| Computing device | Desktop computer |
| Laptop computer | Tablet computer |
| Smartphone | Server |
| Router | Switch |
| A personal computer that is designed to fit on top of a desk or table, and is intended for use in a fixed location. | An electronic device that can receive, store, process, and output data. |
| A mobile computing device that is larger than a smartphone or PDA, and is designed to be operated using a touchscreen or digital pen. | A portable computer that is designed to be carried from one place to another, and can operate on battery power. |
| A computer or device that manages network resources, and provides services to other computers or devices connected to the network. | A mobile phone that is capable of running applications and accessing the internet, and typically includes a touchscreen interface. |
| A device that connects multiple devices together on a single network, and allows them to communicate with each other by directing data packets to their destination. | A device that connects multiple networks together, and routes data packets between them. |
| Peripheral device | Input device |
| Output device | Storage device |
| Mainframe | Batch Processing |
| Scalability | Reliability |
| A peripheral device that is used to provide input to a computer or computing device, such as a mouse, keyboard, or touchpad. | A device that connects to a computer or computing device, and provides additional functionality or input/output options. |
| A peripheral device that is used to store data on a computer or computing device, such as a hard disk drive, solid-state drive, or memory card. | A peripheral device that is used to provide output from a computer or computing device, such as a monitor, printer, or speakers. |
| A technique used by mainframes to process large volumes of data in batches, rather than individually. | A large and powerful computer system, typically used by large organizations to process and store large amounts of data. |
| A key characteristic of mainframes, referring to their ability to operate continuously without downtime or failure. | The ability of a mainframe system to expand or shrink its processing power and storage capacity to meet changing needs. |
| Centralization | Data Security |
| Legacy Systems | Cost-effectiveness |
| Real-time Processing | Mainframe Partitioning |
| Disadvantages | Applications |
| A strength of mainframes, due to their ability to implement advanced security measures to protect sensitive data. | The practice of using a mainframe to consolidate processing and storage resources in a central location, rather than distributed throughout an organization. |
| A benefit of mainframes in some situations, due to their ability to process large amounts of data more efficiently than other computer systems. | Older mainframe systems, which may still be used by some organizations due to their reliability and compatibility with older software. |
| The ability of a mainframe to create multiple virtual environments, allowing different applications to run on the same physical system without interfering with each other. | A capability of some modern mainframes, enabling them to process data in real-time, such as in financial trading or airline reservation systems. |
| Mainframes are used in a wide range of industries, including finance, healthcare, government, and telecommunications, for processing large volumes of data and running critical applications. | There are some potential drawbacks to using mainframes, including their high cost, complexity, and limited flexibility compared to other systems. |
| Home Entertainment System | Components |
| Setup | Customization |
| Troubleshooting | HDMI |
| USB | Remote control |
| Various devices that make up a home entertainment system such as a TV, DVD player, speakers, and amplifier. | A system that provides entertainment in the form of audio and video in a household setting. |
| The process of modifying the settings of a home entertainment system to suit individual preferences. | The process of connecting and configuring the components of a home entertainment system to function together. |
| High-Definition Multimedia Interface. A digital video and audio interface that transmits high-quality audio and video signals. | The process of identifying and resolving problems with a home entertainment system. |
| A device used to operate a home entertainment system from a distance by sending signals to the components via infrared or radio waves. | Universal Serial Bus. A standard interface used for connecting devices to a computer or other host device. |
| Surround sound | Streaming |
| Resolution | Aspect ratio |
| Navigation | Navigation Aids |
| GPS | Satellites |
| The process of transmitting audio and video data over the internet for real-time playback. | A sound system that uses multiple speakers to create a more immersive audio experience. |
| The ratio of the width to the height of the screen on a display device, typically expressed as a ratio (e.g. 16:9). | The number of pixels that make up the image on a display screen, typically measured as width x height. |
| Equipment or devices designed to assist navigators in determining their position and movement, including compasses, maps, sextants, and radio beacons. | The process of planning and controlling the movement of a vessel from one place to another, using charts, maps, and other navigational aids. |
| A man-made object in space that orbits a celestial body, used for navigation, reconnaissance, communication, and scientific research. | Global Positioning System is a satellite-based navigation system used to determine precise location and time information anywhere on Earth. |
| GPS Integration | Satellite Navigation System |
| Inertial Navigation System | Geocaching |
| Positioning | Coordinates |
| Waypoints | Limitations |
| A system that uses a network of satellites to provide autonomous geo-spatial positioning and time information to a user. | The use of GPS data to complement or enhance other navigation systems. The integration of GPS data with other systems improves accuracy and reliability. |
| A recreational activity in which participants use GPS receivers to hide and seek containers, called 'caches', at specific locations marked by coordinates all over the world. | A navigation system that uses a combination of accelerometers and gyroscopes to track the movement of a vehicle or vessel. |
| A set of numerical values that specify the precise location of a point on the earth's surface or in space (latitude and longitude). | The determination of an object's location in space or time, achieved through the use of navigation aids such as GPS or compasses. |
| The shortcomings or weaknesses of a system or technology, which may include accuracy, reliability, availability, or cost. | A precise location defined by coordinates used in navigation. |
| Multifunction devices | Single function devices |
| Advantages | Efficiency |
| Cost-effective | Space-saving |
| Ease of use | Maintenance |
| Devices that can only perform one function such as printing, scanning, or faxing. | Devices that can perform multiple functions such as printing, scanning, copying, and faxing. |
| The ability of multifunction devices to perform multiple functions in a single unit, which saves time and increases productivity. | Benefits or positive aspects of using multifunction devices over single function devices. |
| Multifunction devices take up less space than separate devices for each function. | Multifunction devices are often cheaper than buying separate devices for each function. |
| The process of keeping multifunction devices in good working order to ensure their longevity and optimal performance. | Multifunction devices are easy to use and require minimal training. |
| Ink/toner usage | Security |
| Integration | Duplex printing |
| Laptop | Desktop |
| Portability | Battery life |
| Multifunction devices may have security features such as password-protected printing or scanning to prevent unauthorized access to documents. | The amount of ink or toner used by multifunction devices depends on the number and type of functions used. |
| The ability of a multifunction device to print on both sides of a sheet of paper, which saves paper and reduces printing costs. | Multifunction devices can integrate with other software and hardware to streamline workflows and increase efficiency. |
| A personal computer that is designed for regular use at a desk or workspace and is composed of a separate display screen, keyboard, and processing unit. | A portable computer that is designed for mobility and typically has a thin LCD or LED computer screen mounted on the inside of the upper lid of the clamshell form factor. |
| The length of time a laptop can run on its battery, which is an important consideration for mobility. | The ability of a device to be easily carried or moved, such as a laptop in comparison to a desktop. |
| Upgradeability | Ergonomics |
| Cost | Processing power |
| Screen size | Storage capacity |
| Operating system | Gaming |
| The study of designing equipment and devices that fit the human body and its cognitive abilities, which is important to consider when comparing laptops and desktops. | The ease with which a user can upgrade or replace components of a computer, such as graphics cards or memory, which is often more difficult with laptops than desktops. |
| The ability of a computer to quickly and efficiently process data, which can vary between laptops and desktops based on their hardware specifications. | The amount of money required to purchase either a laptop or desktop, including additional peripherals like a monitor or keyboard. |
| The amount of data a device can hold, which can vary between laptops and desktops based on their storage options. | The physical size of the display screen for either a laptop or desktop, which can impact factors such as portability and ease of use. |
| The ability of a computer to run graphically-intensive software, such as video games, which can require more powerful hardware in certain cases. | The software that manages a computer's hardware and software resources and provides common services for efficient execution of various applications. |
| Embedded Devices | Features |
| Applications | Types |
| Sensors | Actuators |
| Smart Home Devices | Wearables |
| Characteristics or capabilities of an embedded device that make it suitable for a particular purpose | Specialized computer systems designed to perform dedicated functions, often with minimal user interaction |
| Categories of embedded devices based on their design, functionality, or intended use | Specific ways in which embedded devices are used to make tasks more efficient or effective |
| Embedded devices that control or adjust a physical process or system | Embedded devices that detect and respond to changes in their physical environment |
