Computer Vocabulary

	application	a program dedicated to a specific task [eg: word processing, graphics etc]
	bit	binary digit, the basic binary unit for storing data, either 0 or 1 - see byte
	buffer	an area in memory used for temporary storage [eg: rapid input from keyboard]
	byte	8 bits - kilobyte (approx. 1,000 bytes), megabyte (1 million), gigabyte (1 billion)
	floppy disk	small, removable magnetic disc for (permanent) storing of data; diskette
	hard disk	fixed, magnetic disc inside a PC for (permanent) storing of data
	hardware	the mechanical and electronic parts of a computer, not the software
	input	data entered into a computer (by keyboard, floppy disk etc) - also v.
	memory	part of a computer for (temporary) storing of data - see ram
	modem	device that converts data to a form that can be transmitted by telephone etc
	operating system	software that communicates with hardware, enabling applications to run
	output	data delivered by a computer (by printer, screen etc) - also v.
	peripheral	equipment linked to a computer [eg: printer, scanner, modem, mouse etc]
	program	software that contains coded instructions to control a computer - also v.
	RAM	random access memory [it goes away when one switches off]
	software	the programs, routines etc for a computer, not the hardware	http://www.englishclub.com/vocabulary/20_computers.htm