| A | B |
|---|
| Supercomputer | The fastest tpye of computer currently available. It is very expensive and primarily used for " number-crunching." |
| Mainframe | A large computer system capable of quickly processing enormous quantities of data. |
| Minicomputer | A computer with many of the cdapabilities of a mainfram, but runs slower, has less memory, and costs somewhat less. |
| Microcomputer | A small, relatively inexpensive computer, usually designed to beused one person at a time. |
| Binary code | A sequence of 1s and 0s that is used to give instructions to computers. Generally speaking. a 1 is represented by the presence of electrical current ( or a switch being on) while a 0 is represented by its absence ( or a switch being off). |
| Microprocessor | The "Brain" of a computer on a single chip. |
| Notebook computer | A portable computer designed to fit into a briefcase and generally weighing under 10 pounds. The display screen is usually in the notebook's lid. |
| Subnotebook computer | Similar to a notebook computer but smaller; it usually weighs under five pounds. |
| Personal digital assistant | A small portable computer that fits into the palm of a hand. A stylus is used to give instructions and choose from lists of options. |
| Workstation | A powerful, relatively expensive microcomputer, often used by engineers and technical illustrators. Workstations use RISC technology and often use a Unix operating system. |
| Embedded system | A microproccessor that is built into a piece of electronic equipment. such as a Vcr or automobile. Any instructions needed by the microprocessor are "hard-coded" into it. |
