Computer+Definitions+BG


 * Play games on Word Dynamo to review the terms. Introduction to Computer Terms**


 * Know the following terms:**

CPU (Central Processing Unit) central processing unit: the key component of a computer system, which contains the circuitry necessary to interpret and execute program instruction.

Input to enter (data) into a computer

Output to transfer (information) from internal storage to an external medium.

Hardware The machines, wiring, and other physical components of a computer or other electronic system.

monitor (output device)a device that display

keyboard (input device)the like.a data input device for computers; arrangement of keys is modeled after the typewriter keyboard.

Process to perform a series of operations on a set of data. For example, your computer's CPU processes information sent to it by various programs.

printer (output device)peripheral which produces a hard copy (permanent readable text and/or graphics)

scanner (input device)an input device that scans documents such as photographs and pages of text.

mouse (input device)one of the important input devices used with today's computers an input device that scans documents such as photographs and pages of text.


 * speakers** (output device)output devices for sound


 * camera** (input device)A device for recording visual images in the form of photographs, movie film, or video signals.


 * Software** program executable software that runs on a computer.

processes on a local computer or to generate Web pages on the Web.
 * script** a list of commands that are executed by a certain program or scripting engine. Scripts may be used to automate


 * application program** is a software program that runs on your computer. Web browsers, e-mail programs, word processors, games, and utilities are all applications.


 * operating system software** (Apple mac OS, Windows)


 * boot** to start (a computer) by loading and initializing the operating system.


 * Storage Device** a device used to store (keep or hold) digital data or information, as a hard disk or CD.


 * hard drive** a disk drive that stores data


 * RAM** (Random Access Memory)random-access memory; computer memory available to the user for creating, loading, or running programs and for the temporary storage and manipulation of data, in which time of access to each item is independent of the storage sequence. As a storage medium ... As a storage medium


 * ROM** (Read Only Memory)computer memory in which program instructions, operating procedures, or other data are permanently stored, generally on electronic chips during manufacture, and that ordinarily cannot be changed by the user.