Systems Vocabulary

• central processing unit-the part of the computer that executes instructions,controls the flow of data,and performs the arithmetic and logic decisions.
• expansion slots-a part of the motherboard that allows the connection of the circuit boards with additional devices to the computer.
• flash memory-a type of removable memory commonly used in small hand-held devices,such as cell phones, digital cameras, and digital music players.
• graphical user interface-a design for the operating system in which the useer typically operates the mouse to point and click on graphic icons representing files,folders,disks,and programs.
• hard drive-a nonremovable storage device used to hold a asoftware and data on a computer system.
• hard ware-the physical parts of a computer system including input,output,storage,and other devices.
• intput device- any device that acepts data from the user,such as keyboard or mouse.
• linux-an operating system based on Unix that permits any programmer to improve upon it and is available as freeware.
• maCOS-the operating system of the Macintosh line of computer systems.
• mainframe-a computer system used by large organizations that can support many users and large data beases.
• minicomputer-a computer system smaller and less powerful than a mainframe but capable of supporting multiple users for a small to medium-sized organization.
• motherboard-the main circuit board containing a computer's central processing unit(CPU),memory, and expansion slots.
• operating system-the software program that oversees and controls everything that happens while a computer is turned on, such as running the application software,managing the hardware,and maintaining file storage.
• output device- a part of the computer system that displays information to the user,such as monitor or a printer.
• platform-the combination of hardware and operating system that defines the type of programs and devices your computer will support.
• prfessional workstation-a computer system smaller than a minicoputer but more powerful than most personal computers.
• random acces memory-a computer's primary working memory that temporarily stores information,even, when the computer is turned off.
• read only memory-the part of a computer primary storage that permanently stores information,even when the computer is turned off.
• supercomputer-a computer that is faster and more powerful than a mainframe. super computers are used by large research facilities or government needing a lot of processing ability.
• syntax-the structure for entering functions and commands,including spelling,punctuation,and acceptable keywords.
• system software-the software necessary to operate and maintain a computers system, including the motherboard,diskdrives,and power supply.
• system unit-tha case that holds the main,internal circuitry of a computer including the motherboard,disk,drives,and power supply.