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	Glossary Of Common Computer Terms
	By Ramona Creel

Feel free to use this tip sheet / checklist as you tackle your own ""do-it-yourself"" organizing projects. If you would like to REPRINT or DISTRIBUTE this information, please click here for reprinting instructions.

• accepts a laser optical CD-Rom disk that looks like a music CD
• the preferred way to back up data externally and install new programs
• much faster and larger capacity than a regular floppy disk

• "CPU" is the thinking part of your computer
• ex: Intel is a type of processor chip
• measured in terms of speed -- usually megahertz (MHz)

• accepts a 3.5" square disk inserted into your CPU
• one way to back up your files externally or install software
• less storage capacity than a CD-Rom

• the place in your computer where all of your information is stored
• includes your program files and documents you have saved
• measured in gigabytes (GB) or millions of bytes

• like a small typewriter for your computer
• includes all they keys on a regular typewriter
• used for entering information and navigating programs on your computer

• plugs into your phone line using a telephone cord
• allows you to connect to the internet via a phone line
• the faster your modem, the faster you can send email and surf the web

• computer display screen, looks like a small TV screen
• measured in inches diagonally from top corner to opposite bottom corner
• resolution is measured in pixels and sharpness is measured in millimeters

• small unit with 2 buttons attached by a cable to your computer
• uses a rolling ball to move a pointer around your computer screen
• "click" buttons to select, highlight, or open different program features

• main software framework within which your computer functions
• ex: Windows, Linux, Macintosh are all operating systems
• generally comes installed on your computer, but you can change / upgrade

• RAM is the amount of memory your hard drive has
• affects your computer's speed and how fast your software works
• can always increase RAM if your computer is working too slowly

• programs that allow your computer to complete various tasks
• must be installed on your computer
• can always upgrade, re-install, or un-install later

• VRAM is specialized memory for your video monitor
• the more VRAM you have, the faster graphics will load
• important if you play computer games or use multimedia programs

 

Copyright Ramona Creel, all rights reserved-- you are welcome to reprint any article, but you MUST include this resource box.

Ramona Creel is a modern Renaissance woman and guru of simplicity -- traveling the country as a full-time RVer, sharing her story of radically downsizing, and inspiring others to regain control of their own lives. As a Professional Organizer and Accountability Coach, Ramona will help you create the time and space to focus on your true priorities -- clearing away the clutter other obstacles and standing in the way of that life you've always wanted to be living. As a Professional Photographer, Ramona captures powerful images of places and people as she travels. And as a travel writer, social commentator, and blogger, she shares her experiences and insights about the world as we know it. You can see all these sides of Ramona -- read her articles, browse through her photographs, and even hire her to help get your life in order -- at www.RamonaCreel.com. And be sure to follow her on Twitter and on Facebook.

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