Chapter3_Part_2_Evaluating Hardware

Input Device

Any device that communicates instructions and data to a computer, such as a keyboard or mouse.

Output Device

A device that conveys information from the computer to the user, like a monitor or printer.

Binary System

A number system that has two digits, 0 and 1, used by computers to represent data.

Bit

The smallest unit of data a computer can process, representing a single binary digit, either 0 or 1.

Byte

A group of 8 bits that typically represents a single character in computer data.

ASCII

American Standard Code for Information Interchange; an 8-bit coding scheme for representing textual data.

Unicode

A 16-bit coding scheme that expands ASCII to include over 65,000 characters, supporting multiple languages.

Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI)

Injury caused by repetitive motion or poor posture, typically affecting muscles and tendons.

E-waste

Discarded electronic devices that contain harmful materials and need to be disposed of responsibly.

Surge Suppressor

A device that protects electronic components from power fluctuations.

Internal Hard Drive

A storage medium installed inside a computer that stores data magnetically or using solid-state technology.

Solid-State Drive (SSD)

A type of storage device that uses flash memory with no moving parts, faster and more durable than traditional hard drives.

Cloud Storage

Storing electronic files on a remote server connected to the Internet, allowing access from any device with an Internet connection.

Cyberbullying

Bullying that takes place over digital devices, such as computers and smartphones, which can have lasting harmful effects.

Ergonomics

The applied science of equipment design to maximize productivity by minimizing fatigue and discomfort.

Data Backup

The process of copying files from a device to a remote or external storage location to prevent data loss.

External Hard Drive

A separate storage device that connects to a computer via USB, used for additional storage and portability.

Magnetic Hard Disk Drive (HDD)

A storage device that uses magnetic storage to read and write data, typically less expensive but has moving parts.

USB Port

A standard interface for connecting peripherals to a computer, allowing data transfer and charging.