| Embedded devices that can be worn on the body or integrated into clothing or accessories | Embedded devices designed to automate and control tasks within a home environment |
| Medical Devices | Automotive Systems |
| Industrial Control Systems | Importance |
| User Interface Design Principles | Functionality |
| Usability | User Feedback |
| Embedded devices used in vehicles to control or monitor various systems, such as engine performance or safety features | Embedded devices used in healthcare settings to monitor patient health or assist with medical procedures |
| Embedded devices play a critical role in modern technology, enabling the automation of routine tasks, improving efficiency, and enhancing safety and convenience in everyday life. | Embedded devices used to automate or monitor processes in manufacturing or other industrial settings |
| The purpose and abilities of a specific interface element. | The fundamental concepts and guidelines for designing effective user interfaces. |
| The response of users to a particular interface design and its features. | The ease and efficiency of use for a particular user interface design. |
| Visual Hierarchy | Consistency |
| Accessibility | Affordance |
| Navigation | User-Centered Design |
| Typography | White Space |
| The uniformity of design throughout an interface to improve familiarity and ease of use for users. | The arrangement of elements in a visual hierarchy to create a clear and organized interface design. |
| The property of an object which determines how it can be used, and how easily it can be recognized. | The ability of users with disabilities or impairments to access and use a particular interface design. |
| The practice of designing interfaces around the needs and goals of the intended user. | The use of visual cues and design elements to facilitate movement and exploration within an interface. |
| The intentional use of empty space in a design to improve clarity and organization. | The style and use of fonts and text in interface design. |
| Expansion Capability | Upgrading |
| Expanding Devices | Hardware |
| Software | Storage |
| Upgradable Devices | Compatibility |
| The process of replacing or improving a device's hardware or software components to enhance its performance, efficiency or functionality. | The ability of a device to be upgraded or expanded in terms of hardware, software or storage. |
| Physical components of a device, such as the CPU, RAM, hard drive, or display, that can be replaced or upgraded to improve its performance or functionality. | The process of adding new hardware or software components to a device in order to increase its capability, functionality or storage capacity. |
| The capacity of a device to store digital data, which can be expanded by adding more storage devices or upgrading existing ones. | Programs, applications or operating systems that are installed on a device, and can be updated or upgraded to improve its functionality or security. |
| The ability of a new hardware or software component to work properly with the existing components of a device, without causing conflicts or errors. | Devices that are designed to allow users to upgrade or replace their hardware or software components easily, without requiring advanced technical knowledge or specialized tools. |
| Expansion Slots | Peripheral Devices |
| Benefits | Performance |
| Media Support | CODEC |
| Compression | Decompression |
| Devices such as printers, scanners, external hard drives, or cameras that can be connected to a computer or other device to expand its functionality or performance. | Spaces on a motherboard or other component of a device that are designed to accept additional hardware components, such as RAM modules, sound cards, or graphics cards. |
| The speed, efficiency, or reliability of a device in completing its tasks or functions, which can be improved by upgrading or expanding its components or memory. | Advantages or positive outcomes that can result from upgrading or expanding a device, such as improved performance, increased efficiency, or enhanced capabilities. |
| A software algorithm used to compress and decompress digital media files in order to reduce their size without compromising on quality. | The ability of a software or hardware system to handle different types of media files such as audio, video, images, and text documents. |
| The process of converting a compressed media file back to its original form using a CODEC algorithm. | The process of reducing the size of a digital media file by removing redundant data and encoding it using a CODEC algorithm. |
| Lossy Compression | Lossless Compression |
| Media Format | Media Quality |
| Frame Rate | Bit Rate |
| Resolution | Integration |
| A compression technique that reduces the size of a media file without losing any data or compromising on quality. | A compression technique that removes data that is deemed as unnecessary and reduces the quality of the media file. |
| The level of excellence in which a digital media file is portrayed, based on factors like resolution, bit rate, frame rate, and compression ratio. | The standardized way in which digital media files are encoded and stored, such as MP4, AVI, FLV, JPEG, GIF, etc. |
| The amount of data transferred per second in a digital media file, measured in bits per second (bps). | The number of frames per second at which a video is displayed, ranging from 24fps to 120fps. |
| The process of combining different media files into a single product, such as a website, video, or presentation. | The number of pixels displayed on a screen, typically expressed as width x height (e.g. 1920x1080). |
| Tablet | Smartphone |
| SIM | 3G |
| 4G | Connection speed |
| Mobile data | Battery life |
| A handheld device that integrates mobile phone capabilities with the features of a computer. | A mobile computing device with a touchscreen display, battery, and circuitry for data input and output. |
| A mobile network that provides data speeds faster than 2G and allows for more advanced mobile services. | A small chip that's inserted into a smartphone or tablet to connect it to a phone network. |
| The speed at which data can be transferred between a device and the internet or another device. | A mobile network that provides data speeds faster than 3G and allows for more advanced mobile services. |
| Amount of time a smartphone or tablet can function on a single charge. | The amount of data that can be transmitted over a mobile network, typically measured in megabytes or gigabytes. |
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Security risks | Apps |
| System software | Operating system |
| Device driver | Utility program |
| Limitations of using tablets and smartphones, such as low battery life, small screens, and security risks. | Benefits of using tablets and smartphones, such as convenience, portability, and connectivity. |
| Software applications that can be downloaded and installed on smartphones and tablets. | Potential hazards or vulnerabilities associated with using tablets and smartphones, such as hacking, theft, or loss of personal data. |
| A software program that manages computer hardware resources and provides common services for computer programs. | Software that controls and manages the computer hardware and provides a platform for other software to run on. |
| A small program that performs a specific task such as virus scanning, disk clean-up or file compression. | Software that allows the operating system to communicate with hardware devices such as printers, scanners and cameras. |
| System call | Kernel |
| Memory management | Virtual memory |
| File system | System software reliability |
| System software compatibility | System software security |
| The core component of an operating system that controls all other parts of the system and communicates directly with hardware. | A mechanism used by an application program to request service from the operating system. |
| A technique used by the operating system to expand the amount of usable memory available to a program by using hard disk space as if it were memory. | The process of managing the computer's primary memory, which is used to store program instructions and data. |
| The measure of how consistently and predictably a system software performs its intended functions over a period of time. | The hierarchy of directories and files used by an operating system to organize and store data on disk. |
| The measure to protect the system software from unauthorized access or damage. | The measure of how well a system software works with other software and hardware components. |
| Operating System | Features of an Operating System |
| Common Operating Systems | BIOS |
| BIOS Functions | Types of BIOS |
| Legacy BIOS | UEFI |
| Features of an Operating System include memory management, process management, file management, input/output management, security, and error detection. | An operating system (OS) is a program that manages the hardware and software resources of a computer and provides common services for computer programs. |
| BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is a program that controls communication between all the input and output devices on a computer system and initializes the operating system when the computer is turned on. | Common operating systems include Windows, macOS, Linux, and Unix. Each operating system has its own unique features and functions. |
| There are two types of BIOS: Legacy BIOS and UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface). Legacy BIOS is an older standard while UEFI is a newer standard. | BIOS functions include testing and initializing hardware components, identifying system configuration, and loading and executing the operating system. |
| UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) is a newer BIOS standard that provides faster boot times and better security. It is built to support newer hardware and uses a GUID Partition Table (GPT) to help load the operating system. | Legacy BIOS is the traditional BIOS standard used before UEFI. It is built to support older hardware, and uses a Master Boot Record (MBR) to help load the operating system. |
| Features of Legacy BIOS | Features of UEFI |
| UEFI vs Legacy BIOS | Secure Boot |
| CLI | GUI |
| difference | advantages |
| Features of UEFI include support for newer hardware, a 64-bit processor, larger file size limits, and better security features such as secure boot and cryptographic keys. | Features of Legacy BIOS include support for older hardware, a 16-bit processor, and limitations on the amount of memory that can be addressed. |
