week 3 ppt computer concepts

Vocabulary flashcards covering hardware evaluation, form factors, performance metrics, power safety, storage solutions, network components, internal architecture, ergonomics, and hardware disposal.

Hardware

Refers to the physical device itself and its components, such as wires, cases, switches, and electronic circuits.

Processor Core

A unit on the processor with the circuitry necessary to execute instructions.

Multi-Core Processor

A processor that contains multiple processor cores to improve overall computer performance.

Computer Memory

The hardware responsible for holding data and programs as they are being processed by the CPU.

Swap File

The area of the hard drive temporarily used to store data that cannot fit in RAM, also referred to as a paging file.

Form Factor

The specification that refers to the shape and size of a computer or device.

Desktop Computer

A computer system typically consisting of a system unit, monitor, keyboard, and mouse designed to remain in a stationary location.

All-in-One Computer

A computer system that has its monitor and system unit housed together in a single case.

Ultrathin Laptop

A lightweight laptop that is typically thinner, more expensive, has fewer parts, and offers longer battery life.

Slate Tablet

A tablet form factor that resembles a letter-sized pad and does not contain a physical keyboard.

Convertible Tablet

A tablet device that features a screen on its lid and a physical keyboard on its base.

Scanner

An input device that converts an existing paper image or document into an electronic file.

Printer

An output device that creates hard copy output on paper, film, or other media.

Plug-and-Play Device

A peripheral device that begins functioning properly as soon as it is connected to a computer.

Device Driver

A program that allows a computer or operating system to issue controls to a separate peripheral device.

Clock Speed

The measurement of the speed at which a processor can execute instructions.

Benchmark

A test run by a laboratory or organization to determine processor speed and other hardware performance factors.

Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)

A device that maintains power to computer equipment in the event of an interruption in the primary electrical source.

Surge Suppressor

A device that prevents power fluctuations from damaging electronic components.

Blackout

An electrical change defined as a total loss of electrical power.

Brownout

An electrical change defined as a drop in voltage lasting minutes or hours.

Spike

An electrical change defined as a very short duration of voltage increase.

Surge

An electrical change defined as a short duration of voltage increase.

Noise

An electrical change defined as unwanted high-frequency energy.

Wireless Router

The central connection device used for setting up a home-based Wi-Fi network.

Hard Disk Drive (HDD)

A magnetic storage device that typically offers greater storage capacity.

Solid-State Drive (SSD)

A flash-based storage drive that is faster and more durable than magnetic hard disk drives.

Optical Media

Storage media using laser technology for data storage and playback, including CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs.

Cloud Storage

A storage method involving saving electronic files on remote internet-connected servers rather than on local hard drives.

Node

Any device connected to a network, such as a computer, tablet, smartphone, printer, game console, or smart home device.

Switch

A network device that provides a central connection point for network cables.

Router

A device that connects two or more networks and directs the flow of information along those networks.

Modem

A communications device that connects a communications channel, such as the Internet, to a sending or receiving computer.

Network Interface Card (NIC)

A hardware component required for a computer or device to connect to a network.

Motherboard

The main circuit board inside a computer containing slots and ports for components like the processor, memory modules, and peripheral devices.

Computer Chip

A small piece of semiconducting material, usually silicon, on which integrated circuits are etched.

Integrated Circuit

A component etched onto a chip containing many microscopic pathways capable of carrying electrical current.

Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI)

An injury affecting muscles, nerves, tendons, and ligaments, most often impacting upper body areas like wrists, hands, forearms, and neck.

Ergonomics

An applied science specifying the design and arrangement of items you use so that you interact with them efficiently and safely.

Technology Addiction

A behavioral hazard that occurs when a user is obsessed with using a digital device.

Doxing

A form of cyber-bullying where personal or private documents are shared digitally online.

E-Waste

Electronic waste consisting of discarded digital devices that often contain toxic metals like lead and mercury.