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| Computing Glossary |
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February 1, 2010
• Vol.7 Issue 2 Page(s) 52 in print issue | |
Computing Glossary | |
 Shopping for a computer can be intimidating, especially with all of the complex terminology. Here, we explain some common computer jargon. Bluetooth—A short-range wireless standard that connects devices such as computers, printers, smartphones, and digital cameras so they can be used together without being physically connected with a cord. broadband—Network connections that transmit high-speed Internet access that is faster than dial-up. Broadband speed varies depending on the provider. Cable companies deliver broadband via coaxial cable, whereas phone companies offer DSL (Digital Subscriber Line), which delivers broadband via telephone lines. CRT (cathode-ray tube)—An old analog display technology for TVs and computer monitors. It features an electron gun illuminating phosphor dots that line the inside of a glass tube. When the phosphors are lit, they display on-screen images. CRTs consume a great deal of power and are heavy and bulky. Many CRTs support digital signals, though these degrade in quality when converted to analog. dual-core processor—This integrated circuit, which controls the computer, features two processors, each with its own cache, on a single die or chassis. In a dual-core configuration, the operating system has two processors to handle instructions, speeding up the computer and its ability to multitask. Ethernet—A widely used LAN protocol in which a computer and a network are physically linked with a cord. firewall—Hardware or software that limits access by a network or other outside source to your computer; it might also limit your computer’s access to the network. The security measures are designed to protect your computer from outsiders who’d like to exploit it in some way. By the same token, firewalls may prevent infected files on your computer from accessing the larger network and spreading the problem to other users. LAN (local-area network)—A group of computers that are physically connected by wires so they can communicate with one another and share information. LCD (liquid-crystal display)—This technology sandwiches liquid crystals between thin sheets of glass. The crystals twist and untwist to allow and block light from a backlight, forming the images you see. LCDs are thinner, lighter, and consume less power than CRTs. Initially used mostly in notebook PCs, you’ll now find LCD TVs and computer monitors, and they are also in digital cameras, cell phones, and portable DVD players, among others. office suite—Productivity software, such as Microsoft Office, StarOffice, and OpenOffice, that often includes word processing, spreadsheet, presentation, database, and financial tools. operating system—The software, such as Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, or Mac OS X, that controls a computer and its peripherals and serves as the primary interface for the users. processor—Also known as a microprocessor or the CPU, this integrated circuit controls the computer. RAM (random-access memory)—A standard type of memory that is read from and written to by the CPU and hardware. upgradeable—This term refers to the ability to add or swap out hardware to boost a computer’s performance, increase its speed, or replace a defective or obsolete device or component. For instance, you may add more memory, replace an old CRT with a widescreen LCD, or swap out an older video card for a newer one that features an ATSC TV tuner so you can watch digital TV on your computer. Look for a computer with expansion slots or empty bays. |
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