| Secure boot is a UEFI feature that prevents unauthorized operating systems and malware from loading during the boot sequence. It uses cryptographic keys to verify the validity of the operating system being loaded. | UEFI is faster and more secure than Legacy BIOS but requires newer hardware. Legacy BIOS is slower and less secure than UEFI but can support older hardware. |
| A graphical user interface (GUI) is a type of user interface that allows users to interact with a computer program using graphical elements such as icons and buttons. | A command-line interface (CLI) is a type of user interface that allows users to interact with a computer program by typing in commands. |
| Advantages of CLI include faster and more precise input, while advantages of GUI include ease of use and accessibility. | The difference between CLI and GUI is that CLI requires commands to be typed in, while GUI allows users to interact with a computer program using graphical elements. |
| disadvantages | basic |
| tasks | navigate |
| functions | compare |
| evaluate | efficiency |
| Basic CLI commands include 'cd' for changing the current working directory, 'ls' for listing the contents of a directory, and 'mkdir' for creating a new directory. | Disadvantages of CLI include a steeper learning curve and less intuitive interface, while disadvantages of GUI include slower input speed and less precise input. |
| In a GUI environment, users can navigate by clicking on icons, menus, and buttons to access different functions and options. | Basic CLI commands can be used to complete tasks such as navigating the file system, creating and deleting files, and managing processes. |
| CLI and GUI can be compared based on their respective advantages and disadvantages, as well as on their efficiency and complexity for performing different types of tasks. | Basic functions in a GUI environment include opening and closing windows, minimizing and maximizing windows, and selecting options from menus. |
| Efficiency refers to the speed and accuracy with which tasks can be completed using a particular interface, compared to other available options. | Evaluating CLI and GUI involves assessing their relative strengths and weaknesses, as well as considering the specific needs and preferences of individual users. |
| Memory Management | RAM |
| Virtual Memory | Page File |
| Spooling | Printer Driver |
| Print Queue | Print Spooler |
| Random Access Memory is a type of computer memory that stores data and machine code during computer operations. It is volatile, which means it loses its contents when power is turned off. | The process of managing computer memory to ensure that it is used efficiently and effectively to meet the memory requirements of computer programs and users. |
| A file on the hard disk that is used by the operating system as virtual memory when the physical memory is full. | A memory management technique that uses the hard disk to simulate additional RAM when the physical memory is insufficient to execute programs and processes. |
| Software that enables a computer to communicate with a printer. It provides the necessary commands and settings for the printer to execute the print job. | The process of sending print jobs to a buffer area on the hard disk before printing them out. This allows multiple print jobs to be stored in the buffer and printed in the order that they were received. |
| A service that manages the print queue and sends print jobs to the printer in the correct order. It also monitors the status of the printer and notifies the user if there are any errors or issues. | A list of print jobs that are waiting to be printed. This allows multiple print jobs to be queued and printed in the order that they were received. |
| Printer Maintenance | Printer Troubleshooting |
| Printer Firmware | Print Server |
| System Utilities | Resource Management |
| Computer Performance | Security |
| The process of diagnosing and solving printer issues such as paper jams, connectivity issues, and print quality issues. It involves identifying the root cause of the problem and implementing appropriate solutions. | The process of cleaning, calibrating, and repairing printers to ensure that they are functioning properly and producing high-quality prints. Regular maintenance can prolong the lifespan of printers and reduce the occurrence of printer issues. |
| A device or software that manages one or more printers on a network. It receives print jobs from multiple computers on the network and sends them to the appropriate printer. | Software that controls the operation of the printer hardware. It is stored on a read-only memory chip (ROM) on the printer and can be updated to fix bugs or add new features. |
| The process of allocating and managing computer resources, such as memory, CPU and disk space, to ensure optimal system performance. | Tools provided by the operating system to manage computer resources, such as disk cleanup, defragmenter, and task manager. |
| The practice of protecting computer systems and data from unauthorized access, attacks, and other potential threats. | The measure of how well a computer system is performing in terms of its speed, response time, and ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously. |
| System Restore | Disk Cleanup |
| Disk Defragmenter | Task Manager |
| Antivirus | Firewall |
| Backup | Password Protection |
| A utility that removes unnecessary files and programs from a computer's hard drive to free up disk space and improve performance. | A utility that allows users to restore a computer to a previous state, either to fix problems or undo changes made to the system. |
| A utility that allows users to monitor and manage the running programs and processes on a computer to improve performance and troubleshoot problems. | A utility that rearranges fragmented files on a computer's hard drive to improve performance by reducing the time it takes to read and write data. |
| A system that controls the incoming and outgoing network traffic based on an organization's previously established security policies. | A program designed to detect, prevent and remove malicious software such as viruses, worms and Trojans from a computer system. |
| A security measure that requires users to enter a password in order to access a computer, program, or files, in order to prevent unauthorized access. | The process of creating a copy of important data to protect against data loss and corruption due to hardware failure, software errors, or other potential threats. |
| Word processing software | Document formatting |
| Presentation software | Slide design |
| Bullets and numbering | Graphics |
| Hyperlinks | Templates |
| The process of applying consistent design elements such as font style, size, color, and layout to a document. | A type of software that allows a user to create, edit and format text-based documents. |
| The process of designing the layout, color scheme, and overall appearance of a slide in a presentation. | A type of software that allows a user to create slide-based presentations with text, images, and multimedia content. |
| Visual elements such as images, charts, and graphs used in documents and presentations. | A feature in word processing software that automatically creates bulleted or numbered lists. |
| Pre-designed documents or presentations that can be customized by the user for their specific needs. | Clickable links that allow the user to navigate to another location within the same document or to an external website. |
| Headers and footers | Animations |
| Speaker notes | Collaboration |
| System Security | System Security Threats |
| Print Spooling | Importance of Print Spooling |
| Special effects such as movement or transitions between slides in a presentation. | Text or other content that appears at the top or bottom of every page in a document or presentation. |
| The ability for multiple users to work on a document or presentation simultaneously and make changes in real-time. | Text that accompanies each slide in a presentation and provides additional information or context for the presenter. |
| Potential risks or dangers that can arise and harm a computer system and its data, including hacking, viruses, malware, and phishing. | The measures taken to ensure the safety and security of a computer system and its data from unauthorized access and use. |
| The benefits of using print spooling, including improved printing speed, reduced downtime, and better resource management. | The process by which a computer saves multiple print jobs in a queue, allowing for efficient use of printer resources and prioritization of jobs. |
| How Print Spooling Works | Issues During Print Spooling |
| Authorization | Encryption |
| Firewall | Intrusion Detection System (IDS) |
| Phishing | Malware |
| The potential problems that can occur during print spooling, including printer offline errors, paper jams, and network connectivity issues. | The explanation of the print spooling process, including how the computer sends print jobs to the spooler, which then stores them in a queue until the printer becomes available. |
| The process of converting plain text into coded text to protect sensitive information from unauthorized access or interception. | The process of granting or denying access to a computer system or its resources based on an individual's identity and level of permission. |
| A network security system designed to detect and respond to unauthorized access or malicious activity on a computer network. | A security system designed to prevent unauthorized access to or from a private computer system by filtering out unwanted traffic. |
| A type of software designed to harm or exploit a computer system or its data, including viruses, worms, and Trojan horses. | The fraudulent practice of sending emails or messages that appear to be from reputable sources in order to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information. |
| HTML | CSS |
| Website | Image file types |
| JPEG | PNG |
| GIF | Image editing |
| A styling language used to add visually appealing design elements to web pages. | A markup language used to display content on the web. |
| Different formats such as JPEG, PNG, GIF that are used to store and display images on web pages. | A collection of web pages that are linked together and can be accessed through a domain name. |
| A lossless image format that is best for simple graphics and images with transparency. Its file extension is .png. | A commonly used image format that is best for photographs and complex images. Its file extension is .jpg or .jpeg. |
| The process of modifying an image using software such as Adobe Photoshop to improve or alter its appearance. | A format that allows for animated images with a limited color range. Its file extension is .gif. |
| Adobe Photoshop | Resize |
| Crop | Brightness |
| Sound Editing Software | Recording |
| Editing | Enhancement |
