Topic 1 Definition List p9 Flashcards
(10 cards)
Compatiblity
Compatibility means how well two or more things, like software and hardware, work together without problems. If software is compatible with a computer, it will run smoothly and use all the features properly. Compatibility is important because not all programs work on every device or operating system. Sometimes updates or new devices need to be compatible with older ones to keep working well. When things aren’t compatible, they may crash, not open, or not work correctly.
10 examples of compatibility in tech:
1. A game that runs on both Windows and macOS
2. USB devices that work with different computers
3. Apps compatible with Android and iOS phones
4. Printers that connect to various operating systems
5. File formats that open on multiple software programs
6. Software that works with older versions of an operating system
7. Websites compatible with all popular web browsers
8. Bluetooth headphones working with smartphones and laptops
9. Compatibility of video formats with media players
10. Cross-platform video games playable on consoles and PCs
Compatiblity issues
Compatibility issues happen when two or more devices, software, or systems can’t work well together. This might cause programs to crash, files not to open, or devices not to connect properly. These issues often happen because of differences in software versions, hardware types, or operating systems. Sometimes new updates create compatibility problems with older programs or devices. Fixing compatibility issues usually means updating software, changing settings, or using special tools called “compatibility modes.”
10 examples of compatibility issues:
1. A new game not running on an old computer
2. A file format that an older program can’t open
3. Printer drivers not working with the latest OS update
4. Mobile apps crashing on older phones
5. Websites not displaying properly in some browsers
6. USB devices not recognized by a computer
7. Software that won’t install on incompatible operating systems
8. Video files not playing on certain media players
9. Bluetooth devices failing to connect
10. Office documents looking different on other software versions
Driver
A driver is a special software that helps the computer communicate with hardware devices like printers, keyboards, or graphics cards. It acts like a translator between the device and the operating system, telling the computer how to use the hardware properly. Without the correct driver, the device might not work or work badly. Drivers are often installed when you connect new hardware or update the system. Keeping drivers updated helps devices run smoothly and avoid errors.
10 examples of drivers:
1. Printer driver
2. Graphics card driver
3. Keyboard driver
4. Mouse driver
5. Network adapter driver
6. Sound card driver
7. USB device driver
8. Webcam driver
9. Bluetooth driver
10. Touchscreen driver
Interrupt
An interrupt is a signal sent to the processor to get its attention and pause its current task. It tells the CPU to stop what it’s doing and quickly deal with something important. After handling the interrupt, the CPU goes back to what it was doing before. Interrupts help the computer respond quickly to events like keyboard presses or incoming data. They make multitasking and efficient processing possible.
10 examples of interrupts:
1. Keyboard interrupt when a key is pressed
2. Mouse interrupt when you move or click
3. Timer interrupt for managing time-based tasks
4. Disk interrupt when data is ready to read or write
5. Network interrupt for incoming data packets
6. Power failure interrupt to save data before shutdown
7. Software interrupt for system calls
8. Hardware interrupt from a printer finishing a job
9. Interrupt from a USB device connecting
10. Interrupt for handling error conditions
Flash memory
Flash memory is a type of storage that can be electronically erased and rewritten many times. It is non-volatile, which means it keeps data even when the power is off. Flash memory is used in devices like USB drives, smartphones, and memory cards because it’s fast and durable. Unlike traditional hard drives, it has no moving parts, so it’s more resistant to damage. It helps store files, photos, apps, and even operating systems.
10 examples of flash memory devices:
1. USB flash drives
2. Smartphone internal storage
3. SD memory cards for cameras
4. Solid State Drives (SSDs)
5. MP3 players
6. Tablets
7. Digital cameras
8. Game consoles with flash storage
9. Smartwatches
10. Embedded systems in cars
Memory Card
A memory card is a small, portable storage device used to save data like photos, videos, and files. It uses flash memory, so it keeps data even when the power is off. Memory cards are commonly used in devices like cameras, smartphones, and game consoles to expand storage. They come in different sizes and types, such as SD cards or microSD cards. You can easily remove and transfer them between devices.
10 examples of memory cards:
1. SD (Secure Digital) card
2. microSD card
3. CompactFlash card
4. Memory Stick (Sony)
5. xD-Picture card
6. MMC (MultiMediaCard)
7. CFast card
8. UFS card (Universal Flash Storage)
9. MiniSD card
CFexpress card
Optical Disk
An optical disk is a flat, round storage medium that stores data using laser technology. Data is read or written by a laser beam that scans the surface of the disk. Common types include CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs. Optical disks are used to store music, movies, software, and backups. They are portable and easy to use but can be slower than newer storage devices like flash drives.
10 examples of optical disks:
1. CD (Compact Disc)
2. DVD (Digital Versatile Disc)
3. Blu-ray Disc
4. CD-ROM (Read-Only Memory)
5. DVD-R (Recordable DVD)
6. DVD-RW (Rewritable DVD)
7. BD-RE (Blu-ray Disc Rewritable)
8. HD DVD (High Definition DVD)
9. LaserDisc (older format)
10. MiniDisc (smaller optical disk used for audio)
Global Positioning System
Global Positioning System (GPS):
GPS is a system that helps devices find their exact location anywhere on Earth by using signals from a network of satellites. It’s often included in portable devices like smartphones so people can get directions and navigate easily. GPS can also help find lost or stolen devices by showing where they are. The GPS hardware is very small, even smaller than a battery, so it can fit inside many types of gadgets. However, using GPS regularly can use up more battery power because it’s often working all the time.
GPS isn’t just for personal devices; professionals like pilots, scientists, surveyors
Touch Screen
A touch screen is a screen that you can both see things on and touch to give commands or enter information. It is built into many devices like phones, smartwatches, tablets, laptops, and handheld game consoles. Using a touch screen saves space because it combines the keyboard and display into one part. Without a touch screen, devices might have to be bigger to fit both a screen and a physical keyboard. This makes the device easier to use because the screen can be larger and clearer for viewing.
Sensor
Sensor
A sensor is a type of input device that collects data from its immediate surroundings. Sensors are used in a huge range of devices, from tablet computers to washing machines. Here are some examples of sensors that can be included in devices.
Light sensor - to detect the ambient light of the room to automatically adjust the brightness of the screen. Light sensors can also be used to measure the heart rate of a user in a device like a smart watch.
Accelerometer - to change the orientation of the screen depending on which way a device is held.
Motion sensor - to measure the number of steps taken by a user in a day or to detect the motion of a user who is playing a computer game.
Temperature sensor - to measure the temperature of the water that has been added to the washing machine.
