Principles of Computers

A set of vocabulary flashcards based on lecture notes about the principles of computers, covering key terms, definitions, and concepts in computing.

Mathematical Machine

A device that should not present surprising discoveries to the young and must be familiarized with as a usual tool for earning a living.

Information Processing

The collection and manipulation of data to generate meaningful information.

Computer Parts

Includes the processor, motherboard, memory, and peripheral devices that make up a computer.

Operating System (OS)

Software that manages hardware and software resources on a computer and provides common services for computer programs.

Programming Languages

Languages used to create software programs by specifying a sequence of instructions for a computer to perform.

Data Compression

The process of encoding information in a way that reduces its size, improving storage and transmission efficiency.

Binary Code

A system of representing text or computer processor instructions using a two-symbol system, typically 0 and 1.

Stack

A data structure that follows the Last In First Out (LIFO) principle for data storage and retrieval.

Cache Memory

A small-sized type of volatile computer memory that provides high-speed data access to the processor.

RS-232

A standard for serial communication transmission of data; it defines the electrical characteristics and timing of signals.

USB (Universal Serial Bus)

A standard for connecting devices to a computer to transfer data and power.

Morse Code

A method of encoding text characters as sequences of dots and dashes to facilitate electronic communication.

EBCDIC

A character encoding system used mainly on IBM mainframe and midrange computer operating systems.

Unicode

An international encoding standard that allows for the representation of text in multiple languages and scripts.

AD Conversion (Analog to Digital)

The process of converting an analog signal into a digital signal that can be processed by a computer.

Microprocessor

The central processing unit (CPU) of a computer, which performs logic calculations, controls tasks, and manages memory.

Peripheral Devices

External devices connected to a computer, such as keyboards, mice, printers, and scanners.

Compiler

A program that translates code written in a high-level programming language into machine code.

Bus Architecture

The communication system that transfers data between components of a computer.

DMA (Direct Memory Access)

A feature that allows devices to transfer data to and from memory without CPU intervention.

Integrated Circuit

A small chip that can function as an amplifier, oscillators, timers, microcontrollers, and more.

RAM (Random Access Memory)

A type of computer memory that can be accessed randomly; it is volatile memory used for temporary storage.