Computer Terms

Computer

an electronic device that manipulates information or data

Hardware

any part of the computer that has a physical structure

Software

any set of instructions that tells the hardware what to do

Server

a computer that serves up information to other computers on a network

File server

servers businesses use for employees to share and store files

PC

the most common type of personal computer

MAC

made by only one company, Apple Inc.

Computer case

metal and plastic box that contains the main components of the computer

Monitor

works with a video card to display images and text on the screen

Keyboards

one of the primary ways we communicate with the computer and enter data

App

type of software that allows you to perform specific tasks

Word processor

allows you to write a letter, design a flyer, and create many other types of documents

Personal finance software

Allows you to keep track of your income and expenses and create a budget

Web browser

tool you use to access the internet

Media player

you need this to listen to MP3's or watch downloaded movies

Gadgets

sometimes called widgets, they are simple apps you can put on the desktop

CPU

also called a processor, it's the brain of the computer

Motherboard

a computer's main circuit board

Power supply unit

converts power from the wall outlet to the power needed by computer

RAM

computer's short term memory

Hard drive

computer's long term storage

Video card

responsible for what you see on the monitor

Sound card

responsible for what you hear in the speakers or headphones

Network card

allows computer to communicate over network and access the internet

Bluetooth card

technology for wireless communication over short distances