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Essay / Computer Definitions and Terminology - 629
1. Computer- A set of electromagnetic devices that work together in order to accomplish a certain task through given instructions. It can be used for both productivity and entertainment purposes.2. Hardware - Electronic devices that make up the physical aspects of the computer. Each component is specialized to perform certain actions, but needs the other devices to function properly. Ex. Graphics cards process graphics but need the memory unit in order to store temporary data resulting from processing.3. Peopleware - People who use the computer for various purposes, whether for work, entertainment, or simply to create new software for use on the computer.4. Software – Instructions given to the computer to follow. They are made up of data that the computer recognizes. It is the virtual aspect of a computer.5. Application software - Software that is not necessary for the operation of the computer, but can provide better usability and efficiency for users, as well as improve the well-being of the computer. They can be used for various applications, such as office automation (e.g. MS Office), maintenance (e.g. CCleaner), facilitating data transfer (e.g. Bittorrent) or simply for games (e.g. Torchlight). It depends on the system software it would be running.6. System Software - Software necessary for the computer to operate. The operating system is an example of system software, although upon closer inspection it is actually made up of various system software needed by the computer. These tasks include editing the registry, writing files to storage, allocating resources to different applications, and a graphical user interface for users to navigate.7. CPU- The central processing unit of the computer. It is one of the three most important pieces of hardware required for computer operation. It basically processes the given information and data in a more refined and desired form..