1. Computer Basics

2. PCP C A PC is a Personal Computer. PCs are portable and used by you. There are four basics parts or components usually called Hardware: CPU Monitor Keyboard Mouse PC What is a PC?

3. CPU Central Processing Unit C PU CPU The Central Processing Unit also called the CPU is the brain of your computer. It has memory, power supply and other peripheral components. It reads, stores, and manages information with the help of CD- ROM disks.

4. Disk Drives A component of the CPU that reads and writes data onto a disk. Disk drives can be internal or external. Disk drives rotate very fast and use one or more heads that reads and writes data.

5. Monitor Displays the text and graphics generated by the computer. The color monitor is the more commonly used monitor. Color monitors can display anywhere from 16 to 1 million colors. VGA, SVGA, and XGA determine the type of resolution they accept.

6. A set of typewriter-like keys that enables you to enter data into the computer. Computer keyboards are similar to electric typewriter keyboards but contain additional keys. Keyboard

7. Keyboard: additional keys EscapeTab Function Keys Control Alt Windows Enter Arrows Numerical Keypad

8. A device that controls the movement of the cursor or pointer on a display screen. A small object that rolls along a hard, flat surface. Mouse

9. A printer is an output device that prints a paper copy of what you see on screen or monitor. There are three types: Laser Ink Jet Dot Matrix Printer

10. A computer has some devices to save data and information. There are two types: Short Term: RAM Long Term: CD, DVD, Hard Drive, Floppy Disk, ZIP Disk, Flash Cards, and USB Drive Data Storage

11. OS System software or Operating System: Windows, Linux, Solaris, etc. Applications software: Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, etc. Software Softwareprogramsinstructions Software is the name for the programs that gives instructions to your computer. There are two types:

12. Public Training Classes Free demonstrations are given at Central Library and select branches! Pick up the Houston Public Librarys Calendar of Events. For more information Call (832) 393- 1313, or visit http://www.houstonlibrary.org