Computer Hardware - Key Vocabulary

Flashcards to review the key vocabulary and definitions related to computer hardware, covering components like CPU, memory, storage, input/output devices, and more.

Hardware

The physical components of a computer.

CPU (Central Processing Unit)

The "brain" of the computer housed on the motherboard in the system unit that processes commands and controls functions.

Control Unit

Executes instructions within the CPU.

Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)

Performs calculations within the CPU, including arithmetic and logical operations.

Instruction Cycle

The sequence a CPU goes through to execute a command: Fetch, Decode, Execute, Store.

Clock Speed

The speed at which a processor executes the instruction cycle, measured in GHz or MHz.

Multi-Core Processors

Two or more processors integrated on a single chip, increasing processing speed and reducing energy consumption.

GPU (Graphics Processing Unit)

Reduces the processing required of the system CPU for graphics-intensive processes.

Parallel Processing

Distributes processing across multiple processors, often simulated with hyper-threading.

Pipelining

Improves performance by allowing a single processor to process multiple instructions at the same time, similar to an assembly line.

Cooling System

Used to prevent electronic components, especially processors, from burning out due to heat generation.

System Unit

Case that encloses and protects a computer’s internal components.

Motherboard

Main circuit board of a computer that allows devices to connect to the computer.

Ports

Used to connect peripheral devices directly to the motherboard.

USB

Most common type of port, capable of connecting up to 127 devices via hubs and providing power.

Thunderbolt

Can connect many types of peripheral devices and is about the same speed as USB 3.2.

Bluetooth

Short-range wireless technology used to connect peripheral devices; devices need to be paired.

Firewire

Legacy port capable of connecting up to 63 devices, mostly used for digital cameras.

BIOS (Basic Input/Output System)

A program stored on a chip on the motherboard used to boot the computer.

Random Access Memory (RAM)

Temporary storage used to hold instructions and data while they are in use.

Cache Memory

Very fast memory that holds instructions and data copied from RAM to improve performance.

L1 (Level 1) Cache

Fastest and most expensive cache memory, built into the CPU chip.

L2 (Level 2) Cache

A little slower and less expensive cache memory, on a separate chip on the motherboard.

L3 (Level 3) Cache

Slowest and cheapest cache memory, but still faster than RAM.

Storage Devices

Stores instructions and data when they are not being used; contents are not lost when power is turned off.

Hard Drive (aka Hard Disk)

The primary mass-storage device in most computers storing the operating system, programs, and data files.

Flash Memory

Non-volatile memory that can be electrically erased and programmed with no moving parts.

Solid-State Drives (SSDs)

Can be used instead of a regular hard drive; more reliable and faster, but more expensive.

Flash Drives

Small, portable solid-state drives that connect to a computer via USB.

Memory Cards

Used to expand the storage of smartphones, digital cameras, and other devices.

Optical Discs

Uses a laser beam to read data; includes CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs.

Input Devices

Used to enter data into a computer system.

Keyboard

Most commonly used input device, but can be slow and error-prone.

Pointing Devices

Moves a cursor on a computer screen (on a GUI).

Optical Scanners

Scans pages and saves them as images; includes barcode and QR code scanners.

Output Devices

Monitor, Projectors, Speakers, Headphones, Printers.

Monitors (aka displays)

Work by lighting up pixels on the screen using red, green, and blue colors.

Resolution

The number of horizontal pixels by vertical pixels, determining the sharpness of the image.

Video Cards

Provides the data signal and connection for a monitor or projector.

Ink Jet Printers

Sprays droplets of liquid ink onto paper; inexpensive printers but with expensive ink replacement.

Laser Printers

Uses a powdered ink cartridge (toner) and prints faster than ink jet printers.

Adaptive Technology

Used by individuals with disabilities to interact with technology.

Communication Devices

Enables a device to connect to other devices on a network.

Network Adapters / Network Interface Cards (NICs)

Can be wired (Ethernet) or wireless (Wi-Fi).