| A | B |
|---|
| application software | software designed to meet the user's need; 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 instruction |
| CPU | central processing unit; the brain of the computer |
| data | new facts entered into the computer to be processed, which consists 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 |
| local area network (LAN) | 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 |
| notebook computer | designed to be used on a desktop but still small enough to be portable |
| output | displays the results of processing |
| PDAs | a handheld device that is often used in conjunction with 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; temporary storage |
| receiver | the computer receiving the message |
| ROM | read only memory; permanent storage |
| 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 having to have a traditional computer |
| wide area networks (WAN) | when local area networks are expanded to include several local area networks within a city, state, region, territory, country, continent, or the world |
