Introduction to Computers and Information Technology

Comprehensive practice flashcards covering basic computer functions, categories of computers, hardware components, internal architecture, data storage units, software classifications, social media, and cable types.

What is a computer?

A computer is an electronic device, operating under the control of instructions stored in its own memory, that can accept data (input), process the data according to specified rules, produce information (output), and store the information for future use.

What are the four basic computer functions?

1. Input Function
2. Processing Function
3. Output Function
4. Storage Function

What is a supercomputer and what are its common uses?

A supercomputer is an extremely powerful computer designed for complex calculations and scientific research. It is used in research labs, weather forecasting, and AI modeling.

What is a mainframe computer and where is it commonly used?

Mainframes are large, powerful machines capable of handling massive amounts of data simultaneously. They are used in banks, airlines, and government.

What is a minicomputer and where is it used?

A minicomputer is a medium-sized computer that supports multiple users at the same time. It is used in small businesses, departments, and organizations.

What is a microcomputer?

Also known as a personal computer (PC), a microcomputer is the smallest category of computers. It typically uses a single microprocessor, is designed for individual use in homes and offices, and is suitable for word processing, web browsing, gaming, and general-purpose tasks.

What are the four main types of personal computers?

Desktop, Laptop, Tablet, and smartphone.

What is a desktop computer and what does a standard PC comprise?

A desktop computer is a personal computer made for regular use in a single location, typically a desk. A standard PC comprises a Casing/Box, a monitor, a keyboard, and a mouse.

What is a laptop computer and what are its distinguishing features compared to a desktop?

A laptop is a portable personal computer with a foldable, clamshell build that includes a screen, keyboard, touchpad, and internal hardware enclosed in a single unit. It uses batteries for power and is more expensive than a PC.

What is a Tablet PC and how does it accept input?

A Tablet PC offers all the functionality of a notebook PC but is lighter and can accept input from a special pen called a stylus or a digital pen that is used to tap or write directly on the screen.

What is a computer case?

The metal and plastic box that contains the main components of the computer, including the motherboard, central processing unit (CPU), and power supply. The front usually features an On/Off button and one or more optical drives.

What is the function of a monitor?

A monitor works with a video card located inside the computer case to display text, images, and video on the screen.

What is a computer keyboard?

A primary input device used to type text, numbers, symbols, and commands into a computer.

What are the specific functions of the three controls on a computer mouse?

1. Left-click button: Single click selects an item or places the cursor; double click opens files.
2. Scroll wheel & middle button: Rolls up or down to scroll through documents, web pages, and lists.
3. Right-click button: Opens a context menu (a pop-up list of options relevant to the pointed item or area).

Why is a mouse classified as an input device?

Because it sends data and control signals from the user to the computer.

What is computer hardware?

The physical, tangible parts of a computer that you can see and touch.

What is the system unit?

The main part and core of a personal computer, typically a rectangular box that houses essential components such as the motherboard, CPU, RAM, and storage drives, where all processing takes place.

What is the Central Processing Unit (CPU)?

The "brain" of the computer that executes software instructions and performs calculations.

What is the motherboard?

The main circuit board that connects all hardware parts together and allows them to communicate.

How does Random Access Memory (RAM) differ from Read-Only Memory (ROM)?

RAM is volatile, temporary memory that holds active data and programs for fast access by the CPU and clears when power is turned off. ROM is non-volatile memory that permanently stores essential boot instructions (BIOS).

What does the abbreviation BIOS stand for and what is its role?

BIOS stands for Basic Input/Output System. It is the very first piece of software that runs when a computer is powered on, serving as essential firmware for the motherboard.

What are the roles of the GPU, PSU, and Cooling Fan inside a computer?

1. GPU (Graphics Processing Unit): Responsible for what is displayed on the monitor.
2. PSU (Power Supply Unit): Converts electrical power from a wall outlet into usable low-voltage DC power for internal components.
3. Cooling Fan: Keeps components cool and prevents overheating.

How do Solid-State Drives (SSDs) compare to Hard Disk Drives (HDDs)?