| The process of changing the dimensions of an image. | A leading image editing software that allows users to edit and manipulate photos and graphics. |
| The amount of light in an image. | The process of removing unwanted portions of an image. |
| The process of capturing or creating new audio by using a microphone or other input device. | Software used for modifying, manipulating and improving audio files. |
| The process of making an audio file sound better by adjusting the levels, adding effects or removing noise. | The process of altering or modifying an existing audio file. |
| Sound Control Software | Mixing |
| Mastering | Soundscapes |
| Sound Effects | Equalization |
| Compression | Limiting |
| The process of combining multiple audio tracks into a single output file. | Software used for mixing and mastering audio files. |
| A collection of sounds, often used to create an immersive or ambient environment. | The process of finalizing an audio track or album for release, ensuring that it sounds as good as possible on all playback systems. |
| The process of adjusting the balance between different sound frequencies in an audio file. | An artificially created or enhanced sound used to add to or enhance an audio or visual media production. |
| The process of preventing the volume of an audio file from going above a specified level, typically to prevent distortion or clipping. | The process of reducing the dynamic range of an audio file, typically used to make a track more consistent in volume across different playback systems. |
| Project management software | Gantt chart |
| Task | Resource |
| Project scheduling | Critical path |
| Project monitoring | Real-time collaboration |
| A horizontal bar chart that represents the project schedule over time. | A software that helps in planning, organizing, and managing resources for successful completion of projects. |
| Any people, equipment, or material required to complete a task or project. | A defined piece of work that needs to be completed as part of a project. |
| The longest sequence of tasks in a project, and the minimum amount of time required to complete the project. | The process of defining the project start and end dates, as well as the order and timeline of tasks and resources required. |
| The ability to work together on the same project at the same time from different locations. | The process of tracking the project's progress against the schedule and identifying and managing any issues or risks. |
| Resource allocation | Task dependencies |
| Milestone | Risk management |
| System Updates | Communication Software |
| Productivity | Efficiency |
| The relationships between tasks that determine which must be completed before others can be started. | The process of assigning and managing resources to tasks in a project. |
| The process of identifying, assessing, and managing risks that could impact project success. | A significant point in a project that marks the completion of a major phase or achievement. |
| Applications that enable users to communicate with each other, such as email, instant messaging, video conferencing, and collaboration tools. | The process of applying updates to operating systems, software, or firmware to fix bugs, improve performance, and add new features. |
| The degree to which resources are used effectively to complete tasks with minimal waste or unnecessary effort. | The measure of how efficiently tasks are completed, often measured as the amount of work done per unit of time. |
| Remote Access | Collaboration Tools |
| Web Conferencing | VoIP |
| Patch | Firewall |
| Backup | Malware |
| Software that enables multiple users to work together on the same project, often with real-time updates and version control. | The ability to access a computer, network, or data from a different location, often using a virtual private network (VPN) or remote desktop software. |
| Voice over Internet Protocol, a technology that enables voice communication over the internet, often using a headset or microphone and speakers. | Online meetings or presentations that enable multiple users to participate and interact through audio, video, and chat features. |
| A security system that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic, often used to protect against unauthorized access or malicious activity. | A software update that fixes known vulnerabilities or bugs in an operating system or application. |
| Malicious software such as viruses, trojans, or spyware that can harm or disrupt computer systems and networks. | The process of creating a copy of important data or software to protect against loss or damage in case of disaster or system failure. |
| Open Source | Proprietary |
| Creative Commons | Freeware |
| Shareware | Software as a Service (SaaS) |
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| A type of software where the source code is not freely available and is owned by a company or individual. | A type of software where the source code is freely available and can be modified and redistributed by anyone. |
| A type of software that is available for free but may have restrictions on distribution or modification. | A type of software license that allows for the free distribution and modification of creative works. |
| A type of software delivery model where software is hosted by a third-party provider and accessed over the internet. | A type of software that is available for free trial but requires payment for continued use. |
| Drawbacks or negative aspects of different types of software. | Benefits or positive aspects of different types of software. |
| Openness | Control |
| Cost | Flexibility |
| output device | printer |
| monitor | speaker |
| A characteristic of Proprietary software where the owner of the software has complete control over its use and distribution. | A characteristic of Open Source software that allows for transparency and collaboration in software development. |
| A characteristic of SaaS where users can access the software from any device with an internet connection. | A factor to consider when evaluating which type of software is best suited for particular needs. |
| An output device that prints text or graphics on paper or other media. | An electronic device that sends information, in the form of text, images, or sound, from a computer to a user. |
| An output device that produces sound from a computer. | An output device that displays text, images, and videos from a computer. |
| projector | image |
| text | audio |
| video | HDMI |
| USB | port |
| A visual representation of information, such as a photograph or diagram. | An output device that projects images and videos onto a screen or other surface. |
| Sound or music that can be played on a computer or other device. | Words and characters that can be typed, displayed, or printed. |
| A type of cable used to connect a computer to a high-definition television or monitor. | Moving images that can be played on a computer or other device. |
| An interface on a computer or other device used to connect cables and other devices. | A type of cable used to connect a computer to various devices, including printers, speakers, and cameras. |
| Laser Printer | Inkjet Printer |
| Bubblejet Printer | Resolution |
| Print Head | Cartridge |
| Duplex Printing | Cost per Page |
| A type of printer that sprays droplets of ink onto paper to create an image. | A type of printer that uses a laser beam to create an image on a photosensitive drum, which is then rolled through toner before transferring the image onto paper. |
| The measure of printing quality, usually measured in dots per inch (dpi). | A type of inkjet printer that uses heat to create bubbles in ink, which then burst onto paper, creating an image. |
| The container in which ink or toner is stored for use in a printer. | The part of the printer that moves back and forth across the page and sprays ink or toner onto it to create an image. |
| The cost of printing one page of a document, including the cost of ink or toner and paper. | The ability to print on both sides of a piece of paper, either manually or automatically. |
| Speed | Paper Tray |
| USB | Wireless Printing |
| Plotters | Laser Engravers |
| Types of plotters | Types of laser engravers |
| The compartment in which paper is stored for use in a printer. | The rate at which a printer can print pages per minute (ppm). |
| The ability to print wirelessly from a computer or mobile device to a printer, using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth technology. | A type of connection used to connect a printer to a computer. |
| A printing technology that uses a laser beam to burn designs into a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and plastic. | A type of printing technology that uses a pen, pencil, or marker to draw images on paper or other materials. |
| Different kinds of laser engravers, such as CO2 laser engravers, fiber laser engravers, and diode laser engravers, each with their own benefits and drawbacks. | Different kinds of plotters, such as drum plotters, flatbed plotters, and inkjet plotters, each with their own benefits and drawbacks. |
| Paper selection | Material selection |
| Design creation | Design preparation |
| Pen plotter | Inkjet plotter |
| Drum plotter | CO2 laser engraver |
| The process of choosing the right type of material for use with laser engravers, based on factors such as hardness, density, and reflectivity. | The process of choosing the right type of paper for use with plotters, based on factors such as thickness, weight, and surface texture. |
| The process of formatting and optimizing a digital design for use with a plotter or laser engraver, including adjusting the size, color, and resolution of the design. | The process of using software tools to create a digital design that can be printed using a plotter or engraved using a laser engraver. |
| A type of plotter that uses ink to create designs on paper, typically used in graphic design and printing applications. | A type of plotter that uses a pen to draw designs on paper, typically used in engineering and architectural applications. |
| A type of laser engraving machine that uses a carbon dioxide laser to burn designs into materials such as wood, rubber, and plastic. | A type of plotter that uses a rotating drum to move paper while a pen draws the design, typically used in high-volume printing applications. |
| Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) | 3D Printing |
| CAD Software | STL File |
| Slicing | Additive Manufacturing |
| Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) | Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) |
| 3D Printing is a technology that uses a digital model to create solid objects by layering material in successive, thin layers until the desired shape is formed. | Computer-Aided Manufacturing is the use of software to control manufacturing processes, including fabrication, assembly, inspection, and testing, in order to ensure efficiency and accuracy in production. |
