Computer Technology

Competency Termsand Definitions

pg. 91-96

Acceptable Use Policies

Used to protect a network by providing guidelines and rules as to how the network can and should be used.

Anti-virus softwareSet of utility programs that looks for and eradicates viruses; that must be kept current because new viruses are always being written.

Application SoftwareA computer program designed to carry out specialized tasks such as word processing, spreadsheets, slide shows, or electronic mail.

Binary NumbersAn electronic or digital method for representing letters or numbers using two digits, 0 and 1.

Bit Each 0 or 1

Boot Process Sequence of events that occurs between the time you turn on a computer and the time that it becomes ready to accept commands.

Boot Sector VirusInfects the system files that your computer uses every time it is turned on; causes widespread damage and recurring problems.

Byte 8 bits

CD-ROM Storage device that uses laser technology to read data permanently stored on compact disks, cannot be used to write data to a disk.

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

Where the processing in a computer takes place, often called the brain of the computer.

Circuits The paths from one component of a computer to another that data uses to travel.

Client The software on a network workstation that allows access to files and peripheral devices through a server.

ComputerA device that accepts input, processes data, uses memory, provides

storage, and produces output, all according to a series of stored instructions.

Computer VirusA computer program that is designed to replicate itself by copying into other programs stored in a computer.

Copyrights A form of legal protection that grants certain exclusive rights to the creator of a program or musical work.

Data Refers to the way in which letters, numbers, and symbols represent facts, objects, or ideas.

Drive A location on a network that is set aside for the collection of data.

E-Mail A system for sending and receiving messages electronically over computer networks.

EncryptionThe manipulation of data to prevent accurate interpretation by all but those for whom the data is intended.

EthicsA set of principles of right conduct; a theory or a system of moral values;

and the rules or standards governing the conduct of a person or the members of a profession.

File A named collection of data that exists on a storage device.

File ServerA computer that supplies users with data; through the use of a network.

File Virus Virus that attaches to an application program, such as a game.

Floppy DiskA type of magnetic storage the uses a round piece of flexible plastic covered with a thin layer of oxide and sealed inside a protective covering.

Folder The subdirectory or subdivision, of a drive that can contain files and/or other folders.

Gigabyte Approximately 1 billion bytes.

Graphic User Interface (GUI)

A user interface that features on-screen objects, such as menus and icons that are manipulated by a mouse.

Handheld A computer that fits into a pocket, runs on batteries, and is used while holding the unit in your hand.

Hard Drive The main storage location for a computer that is mounted inside the computer’s system unit.

Hardware The mechanical, magnetic, and electrical components making up a computer system; anything on or in the computer that is touchable.

Information The results of the computer receiving and storing data.

Input Letters, numbers, and symbols entered into a computer for processing.

Input DevicesUnits that gather information and transform that information it into a series of electronic signals that a computer recognizes.

Internet A collection of local, regional, national, and international computer networks that are linked together to exchange information.

IP AddressesA unique identifying number assigned to each computer connected to a network.

KeyboardThe arrangement of letters, numbers, and special function keys that act as the primary input device for a computer.

Kilobyte Approximately 1,000 bytes

Laptop ComputerA portable, compact microcomputer computer that can run on electricity or a battery unit.

Local Area Network (LAN)

A network of computers in the same building or small geographical area.

Logic Bomb Watches for a specific set of input to activate the virus.

Macro VirusA virus that attaches itself to a miniature program and replicates when that macro is used.

Magnetic StorageThe recording of data onto disks or tape by magnetizing particles of an oxide surface coating.

MainframeVery large expensive computer capable of simultaneously processing or storing data for thousands of users.

Megabyte Approximately 1 million bytes

Megahertz A measurement used to describe the speed of the system clock.

Memory Area of the computer that temporarily holds data waiting to be processed, stored, or output.

MicrocomputerA personal computer; designed to meet the computer needs of an individual.

Modem An input device that makes possible the transmission of data to or from other computers over telephone or cable lines.

Monitor Output device that forms an image by converting electrical signals from the computer into points of colored light on the screen.

Mouse An input device that allows the user to manipulate objects on the screen by moving the device along a surface.

Multitasking Running more than one program at a time.

Network Two or more computers and other devices (printers or scanners) that are connected, for the purpose of sharing data and programs.

Network Interface Card (NIC)

A circuit board inside most computers, that coverts the digital signals from a computer into signals that can travel over a network.

Operating SystemMaster controller for all activities that take place within a computer; its

primary purpose is to help the computer monitor itself in order to function efficiently.

Optical StorageMeans of reading and recording data as light and dark spots on CD and DVD.

Output The processing results, seen on a monitor or printed on paper.

Output devicesUnits that transform a computer’s electronic signals into information that can be displayed or printed.

Pentium A name given to the 5th generation of the Intel central processing unit.

Peripheral devicesUsed to expand the computer’s input, output and storage capabilities.

Platform Underlying hardware and software of the computer system.

Printer Output device that produces text or graphical images on paper.

Processing Manipulation or changing of the data in many ways.

Program The precise step-by-step instructions enabling a computer to solve a problem.

RAM The ability of a computer to process information and save data to the location specified.

ROM When data can be read from a file, but a user cannot change or modify the data.

SharewareComputer program that is freely distributed for a trial period, such as 30 days, and then the user must pay a fee to continue using the program.

Silicon ChipsSilicon is melted sand and what circuits are embedded into to keep them together.

Software A computer program that tells the computer how to perform particular tasks.

Software LicensesA legal contract that defines the ways in which you may use a computer program.

Sound CardAn input device that is a circuit board giving the computer the ability to accept audio input, play sound files, and produce audio output.

Speakers Output devices that receive signals from a sound card in order to hear sound effects.

Storage Area of the computer that holds data on a permanent basis when it is not immediately needed for processing.

Storage devicesOutput devices that are used to keep data when the power to the computer is off.

SupercomputerA computer that was the fastest in the world at the time it was constructed.

Switch A piece of computer equipment that connects several devices (computers or printers) to a network.

System UnitThe case that holds the power supply, central processing unit, storage devices, and all circuit boards.

Terabyte Approximately 1 trillion bytes

Time Bomb Watches for the computer clock to reach a certain date or time to activate the virus.

Trigger EventsAn event that activates a task often associated with a computer virus.

Trojan HorseComputer program that seems to perform one legitimate function while actually doing something destructive somewhere else.

USB An external interface for communication between a computer and peripheral devices over a single data line at very high speeds.

Wide Area Network (WAN)

A network of computers in different locations and allows for access to computers all over the world.

WorkstationPowerful desktop computer designed for specialized tasks that require a lot of processing speed. Refers to a personal computer connected to a

network.

Worm Software virus that enters a computer network through security holes and once in the network the virus becomes active.