| A | B |
|---|
| 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 | Modulator - Demodulator. 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) | 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; 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 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. |
