Computer Education Note Flashcards

Flashcards covering basic computer knowledge, including software levels, hardware, speed, data storage units, computer functions, memory types, and troubleshooting steps.

What is the definition of an Application?

A computer program designed to carry out a specific task other than one relating to the operation of the computer itself.

What are some examples of Applications mentioned in the notes?

Werd processors, media players, and accounting.

How is an Operating System defined?

A powerful, and usually large, program that controls and manages the hardware and other soft wore on a computer.

What are examples of Operating Systems that all computers require?

IOS, Microsoft Windows, Android, and Linux.

What is the function of a Device Driver?

A small piece of software that tells the operating system and other software how to communicate with a piece of hardware; it acts as a translator.

What is the difference between an Input device and an Output device?

An Input device is used to send data into the computer, while an output device is used to display or output the processed dat a from the computer.

What is the role of an I/O device?

An I/O device can send and receive data.

In what unit is the speed of a computer measured?

Hertz ($Hz$).

How is computer speed specifically calculated?

By the number of instructions that the computer can execute in one second.

What are the six reasons why computer speed is important?

1. Saves time, 2. Improves productivity, 3. Handles multiple tasks, 4. Better Video, 5. Supports advanced programs.

In what language is data stored, and what are the individual digits called?

Data is stored in sequences of $0$'s and $1$'s, which is Binary language; those digits are called bits.

How many bits are in one byte?

$8$ bits.

How many bytes are in a Kilobyte ($KB$)?

$1,024$ bytes.

What are the storage units in ascending order from Megabyte to Petabyte?

$1,024$ $KB$ = Megabyte ($MB$), $1,024$ $MB$ = Gigabyte ($GB$), $1,024$ $GB$ = Terabyte ($TB$), and $1,024$ $TB$ = Petabyte.

What are the 4 Main Functions of a Computer?

1. Acquiring Information, 2. Storing Information, 3. Manipulating and Communicating Info, 4. Presenting Information.

What is RAM and how is it characterized?

Random Access Memory is short-term memory that stays only if the computer is running; it is called volatile memory because data is lost when power is turned off.

What is the difference between RAM and ROM regarding data storage and writing?

RAM can be read and written but is volatile, while ROM (Read Only Memory) is non-volatile and stores data when the computer is turned off.

What is the CPU and what is its role?

The Central Processing Unit is the brains of the computer, in charge of processing data and distributing it to other places on the computer.

What are some ways a computer presents information?

Through displays such as the monitor, or output devices like printing and speakers.

Define file, folder, and filepath.

A file is a saved piece of date; a folder/directory organizes files; a filepath is the 'address' or location where a file is stored.

What is a file extension and what does it do?

An extension is attached to the end of a filename (e.g., .docx, .pdf, .jpg) and tells the computer what program to use to open it.

What factors affect computer performance?

CPU, RAM, storage type (SSD vs HDD), GPS, and running programs.

What are the five Maintenance Basics recommended in the notes?

1. Restart when sluggish, 2. keep storage space available, 3. remove unused programs/extensions, 4. Update OS and apps, 5. backup important work.

What are the signs of a computer overheating?

Loud fans, Slowdowns, and Shutdowns.

What are the six steps of the Troubleshooting process?

Step 1: Identify the problem. Step 2: Check the basics. Step 3: Reproduce the issue. Step 4: Try one fix at a time. Step 5: Document results. Step 6: Ask for help with details.