Computer Basics

What is software?

• any set of instructions that tells the hardware what to do
• the video card on the monitor
• the operating system
• the monitor and computer case

What is hardware?

• all the ports and buttons of a computer
• is any part of your computer that has a physical structure.
• is any part of your desktop
• software

A _______ is an electronic device that manipulates information, or data.

• Software

• Hardware

• Keyboard

• Computer

The _______ is the metal and plastic box that contains the main components of the computer, including the motherboard, central processing unit (CPU), and power supply.

• Monitor

• Computer Case

• Keyboard

• Mouse

The _____ works with a video card, located inside the computer case, to display images and text on the screen.

• Monitor

• Computer Case

• Keyboard

• Mouse

Most computers have several of these types of ports that can be used to connect almost any type of device, including mice, keyboards, printers, and digital cameras.

• Audio In

• Audio Out

• USB Port

• Monitor Port

This is where you'll connect the power cord to the computer.

• USB Port

• Audio In/ Audio Out

• Power Socket

• Serial Port

Type of port that looks a lot like the modem or telephone port, but it is slightly wider. You can use this port for networking and connecting to the Internet.

• USB Port

• Serial Port

• Ethernet Port

• Power Button

Which of the following is NOT a peripheral device you can plug into your computer?

• Microphone

• Printer

• Speakers

• Motherboard

The ________ is the computer's main circuit board. It's a thin plate that holds the CPU, memory, connectors for the hard drive and optical drives, expansion cards to control the video and audio, and connections to your computer's ports.

• RAM

• CPU

• Optical Disc Drive

• Motherboard