Vocabulary words

Active window: The Window in which the users is working in and recieve keyboard input.
Address bar: The field in a web browser which after you type in the URL and press enter it takes you to the home page of the typed website.
Algorithm: A programming language that allows complete sets of steps to be written all major programming languages are algorithmic languages.
American Standard Code for Information Interchange (ASCII): a standard for assigning numerical values to the set of letters in the roman alphabet and typographic characters.
Application file icons: a small on screen graphic element that represent an application file or hardware resource which by clicking it you can open it.
Applications software: Application software also known as an application is computer software designed to help the user to perform singular or multiple related specific tasks.
Background:The non-interactive processing in the computer.
Bit:A binary digit in the computer, electronics, and communications fields, bit is generally understood as a shortened form of binary digit.
Boot: The process in which the computers goes through to start up.
Byte:In computer technology, a unit of information made up of bits (often eight bits). The memory capacity of a typical personal computer runs from hundreds of thousands to millions of bytes.
CD-ROM:A compact disk that functions as read-only memory.
Central processing unit (CPU):The part of a computer that interprets and executes instructions.
Channel:A site on a network, as on IRC, where online conversations are held in real time by a number of computer users.
Clicking:An instance of pressing down and releasing a button on a pointing device, such as a mouse.
Commands:A signal that initiates an operation defined by an instruction
Computer:A device that computes, especially a programmable electronic machine that performs high-speed mathematical or logical
operations or that assembles, stores, correlates, or otherwise processes information.
Computer system:A set of related but unconnected components (hardware) of a computer or data-processing system. A set of hardware
parts that are related and connected, and thus form a computer.
Contents pane:A rectangular area within an on-screen window that contains information for the user. A window may have many panes.
Control panel:An array of jacks or sockets in which wires (or other elements) may be plugged to control the action of an electromechanical device in a data-processing system such as a printer. Also known as plug board; wiring board
Controller:An electronic circuit board or system. In a computer, controllers contain the circuitry to run a peripheral device and are either contained on a plug-in expansion board or on the motherboard
Copy:An imitation or reproduction of an original a duplicate
Data:Numerical or other information represented in a form suitable for processing by computer.
Data communications:The conveying from one location to another of information that originates or is recorded in alphabetic, numeric, or pictorial form, or as a signal that represents a measurement.
Database:A collection of data arranged for ease and speed of search and retrieval
Database software:Software is the entire set of programs, procedures, and routines associated with the operation of a computer system, including the operating system.
Defaultt:A particular setting or value for a variable that is assigned automatically by an operating system and remains in effect unless canceled or overridden by the operator
Desktop:A single-user computer. It typically refers to a PC or Mac, but may also refer to Linux PC
Desktop shortcuts:Shortcuts can be placed on the desktop or stored in other folders, and double clicking a shortcut is the same as double clicking the original file.
Desktop theme:In computing, a theme is a preset package containing graphical appearance details, used to customize the look and feel of (typically) an operating system, widget set or window manager.
Destination:The location to which a jump instruction passes control in a program.
Dialog box:A window that appears on a computer screen, presenting information or requesting input.
Disk cleanup:is a computer maintenance utility included in Microsoft Windows designed to free up disk space on a computers' hard drive. The utility first searches and analyzes the hard drive for files that are no longer of any use, and then removes the unnecessary files
Disk defragmenter:In the context of administering computer systems, defragmentation is a process that reduces the amount of fragmentation in file systems. It does this by physically organizing the contents of the disk to store the pieces of each file close together and contiguously
Distance learning:The process by which technology is used for education in ways where the student does not have to physically be in the place where the teaching is taking place. Access to the instructor is gained through technology such as the Internet, interactive videoconferencing and satellite
Document file icons:An icon is a image or a small picture that may let you open a file. You will often find these icons on the desktop of your computer.
Double click:A double-click is the act of pressing a computer mouse button twice quickly without moving the mouse. Double-clicking allows two different actions to be associated with the same mouse button.
Dragging:a pointing device gesture is a way of combining pointing device movements and clicks which the software recognizes as a specific command. Pointing device gestures can provide quick access to common functions of a program
DVD:also known as Digital Versatile Disc or Digital Video Disc, is an optical disc storage media format, and was developed and invented by
Sony, and Philips in 1995. Its main uses are video and data.
Execution cycle:The time during which an elementary operation takes place.
