| A | B |
|---|
| artificial intelligence | An area of computer science that deals with simulating human thought and behavior in computers. |
| bit | Represents data using technologies that can be set to one of two states, such as on or off, charged or not charged. |
| byte | A group of eight bits used to represent all types of useful data and information, such as characters, words, or sounds. |
| database | A collection of data stored on a computer, organized to meet users’ needs. |
| digital | Refers to technologies and devices based on digits (numbers). |
| Internet | The world’s largest public computer network; a network of networks that provides a vast array of services to individuals, businesses, and organizations around the world. |
| microprocessor | Sometimes called a chip or just a processor; combines microscopic electronic components on a single integrated circuit that processes bits according to software instructions. |
| personal computer | A general-purpose computer designed to accommodate the many needs of an individual. |
| server | A powerful general-purpose computer that provides information services to numerous users over a computer network. |
| software | The electronic instructions that govern the computer system’s functioning. |
| synchronize | To update the files shared between devices so that all copies are up to date and identical. |
| supercomputer | The most powerful type of computer, using hundreds or even thousands of processors simultaneously to accomplish very difficult tasks. |
| smart phone | A handheld computer that includes cell phone capabilities, or a cell phone that includes handheld computer capabilities including Internet access |
| protocols | Rules that allow two or more computers to communicate over a network. |
| platform | A computer’s type, processor, and operating system. |
| kiosk | A computer station that provides the public with specific and useful information and services. |
| digital divide | The social and economic gap between those that have access to computers and the Internet and those that do not. |
| computer literacy | A working understanding of the fundamentals of computers and their uses. |
| computer | A digital electronics device that combines hardware and software to accept the input of data, process and store the data, and produce some useful output. |
| computer network | A telecommunications network that connects two or more computers for the purpose of sharing data, hardware, and software resources. |
| copyright | Defines exclusive rights legally granted to the owner. |
| device driver | Software that interfaces with an operating system to control an input or output device such as a printer. |
| fuzzy logic | Derived from fuzzy set theory, which deals with reasoning that is approximate rather than precise. |
| intelligent agent | Also called an intelligent robot or bot, an abbreviation for robot; consists of programs and a knowledge base used to perform a specific task for a person, a process, or another program. |
| Microsoft Windows | The most popular operating system for personal computers. |
| optimization | Allows the spreadsheet to maximize or minimize a quantity subject to certain constraints. |
| programming language | The primary tool of computer programmers; provides commands for writing software that is translated to the detailed step-by-step instructions executed by the processor to achieve an objective or solve a problem. |
| blog | Web sites created to express one or more individuals’ views on a given topic. |
| chat | Synchronous text messaging between two or more participants. |
| cookies | Small text files stored on a computer by a Web server in order to recognize a user who revisits the Web site. |
| e-mail | The transmission of messages over a computer network to support asynchronous text-based communication. |
