What Is a Computer?
what is a computer?
An electronic device that manipulates info or data
What three parts are included in the computer case?
The motherboard, CPU and power supply
what is the function of the optical disc drive?
lets your computer read CDs and DVDs
why is the motherboard important?
the motherboard connects directly or indirectly to every part of the
computer
what is the main benefit of a laptop as opposed to a desktop?
it is portable as opposed to a desktop computer
What is hardware?
Any part of the computer that has a physical structure
Where is the tower case commonly located?
Next to the monitor or on the floor
what are peripheral devices?
any device that can be plugged into the extra ports on the computer
what is the purpose of the CPU (central processing unit)?
its job is to carry out commands
What is a laptop?
a personal computer that can be easily moved and used in a variety of
locations
What is software?
Any set of instructions that tells the hardware what to do/ How to do it
What is the difference between an optical mouse and a mechanical
mouse?
an optical mouse uses an electronic eye for movement detection while
the mechanical uses a rolling ball
what are three examples of peripheral devices?
printers, speakers, microphones (scanners, controllers, cameras,
phones)
what are the four most common types of expansion cards?
Video card, sound card, network card, and a Bluetooth card
what is a built into a laptop?
monitor, keyboard, touchpad, and speakers
What is the function of a server?
To serve up info to other computers on a network
how does a touchpad work?
lets you control the pointer by making a drawing motion with your
finger
what is the difference between a printer and a scanner?
a printer turns digital images into physical while a scanner turns a physical image into a digital
what is the purpose of a network card?
allows your computer to communicate over a network and access the
internet
what are two of the main differences between a laptop and a desktop
computer?
touchpad, battery, price
What is the difference between a PC and a MAC?
A PC or a personalized computer is more common and uses a
Microsoft Window operating system, while the MAC and use the Mac OS X operating
system
what three keys are designed to be used in combinations with other
keys?
control, ALT and shift
What is the difference between an input and output device?
an input device recieves info from the user while output sends info
from the computer to the user
what is the purpose of a video card?
the video card is responsible for what you see on the monitor
What is an AC adapter?
a specialized power cable designed to be used with that laptop