Computer Hardware

Also known by its acronym RAM, this is a type of ephemeral storage that processes working data and machine code when it is energized. The data is volatile, meaning it goes away when the machine is turned off.

• Random Access Memory
• Operating System
• CPU (Central Processing Unit)
• Graphics Card

A collection of instructions that informs a computer how to work. It is made up of executable code and machine language instructions.

• Software
• Graphics Processing Unit
• Stylus
• Power Supply Unit (PSU)

A peripheral device that stores a copy of everything on the computer’s internal hard drive or solid state drive. These are considered essential, redundant protection against data loss due to hard drive failure.

• External Backup Drive
• Hardware
• RAM (Random Access Memory)
• CPU (Central Processing Unit)

The part of the computer that one types on to input text, numbers, and other information.

• Keyboard
• Stylus
• SSD (Solid State Drive)
• Case

Also known by it’s acronym USB, this is an industry standard interface cable that allows a computer to energize and communicate with peripherals such as printers.

• Universal Serial Bus
• Solid State Drive
• HDD (Hard Disk Drive)
• BIOS (Basic Input/Output System)

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS3-5

A term to describe a modulator-demodulator that converts digital information from a computer into a signal that can be transmitted to another computer where the information is re-digitized. During recent times, these devices have become much faster than previous models.

• Modem
• Scanner
• Motherboard
• Optical Drive

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS4-1

NGSS.HS-PS4-5

A term to describe computer system software that manages resources, including hardware, software, and common services for computer programs.

• Operating System
• Motherboard
• BIOS (Basic Input/Output System)
• SATA (Serial Advanced Technology Attachment)

Also known by it’s acronym SSD, this is a modern memory storage unit that uses flash memory to retain data. Since it does not have a spinning disk, it is a much faster way to store and retrieve data.

• Solid State Drive
• Software
• Power Supply Unit (PSU)
• Northbridge

Also known by it’s acronym GPU, this is a specialized circuit that manipulates memory to quickly create images on a display device.

• Graphics Processing Unit
• Random Access Memory
• Video Modem
• Thermal Paste

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS4-5

A peripheral device that optically encodes images, text, and text and converts it to a digital image.

• Scanner
• Central Processing Unit
• Heat Sink
• USB (Universal Serial Bus)