory (Main Memory)

Fast, volatile, semiconductor storage directly accessible by the CPU.

Secondary Memory

Inexpensive, non-volatile storage with large capacity, accessed through an I/O processor.

Cache Memory

A small, fastest memory located near or on the CPU chip that stores recently used instructions and data to speed execution.

Random-Access Memory (RAM)

Primary memory in which any location can be accessed in a fixed, short time.

Memory Access Time

The time required to read or write one word in memory, typically a few to 100 nanoseconds for RAM.

Word Length

The number of bits in each memory word (commonly 16, 32, or 64 bits).

Operand

The quantity or data item on which an operation is performed.

Operator

The symbol or instruction that specifies the operation to be performed on operands (e.g., +, -, AND).

Register

A high-speed storage element inside the CPU that holds one word of data.

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

The integrated block containing the ALU and CU; executes instructions and acts as the brain of the computer.

Arithmetic and Logic Unit (ALU)

The part of the CPU that performs arithmetic calculations and logical comparisons.

Control Unit (CU)

The component of the CPU that directs operations, fetches instructions, and generates control signals for other units.

Functional Units of a Computer

The five main parts—input, memory, arithmetic and logic, output, and control units—that work together to execute programs.

Input Device

Hardware through which data enters a computer, such as a keyboard, mouse, or microphone.

Output Device

Hardware that converts processed data into human-readable form, such as a monitor or printer.

Interconnection Network

The internal pathways that allow functional units to exchange information and coordinate actions.

Volatile Memory

Storage that loses its contents when power is removed (e.g., RAM).

Non-Volatile Memory

Storage that retains data without power (e.g., magnetic disks, flash memory).

Microprocessor

A CPU implemented on a single microchip; executes instructions electronically.

I/O Processor

Hardware that manages data transfer between secondary memory and main memory.

Magnetic Disk

A secondary storage device that uses magnetic media to store large amounts of data.

Optical Disk

A secondary storage medium that uses laser technology, such as a CD or DVD.

Flash Memory

Non-volatile solid-state storage used for portable drives and some secondary memory devices.

Program Loop

A set of instructions executed repeatedly; often cached to accelerate repeated use.

Touchpad

A flat pointing input device used for graphical interaction with a computer.

Digital Communication Facility

A network source, such as the Internet, that provides input data to a computer.