computer jargon terminator C
Wed, 08/19/2009 - 23:53 — computerman
- Computer – A machine that computes data according to a given set of instructions. The first of the modern computers were developed in the mid-20th century and was the size of a large room. The energy needed to power these early computers were equivalent to about a hundred of today’s personal computer energy requirements. The basic components of the computer are the central processing unit (CPU), a monitor and a keyboard (with mouse).
- Captcha – Captcha is a challenge-response test used in computing to make sure that the computer itself does not generate a response. This involves a computer, usually a server, asking another computer to respond using a simple test. The test cannot be solved by computers; thus ensuring that a response given by the responding computer is via a human user.
- CTRL-ALT-Del – Control-Alt-Delete is a command in a computer keyboard on IBM PC compatible computers used to reboot or summon the task manager in Windows. Also called the “three finger salute,” this command was invented by David Bradley, a designer of the original IBM PC. In today’s lingo, ctrl-alt-del now mean “to get rid of” or “to dump.”
- CD – Also known as a compact disc, the CD is an optical disc used to store digital data. Developed to record sound recordings for albums and recordings, it is now used to store other types of data. Technology has allowed users to record in write-once discs called CD-Rs, while some are rewritable called CD-RWs. The standard size of a CD is 120mm in diameter and can hold 700MB worth of data.
- CAPS LOCK – A key usually found on the left side of a computer keyboard, the caps lock key, when depressed, locks the keyboard to type in all-caps, or only capitalized letters. This function is deactivated only if the caps lock key is pressed again.
- Chassis (computer case) – The computer case or chassis is also known as a cabinet, tower, enclosure, and housing. It is simply an enclosure that houses the main components of a computer. Usually made of steel, plastic or aluminium, the chassis houses the motherboard, peripherals like video and audio cards, CD-ROMS, the power supply unit, and cooling systems. Collectively, this is usually referred to as the CPU, and is customizable according to the user’s needs.
- Component (a computer part) – A computer component usually indicates one of the main parts of a PC. Components of a computer can refer to the motherboard, the drive bays, the power supply unit, or any other peripherals a computer may have.