| A | B |
|---|
| application software | Computer programs that perform specific tasks such as word processing, database management, or accounting |
| CD-ROM | A data storage device that uses laser optics for reading data |
| central processing unit | The control center of the computer |
| computer language | A system of letters, words, numbers, and symbols, used to communicate with a computer |
| computer network | Several computers linked into a single system |
| computer system | The combination of an input device, a processing unit, memory and storage facilities, and an output device |
| data | Facts, in the form of numbers, alphabetic characters, words, or special symbols |
| disk drive | A device that is used to store information onto a magnetic disk so that the information can be recalled and used again |
| hardware | The components or equipment of a computer system |
| input device | A mechanism used to enter data into a computer system |
| memory | Storage locations for the instructions and data that the computer will use |
| modem | A device that allows you to communicate with other computers with telephone lines |
| multimedia system | A computer system that presents information using a combination of sound, graphics, animation, and video |
| operating system software | Software that translates a computer user?s commands and allows applications programs to interact with the computer?s hardware |
| output devices | Mechanisms used to present data in a form that can be used or retrieved later or may be communicated immediately |
| program | A series of detailed step-by-step instructions that tell the computer what functions to complete and when to complete them |
| software | instructions that run a computer system |
