Beginning Computer Vocabulary Day 1

Computer Many parts that work together to process and save information Can be portable or stationary

Hardware Physical parts of the computer Computers can be updated with new hardware Many types of hardware –Mouse –Monitor –System Unit –Keyboard

System Unit Box that contains the computer’s processor and memory Brain of the computer Most other computer parts are plugged into the system unit

Monitor Screen for the computer Where information is displayed Has a power button

Keyboard Used to type letters and numbers Used to give the computer instructions Like a typewriter with some special keys

Mouse Used to point at and select items on the screen Used to give the computer instructions

Pointer or Cursor Symbol on the screen that shows where the mouse is pointing Changes shape for different computer tasks

Desktop Computer Stationary computer that sits on a desk or table Must be plugged in for power Monitor, keyboard and mouse are separate parts

Laptop Computer Small, portable computer Uses a rechargeable battery for power Monitor, keyboard and mouse are combined

Smartphone A cell phone with a built in computer Very small and portable Have fewer functions than a full sized laptop or desktop computer

Trackpad or Touchpad Often found on a laptop Move a finger around the trackpad to move the cursor Use the buttons to click –Often tapping the trackpad will also click

Trackball The main part of the mouse does not move Roll the ball to move the cursor Use the buttons to click

Touch Screen Tap the screen to click Often used on ATMs, grocery store check outs, smart phones and tablet computers

Program or Software Instructions that tell the computer what to do Many types of programs –Typing letters –Playing music –Drawing pictures –Games –Browsing the internet –Many More! Some software is free, other software is available to buy Software can be upgraded

Open Start using a program Double click on an icon Click the Start menu and the program list to choose the correct program

Close Stop using a program Looks like an X Usually in the top right corner of the screen

Menu A list of options Menus often need to be clicked on to display Right clicking will display a menu

Save Store information on the computer Information is created with computer programs Saving creates a computer file/document

File or Document Information that is saved on the computer Files can be text, pictures, music, videos and much more

Folder Location on the computer where information is saved Folders organize files Use like a file cabinet