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Management Information Systems
Chapter 3
21
Computer Science
Undergraduate 3
10/01/2007

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Term
Central Processing Unit
Definition
The unit of a computer system that includes the circuits that control the interpretation and execution of instructions. In many computer systems, the CPU includes the arithmetic-logic unit, the control unit, and the primary storage unit.
Term
Computer System
Definition
Computer hardware as a system of input, processing, output, storage, and control components. Thus, a computer system consists of input and output devices, primary and secondary storage devices, the central processing unit, the control unit within the CPU, and other peripheral devices.
Term
Computer Terminal
Definition
Any input/output device connected by telecommunications links to a computer.
Term
Graphical User Interface
Definition
A software interface that relies on icons, bars, buttons, boxes, and other images to initiate computer-based tasks for users.
Term
Magnetic Disk
Definition
A flat, circular plate with a magnetic surface on which data can be stored by selective magnetization of portions of the curved surface.
Term
Floppy Disk
Definition
A small plastic disk coated with iron oxide that resembles a small phonograph record enclosed in a protective envelope. It is a widely used form of magnetic disk media that provides a direct access storage capability for microcomputer systems.
Term
RAID
Definition
Redundant array of independent disks. Magnetic disk units that house many interconnected microcomputer hard disk drives, thus providing large, fault tolerant storage capacities.
Term
MainFrame
Definition
A larger-size computer system, typically with a separate central processing unit, as distinguished from microcomputer and minicomputer systems.
Term
MicroComputer
Definition
A very small computer, ranging in size from a "computer on a chip" to hand-held, laptop, and desktop units, and servers.
Term
MiniComputer
Definition
A type of midrange computer.
Term
Moore's Law
Definition
Moore said that there would be a doubling in the number of transistors per integrated circuit and predicted it would continue.
Term
Network Computer
Definition
A low-cost networked microcomputer with no or minimal disk storage, which depends on Internet or intranet servers for its operating system and Web browser, Java-enabled application software, and data access and storage.
Term
Network Server
Definition
Coordinate telecommunications and resource sharing in small local area networks and in Internet and intranet websites.
Term
Offline
Definition
Pertaining to equipment or devices not under control of the central processing unit.
Term
Online
Definition
Pertaining to equipment or devices under control of the central processing unit.
Term
Peripheral Devices
Definition
In a computer system, any unit of equipment, distinct from the central processing unit, that provides the system with input, output, or storage capabilities.
Term
Pointing Devices
Definition
Devices that allow end users to issue commands or make choices by moving a cursor on the display screen.
Term
Primary Storage
Definition
RAM
Term
RFID
Definition
Radio Frequency Identification
Term
Secondary Storage
Definition
Storage that supplements the primary storage of a computer. Synonymous with auxiliary storage.
Term
Bit
Definition
A contraction of "binary digit." It can have the value of either 0 or 1.
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