Extension:A software extension is a computer program designed to be incorporated into another piece of software in order to enhance, or extend, the functionalities of the latter. On its own, the program is not useful
File name:the name given to a computer file in order to distinguish it from other files; may contain an extension that indicates the type of file
Firewall:A firewall is a part of a computer system or network that is designed to block unauthorized access while permitting authorized communications. It is a device or set of devices which is configured to permit or deny computer based application upon a set of rules and other criteria.
Folder:Folder, directory, catalog, or drawer, in computing, is a virtual container within a digital file system, in which groups of computer files and other folders can be kept and organized.
Folders bar: the icon were it shows were your saved folders are in
Fragmented files:The scattering of parts of a file throughout a disk, as when the operating system breaks up the file and fits it into the spaces left vacant by previously deleted files.
Graphical users interfaces:An interface for issuing commands to a computer utilizing a pointing device, such as a mouse, that manipulates and activates graphical images on a monitor.
Graphics software:In computer graphics, graphics software or image editing software is a program or collection of programs that enable a person to manipulate visual images on a computer.
Hackers:In common usage, a hacker is a person who breaks into computers, usually by gaining access to administrative controls. The subculture that has evolved around hackers is often referred to as the computer underground.
Hard disk drive:The main data storage in most personal computers. It holds all of the software, including the operating system, as well as user-created data files.
Hardware:Hardware is a general term for the physical artifacts of a technology. It may also mean the physical components of a computer system, in the form of computer hardware.
Icons:On computer displays, a computer icon (or simply an icon) is a small pictogram. Icons have been used to supplement the normal alphanumerics of the computer. Modern computers now can handle bit mapped graphics on the display terminal, so the icons are widely used to assist users.
Impact printers:a printer that strikes the paper in order to form images
Input devices:Hardware that allows the user to put data into the computer. Basic input devices include the keyboard, mouse, trackball, touch screens, light pens, microphones, bar code readers, fax / modem cards, joysticks, and scanners.
Instruction cycle:An instruction cycle (also called fetch-and-execute cycle, fetch-decode-execute cycle, and FDX) is the time period during which a computer processes a machine language instruction from its memory or the sequence of actions that the central processing unit (CPU) performs to execute each machine
Internet:computer network consisting of a worldwide network of computer networks that use the TCP/IP network protocols to facilitate data transmission and exchange
Internet explorer:Windows Internet Explorer (formerly Microsoft Internet Explorer; abbreviated to MSIE or, more commonly, IE), is a series of graphical web browsers developed by Microsoft and included as part of the Microsoft Windows line of operating systems starting in 1995. ...
Keyboard:, a keyboard is an input device, partially modeled after the typewriter keyboard, which uses an arrangement of buttons or keys, to act as mechanical levers or electronic switches
Language translators:A program designed to convert one computer language to equivalent statements in another computer language, perhaps to be executed on a different computer
Linking:The placement of a different URL on a web page to effect an immediate jump to another selected web page. Their URL may be written out, or represented by a word(s) or graphic.
Local area network:a local computer network for communication between computers; especially a network connecting computers and word processors and other electronic office equipment to create a communication system between offices
Log off:exit a computer
Log on:enter a computer;
Main memory:The primary volatile memory of a computer, not including memory cache (memcache) nor persistent disk storage, nor external storage
Mainframe computers:Mainframes (often colloquially referred to as Big Iron) are powerful computers used mainly by large organizations for critical applications, typically bulk data processing such as census, industry and consumer statistics, enterprise resource planning, and financial transaction processing.
Maximize:A button or command to enlarge a window to the full size of the display screen.
Memory:Computer data storage, often called storage or memory, refers to computer components, devices, and recording media that retain digital data used for computing for some interval of time.
Menu:a list of commands presented to an operator by a computer or communications system. A menu is used in contrast to a command-line interface, where instructions to the computer are given in the form of commands
Menu bar:A menu bar is a region where computer menus are housed. Its purpose is to house window- or application-specific menus which provide access to such functions as opening files, interacting with an application, or help. Menu bars are typically present in graphical user interfaces with windows.
Microcomputer:personal computer: a small digital computer based on a microprocessor and designed to be used by one person at a time
Microprocessors:is the brain of today's computer. It operates your computer by carrying out complex functions.
Minicomputers:A minicomputer (colloquially, mini) is a class of multi-user computers that lies in the middle range of the computing spectrum, in between the largest multi-user systems (mainframe computers) and the smallest single-user systems
Minimize:Shrinking a window down to a title on the task bar. Done by clicking on the minimize button in the upper-right corner.
