Vocabulary Assignment #1 1. Computer Monitor ~ the monitor is the screen that the user looks at when interacting with the computer. Most monitors are 13" to 15" diagonally. For multimedia use, the monitor must support at least 256 colours. 2. Window ~ a rectangular, framed area on the computer screen used to display an application or a document. 3. RAM (Random Access Memory) ~ the computer's short term memory, needed to carry out a program's instructions. RAM is measured in MB (megabytes). It is important that your computer have enough RAM to handle the programs you run. 4. Computer hardware ~ all of the physical components of the computer which you can see and touch. 5. Computer software ~ all of the programs, applications, files, and data used to run the computer. 6. Microsoft Windows ~ an operating system for IBM and compatible computers. Microsoft Windows is controlled by a menu and a mouse, rather than inputting commands. 7. Minimize button ~ a small button shaped like a down arrow which will reduce a window to an icon. This button is located to the right of the toolbar. 8. Maximize button ~ a small button, located next to the minimize button, which will enlarge the window to its fullest possible size. The maximize button is shaped like an up arrow. 9. Icon ~ a visual graphical representation of minimized applications or groups. 10. Mouse ~ a hand held tool used to point at and to select items on the screen. A mouse works most efficiently when on a mouse pad.

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