| A | B |
|---|
| Application software | software designed to meet the user’s need; performs a specific task. |
| CD-ROM | a compact disk that reads only memory. |
| Channel | the media that carries or transports the message. |
| Computer | an electronic device that receives data, processes data, stores data, and produces a result. |
| Control Unit | the part of the computer that directs instructions. |
| CPU | Central Processing Unit; the brain of the computer. |
| Data | new facts entered into the computer to be processed, which consist of text, numbers, sounds, and images. |
| Desktop Computer | designed to be used on a desktop. |
| Disk | a storage device. |
| Dot Matrix Printer | uses a pattern of dots to form words and images on paper. |
| Ergonomics | the science of designing equipment and workspace for a comfortable and safe working environment. |
| File | a document stored on a disk. |
| File server | the central computer where the data and software for local area network computers are stored. |
| Hard Copy | a printed copy of output. |
| Hard Disk/Drive | a device that holds information such as software and files. |
| Hardware | physical parts of a computer. |
| Information Processing Cycle | the interactions of humans and computers that consist of input, processing, output, and storage. |
| Inkjet printer | sprays ink through small holes to form words and images on paper. |
| Input | the process of entering information into a computer. |
| IPOS | input, processing, output, and storage. |
| Keyboard | contains numbers, letters, symbols, and function keys; looks like a typewriter. |
| Laptop computer | designed to be small enough and light enough to be used on your lap. |
| Laser Printer | uses light beams to form words and images on paper. |
| LAN | Local Area Networks |
| Local Area Networks | computers connected together in a relatively close location such as in the same building or department. |
| Mainframes and minicomputers | used by business and government to process large amounts of information. |
| Microcomputer | a small computer in which the central processing unit or CPU is a single silicon chip. |
| Modem | a device that connects the computer to a telephone line. |
| Network | when computers are connected to other computers that can share information and sometimes hardware (printers) |
| Notebook computer | designed to be used on a desktop but still small enough to be portable. |
| Output | displays the results of processing. |
| PDAs | Personal Digital Assistants |
| Personal Digital Assistants | a handheld device that is often used in conjunction with a desktop or other PC. |
| Personal computers | smaller and less powerful than the other types of computers. |
| Processing | executes instructions given to the computer. |
| Protocol | the rules that govern the orderly transfer of data sent. |
| RAM | random access memory |
| Random access memory | temporary storage / short term memory |
| Receiver | the computer receiving the message. |
| ROM | read only memory |
| Read only memory | permanent storage / long term memory |
| Scanner | prints copies like a photocopier. |
| Sender | the computer that is sending the message. |
| Service Technician | one who repairs hardware and software problems. |
| Soft Copy | output that is not in printed form; such as what is seen on the monitor. |
| Software | programs that tell the computer what to do. |
| Storage | a device that holds data. |
| Supercomputer | most powerful computer used to do things like predict hurricanes and navigate satellites. |
| System software | controls the operation of a computer. |
| Virus Protection Software | a program that protects a computer from damaging computer viruses. |
| Web TV | provides easy access to the Internet without a having to have a traditional computer. |
| WAN | Wide Area Networks |
| Wide Area Networks | when local area networks are expanded to include several local area networks within a city, state, region, territory, country, continent, or the world. |