Modem:a device that modulates an analog carrier signal to encode digital information, and also demodulates such a carrier signal to decode the transmitted information
Motherboard:is the central printed circuit board (PCB) in many modern computers and holds many of the crucial components of the system, while providing connectors for other peripherals.
Mouse:is a pointing device that functions by detecting two-dimensional motion relative to its supporting surface. Physically, a mouse consists of an object held under one of the user's hands, with one or more buttons
Mouse buttons: buttons found in the mouse that perform different task to control the computer
Move:follow a procedure or take a course
MS-DOS:an operating system developed by Bill Gates for personal computers
Multimedia software:This is software that combines graphics, audio and video to make us a media presentation.
Multitasking:The simultaneous execution of multiple tasks (programs) under the control of an interrupt-driven operating system; The practice or capability of handling more than one task at the same time
My computer:An icon present on the Windows desktop that enables users to view drives, folders, and files.
My documents:The typical location, on a Windows computer, for text files (eg, Word, PDF). When you download a file (eg, a journal article) from a resource or save a Word document you are writing, the default location is the My Documents folder.
My network places:The source of network information in Windows 2000, ME and XP. It was previously known as Network Neighborhood.
Network:A system of computers interconnected by telephone wires or other means in order to share information. Also called net.
Network drive:computing, a file server is a computer attached to a network that has the primary purpose of providing a location for shared disk access
Network operating system:Software that controls the operations of a network
Nonimpact printers:Non-impact printer is a type of printer that does not operate by striking a head against a ribbon
Notebook computers:A laptop is a personal computer designed for mobile use and small and light enough to sit on a person's lap while in use
Operating systems:computing, an operating system (OS) is an interface between hardware and user, which is responsible for the management and coordination of activities and the sharing of the resources of a computer, that acts as a host for computing applications run on the machine
Optical storage devices:Optical storage is a term from engineering referring to the storage of data on an optically readable medium. Data is recorded by making marks in a pattern
Options buttons:In a graphical user interface, a small box on which an x or check mark appears when the option indicated next to the box is turned on, and disappears when the option is turned off.
Output devices:An output device is any piece of computer hardware equipment used to communicate the results of data processing carried out by an information processing system
Parallel ports:allow the passage of more than one bit, ie 8 bits at a time.
Parent folder:A folder that contains subfolders and files.
People:any group of human beings
Personal information management software:A Personal Information Manager is a software application that keeps track of personal information such as,E-mails,Address books,Calendars,Task lists,Task scheduling (invitations etc),Notices.
Plotter:A plotter is a computer printing device for printing vector graphics
Plug and play:a technique in which new hardware may be added to an existing computer and be automatically detected and configured; that uses this technique
Pointer:indicator consisting of a movable spot of light (an icon) on a visual display; moving it allows the user to point to commands or screen positions
Pointing device:A pointing device is an input interface (specifically a human interface device) that allows a user to input spatial (ie, continuous and multi-dimensional) data to a computer. ...
Presentation software:A presentation program is a computer software package used to display information, normally in the form of a slide show
Problem solving:A computer-assisted instruction technique in which students are required to apply known information to new settings. It demands logical thinking and the ability to follow directions carefully.
Protocol:is a set of rules which is used by computers to communicate with each other across a network
Radio buttons:A radio button or option button is a type of graphical user interface element that allows the user to choose only one of a predefined set of options.
Random access memory:the most common computer memory which can be used by programs to perform necessary tasks while the computer is on
Read only memory:memory whose contents can be accessed and read but cannot be changed
Receiver:The electronic device which detects the back scattered radiation, amplifies it and converts it to a low-frequency signal which is related to the properties of the target.
Relational database:A relational database matches data by using common characteristics found within the data set. The resulting groups of data are organized and are much easier for people to understand.
Restore:return to its original or usable and functioning condition;
Right click:To press the right-hand button on a computer mouse; (computing) To activate an item on the screen by right-clicking while the pointer is over it
Scanner:a device that optically scans images, printed text, handwriting, or an object, and converts it to a digital image.
Scroll ball:
Search:try to locate or discover, or try to establish the existence of
Search engines:A web search engine is designed to search for information on the World Wide Web. The search results are usually presented in a list of results and are commonly called hits. The information may consist of web pages, images, information and other types of files.
