“Brain” of the computer. Microprocessor that handles primary calculations for the computer. are Known by names such as Core i5 and
Phenom II.

Small receptacles used to attach cables to a
system.

Drive used to read/write to optical discs,
such as CDs or DVDs.

Connection for the synchronous, high-speed
flow of data along parallel lines to a device, usually a printer

Computer program that uses the services of another
computer program. Also, software that extracts information from a server

Device that converts a digital bit stream into an analog signal (modulation) and converts incoming analog signals back into digital signals (demodulation). Analog communications channel is typically a telephone line, and analog signals are typically sound

Peripheral often used while playing computer
games; originally intended as a multipurpose input device.

General-purpose serial interconnect for keyboards, printers, joysticks, and many other devices. Enables hot-swapping of devices.

Standard for the video graphics adapter that was built into IBM’s PS/2 computer. It supports
16 colors in a 640 × 480 pixel video display.

Electronic device that sits at the center of a star topology
network, providing a common point for the connection of network devices. Repeat all information out to all ports and have been replaced by switches, although the term
is still commonly used.

Special video connector designed for digital-to-digital connections; most commonly
seen on PC video cards and LCD monitors. Some versions also support analog signals with a special adapter.

Part of a connector into which a plug is inserted. Also referred to as ports.

Digital audio connector found on many sound cards. Users can connect their computers directly to a 5.1 speaker system or receiver.

Any device that connects to the system unit

Numeric address of a computer connected to
the Internet.

Any hardware that may be attached to or
removed from a PC without interrupting the PC’s normal processing is said to be _______________.

Very popular, 1/8-inch diameter connector used to transmit two audio signals; perfect for stereo
sound.

Common connector on a PC. Connects input
devices (such as a mouse) or communications devices (such as a modem).

System hardware that uses removable 3.5-
inch disks as storage media

Number that identifies the network on which
a device or machine exists. This number exists in both IP and IPX protocol suites

Single multimedia connection that includes both high-definition video and audio. One of the best connections for outputting to television. Also contains copy protection features.

UTP cable connector, used for both telephone and network connections

Provides the electrical power for a PC.
Converts standard AC power into various voltages of DC electricity in a PC.

Single group of programs designed to do a particular
job; always stored on mass storage devices

A connector for four-wire UTP; usually found in telephone connections.