Technology Vocabulary

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Bit      Binary Digit. A single digit number in base-2 (either a one or a zero). This is the smallest unit of computerized data.

 

Browser      The software application that allows you to view Internet pages.

 

Byte      A set of 8 bits that means something to the computer, like a letter, number, or punctuation mark. For example, the byte 01001000 signifies the character H. The three-letter word hat requires 3 bytes.

 

CPU      Central Processing Unit. The CPU is the hardware that most people consider the "brain" of the computer. It takes instructions from software, makes calculations, and helps run the show!

 

Firewall      Hardware and/or software that separates a Local Area Network (LAN) into two or more parts for security purposes.

 

Hard drive      A device for storing information in a fixed location within your computer. The equivalent of a filing cabinet in an office, the hard drive is used for storing programs and documents that are not being used.

 

HTML      Hypertext Markup Language. This is the coding language used to create sites on the World Wide Web

Hypertext      Generally any text in a file that contains words, phrases, or graphics that, when clicked, cause another document to be retrieved and displayed. Hypertext most often appears blue and underlined in Web pages.

 

Kilobyte (KB)      A thousand bytes. Due to the binary nature of computers, it's 210 bytes, technically 1024 bytes.

 

LAN      Local Area Network. A computer network limited to the immediate area, usually the same building.

 

Motherboard      A computer's main circuit board, containing the CPU, microprocessor support chips, RAM, and expansion (bus) slots. Also known as the logic board.

 

RAM      Random Access Memory. Readable and writeable memory that acts as a storage area while the computer is on, and is erased every time the computer is turned off. This memory stores data and helps execute programs while in use.

ROM      Read Only Memory. Readable memory that cannot be corrupted by accidental erasure. ROM retains its data when the computer is turned off.

 

Technology      The application of scientific discoveries to the development and improvement of goods and services that ideally improve the life of humans and their environment. Such goods and services include materials, machinery, and processes that improve production or solve problems. In schools, technology ranges from pencils, books, and furniture to lighting, transportation, computers, and more. Most common references in schools imply computing or computer-related programs.

 

Technology Standard 1

Technology Vocabulary

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