Select:To make something stand out on the screen by selecting or choosing it. Also (n) the visual indicator that something is selected.
Sender:someone who transmits a message
Serial ports:In computing, a serial port is a serial communication physical interface through which information transfers in or out one bit at a time
Shortcut:s a small file containing a target URI or the name of a target program file that the shortcut represents.
Shortcut keys:In computing, a keyboard shortcut or hotkey is a finite set of one or more keys that invoke a software or operating system operation when triggered by the user.
Shortcut menu:A menu for a specific object, that pops up when right-clicking on the object's name or icon. Also called a context menu.
Shortcut menu button:The menu that appears when you right-click (Windows/Unix) or click-and-hold (Macintosh) on a Web page or within a software package.
Software:written programs or procedures or rules and associated documentation pertaining to the operation of a computer system and that are stored in read/write memory
Software development:Software development is the act of working to produce/create software. This software could be produced for a variety of purposes
Sorting:Sorting is any process of arranging items in some sequence and/or in different sets, and accordingly
Source:a document (or organization) from which information is obtained
Spreadsheet:A spreadsheet is a computer application that simulates a paper, accounting worksheet.
Spreadsheet software:is the
Standard desktop:
Standard toolbar:the bar of icons (save, print, help, etc.) on the screen below the menu bar in applications such as Microsoft Word
Start button:The Start Menu and Start Button are user interface elements used in the X Windowing System and later versions of the Microsoft Windows operating systems. The Start Button provides a central launching point for application and tasks.
Status bar:A status bar, similar to a status line, is an information area typically found at the bottom of windows in a graphical user interface
Subfolder:Folder, directory, catalog, or drawer, in computing, is a virtual container within a digital file system, in which groups of computer files and other folders can be kept and organized.
Submenu:a menu is a list of commands presented to an operator by a computer or communications system. A menu is used in contrast to a command-line interface, where instructions to the computer are given in the form of commands
Supercomputers:A supercomputer is a computer that is at the frontline of current processing capacity, particularly speed of calculation.
Surge protectors:
System clock:n electronic device in a computer that issues a steady high-frequency signal that synchronizes all the internal components
Systems software:System software is computer software designed to operate the computer hardware and to provide and maintain a platform for running application software.
Taskbar:The bar usually located at the bottom of Microsoft Windows operating systems, which displays the start button, system clock, programs that are currently running, as well as other open windows.
Technology:the study of or a collection of techniques; a particular technological concept; the body of tools and other implements produced by a given society
Telecommunications:the science and technology of communication at a distance, especially the electronic transmission of signals.
Teleconferencing:Technology that permits individuals to participate in regional, national or worldwide meetings without actually leaving their local area.
Title bar:a horizontal label at the top of a window, bearing the name of the currently active document.
Toolbar:A row of icons in a graphical user interface that are used to activate the functions of an application or operating system.
Tree pane:a pane is simply a window within a window. For example, when you see a window with different sections, each section is referred to as a pane. A content pane shows the main content of the window. A tree pane, or content tree pane usually shows a list of what can be displayed in the content pane.
Troubleshooting:The identification and resolution of problems, especially problems of a technical nature.
Uninterruptible power supply:An uninterruptible power supply, also uninterruptible power source, UPS or battery backup, is an electrical apparatus that provides emergency power to a load when the input power source, typically the utility mains, fails.
Universal serial bus:is a specification to establish communication between devices and a host controller developed and invented by Ajay Bhatt working in Intel.
Unix:trademark for a powerful operating system
User interface:a program that controls a display for the user and that allows the user to interact with the system
Utility software:a kind of system software designed to help analyze, configure, optimize and maintain the computer. A single piece of utility software is usually called a utility or tool.
virus:a software program capable of reproducing itself and usually capable of causing great harm to files or other programs on the same computer.
Wide area networks (WANs):A wide area network (WAN) is a computer network that covers a broad area any network whose communications links cross metropolitan, regional, or national boundaries.
Wildcard characters: a wildcard character is a character that may be substituted for any of a defined subset of all possible characters.
Window:In computing, a window is a visual area containing some kind of user interface. It displays the output of and may allow input to one or more processes.
Windows explorer:
Wizard:A software wizard is a user interface element that presents a user with a sequence of dialog boxes that lead the user through a series of well-defined steps.
Word processing software:Computer software program used to create and edit text documents.