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Computer Terms
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Application - a program designed to perform a certain job (word processing, databases, drawing, web browsers).
Binary - a number system that has just 2 digits. Computers are based on the binary system, which has just two numbers, 0 and 1.
CPU (Central Processing Unit) - the brains of the computer. performs all of the functions inside the computer.
Data - pieces of information, such as numbers, text, sound or pictures.
Desktop - the area you see on the screen when your computer is on.
Document - anything you write using a word processor.
Edit - make changes to a document.
Extension - A three letter suffix found at the end of a file name. Examples are .doc, .ppt, .jpg, .pdf.
Font - the way the letters look.
Hardware - parts of the computer that you can touch (disks, monitor, keyboard, printer).
Home row - where you place your fingers when you are keyboarding.
Input devices - something that puts data into a computer (computer, mouse, scanner).
Keyboard - the part of the computer with keys that lets you enter data into the computer (The QWERTY keyboard is the standard - the first six keys of the top row.)
Memory - where you store data and programs inside the computer.
Modem - a device that allows a computer to communicate over telephone or cable lines. Computer information is stored digitally, information sent over phone lines is sent in the form of analog waves. A modem changes these two forms. (short for modulator demodulator)
Monitor - shows you information on a screen.
Motherboard - the main circuit board in the system; contains the memory and computer chips.
Mouse - a tool that controls the movement of the pointer or cursor.
Operating System (OS) - the program that runs the computer. A computer must have an operating system to run. (Popular operating systems are Mac, Windows & Linux.)
Output devices - what you use to get information out of the computer.(screens, printers)
Pixel - a single dot in a picture (short for picture element).
Points - the way the fonts are measured.
Processes - what a computer does when it thinks.
RAM (random-access memory) - memory chips that store the data while the computer is turned on.
Resolution - how close the pixels are on the screen; the more pixels the clearer the image.
ROM (read-only memory) - you can not save the files here, you can only read them.
Software - a program with instructions that tells the computer what to do.
USB port: opening on the computer that you connect to so data can be moved from an input device such as a digital camera or flash drive.
Wallpaper - picture that is on the background of the desktop.
Word Processing - a computer program that helps you to write and create documents.
Word Wrap - when the cursor moves to the next line of text because there is no more room on the current line.
Questions or comments: mrsarmelli@yahoo.com 
Updated 09/19/09
Learning With Technology!
All Saints of St. John Vianney
28702 Euclid Avenue
Wickliffe, Ohio 44092
allsaints@oh.rr.com
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