| STL File is a file format used for 3D Printing that represents a 3D object as a series of connected triangles. | CAD Software is computer software used to create, modify, analyze, or optimize a design for a product or process. |
| Additive Manufacturing is a manufacturing process that creates a three-dimensional object by adding successive layers of material until the object is complete. | Slicing is the process of dividing a 3D model into thin, horizontal layers in order to prepare it for 3D Printing. |
| Selective Laser Sintering is an additive manufacturing process that uses a high-power laser to fuse small particles of material together to create a 3D object. | Fused Deposition Modeling is an additive manufacturing process that creates a 3D object by heating and extruding plastic filaments through a nozzle, which then solidifies to form the object layer by layer. |
| Stereolithography (SLA) | Rapid Prototyping |
| Layer Height | Infill |
| Actuator | Control device |
| Relay | Transistor |
| Rapid Prototyping is the process of quickly creating a physical model or prototype of a product to test or evaluate its design. | Stereolithography is an additive manufacturing process that uses a laser to solidify liquid resin into a 3D object. |
| Infill is the pattern or structure inside a 3D-printed object that provides internal support and adds strength to the object. | Layer Height is the thickness of each layer of material deposited during the 3D Printing process. |
| An electronic device used to control the operation of a device or system | A device that is responsible for moving or controlling a mechanism or system |
| A component used to control the flow of electrical current in a circuit | An electrical switch that is activated by an electromagnet, typically used to control high power devices |
| Servo motor | Stepper motor |
| PWM | Analog |
| Digital | Sensor |
| Actuator interface | Control device interface |
| A motor that is able to rotate in small, precise steps, commonly used in robotics and automation | A motor that is able to rotate to a precise angle, commonly used in robotics and automation |
| A type of control signal that varies continuously over a range of values, as opposed to discrete on/off signals | Pulse width modulation, a technique used to control the power supplied to a device by varying the width of a pulse of current |
| A device that detects a physical property and converts it into an electrical signal, commonly used in automation and robotics | A type of control signal that uses binary on/off signals |
| The component that allows a computer to communicate with and control a control device | The component that allows a computer to communicate with and control an actuator |
| Projector | Speaker |
| LCD Projector | DLP Projector |
| Short-Throw Projector | Wireless Projector |
| Bluetooth Speaker | Wired Speaker |
| An electronic device that converts audio signals into sound waves that can be heard. | An optical device that projects an image or a video onto a surface. |
| A type of projector that uses a digital micromirror device to produce images. | A type of projector that uses a liquid crystal display panel to produce images. |
| A type of projector that can connect to a device without the use of cables. | A type of projector that can project a large image from a short distance. |
| A type of speaker that connects to a device using a cable. | A type of speaker that uses Bluetooth technology to connect to devices without the use of cables. |
| Surround Sound Speaker | Audio Input |
| Video Input | Display Resolution |
| Optical input devices | Mouse |
| Trackball | Optical mouse |
| A port on a projector or speaker that allows audio signals to be inputted. | A type of speaker system that provides a multi-channel audio experience. |
| The number of pixels that a projector or display is capable of producing. | A port on a projector that allows video signals to be inputted. |
| A pointing device that translates motion of the hand into signals for the computer to move the cursor on the screen. | Devices that are used to input data into a computer through optical sensors. |
| A type of mouse that uses an optical sensor to detect movement and communicate with the computer. | An input device that uses a ball to manipulate the cursor on the screen with the fingers. |
| Touchpad | Optical character recognition (OCR) |
| Barcode scanner | QR code scanner |
| Webcam | Optical sensor |
| Light pen | Scanner |
| The process of recognizing text characters from scanned documents or images and converting them into editable text. | A sensor pad that is used in place of a mouse for pointing, clicking, and scrolling on a laptop. |
| An optical input device that reads QR codes by detecting and decoding the patterns of squares and dots. | An optical input device that reads barcodes by detecting and decoding the patterns of lines and spaces. |
| A device that converts light into an electrical signal, used in optical input devices to detect movement and position. | A camera that captures video or images and transfers the data to a computer through a USB port. |
| An optical input device that scans and digitizes printed images or documents. | An input device that uses a light-sensitive pen to interact with a computer screen, primarily used in design or artistic work. |
| Biometric input devices | Magnetic input devices |
| Advantages of biometric input devices | Disadvantages of biometric input devices |
| Types of biometric input devices | Applications of biometric input devices |
| Types of magnetic input devices | Applications of magnetic input devices |
| Magnetic input devices are devices that read and/or encode information on magnetic stripes or chips, such as credit cards, identity cards, and passports. | Biometric input devices are devices that authenticate a person's identity, based on their biological characteristics, such as fingerprints, voice, facial recognition, and iris scans. |
| Disadvantages of biometric input devices include high cost, susceptibility to technical errors, and concerns about privacy and security. | Advantages of biometric input devices include high accuracy, resistance to fraud, and ease of use. |
| Applications of biometric input devices include access control, time and attendance tracking, identification verification, and law enforcement. | Types of biometric input devices include fingerprint scanners, retinal scanners, facial recognition systems, voice recognition systems, and hand geometry scanners. |
| Applications of magnetic input devices include credit card processing, identity verification, passport control, and check processing. | Types of magnetic input devices include magnetic stripe readers, magnetic card readers, and magnetic ink character recognition (MICR) readers. |
| Security features of biometric input devices | Technical errors of biometric input devices |
| Privacy concerns of biometric input devices | Security concerns of biometric input devices |
| Scanners | Cameras |
| Flatbed Scanners | Sheet-fed Scanners |
| Technical errors of biometric input devices include false rejection and false acceptance. False rejection occurs when a valid user is denied access, whereas false acceptance occurs when an impostor is granted access. | Security features of biometric input devices include encryption, match-on-device authentication, and multi-factor authentication. |
| Security concerns of biometric input devices include the risk of hacking, spoofing, and tampering. | Privacy concerns of biometric input devices include the risk of identity theft, data breaches, and unauthorized surveillance. |
| Devices used to capture digital images and videos. | Devices used to convert physical documents or images into digital format. |
| Scanners that can handle multiple pages and are commonly used in offices for scanning large volumes of documents. | Scanners that have a flat glass surface and are commonly used to scan documents and photos. |
| Handheld Scanners | Webcams |
| Digital Cameras | Industrial Scanners |
| Medical Scanners | Architecture |
| Fashion | Forensics |
| Cameras that are primarily used for video conferencing, live streaming, or recording videos for social media platforms. | Portable scanners that are used to scan documents, photos, or other flat objects that cannot be fed through a traditional scanner. |
| Scanners that are designed for heavy-duty usage and are commonly used in manufacturing, logistics, and retail industries. | Cameras that capture digital images and videos, and have multiple features such as zoom, flash, and various shooting modes. |
| The industry that uses scanners and cameras to create digital 3D models of buildings and landscapes. | Scanners that are used for medical imaging, such as X-rays, MRI, CT scans, and ultrasounds. |
| The field that uses scanners and cameras to collect and analyze digital evidence in criminal investigations. | The industry that uses scanners and cameras to capture images of clothing and accessories for marketing purposes. |
| Touch screen | Capacitive touch screen |
| Resistive touch screen | Multi-touch screen |
| Virtual keyboard | Haptic feedback |
| Gesture recognition | Durability |
| A type of touch screen that uses the electrical charge of the human body to detect touches. | A display screen that is sensitive to pressure and touch, allowing the user to interact with it by tapping, swiping, or using a stylus. |
| A touch screen that can detect and respond to multiple touches simultaneously. | A type of touch screen that works by detecting pressure applied to the screen. It consists of two layers of material, each with a conductive coating, separated by a small gap. |
| A tactile response provided by a touch screen in response to user input, such as vibrations or a physical click. | A software-based keyboard that appears on a touch screen device when needed, allowing the user to type in text. |
| The ability of a touch screen to resist damage from scratches, impact, and other types of physical wear and tear over time. | The ability of a touch screen device to interpret complex finger movements, such as pinching, swiping, and tapping, as specific commands or actions. |
| Ease of use | Space-saving |
| Accessibility | Comparison to other input devices |
| OCR | OMR |
| Barcode | Reader |
| The ability of a touch screen to eliminate the need for external input devices, such as a keyboard or mouse, thereby saving space on the desktop or workspace. | The simplicity and intuitiveness of the touch screen interface, and how easily users can learn to interact with it. |
