| A | B |
|---|
| byte | The amount of memory required to store a single character, such as a letter, number, or symbol. |
| central processing unit (CPU) | The main control unit of a computer - its "brain". It runs programs and manages input, output, and storage. |
| circuit card | A board containing electronic parts such as integrated circuits. Also called a circuit board. |
| clock speed | Used to measure how fast a microprocessor can work, usually measured in gigahertz (GHz). |
| expansion slot | A special opening in a computer's motherboard that allows additional circuit cards to be added. |
| gigahertz (GHz) | Billions of cycles per second. Used to measure the speed of microprocessors. |
| integrated circuit (IC) | A complete electronic circuit contained on a small chip of silicon or other substance. Also called a chip. |
| megabyte (MB) | a million bytes. |
| memory | Internal data storage areas. Can be divided into RAM and ROM. |
| microprocessor | A CPU on a single chip. |
| motherboard | The main circuit board of a computer. It contains the microprocessor. Also called a system board. |
| random access memory (RAM) | Temporary memory that stores data and programs while they are being used. |
| read-only memory (ROM) | Memory that stores instructions and data permanently on a comptuer. Data on a ROM chip can be read but never changed. |
| transistor | A tiny electronic computer that can be turned "on" or "off" to control the flow of electricity. |
