Common IT and Computer Acronyms

  • AFRAnnualized Failure Rate
  • ASCIIAmerican Standard Code for Information Interchange
  • BCCBlind Carbon Copy
  • BIOSBasic Input-Output System
  • BITBinary digit
  • BSODBlue Screen of Death
  • CCCarbon Copy
  • CLICommand Line Interface
  • CMSContent Management System
  • CPUCentral Processing Unit
  • CRCarriage Return
  • CSVComma-Separated Values
  • DBMSDatabase Management System
  • DIMMDual In-line Memory Module
  • DM (Twitter)Direct Message
  • DMADirect Memory Access
  • EULAEnd-User License Agreement
  • FATFile
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Essential Computer Terms: Hardware and Software Basics

Computer

An electronic machine built to process information and data with programs designed for it. It is a device capable of receiving data, processing it, and delivering results in a desired way. It consists of two inseparable elements: the electromechanical equipment (hardware) and the instructions in the form of programs (software) to perform different tasks using algorithms.

Bit (Binary Digit)

The minimum unit of digital information that can be treated by a computer. It is a 1 or a 0.

Byte

A unit

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Understanding Computers: Types, Components, and Peripherals

A computer is an electronic device that manipulates information or data. It can store, retrieve, and process data. You can also type documents, send emails, play games, browse the web, and edit or create spreadsheets, presentations, and videos.

Hardware and Software

Hardware is any part of your computer that has a physical structure, such as the keyboard, mouse, or internal parts. Software is any set of instructions that tells the hardware what to do and how to do it, such as web browsers, games,

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Computer Beep Codes: Troubleshooting Hardware Issues

When your computer encounters a hardware problem during startup, it often communicates the issue through a series of beeps. Here’s a breakdown of common beep codes and their potential causes:

  • No tone. No turn on.

    Error Message: None.

    Description: Possible power supply failure. Check the power supply unit.

  • Continuous tone.

    Error Message: None.

    Description: Power supply failure.

  • Constant beeps.

    Error Message: None.

    Description: Defective motherboard.

  • Rapid constant beeps.

    Error Message: May not see any message

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Key Concepts in Operating Systems: Memory, Processes, and Programs

Dynamic Partitioning: An Example

A hole of 64K is left after loading 3 processes: not enough room for another process.

Eventually, each process is blocked. The OS swaps out process 2 to bring in process 4.

Another hole of 96K is created.

Eventually, each process is blocked. The OS swaps out process 1 to bring in process 2 again, and another hole of 96K is created…

Compaction would produce a single hole of 256K.

Difference Between Fixed and Dynamic Partitioning

Fixed Partitioning

  • Partitions main memory
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Database Objectives and Architecture: A Comprehensive Look

Objectives of a Database

  • Data Independence: Ensuring independence between data and the applications that use them. This includes:
    • Physical Independence: The ability to modify the physical schema without affecting the higher levels.
    • Logical Independence: Changes to the conceptual schema do not necessitate modifications to application programs.
  • Minimal Data Redundancy: Minimizing unnecessarily repeated data to avoid inconsistencies. Providing mechanisms to monitor operations on the database.
  • Versatility
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