| The similarities and differences between touch screens and other input devices, such as keyboards, mice, and trackpads, in terms of functionality, ease of use, and user experience. | The ability of a touch screen to assist users with disabilities, such as those with limited mobility or visual impairments, by providing alternative means of interaction with technology. |
| OMR stands for optical mark recognition. It is a technology used to detect the presence or absence of marks on a paper form. | OCR stands for optical character recognition. It is a technology that converts scanned images of text into machine-encoded text. |
| A reader is a device that can read and interpret information from different types of documents, such as text, images or barcodes. | A barcode is an image consisting of a series of parallel lines of varying widths that can be read by a barcode reader to identify a product or service. |
| Scanned image | Machine-encoded text |
| Paper form | Mark detection technology |
| Barcode reader | Product identification |
| Service identification | Differentiation |
| Machine-encoded text is text that has been translated by a computer program into a format that can be interpreted by other machines or systems. | A scanned image is an electronic image obtained by scanning a paper document or photograph. |
| Mark detection technology is a method used to detect specific marks on a paper form, often used in OMR readers. | A paper form is a document that contains fields and boxes to be filled in by hand or machine, usually for purposes of data collection or surveys. |
| Product identification is the process of assigning unique identifiers to products or items in order to distinguish them from others. | A barcode reader is a device that can read and interpret the information contained in a barcode image. |
| Differentiation is the process of distinguishing between two or more things or concepts, often used in reference to OCR, OMR, and barcode readers. | Service identification is the process of assigning unique identifiers to services or actions in order to distinguish them from others. |
| Chip & Pin technology | Contactless payments |
| Advantages of Chip & Pin technology | Disadvantages of Chip & Pin technology |
| Advantages of Contactless payments | Disadvantages of Contactless payments |
| Payment terminal | Personal Identification Number (PIN) |
| A technology that allows for secure and fast transactions without the need for physical contact between the payment device (card, smartphone, etc.) and the payment terminal. | A technology used in credit and debit cards that requires the user to insert their card into a reader and enter a unique personal identification number (PIN) to complete a transaction. |
| Can be slow during high-volume periods, requires the use of a physical card and reader. | Increased security, reduced fraud, quick and efficient transactions. |
| Potential for fraud or security breaches, limited transaction amounts, not accepted at all merchants. | Quick and easy transactions, convenient for customers, reduces the need for physical contact with payment devices. |
| A unique numeric code used to authenticate the user during credit or debit card transactions. | A device used in businesses to process electronic payments, such as credit and debit cards. |
| EMV | NFC |
| Biometrics | Tokenization |
| Keyboard | Mouse |
| Touchpad | Trackball |
| A technology that enables contactless communication between devices, often used for mobile payments. | A global standard for credit and debit card payments that uses chip technology to increase transaction security and reduce fraud. |
| A process that replaces sensitive payment information, such as credit card numbers, with a unique token that is used for transactions. | Authentication techniques that rely on unique biological characteristics of an individual, such as fingerprints or facial recognition. |
| A hand-held pointing device used to navigate and interact with graphical user interfaces. | A device that allows users to type characters and commands into a computer. |
| A pointing device that consists of a ball housed in a socket containing sensors to detect rotation of the ball. | A pointing device that is sensitive to touch or pressure, used primarily on laptop computers. |
| Scanner | Microphone |
| Joystick | Digital Camera |
| Barcode Reader | Graphics Tablet |
| Touchscreen | Webcam |
| A device used to capture audio input, such as spoken words or music. | A device that captures images of printed text or graphics, and converts them into a digital format. |
| A device used to capture and store digital images and videos. | A hand-held device that uses a lever and buttons to control the movement of objects on a computer screen. |
| A flat surface used for drawing or writing, with a stylus or electronic pen that can detect position and pressure. | A device that reads and decodes information contained in a barcode. |
| A camera connected to a computer, used to capture and transmit video over the Internet. | A display screen that is sensitive to touch, and allows users to interact with the computer by tapping or swiping. |
| HDD | SSD |
| CD | DVD |
| Blu Ray | Magnetic Storage |
| Flash Memory | Capacity |
| A solid state drive is a data storage device that uses NAND-based flash memory to store and retrieve digital information. | A hard disk drive is a data storage device that uses magnetic storage to store and retrieve digital information. |
| A digital versatile disc is a digital optical disc data storage format that was introduced in 1995. | A compact disc is a digital optical disc data storage format that was introduced in 1982. |
| A type of storage technology that uses magnetism to store and retrieve digital information, typically on a spinning disk or platter. | A Blu-ray disc is a digital optical disc data storage format that was introduced in 2006 and can store high definition video and data. |
| The amount of digital information that a storage device can hold, typically measured in bytes or gigabytes. | A type of storage technology that uses NAND-based flash memory chips to store and retrieve digital information, typically in a solid state drive or USB flash drive. |
| Speed | Durability |
| Cost | Applications |
| Flash Drive | Pen Drive |
| SD Card | Portable Storage Devices |
| The ability of a storage device to withstand physical shock or damage and continue to function properly. | The rate at which a storage device can read or write digital information, typically measured in megabytes per second. |
| The specific uses or scenarios in which a particular storage device is best suited, based on its characteristics and capabilities. | The amount of money required to purchase or operate a storage device, typically measured in dollars or euros. |
| Another name for a USB flash drive, a type of portable storage device that uses flash memory to store data. | A portable storage device that uses flash memory to store data. |
| Electronic devices used to store data that can be easily carried and used on multiple devices. | A type of portable storage device that uses non-volatile flash memory to store data and can be used to expand the storage capacity of devices such as digital cameras and smartphones. |
| USB Flash Drive | External Hard Drive |
| Cloud Storage | Memory Card |
| Backup | File Transfer |
| Data Storage | Flash Memory |
| A type of portable storage device that uses magnetic disks to store data and connects to devices via a USB or Thunderbolt port. Can store much larger amounts of data than a flash drive. | A type of portable storage device that uses flash memory to store data and connects to devices via a USB port. |
| A small, removable electronic device used to store data, often found in devices such as digital cameras and smartphones. | A type of data storage that allows data to be stored and accessed remotely, typically via the internet. |
| The act of moving electronic data from one device to another, typically via a cable, wireless connection, or portable storage device. | The process of creating a copy of important data so that it can be easily restored in case of loss or damage. |
| A type of non-volatile memory that retains data even when power is turned off and is commonly used in portable storage devices such as flash drives and memory cards. | The process of storing electronic data on a storage device, such as a hard drive or flash drive, for later retrieval and use. |
| Magnetic Tape | Floppy Disk |
| Obsolete | Digital Data |
| Storage Medium | Read/Write Head |
| Capacity | Access Time |
| A removable storage medium that uses a flexible disk coated with a magnetic material to store digital data. | A storage medium that uses a long strip of tape coated with a magnetic material to store digital data. |
| Information that is stored and transmitted in binary form (0s and 1s). | No longer in use or relevant. In the context of storage devices, it refers to devices that have been replaced by newer, more efficient technologies. |
| The part of a storage device that reads and writes data to and from the storage medium. | A physical device or material that can be used to store digital data. |
| The amount of time it takes for a storage device to locate and retrieve data. | The amount of data that can be stored in a storage device. |
| Durability | Portability |
| Solid State Drive (SSD) | External Hard Drive |
| Computer storage | Magnetic storage |
| Optical storage | Solid state storage |
| The ease with which a storage device can be transported from one location to another. | The ability of a storage device to withstand physical wear and tear over time. |
| A storage device that uses a spinning disk to store data. Compared to magnetic tape and floppy disks, external hard drives have higher capacity and are more portable, but are generally slower and less durable. | A storage device that uses NAND-based flash memory to store digital data. Compared to magnetic tape and floppy disks, SSDs are faster, more durable, and have higher capacity. |
| A type of computer storage that uses magnetization to store and retrieve data on disks or tapes. | The act of storing digital data in a computer system for later use. |
| A type of computer storage that uses flash memory to store and retrieve data on chips. | A type of computer storage that uses laser light to store and retrieve data on disks or other media. |
| Magnetization | Laser light |
| Disks | Tapes |
| Flash memory | Non-volatile |
| Alignment | Digital data |
| A highly focused beam of light that is used in optical storage to read and write data. | The process of aligning magnetic particles in a material to store digital information. |
| A long, narrow strip of magnetic material that is used in magnetic storage. | A circular, flat storage medium that is used in magnetic and optical storage. |
