computer basic definitions

computer basic definitions
Basic Computer Terms

(a) Multiprogramming: Running tvo or more programs concurrently in the same computer. Each program is allotted its own place in place in memory and its own peripherals, but all share the Central Processing Unit.
Multiprocessing: The simultaneous execution of two or more sequences of instruction by multiple central Processing Units unr common control.
(b) Software: The programs or instructions that tell a computer what to do.
Hardware: The Physical components or equipment that make up a computer system, such as a keybord, Floppy disk or drive. Monitor etc.
(c) Compiler: A program whose purpose is that of translating high-level language statements into a form that can directly activate the computer hardware.
Interpreter: A language translator that converts each source language statement into machine code and executes it immediately, statement by statement.
(d) System Software: Programs that run the computer system and aid the applications programmer in doing his/her task. Typically developed by a vendor and sold to a computer user.
Application software : Programs written by programmers within an organisation that anable the computer to produce useful work, such as specific Inventory Control, Financial Accounting or Hospital Management tasks.
(e) Computer: An Electronic device capable of step by step operation of the entire computing system.
Control unit is responsible for directing the operation of the computer in accordance with the in structions
in the program.
Calculator: Any Mechanical or electronic machine used for performing calculations.


(a) Track
Path along which data are recorded on a continuous or rotational medium, such an magnetic tape or magnetic disk.
(b) Cylinder
It is a vertical column of tracks on a magnetic disk pack. The corresponding tracks on each surface of a disk pack.
(c) Sector
One of the peripheral elements into which each track of a disk surface s divided is called a sector.
(d) Stack
Sequential data list stored in internal storage is called stack. Rather than addressing the stack elements by their memory locations, the computer retrieves information from the stack by propping elements from the (LIFO) or from the bottom (FIFO).


(a) Encoder
It is a device that produces machine readable output, such as paper tape, either
manual keyboard depressions or from data already recorded in some other code.
(b) FlipJIop
A device or circuit containing active elements capable of assuming either one of
stable states at a given time. Synonymous with toggle.
(c) Clock Circuit’
The circuit used in the timing device that generates the basic periodic signal used
control the timing of all operations in a synchronous computer.
(d) Monolithic Integrated Circuit
Circuit formed in a single piece of the substrate material, as opposed to a hybrid circuit,
which individual (physically separate) circuit components are electrically interconnected to form the final circuit is called Monolithic Integrated Circuit.
(e) Debugging
It is a procedure to detect, locate and remove, all mistakes in a computer program and..9. malfunctions in thomputing system itself. Synonymous with troubleshoot.