SSDs feature faster performance, faster boot times, no moving parts, silent operation, and are more expensive. HDDs feature slower performance, slower boot times, mechanical moving parts, slight operational noise, and are cheaper.

What does USB stand for and why does a USB flash drive function as both an input and output device?

USB stands for Universal Serial Bus. A USB flash drive acts as both an input and output (I/O) device because it transfers data in two directions.

What is a memory card?

Also known as a flash card, it is primarily a storage device that performs both input and output operations, commonly used in portable consumer electronics like phones, digital cameras, and MP3 players.

What is cloud storage and what are four popular providers?

Cloud storage allows businesses and users to store large amounts of data and access it whenever and wherever with permission. Popular services include Google Drive, Microsoft OneDrive, Apple iCloud, and Dropbox.

What are the full names and structural descriptions of a CD and a DVD?

A CD stands for Compact Disc; it has a round form composed of polycarbonate plastic with data-storage channels and sections on its surface. A DVD stands for Digital Versatile Disc; it is a round, flat data storage disc.

What are the capacities of data storage units from a bit up to a Terabyte ($\text{TB}$)?

• Bit ($\text{b}$): $1$ or $0$ (on or off)
• Byte ($\text{B}$): $8\,\text{bits}$
• Kilobyte ($\text{KB}$): $1024\,\text{bytes}$
• Megabyte ($\text{MB}$): $1024\,\text{kilobytes}$
• Gigabyte ($\text{GB}$): $1024\,\text{megabytes}$
• Terabyte ($\text{TB}$): $1024\,\text{gigabytes}$

What are the data storage units larger than a Terabyte ($\text{TB}$), from smallest to largest?

• Petabyte ($\text{PB}$): $1024\,\text{terabytes}$
• Exabyte ($\text{EB}$): $1024\,\text{petabytes}$
• Zettabyte ($\text{ZB}$): $1024\,\text{exabytes}$
• Yottabyte ($\text{YB}$): $1024\,\text{zettabytes}$

What are the three main classifications of software?

1. System software
2. Application software
3. Utility software

What is system software and what role does an Operating System (OS) play?

System software manages hardware resources and provides a foundation or platform for running application software. The Operating System (OS) manages the computer's hardware and software resources and acts as a bridge between the user and the hardware.

What is application software?

Application software includes all software that uses the computer system to perform useful work beyond the operation of the computer itself.

What is the primary use and an example of a Word Processor and a Spreadsheet?

• Word Processor (e.g., Microsoft Word): Creating, editing, and formatting text documents, reports, and letters.
• Spreadsheet (e.g., Microsoft Excel): Data analysis, calculations with formulas, charts, and budgets.

What are the specific uses of DBMS, Graphics Editors, and Web Browsers?

• DBMS (e.g., Microsoft Access, MySQL): Storing, querying, and managing structured data.
• Graphics Editor (e.g., Adobe Photoshop): Image editing, photo retouching, and digital artwork.
• Web Browser (e.g., Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge): Accessing web pages, web apps, downloads, and online services.

What is utility software and what are three examples?

Utility software is a specific category of system software that supports a computer system in operating as safely and efficiently as possible. Examples include:

1. Antivirus Software
2. Disk Cleanup Tool
3. Compression Tool

What is social media and what are the most popular platforms by active users?

Social media refers to web-based and mobile applications that let people, communities, and businesses create, share, and discuss content, build virtual networks, and communicate in real time. Popular platforms include Facebook, WhatsApp, YouTube, TikTok, Telegram, Snapchat, Instagram, and X (Twitter).

Name common computer cables used for display, data, and audio connections.

• Display: HDMI, DisplayPort, VGA, DVI
• Data/Peripheral: USB Type-A, USB 3.0 Type-A, USB Type-C, Micro USB, Mini USB, SATA Data Cable, eSATA Cable, Lightning Cable, Thunderbolt Cable, USB-B Printer Cable
• Network: Ethernet RJ45
• Audio: 3.5mm TRS Audio Jack, 6.35mm Audio Jack, Optical Audio TOSLINK (S/PDIF), RCA