floppy disk (diskette): a flexible platter covered with magnetic recording material that
permanently stores programs and data. Floppy disks come in two basic sizes: 5 1/4
inches and 3 1/2 inches and hold 360K to 1.4 megabytes of information. Most users
need at least 1 to 2 floppy disks or a hard drive.
*flowchart: graphic representation of the processing that is performed in a program.
(2-6c(1))
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H
hard copy: the permanent readable copy of a computer output.
hard disk (disk): a storage medium that is faster and has more memory capacity than
a floppy disk; holds 20 megabytes or more of data; and costs more than a floppy disk.
hardware: the physical apparatus of a computer system.
I
information: data arranged in useful ordered form; the output of manipulated data.
*information theory: the application of mathematics to language, concepts,
input-output devices: machines that provide a vehicle for communication between
different computer systems or between people and computers (also known as
peripherals).
integrated circuit: electronic circuit whose components are etched on a single piece of
semiconductor material, usually a silicon chip, less than 1/8 inch square; permits faster,
cheaper processing than with transistors.
J
joystick:
used principally for games: alternative means of
communications with
screens electronics.
K
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