| A type of memory that retains data even when the power is turned off. | A type of non-volatile computer memory that can be electrically erased and reprogrammed. |
| Data that is represented using binary digits (1s and 0s) and can be processed by a computer. | The process of positioning something in a precise manner, such as aligning magnetic particles in a material. |
| Internet | External storage |
| Pros | Cons |
| Accessibility | Data security |
| Backup | Reliability |
| Devices that allow users to store data outside of their computer's hard drive, such as USB flash drives or external hard drives. | A global network of computers and servers that allows individuals and organizations to share and access information. |
| Disadvantages of using either internet or external storage for data storage and access. | Advantages or benefits of using either internet or external storage for data storage and access. |
| The measures taken to protect digital data from unauthorized access, theft, and damage. | The ease with which data can be accessed and retrieved by authorized users. |
| The ability of a storage device or system to consistently provide access to data without failure or error. | A copy of data that can be used to restore the original data in the event of loss or damage. |
| Bandwidth | Cost |
| Physical storage | Cloud storage |
| Recordable Discs | Re-recordable Discs |
| CD-R | CD-RW |
| The financial expenses associated with using either internet or external storage. | The amount of data that can be transmitted over a network in a given amount of time. |
| Storing data on remote servers accessed via the internet. | Storing data on physical devices such as CDs, DVDs, or flash drives. |
| A type of disc that can be written and rewritten multiple times. | A type of disc that can be written on one time only. |
| A type of re-recordable disc that can be written and rewritten multiple times. | A type of recordable disc that can only be written on once. |
| DVD-R | DVD+R |
| DVD-RW | DVD+RW |
| Capacity | Write Speed |
| Read Speed | Disc Burning |
| A type of recordable disc that can only be written on once, with a larger capacity than a CD-R. | A type of recordable disc that can only be written on once, with a larger capacity than a CD-R. |
| A type of re-recordable disc that can be written and rewritten multiple times. | A type of re-recordable disc that can be written and rewritten multiple times. |
| The speed at which data can be written to the disc. | The amount of data that can be stored on a disc. |
| The process of writing data to a recordable or re-recordable disc. | The speed at which data can be read from the disc. |
| RAM | ROM |
| Flash Memory | Difference |
| Accessed | Used |
| Non-volatile | Volatile |
| Read Only Memory is a type of computer memory that is used to store pre-set data and instructions that cannot be changed by the user. | Random Access Memory is a type of computer storage that allows data to be accessed quickly in any order. |
| The variance between two or more things, in this case, RAM, ROM, and Flash Memory. | A type of non-volatile computer memory that can be electrically erased and reprogrammed. |
| Putting computer memory to a particular purpose in a computing device. | Retrieving data from computer memory. |
| Memory that loses its contents when power is turned off or interrupted. | Memory that retains data even when the power is turned off. |
| Storage | Data |
| Pre-set | Electrically Erased |
| Memory Management | Virtual Memory |
| Physical Memory | Memory Leak |
| Facts, figures, symbols that can be processed by a computer. | A device or medium that is used to store data or information. |
| Process of erasing stored data using an electrical charge to reset the memory cells. | Data or instructions which are predetermined and unalterable by the user. |
| A memory management technique that uses hard disk space to simulate random access memory (RAM) capacity. | The process of managing and organizing computer memory to optimize its usage and performance. |
| A common issue in programming where a program fails to release memory when it is no longer needed, resulting in memory waste and performance issues. | The actual RAM installed in a computer system that is used to execute programs and applications. |
| Garbage Collection | Memory Fragmentation |
| Memory Compression | Memory Swapping |
| Page Fault | Cache Memory |
| Memory Mapping | Memory Hierarchy |
| A condition that occurs when free memory in a computer system is divided into small, unusable segments. | The process of automatically freeing up memory that is no longer in use by a program or application. |
| A memory management technique that moves data between RAM and hard disk space to optimize usage and performance. | A memory management technique that compresses data in memory to free up more space for other processes and applications. |
| A type of memory that is used to store frequently accessed data to improve system performance. | A memory management issue that occurs when a program requests data that is not in RAM and needs to be moved from hard disk space. |
| The organizational structure of computer memory, arranged in order of speed, capacity, and cost. | The process of assigning memory addresses to data and instructions in a computer program. |
| Punch cards | Floppy Disk |
| CD-ROM | Hard Disk Drive |
| USB Flash Drive | Cloud Storage |
| Solid State Drive | RAID |
| A removable magnetic storage medium that was popular in the 1980s and 1990s and had a storage capacity of 1.44MB. | Punch cards were used to store data and program instructions for early computers and were widely used until the mid-1970s. |
| A magnetic storage device used in most computers today to store data and program instructions. | Compact Disc Read-Only Memory is an optical disc format used in the late 1980s and 1990s to store data and software. |
| A method of storing data on remote servers accessed via the internet rather than on a local hard drive. | A portable storage device that uses flash memory to store data and can be plugged into a computer's USB port. |
| Redundant Array of Independent Disks is a storage technology that uses multiple hard drives to improve performance and data reliability. | A type of hard drive that uses flash memory to store data and program instructions. |
| Network-Attached Storage | Tape Drive |
| Virtual Reality | Artificial Intelligence |
| Kilobyte | Kibibyte |
| Megabyte | Mebibyte |
| A magnetic storage device that uses tape to store data and is commonly used for long-term backups. | A specialized device that provides centralized data storage for a network, making it easier to share and backup data across multiple computers. |
| A branch of computer science that deals with the creation of intelligent machines that can perform tasks that usually require human intelligence, and relies on storage technology to store the data required to train the machine learning algorithms. | A technology that creates a simulated environment by using computer-generated visuals and sounds, and relies on storage technology to store the data required to create the environment. |
| A storage unit of 1024 bits. | A storage unit of 1024 bytes. |
| A storage unit of 1024 kibibytes. | A storage unit of 1024 kilobytes. |
| Byte | Bit |
| Gigabyte | Gibibyte |
| Terabyte | Tebibyte |
| Data Storage Units | Storage capacity |
| The smallest unit of digital information. | A unit of digital information. |
| A storage unit of 1024 mebibytes. | A storage unit of 1024 megabytes. |
| A storage unit of 1024 gibibytes. | A storage unit of 1024 gigabytes. |
| The amount of digital information a storage device can hold. | The units in which digital information is measured and stored. |
| Gigabyte | Gibibyte |
| Terabyte | Tebibyte |
| Conversion | Binary |
| Real world scenarios | Bits |
| A unit of digital information that is equivalent to 1,073,741,824 bytes. | A unit of digital information that is equivalent to 1 billion bytes or 1,000 megabytes. |
| A unit of digital information that is equivalent to 1,099,511,627,776 bytes. | A unit of digital information that is equivalent to 1 trillion bytes. |
| A system of numerical notation that has a base of 2 and uses only 2 digits, 0 and 1. | The process of changing a data unit from one size to another. |
| The smallest unit of digital information that can be represented or stored in a computer. | Applying knowledge of larger data units to practical situations in everyday life. |
| Bytes | Megabyte |
| Mebibyte | Petabyte |
| CPU | Microprocessor |
| Clock Speed | Cache |
| A unit of digital information that is equivalent to 1 million bytes or 1,000 kilobytes. | A unit of digital information that is equivalent to 8 bits. |
| A unit of digital information that is equivalent to 1 quadrillion bytes or 1,000 terabytes. | A unit of digital information that is equivalent to 1,048,576 bytes. |
| A CPU that is contained on a single integrated circuit chip. | The central processing unit (CPU) is the primary component of a computer that performs most of the processing operations. |
| Fast memory used by the CPU to store frequently accessed data and instructions. | The speed at which the CPU can execute instructions, measured in gigahertz (GHz). |
| Registers | ALU |
| Control Unit | Instruction Set |
| Pipelining | Multicore Processor |
| Thermal Design Power | Overclocking |
| The Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) performs mathematical and logical operations on data. | Small, high-speed memory locations within the CPU used for temporary storage of data and instructions. |
| The set of instructions that the CPU can execute. | The Control Unit (CU) manages the flow of data and instructions between the CPU and other components of the computer. |
| A CPU that contains multiple processing cores on a single chip. | A technique used by CPUs to improve performance by overlapping the execution of multiple instructions. |
| The process of increasing the clock speed of a CPU to improve performance, which can also increase the heat generated by the CPU. | The maximum amount of heat a CPU can generate under normal conditions, measured in watts (W). |
| Processor speed | Clock speed |
| Cache | Number of cores |
| Thermal design power (TDP) | Overclocking |
| Benchmarking | Front-side bus (FSB) |
| The speed at which a processor can perform instructions, measured in GHz. | The measure of how fast a computer's processor can perform calculations, usually measured in gigahertz (GHz). |
| The number of processing units within a single CPU, which can improve performance for multitasking and multi-threaded applications. | A small amount of memory used by processors to store frequently accessed data for faster processing. |
| The practice of increasing a processor’s clock speed beyond its factory default settings in order to improve performance. | The maximum amount of heat that a processor generates under normal operating conditions. |
