Computer TerminologyComputer TechnologyDay 1

Terms You Should Know Computer

Electronic device that performs four functions

Accepts Data (Input) Processes Data

(Processing) Stores Data (Storage) Outputs Data (Output)

System comprised of Hardware Software

Terms You Should Know, cont. Hardware

Physical, touchable, material parts of a computer or other system

Comprised of Electronic devices (CPU, memory, display) Peripheral devices

• Electromechanical parts (for example—keyboard, printer, jump drive, speakers)

• Expand input, output, and storage capabilities

Terms You Should Know, cont. Software

Programs (instructions) that tell the computer how to perform certain tasks.

Types System software: Files and programs that

make up the computer’s operating system. Application software: Complete self-contained

program that performs a specific function directly for the user.

Network software: Enables multiple computers to communicate with one another.

Terms You Should Know, cont. Network

System of two or more computers, terminals, and communication devices, linked by wires, cables, or telecommunication systems for the purpose of sharing data and programs.

Types LAN—Local Area Network WAN—Wide Area Network

Terms You Should Know, cont. Data

Symbols that represent facts, objects, or ideas. Input

Data entered into a computer for processing. Information

Results of the computer storing data as bits and bytes; words, numbers, sounds, and graphs.

Output Information that comes out of the computer Examples: Picture on the screen, printed page,

sound coming from the speakers, files printed to disk or sent over a communications line.

Terms You Should Know, cont. Processing

Perform a series of operations on a set of data.

Memory Area of the computer that holds data on a

temporary basis that needs to be processed, stored, or output.

Storage Area of the computer that holds data on a

permanent basis when it is not immediately needed for processing.