Introduction to Computer and Computer Systems

Vocabulary flashcards covering foundational computer concepts, history, hardware, software, categories, and environmental considerations.

Computer

An electronic device that operates under the control of instructions stored in its own memory to collect data (input), process it, and produce information (output).

Data

Raw facts or figures that a computer can process to create meaningful information.

Information

Processed data that is meaningful and useful to users.

Information Processing Cycle

The sequence of input, processing, output, and storage performed by a computer.

Computer System

A complete working computer made up of hardware and software components.

Hardware

The electrical, electronic, and mechanical parts of a computer that you can see and touch.

Software

Programs or sets of instructions that tell the hardware what tasks to perform and how to perform them.

Input Device

Hardware that allows users to enter data and instructions into a computer.

Output Device

Hardware that conveys processed information to one or more people.

System Unit

The case containing the electronic components of a computer used to process data.

Motherboard

The main circuit board of the system unit that houses the processor, memory modules, and adapter card slots.

Memory

Electronic components that store instructions and data temporarily for quick access by the processor.

Processor (CPU)

The central processing unit that interprets and carries out basic instructions to operate a computer.

Storage Device

Hardware, such as a hard disk/drive, that records (writes) and retrieves (reads) data to and from storage media.

Port

A point where a peripheral attaches to or communicates with the system unit; sometimes called a jack.

Power Supply

Component that converts wall-outlet AC power into the DC power required by computer components.

Application Software

Programs designed to make users more productive or assist with personal tasks.

System Software

Software that manages computer resources and makes the computer easier to use.

Personal Computer (PC)

A small, relatively inexpensive computer designed for individual use.

Mobile Device

A portable computing device such as a smartphone or tablet.

Game Console

A specialized computer designed primarily for playing video games.

Server

A computer that provides services, resources, or data to other computers over a network.

Mainframe

A large, powerful computer capable of supporting hundreds or thousands of users simultaneously.

Supercomputer

The fastest and most powerful type of computer, used for complex calculations and simulations.

First-Generation Computer

Computers (1940-1956) that used vacuum tubes, e.g., ENIAC and UNIVAC.

Second-Generation Computer

Computers (1956-1963) that replaced vacuum tubes with transistors.

Third-Generation Computer

Computers (1964-1971) using integrated circuits with miniaturized transistors on silicon chips.

Fourth-Generation Computer

Computers (1971-2010) based on microprocessors containing thousands of integrated circuits on one chip.

Fifth-Generation Computer

Current computers aiming at natural-language input, learning capability, and self-organization.

Abacus

An ancient calculating tool; Chinese and Egyptian versions date back to 500–200 BC.

Napier's Bones

A manual calculating device invented by John Napier in 1620 to simplify multiplication and division.

Pascaline

A mechanical calculator invented by Blaise Pascal in 1653 for addition and subtraction.

Leibniz's Rechner

A stepped-drum calculator created by Gottfried Wilhelm von Leibniz in 1673 capable of multiplication and division.

Jacquard Loom

A weaving loom invented by Joseph Marie Jacquard in 1801 that used punched cards to control patterns.

Mechanical Calculator (Babbage)

Charles Babbage’s 1823 design for a programmable mechanical calculator, precursor to modern computers.

Harvard Mark I

An electromechanical computer completed in 1941 at Harvard University.

Green Computing

Practices aimed at reducing electricity use and environmental waste when using computers.

Computer Literacy

Knowledge and understanding of computers and their uses, considered vital for success in today’s world.