| The communication pathway that connects the processor to the memory and other components on the motherboard. | The practice of measuring the performance of a computer's hardware and software using standardized tests called benchmarks. |
| Instruction set | Hyper-threading |
| Turbo Boost | Software optimization |
| Computer cores | Optimizing performance |
| Central processing unit (CPU) | Multicore processors |
| A feature of some processors that allows each core to perform multiple tasks simultaneously, improving performance for multi-threaded applications. | The collection of commands and operations that a processor can perform, including arithmetic, logic, and input/output operations. |
| The process of writing and designing software to take advantage of a processor's features and capabilities, which can improve performance. | A feature found on some processors that allows them to automatically increase their clock speeds when additional performance is needed. |
| The process of improving the speed and efficiency of a computer system. | The processing units within a computer that execute instructions and perform calculations. |
| CPUs that contain two or more cores, allowing them to perform multiple tasks concurrently. | The primary component of a computer that contains the cores and controls the rest of the system. |
| Hyper-threading | Cache memory |
| Core monitoring | CPU utilization |
| Task manager | Overclocking |
| Parallel processing | Load balancing |
| A type of high-speed memory that stores frequently accessed data to improve processing times. | A technology that allows each core to execute multiple threads simultaneously, improving performance. |
| The percentage of time that a CPU is actively executing instructions. | The process of monitoring usage and performance of individual cores within a CPU. |
| The process of increasing CPU frequency to improve performance, potentially at the cost of stability and longevity. | A system utility that displays information on running processes and CPU usage. |
| The process of distributing workloads across multiple cores or processors to maximize utilization and performance. | The use of multiple cores or processors to execute tasks simultaneously, improving performance. |
| CPU | Processor Speed |
| Cores | Cache |
| GPU | Integrated |
| Benefits | Limitations |
| Processor speed refers to the clock rate of a CPU, which determines the number of operations it can perform per second. | The central processing unit (CPU) is the primary component of a computer that performs most of the processing tasks. |
| Cache is a high-speed memory that stores frequently accessed data and instructions to reduce the time it takes to access them. | Cores are individual processing units within a CPU that allow multiple tasks to be performed simultaneously. |
| Integration refers to the combination of multiple components into a single system or device, such as integrating CPU, Processor Speed, Cores, Cache and GPU in iGCSE ICT Course. | A graphics processing unit (GPU) is a specialized processor that is designed to handle 3D graphics and image processing tasks. |
| Disadvantages or challenges that may arise from integrating CPU, Processor Speed, Cores, Cache and GPU in iGCSE ICT Course. | Advantages or positive outcomes that result from integrating CPU, Processor Speed, Cores, Cache and GPU in iGCSE ICT Course. |
| Clock rate | Instruction set |
| Multitasking | Rendering |
| GPU | iGCSE ICT course |
| GPU architectures | gaming |
| The instruction set is the set of commands and operations that a CPU is designed to execute. | The clock rate of a CPU refers to the number of clock cycles per second that the CPU can perform. |
| The process of creating or generating visual images or animations from computer data using a GPU. | The ability to perform multiple tasks simultaneously using the multiple processing units (cores) in a CPU. |
| iGCSE ICT course or International General Certificate of Secondary Education course in Information and Communication Technology is a comprehensive learning program designed to introduce students to the use and application of computer technology in various fields. | A Graphics Processing Unit or GPU is a specialized electronic circuit designed to handle and speed up the creation and rendering of images, videos, and animations on a computer screen. |
| Gaming refers to the use of computer technology to play video games, either online or offline, involving interactive and immersive gameplay experiences. | GPU architectures refer to the different designs and models used to create graphics processing units, each with its unique specifications, features, and capabilities. |
| video rendering | scientific computing |
| GPU programming | performance optimization |
| future prospects | higher image and video resolutions |
| virtual reality | artificial intelligence |
| Scientific Computing is the simulation, modeling, and analysis of scientific and engineering problems using advanced computational tools and algorithms. | Video Rendering is the process of creating and editing digital animations or video content using advanced software tools and techniques. |
| Performance Optimization refers to the process of improving and enhancing the speed, efficiency, and output quality of computing applications by using advanced programming and optimization techniques. | GPU Programming refers to the process of writing software programs and code that can directly access and utilize the processing power and capabilities of the Graphics Processing Unit to optimize performance and enhance output results. |
| Higher Image and Video Resolutions refer to the advanced features and capabilities of GPU technology that allow for the creation and rendering of high-quality images and videos with high resolution and clarity. | Future Prospects refer to the potential opportunities, trends, and advancements that are predicted to shape the future of computing and technology, including the use and development of GPU technology. |
| Artificial Intelligence refers to the development and use of advanced computer algorithms and models to simulate, replicate, and enhance human intelligence and cognitive capabilities, including language processing, decision-making, and problem-solving. | Virtual Reality is a computer-generated simulation of a three-dimensional virtual environment that can be interacted with through specialized hardware and software tools. |
| Cache | Hit rate |
| Miss rate | Direct mapped cache |
| Fully associative cache | Set associative cache |
| Cache line | Block size |
| The percentage of times a requested piece of data is found in the cache. | A high-speed data storage layer that temporarily stores data so future requests for that data can be served faster. |
| A type of cache in which each main memory address is uniquely associated with a particular cache location. | The percentage of times a requested piece of data is not found in the cache. |
| A type of cache in which a given memory block can be placed in a specific subset or 'set' of cache locations. | A type of cache in which a given memory block can be placed in any cache location. |
| The size of the cache line, typically measured in bytes. | The smallest unit of memory that can be stored and retrieved from the cache. |
| Cache hit | Cache miss |
| Cache write | Cache read |
| Cache optimization | Optimizing performance |
| Hardware components | CPU |
| An event in which a requested piece of data is not found in the cache, requiring it to be retrieved from main memory. | An event in which a requested piece of data is found in the cache. |
| The process of retrieving data from the cache. | The process of updating the cache with modified data. |
| The process of improving the speed, efficiency, and overall performance of a computer system. | Techniques used to improve cache performance, including prefetching, spatial and temporal locality, and cache replacement policies. |
| Central Processing Unit - the main component of a computer that performs most of the processing. | Physical parts of a computer system that are used to enhance and optimize its performance. |
| RAM | Solid-state drive |
| Graphics card | Overclocking |
| Cooling system | Benchmarking |
| Cache | Bus speed |
| A type of storage device that uses flash memory to store data and programs, providing faster access times and improved performance over traditional hard drives. | Random Access Memory - a type of computer memory that provides temporary storage for data and programs. |
| The process of increasing the clock speed of a computer component, such as a CPU or GPU, to improve its performance beyond its original specifications. | A component of a computer system that is dedicated to processing graphics and video, improving performance for tasks such as gaming and video editing. |
| The process of testing and comparing the performance of a computer system to that of other systems, using standardized tests and measurements. | A component of a computer system that is used to keep its temperature under control, preventing overheating and improving performance. |
| The speed at which data is transferred between the CPU and other components of a computer system, such as RAM and the graphics card. | A type of high-speed memory that is used to store frequently accessed data and instructions, improving performance by reducing the need to access slower forms of memory. |
| Power supply | ICT hardware |
| Strategies | Effective |
| Developing | Importance |
| Key factors | Planning |
| Physical devices that make up computer systems and are used to input, process, store and output data. | A component of a computer system that is responsible for converting mains power to the voltage and current needed by the other components, ensuring reliable and stable performance. |
| Producing the intended or desired result. | Plan of action designed to achieve a particular goal or set of goals. |
| The state or quality of being significant, necessary, or valuable. | The process of creating or improving something over a period of time. |
| The process of creating a strategy or plan of action to achieve a particular goal or set of goals. | Critical elements that are required for the successful development of a particular strategy. |
| Implementation | Monitoring |
| Evaluation | Feedback |
| Modification | |
| The process of tracking and evaluating the progress of a plan or strategy. | The process of putting a plan or strategy into action. |
| Information received in response to a particular action or behavior, which can be used to modify or improve that action or behavior. | The process of assessing the effectiveness of a plan or strategy. |
| The process of making changes or adjustments to a plan or strategy. | |