Computer Fundamentals

A central processing unit (CPU) is the electronic circuitry within a computer that carries out the instructions of a computer program by performing arithmetic, logical, control and input/output (I/O) operations specified by the instructions.

RAM (Random Access Memory) is a type of computer memory that can be accessed randomly; that is, any byte of memory can be accessed without touching the preceding bytes. It is the most common type of memory found in computers and other devices, such as printers.

ROM (Read-Only Memory) is a type of storage medium that permanently stores data on PCs and other electronic devices. It contains the programming needed to start a PC, which is essential for boot-up; it performs major input/output tasks and holds programs or software instructions.

A motherboard is the main printed circuit board (PCB) in general-purpose computers and other expandable systems. It holds many of the crucial electronic components of the system, such as the central processing unit (CPU) and memory, and provides connectors for other peripherals.

A graphics card (also known as a video card) is an expansion card which generates a feed of output images to a display device (such as a computer monitor).

A hard drive is a data storage device used for storing and retrieving digital information using one or more rigid rapidly rotating disks (platters) coated with magnetic material.

An operating system (OS) is system software that manages computer hardware and software resources and provides common services for computer programs.

A computer network is a set of computers sharing resources located on or provided by network nodes. The computers use common communication protocols over digital interconnections to communicate with each other.

The Internet is a global computer network providing a variety of information and communication facilities, consisting of interconnected networks using standardized communication protocols.