A Guide To Basic Computer Terminology
Ram? Mouse? One is an animal and one
is a rodent right? Ram...that is the zodiac sign for
Aries... If this is what these words mean to you than
you can surely use this quick glossary of computer
terminology. It would be a good idea to read through
them before purchasing a computer because these are
things you should know about first. If you already
have a computer then these computer terms can help
you know what to do if your new computer equipment
is unfamiliar. Also, this computer terminology can
help you if you have to call in for technical help.
Okay lets go!
Cache: Cache is another type of memory
kindred to RAM. The computer uses cache to quickly
move data between the RAM and the CPU.
CD-ROM Drive: Most new computers now
come with a CD-ROM drive as standard equipment. A
CD-ROM drive reads data from a disc. These CDs look
like a music CD, but hold data instead of music. CD-ROMs
also contain games, dictionaries, recipe files, and
lots of other things that you can load onto your computer.
CPU: The CPU, or central processing
unit, is the brains of the computer. Most new Windows
based programs use a Pentium processor or a AMD Athlon
XP. New Macs use a different type of CPU called Power
PC.
Disk Drive:Virtually all computers come
with a disk drive that can read and save information
on portable diskettes, also called floppy disks. You
can use floppy disks to save information or to load
new software onto your computer.
Hard Drive: The hard drive is also called
the hard disk. You'll probably never see it because
it is nestled inside your computer. It's the computer's
electronic filling cabinet, and it stores the computer's
operating system, files, programs and documents.
Keyboard: Just like a typewriter keyboard,
this device is the primary way of inputting data into
the computer programs.
Megahertz (MHz): This is the clock speed
of the microprocessor. The higher the number, the
quicker the information is processed. MHz relates
to how many millions of instructions can be processed
per second.
Memory:This is the circuitry or device
that holds information in an electrical or magnetic
form. There is read-only memory (ROM), which is information
primarily stored on a disk, and random-access memory
(RAM), which is chip-based storage inside the computer.
Memory is typically measured in megabytes (MBs).
Modem:This mechanism connects a computer
to a phone line so information can be sent from one
computer to another or the user can access an on-line
service or the Internet. In view of the popularity
of the Internet, a modem is now considered basic equipment
and comes on practically all-new computers. Most modems
come with fax capabilities.
Monitor: An output device that allows
you to see what you are doing (it is what you are
looking into right now to see this). Most computers
come with 14 or 15-inch monitors. This size is good
for most people's needs. Larger 17 or 21-inch monitors
also are available, but may cost more. Myself, I prefer
the 17-inch.
Motherboard:The motherboard is the circuit
board that everything in the computer plugs into.
The CPU, RAM and cache all plug into the motherboard.
Mouse: The mouse is another input device
that makes getting around in your computer easier.
It is a handheld object that is good for doing tasks
such as moving and pointing to objects on the screen,
and can replace the function and control keys of the
keyboard. (If you need a lesson on how the mouse works
and how to use it click here for a tutorial.)
Printer: A printer is an essential part
of the computer if you want a hard copy of your work.
There are four types of printers on the market: dot
matrix, inkjet, bubble jet and laser. The dot matrix
is the most basic. Most inkjets and bubble jets can
print color and graphics, and a laser printer offers
the best resolution at the highest speed.
RAM:Computers save data in two ways:
on the hard drive and in random access memory or internal
memory. New computer buyers should look for models
with at least 16 MBs of RAM (or more, depending on
what types of programs you'll be running). Make sure
that the computer can be upgraded.
Scanner:A scanner is a useful accessory
to have if you are working with lots of artwork or
photos. This device can copy written documents, pictures
or photographs directly into your computer. There
are three types of scanners: handheld, hopper-feed
and flatbed.
Sound Card: This device allows your
computer to reproduce music, sounds and voices. Make
sure you have a sound card if you're planning to play
multimedia games.
Video Card: The video card is the part
of the computer that sends the images to the monitor.
Well there you have it, a quick course
on computer terms. I hope it has helped to guide you
in your purchase of a new computer; or to help you
with the one you have.
For more computer terms check out our
webmasters encyclopedia.
About the Author:
B. Archer is a successful author and
publisher of http://www.A1-computers.net-
A great source of
information about computers and computer accessories.
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