Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. (AMD) is a leading manufacturer of semiconductor devices, including microprocessors, graphics processors, and related technologies. It is a principal competitor to Intel.
The term 'Backlit' refers to anything illuminated from behind. It is a key feature in displays, particularly Liquid Crystal Displays (LCDs) used in notebook computers, to enhance visibility.
The central processing unit (CPU) is the primary component of a computer that performs most of the processing inside the computer. It executes instructions from programs by performing basic arithmetic, logic, control, and input/output (I/O) operations.
Computer Hardware encompasses all the electronic and mechanical parts essential for a computer system to function, such as the central processing unit, disk drive, screen, and printer. This term excludes software, which refers to programs and applications.
A control key on a computer keyboard functions primarily in combination with other keys to execute specific commands. On PC keyboards, these include the Ctrl and Alt keys in addition to the Shift key. The Apple equivalents are the Command and Option keys.
A DIP switch is a manually operated switch that can be used to change the settings of electronic devices. It consists of an array of tiny switches placed in a standard dual inline package (DIP) configuration.
Device that enables a computer to read and write data on disks, serving as a core component for data storage and retrieval.
A DVD (Digital Versatile Disc or originally Digital Video Disc) is an optical disc storage format capable of storing large amounts of data, far greater than that of a CD-ROM.
A hard disk, also known as a drive, is a computer storage medium that uses rigid aluminum disks coated with iron oxide. Hard disks have much greater storage capacity than removable media such as floppy disks and CDs.
A hard disk, also known as a hard drive or HDD, is a data storage device used to store and retrieve digital information using magnetic storage.
A Hard Disk Drive (HDD) is a data storage device used for storing and retrieving digital information using one or more rigid rapidly rotating disks coated with magnetic material.
Named after the escape magician, the Houdini chip is a specialized computer chip that allows machines to run both IBM-compatible and Apple computers. It facilitates the transfer of information between two different computer processors.
Intel Corporation is a leading manufacturer of microprocessors, known for its innovative technologies and key role in the development of PCs. Headquartered in Santa Clara, California, Intel has a significant impact on the global technology landscape.
Internal storage refers to the memory that is built into a computer system, enabling the storage and retrieval of data and applications required for the computer's operation.
A keyboard is the primary computer input device used to input alphanumeric data.
A monitor is generally a device or program that keeps track of or displays information. In the context of computers, it refers to a program that supervises other software activities or a device that accepts video signals from a computer and displays them visually.
OEM refers to companies that produce parts and equipment that may be marketed by another manufacturer. The term also describes software or supplies initially bundled with computer peripherals.
Open architecture is a type of computer architecture whose details are made fully public, allowing other manufacturers to create compatible hardware and software. The architecture of the original IBM PC is an example of open architecture.
A parallel port is an output device that allows a computer to transmit data to another device using parallel data transmission—several bits sent simultaneously over separate wires. PC parallel ports are usually designated as LPT1, LPT2, and so on. This is in contrast to a serial port, which transmits data sequentially, one bit at a time.
A parallel printer is a type of printer that connects to a computer using a parallel port, allowing for faster data transfer rates compared to serial connections.
Plug-and-Play (PnP) is a standard way of configuring PC-compatible computer hardware automatically. Developed by Microsoft and other companies in the mid-1990s, PnP simplifies the process of adding new hardware to a computer by allowing the operating system to detect and install devices automatically.
Primary storage devices, such as Random Access Memory (RAM), are where current data is stored temporarily as the computer operates. These devices use volatile memory chips to manage active processes and data.
A key on a computer keyboard whose function depends on the software being run. PF keys can often be redefined to perform complex functions or combinations of other key sequences, enhancing user productivity.
Random-Access Memory (RAM) is a crucial component in computers and other digital devices. It is a form of volatile memory that temporarily stores data for quick access, significantly impacting the system's performance and capacity.
Reboot refers to the process of restarting a computer system, which involves turning it off and then turning it on again. This procedure can resolve various system issues and refresh the operating environment.
A serial printer is a type of printing device that connects to a computer's serial port, using a communication protocol to send data interspersed with timing signals for printing documents.
A tape drive is a storage device that converts information stored on magnetic tape into signals that can be sent to a computer. It is commonly used for backup and archival purposes due to its capacity to store large amounts of data.
Improving the quality or performance of something by making changes. Common examples include upgrading computer hardware, software, and even services.
User-friendly refers to computer hardware or software designed to be easy for people, especially novices, to use. It indicates that the interface and functionality are intuitive, easy to learn, and efficient to operate.
