Introduction to Computing Science Vocabulary

Vocabulary flashcards covering core computer science definitions, hardware/software classifications, CPU components, memory types, units of measurement, and characteristics from the introductory lecture.

Computer

An electronic device that receives data (input), processes it according to a set of instructions (programs), stores it for current or future use, and produces results (output).

Garbage In, Garbage Out (GIGO)

A principle emphasizing that computer output depends on the quality of input; poor or wrong data input leads to incorrect or poor-quality output.

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

Known as the brain and heart of the computer; a physical hardware unit responsible for executing instructions, processing data, and controlling all system operations.

Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)

A CPU component that executes arithmetic operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division) and logical operations (comparisons like greater than, less than, equal to).

Control Unit (CU)

A CPU component that directs and coordinates all computer operations by reading instructions from memory, decoding them, and incrementing the program counter.

Registers

Very small, extremely fast temporary storage locations inside the CPU that hold data and instructions currently being worked on.

Primary Memory

Fast memory used to store data and instructions currently being processed by the CPU, which includes volatile RAM and non-volatile ROM.

Random Access Memory (RAM)

A type of volatile primary memory used for temporary storage during processing; its contents are lost when the computer power is turned off.

Read Only Memory (ROM)

A type of non-volatile primary memory directly accessible by the CPU that stores permanent instructions needed to boot/start the computer and cannot be modified by users.

Secondary Memory

Non-volatile, long-term storage used to retain files, programs, and data permanently even when the computer power is turned off (e.g., hard drives, SSDs, flash drives).

Hardware

The physical components of a computer system that can be seen and touched, such as the monitor, keyboard, system unit, and hard drive.

Software

The sets of programs, OS, and instructions that run on hardware and tell the computer components what to do.

System Software

Software that controls hardware components, manages system operations, and provides a platform for application software (e.g., operating systems, device drivers, utilities).

Application Software

Programs designed to accomplish specific personal, professional, or recreational tasks for users (e.g., word processors, spreadsheets, browsers, games).

Bit

The smallest binary unit of computer data, representing a value of either $0$ or $1$.

Byte

A unit of computer storage consisting of $8$ bits, typically representing a single character such as a letter or symbol.

Kilobyte (KB)

A unit of computer storage equal to $1,024$ bytes.

Megabyte (MB)

A unit of computer storage equal to $1,024$ KB.

Gigabyte (GB)

A unit of computer storage equal to $1,024$ MB.

Volatile Memory

A category of computer memory that loses its stored data when the computer power is turned off.

Non-Volatile Memory

A category of computer memory or storage that retains its saved data even when power is turned off.

Diligence (Computer Characteristic)

The ability of a computer to perform repetitive tasks continuously without experiencing fatigue, boredom, or loss of concentration.

Versatility (Computer Characteristic)

The capability of computers to be applied across diverse fields (e.g., business, healthcare, education) and perform varied types of tasks.

Typewriter (Classification)

Considered a mechanical output device because it directly prints text onto paper, rather than an electronic computer input device.

FSC 101

The official course code designated for $100$ level students to register with for this course, as distinguished from FSC 1113 which is for carryover students.