Computer Hardware and Communication Devices

A comprehensive set of vocabulary flashcards covering internal and external computer hardware components and networking devices mentioned in the lecture notes.

Communication/Network Devices

Hardwares that can be used to send, receive or otherwise transmit data.

Bluetooth

A device that allows communication without cables or wires within a range of $33\text{ feet}$ ($10\text{ meters}$) up to $330\text{ feet}$ ($100\text{ meters}$).

Routers

A network device that delivers internet connections to home devices and links several computers or other routers together.

Modem

A device that brings internet service into a home from Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and transmits digital signals between a computer and communication channels like cable.

Switch

Networking hardware that connects multiple wired devices within a network using packet switching to receive and intelligently forward data to a destination device.

System Unit

The case or main box-like structure that houses the essential internal parts needed for a computer to work.

External Parts

Parts that are found outside the System Unit.

Internal Parts

Parts that are found inside the System Unit.

Reset Switch

A switch that restarts the computer without turning it off.

Power Switch

A control that switches the computer on and off.

Power Supply

A component that provides power to the computer by converting standard outlet voltage into either $5$ or $12$ volt DC for parts like hard disk drives and the motherboard.

CD ROM Drive

The external part of the computer where the compact disk is inserted.

Floppy Disk Drive

The external part of the computer where the floppy disk is inserted.

Casing

A cover that protects the internal parts of the system unit.

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

Referred to as "the brain of the computer," it processes instructions to perform specific tasks initiated by the user.

Fan with Heat Sink

A component usually located at the top of the CPU that prevents overheating by taking in cool air and blowing out hot air.

Video Card

An adapter card used in processing and displaying information for the monitor.

Motherboard

The main printed circuit board (PCB) that includes chips and slots to allow communication between crucial electronic components like the CPU and memory.

Hard Disk Drive (HDD)

A storage area containing magnetic platters within a sealed case used to store the operating system and other data.

Solid State Drive (SSD)

A type of solid-state storage device that uses integrated circuits to store data.

RAM

The short term memory of the Central Processing Unit (CPU).

Network Interface Card

A component that allows a computer to communicate over a computer network.

Sound Card

A component that enables users to connect analog speakers, headphones, and microphones to their computer.