Computer Types, Hardware, and Software Vocabulary

A set of 15 vocabulary flashcards covering the main concepts, hardware components, software classifications, and device definitions from the lecture notes.

Phablet

A computer that is a hybrid between a tablet and a smartphone, with a screen size between 5 and 7 inches.

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP)

A telephone network using the internet that also allows video calling.

Computer

A device that receives an input, performs a process, and produces an output, containing both hardware and software.

Hardware

The physical components that make up a computer system, classified into internal and external devices.

Software

Programs controlling the operation of the computer, which can be categorized as application or system software.

Application Software

Programs providing services for user requirements to solve a task

Ex: word processor, spreadsheet, database management system

System Software

Programs that provide the services required for the computer to run properly, such as operating systems.

Motherboard

A printed circuit board found in all computers containing the CPU and other components, which acts as a hub to allow hardware components to function and communicate.

Graphics Card

A printed circuit board usually made of a processing unit and memory unit (RAM) that controls the output of graphical information to a video monitor.

Sound Card

A printed circuit board that outputs sound through speakers or headphones.

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

The component that processes instructions and contains the Control Unit and the Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU).

Control Unit

The part of the CPU that decodes and executes instructions.

Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)

The part of the CPU responsible for arithmetic calculations, logical operations, and algebra calculations.

Random Access Memory (RAM)

A temporary, volatile memory device directly accessible by the computer that can be read from and written to, used to store software and instructions currently in use.

Read Only Memory (ROM)

A permanent, non-volatile memory device directly accessible by the computer that can only be read from and stores start-up instructions such as the BIOS.