Supercomputer, how does it differ from a mainframe?
large machine: can perform and extremely high number of instructions per second: does not support simutaneous, multi-user manipulation.
Mainframe
large computer: capable of supporting 100s of users simutaneously
Minicomputer
machine capable of supporting 100s of users at the same time (integrated with transistors)
Microcomputer
“dummy” for mainframe computer, offers observation and accessibility
Personal Computer
self contained computing device offering all neccessary input, output, and display device utilities to a singe end-user
Workstation
Powerful, single-user computer.
Computer
a programable device able to store and respond to a set of instructions for processing data
binary numbers
“switches” 01010010
Bit
One “binary digit”
Byte
Quantity of eight binary digits.
Program
Set of instructions for processing data
Nibble
Four binary digits
Word
used to define longer strings of bits: 2 bytes = 16-bit ________.
ASCII
code based on english characters where every letter is assigned a corresponding number (0-27)
Serial Connection
uses a single wire to transmit data individually by bit
parallel connection
enlists multiple wires, enabling the transmission of more than one bit at a given time
Motherboard
the main circuit board of a PC
CPU
“brain” of computer, interprets and exectutes the instructions of a command or program
Clock Speed
the rate in which a CPU can execute the instructions in receives.
chipset
a group of integrated circuits on the motherboard that performs one or more functions
ROM
memory containing pre-recorded data
RAM
computer memory that can be accessed randomly as necissary.
Expansion card
printed circuit board, can be inserted into a computer to contribute additional utility
ISA, how many bits?
older standard occupied a black slot connector on the motherboard, tied to 16-bit structues
PCI, # of bits?
card: interfaces through a white slot on the mother board, 32bits.
Accelerated Graphic Port (AGP)
cards designed to bypass PCI bus and attain direct access to the main memory of the computer
Application
environment supported by the underlying operation system of the computer
File; Filename
Collection of data or information generated within an application, saved under a ________.
Bus
A collection of wires through which data is transmitted from various locations within a computer.
Width
the size of a bus is measured in a _______.