EA-1.1-1.2

Visible Computer

An electronic device that can perform calculations.

PC

Typically runs Microsoft Windows and can be general purpose or specific purpose.

Operating System (OS)

Controls hardware and enables user interaction with the computer.

User Interface (UI)

Interactable software that allows users to manage programs and data.

Graphical User Interface (GUI)

Offers images and icons for user selection.

Applications

Software that allows users to perform specialized tasks on a computer.

Computing Process

Involves input, processing, and output of data.

Data Storage

Saving a permanent copy of work on a computer.

Network Connection

Connecting one computer to one or more other computers.

File Structure

Organized in a tree pattern with root drives and folders.

File Extension

Appears after a file name to indicate its format.

File Association

Tells the OS which application to use with a file.

Windows Explorer

Tool for accessing files in Windows.

Finder

Mac OS X tool for managing files and folders.

Drive Letter Designation

A single letter (A, B, C) representing a drive in Windows.

Control Panel

Windows 10 tool for system settings.

System Preferences

Mac OS X tool for adjusting system settings.

Terminal

Command line interface in Linux for system commands.

Microprocessor

A powerful calculator that processes data in a computer.

External Data Bus (EDB)

Communication device for the CPU.

Registers

Small storage locations in the CPU for quick data access.

Machine Language

Commands that the CPU understands, consisting of lines of code.

Clock Cycle

The time it takes for the clock wire to charge and execute a command.

Clock Speed

The maximum number of clock cycles a CPU can handle, measured in hertz.

System Crystal

Governs the CPU's running speed and adjusts clock speed.

Underclocking

Running a CPU slower than its rated speed.

Overclocking

Running a CPU faster than its rated speed, which can cause overheating.

RAM

Main memory that temporarily holds data for the CPU.

Dynamic RAM (DRAM)

The primary type of RAM that requires constant refreshing.

Memory Controller Chip (MCC)

Assists in data flow between RAM and CPU.

Address Bus

Set of wires that enables the CPU to control the MCC.

Intel

Leading manufacturer of microprocessors.

AMD

Another manufacturer of microprocessors, less dominant than Intel.

Throttling

Reducing CPU speed to save energy under light demand.

Pipelining

Process of fetching, decoding, executing, and writing data in stages.

Cache

Reduces wait times by storing frequently accessed data in static RAM.

Frontside Bus

Connection between the CPU, MCC, and RAM.

Backside Bus

Connection between the CPU and L2 cache.

Multithreading

Simulating actions of a second processor to enhance efficiency.

Hyper-Threading

Advanced form of multithreading that allows better CPU utilization.

Dual-Core Architecture

Multiple CPUs/cores on one chip sharing resources.

Integrated Memory Controller (IMC)

Built into most microprocessors for efficient memory access.

Integrated Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)

Handles video processing, ideal for mobile devices.

NX Bit Technology

Protects memory sections from malicious attacks.

Heat Sink

Device used to dissipate heat from the CPU.

Thermal Paste

Substance applied between the CPU and heat sink for better heat transfer.

Overclocking Risks

Can void warranties and lead to potential damage to the CPU.