Computing Components and Technology Overview

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms and definitions related to computer components, processors, memory, and cloud computing.

Bit

The smallest unit of data in a computer, represented as either 0 or 1.

Byte

A group of eight bits, typically representing a single character.

Multi-core processor

A single chip containing two or more separate processor cores.

ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit)

A component of a processor that performs arithmetic, comparison, and other operations.

Control Unit

The component of the processor that directs and coordinates most operations within the computer.

Volatile memory

Memory that loses its contents when power is turned off, such as RAM.

Nonvolatile memory

Memory that retains its contents even when power is removed, such as ROM and flash memory.

Cloud computing

A model allowing convenient on-demand network access to a shared pool of configurable computing resources.

Adapter card

A hardware component that enhances functions of a desktop or server system unit, or provides connections to peripherals.

Bus

A communication system that transfers data between components inside and outside a computer.

Motherboard

The main circuit board of a computer, housing the CPU, memory, and other components.

System clock

A timing device that controls the timing of all operations within the computer.

Cooling methods

Techniques used to dissipate heat generated by processors, including heat sinks and liquid cooling technology.

Memory cache

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

Firmware

Permanent software programmed into a read-only memory.

Access time

The time it takes for the processor to read data from memory.

Case

contains and protects the electronics of the

computer or mobile device from damage.

Motherboard

the main circuit board of the

computer.

Processor

also called the central processing

unit (CPU), interprets and carries out the basic

instructions that operate a computer.

Multi-core processor

a single chip with two or

more separate processor cores.

Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)

Processors contain a control unit and an ____? It also performs

arithmetic, comparison, and other operations.