Hardware Vocabulary
CPU (Central Processing Unit)
The brain of the computer where most calculations take place.
Input Devices
Devices that allow users to interact with a computer (e.g., keyboard, mouse).
Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)
Handles rendering of images, videos, and animations.
Database Software
Software for managing and organizing data (e.g., Microsoft Access, Oracle).
Antivirus Software
Programs designed to detect and remove malware.
Motherboard
The main circuit board that connects all components of a computer.
Output Devices
Devices that allow the computer to communicate with the user (e.g., monitor, printer).
Network Interface Card (NIC)
Allows a computer to connect to a network.
Spreadsheet Software
Software designed for data organization and calculation (e.g., Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets).
Multimedia Software
Programs for creating and editing multimedia content (e.g., VLC Media Player, Adobe Premiere).
RAM (Random Access Memory)
Temporary storage that provides space for the computer to read and write data to be accessed by the CPU quickly.
Peripheral Devices
External devices that provide additional functionality (e.g., scanners, webcams).
USB (Universal Serial Bus
A standard for connecting peripherals to a computer.
Presentation Software
Programs for creating slide-based presentations (e.g., Microsoft PowerPoint, Prezi).
Productivity Software
Tools designed to improve workplace productivity (e.g., Trello, Slack).
Hard Drive (HDD)
A storage device used to store data permanently.
Power Supply Unit (PSU)
Converts electrical power to a form usable by the computer.
Monitor
The visual output device for displaying information.
Web Browser
Software used to access the Internet (e.g., Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox).
Word Processing Software
Used for creating text documents (e.g., Microsoft Word, Google Docs).
Solid State Drive (SSD)
A faster storage device compared to HDD with no moving parts.
Cooling System
Components such as fans or liquid cooling systems to prevent overheating.
Printer
A device that converts digital information into physical copies.
Email Client
Software for sending and receiving emails (e.g., Microsoft Outlook, Thunderbird).
Integrated Development Environment (IDE)
Software for coding and developing applications (e.g., Visual Studio, Eclipse).