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Parts of a Computer

Terms in this set (15)

CD/DVD Drive
A drive which is used for reading and writing of CDs (Compact Disks) and DVDs (Digital Versatile Disks) with a laser.
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The main chip on a computer, also called the processor or microprocessor, and the "brain" of the computer. Executes all instructions and data processing.
Hard Drive Disk (HDD)
The main device a computer uses to store data. An internal storage drive built into the computer, (usually referred to as the C: drive).
Hardware
The physical equipment pieces of a computer system that you can touch.
Modem
An electronic device inside or outside the computer that enables it to send/receive data over phone lines or cable.
Motherboard
Main circuit board of the computer, contains the CPU, memory, expansion slots, bus, video controllers. Known as the system board.
Peripheral
Device that can be attached to or used with a computer, such as a keyboard, monitor, printer, or scanner.
Power Supply
Supplies power to all parts inside the computer.
Random Access Memory (RAM)
Temporary memory a computer uses while it is processing. Data can be read or written to but is lost when computer is turned off, unless saved.
Read Only Memory (ROM)
Memory that stores information permanently. Holds all the instructions the computer needs to start up.
Secure Digital (SD) Card
(SD) A popular type of memory card. Used in digital photography to store images.
Software
Enables the computer to perform different tasks. A general term used to describe computer programs such as applications and operating systems.
Sound Card
An expansion card that attaches to the motherboard inside your system unit, and controls the sound capabilities of your computer.
Universal Serial Bus (USB) Port
A port that can connect a wide variety of peripheral devices to the computer, including keyboards, printers, mice, smartphones, PDAs, flash drives, and digital cameras.
Video Card
An interface card installed in the computer to control visual output on a monitor. Also called display adapter or graphics card.
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