Module 1: Choosing a Computer Flashcards
Application
also called an “app,” it is computer software created for a particular task or
tasks; it is increasingly used to mean software that is downloaded for use on cell phones
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
the central processing unit carries out the functions in a
computer
Cloud computing
a computer network that allows for software and hardware to be
placed on it, thereby removing the need to have them stored on your computer; some
examples include word processing documents, e-mail, and music files
Downloading
receiving data, such as a music or video file, from a server or another
computer system
Hard disk drive
: a computer device that reads, writes, and stores digital data
Hardware
the physical parts of a computer
Hosting service
: a service, such as web hosting, that is usually operated by a company in
order to provide access to the Internet through servers
Internet
a vast global computer network, which links smaller computer networks
together
Memory
any data or information in a computer; it is commonly used to refer to readaccess
memory (RAM) which is temporary and used to operate software; at times, it can
also refer the amount of disk space available on a computer
Moore’s Law
: suggests that the number of transistors that can be placed in an
integrated circuit will double every 18 months, making computer speeds increase
exponentially; this law is related to other trends in digital technology, like how much
memory can go on a hard drive
Open source
a way in which software is developed that allows access to the source
code of an application or software and is free to update and use
Operating system
a group of software programs that provide instructions to a
computer so that it may operate
Plug-in
something you can add to a software application to enhance its abilities
Presentation
a computer program used to display information, normally in the form of
a slide show
Processor
another term for the CPU of a computer—the central processing unit that
runs computer programs
Programming:
the process of designing, writing, testing, debugging, and maintaining the
source code of computer programs
QR code
Quick Response code; a type of two-dimensional bar code, consisting of black
modules in a square pattern on a white background, that can hold a large amount of any
kind of data
RAM
computer memory that is temporarily used to allow programs to operate, which
would be quicker than if they accessed ROM
Software
a group of computer programs that give instructions to a computer so that it
functions
Spam
e-mail that’s sent to large group of people who didn’t sign up to receive it; spam
often requests information or money or may contain viruses
Spreadsheet
a computer application that simulates a paper accounting worksheet
Tablet
a highly portable computer shaped like slate or pad of paper, featuring a
touchscreen
Uploading
sending data, such as a music or video file, from a local computer system to
another computer system or server
Wi-Fi:
networking technology that allows computer devices such as personal computers,
laptops, and cell phones to communicate over a wireless signal