Hardware refers to the physical components of a computer system, including the processor, memory, storage devices, input/output devices, and other tangible parts.
Software comprises the programs, instructions, and data that tell the computer's hardware what to do. This includes applications, operating systems, and utilities.
A desktop computer is a personal computer designed to sit on a desk. It typically consists of a computer tower (CPU), monitor, keyboard, and mouse.
A laptop computer, also known as a notebook, is a portable computer that integrates all its components into a single compact device.
The information processing cycle is a sequence of steps that a computer follows to process data: input, processing, output, and storage.
Processing involves the computer's CPU executing instructions to manipulate and transform input data into meaningful output.
Output is the result of processed data presented to users through devices like monitors, speakers, or printed documents.
Storage refers to the long-term retention of data and programs on a computer using devices such as hard drives, SSDs, or cloud storage.
Data consists of raw, unprocessed facts and figures, such as text, numbers, and images. It lacks context or meaning until it's processed.
Information is data that has been processed, organized, and contextualized to provide meaning, relevance, and usefulness.
Booting is the process of starting or initializing a computer. It involves loading the operating system into memory and preparing the system for use.
Memory refers to RAM (Random Access Memory), used for temporary data storage.
A QWERTY keyboard is the standard keyboard layout used on most English-language keyboards. It's named after the first six letters in the top row of keys.
An operating system is system software that manages computer hardware, provides services to software applications, and facilitates user interaction with the computer.
A Graphical User Interface is a visual interface that allows users to interact with a computer using graphical elements like icons, windows, and menus, as opposed to text-based interfaces.
Input is the process of entering data or instructions into a computer using devices like keyboards, mice, touchscreens, or microphones.
The information processing cycle is a sequence of steps that a computer follows to process data: input, processing, output, and storage.
Application software is a type of software designed to perform specific tasks or functions for the user, such as word processing, spreadsheet calculations, or image editing.
Utility software are programs designed to perform maintenance, management, and optimization tasks on a computer system. Examples include antivirus, disk cleanup, and backup tools.
An interface is a point of interaction between a user and a computer or between different software components. It can be graphical (GUI) or text-based (CLI) and allows users to communicate with the computer or software.
A word processor is an application software used for creating, editing, and formatting text documents. It provides features like text formatting, spell-checking, and document layout options.
A spreadsheet is an application software used for organizing, analyzing, and performing calculations on numerical data. It typically consists of rows and columns, allowing users to create tables and formulas.
A database is a structured collection of data organized in a way that allows for efficient retrieval, storage, and manipulation of information.
Presentation software, often used for creating slideshows, allows users to combine text, images, and multimedia elements to convey information effectively.
Communication software enables users to communicate over computer networks. Examples include email clients, instant messaging apps, and video conferencing tools.
An office suite is a bundle of various application software commonly used in an office environment. It typically includes word processing, spreadsheet, presentation, and email software, among others.
Desktop publishing software is used for designing and formatting documents for print or digital publication.
Web authoring software assists in creating and designing websites. It may offer features for webpage layout, HTML coding, and integrating multimedia elements.
A web browser is application software that allows users to access and view web pages on the internet.
A plug-in is a piece of software that adds specific functionality or features to an existing application. For example, playing multimedia content or blocking ads.
Bluetooth is a wireless technology standard used for short-range communication between devices, enabling data and file transfers, audio streaming, and peripheral connections without cables.
A USB port is a common interface on computers and devices used for connecting peripherals like keyboards, mice, external drives, and smartphones.
LCD is a type of flat-panel display technology that uses liquid crystals to create images on screens, commonly used in computer monitors and TVs.
Screen size refers to the physical measurement of the diagonal distance from one corner of a display screen to the opposite corner, usually expressed in inches.
Resolution is the measure of the number of pixels (dots) that make up an image on a display screen, typically expressed as the number of pixels in width by height (e.g., 1920x1080 for Full HD).
A graphics card is a dedicated hardware component responsible for rendering images and videos on a computer screen. It enhances graphics performance for tasks like gaming and rendering.
Response time measures how quickly pixels can change from one color to another. Lower values are desirable for fast-paced activities like gaming.
VGA is an older video display standard and connector used to transmit analog video signals from a computer to a monitor.
HDMI is a modern standard for transmitting high-quality digital audio and video signals between devices, including computers and monitors or TVs.
A printer is a peripheral device that produces hard copies of digital documents or images on paper or other media. Common types include inkjet, laser, and 3D printers.