Computer Terms -Grade 9Want a quick definition of any computer term? Go here. BIOS: (basic
input /output system) a set of routines that work closely with the computer
hardware to support the transfer of information between elements of the
system (memory, disk, monitors)
Bit/Byte:
Bus:
A parallel circuit that connects the major components of a computer, allowing
the transfer of electric impulses from one connected component to any other.
Cache:
an area of memory that holds frequently accessed data or program instructions
for the purpose of speeding a computer system performance.
CD-ROM:
(compact disk read only memory) a rigid plastic disk that stores a large
amount of data through the use of laser optic technology.
Circuitboard:
flat piece of non-conductive material on which computer microprocessors
and other electric components are mounted and electrically connected by
thin strips of metals.
CPU:
(central processing unit) the part of the computer that interprets data,
executes instructions, and solves arithmetic problems; the main information
processor or "brain" of the computer.
Disk:
Drive the mechanism that rotates a storage disk (such as a floppy, hard,
or CD-ROM disk) and read or writes data (or both) on a disk medium
DOS:
(disk operating system) operating system for PCs before windows, computers
ran using a basic language based on text instructions - no graphical user
interface (GUI)
Expansion
slot: a socket inside the computer console, designed to hold expansion
boards and connect them to the system bus (data pathway)
Hard
drive: where all the
main information is stored in the computer. Used for storing data.
Keyboard:
a keypad device with buttons or keys that a user presses to enter data,
characters and commands into a computer
Megahertz:
one million hertz (cycles per second), used to measure the velocity of
the CPU and its computations.
Modem:
a device that converts signals from one form to a form compatible with
another kind of equipment to transmit data between computers, generally
over phone lines
Monitor:
A television-like output device connected to the computer that displays
information on a screen. displays a variety of information (text, icons,
images, etc.)
Motherboard:
the main board of a computer, containing the primary components for the
central processing unit, main memory, keyboard, monitor, and often having
slots for accepting additional circuitry.
Mouse:
a small mobile manual device that controls movements of of a cursor on
a computer display
RAM:
(random access memory) a form of temporary internal memory storage whose
contents can be retrieved and altered by the user :also called read and
write memory, it stores data only when the computer is on (when the computer
is shut down any data not stored is lost).
ROM:
(read only memory) permanent internal memory containing data or operating
instructions that can be read but not altered by the user
USB:
(universal serial bus) is a newer way to connect a variety of peripherals
to the computer. Simplifies connection of up to 63 devices to the
system while it is running.
Window:
(on the screen) - a portion of the screen that can contain its own documents
or messages. each window can also contain its own menu and other controls.
Windows:
(operating system) - personal computer operating sold by microsoft corporation
that allows to enter commands with a point and a click device ( a mouse).
It provides users with a graphical user interface (GUI) which allows them
to manipulate icons which on the computer screen issue commands.
|