The _____ is the part of a computer that executes the instructions of a computer program.
microprocessor
The microprocessor is often referred to as the brain of the computer.
Which of the following is an example of volatile memory?
Random-access memory – Loses content when power is turned off.
Volatile memory requires power to maintain the stored information.
_____ is a nonvolatile, chip-based storage, often used in mobile phones, cameras, and MP3 players.
Flash memory – Retains data even when power is off.
Flash memory is widely used for its durability and speed.
_____ are substances that are capable of enabling as well as inhibiting the flow of electricity.
Semiconductors – Conduct electricity under certain conditions, essential for electronics.
Semiconductors are crucial for modern electronic devices.
The third wave of computing was characterized by the introduction of _____.
personal computers – PCs brought computing to individuals and small businesses.
This wave marked a significant shift in computing accessibility.
1____ = 1 billion bytes
gigabyte
A gigabyte is commonly used to measure data storage.
1 petabyte = 1 _____ bytes
quadrillion
A petabyte is a large unit of digital information storage.
Moore’s Law kicked in during the 1970s for the ___________.
second wave
This wave saw significant advancements in microprocessor technology.
Which of the following statements is a valid reason for chip manufacturers to carry minimal inventory?
Chip manufacturers leverage the higher costs of chip-based products to their advantage by keeping supply low compared to demand.
This strategy helps manage production costs and market dynamics.
Firmware refers to:
control software stored on nonvolatile memory chips.
Firmware is essential for the operation of hardware devices.
Software (often on firmware) designed to make physical products and devices “smarter” is referred to as ___________.
Embedded systems
Embedded systems are integral to modern electronics.
_____ perform the work that users and firms are directly interested in accomplishing.
Applications
Applications are designed for specific tasks and user needs.
Which of the following is an example of application software?
MS Word
Application software is used for end-user tasks.
_____ refers to applications installed on a personal computer for single-user tasks.
Desktop software
Desktop software is tailored for individual use.
Which function is likely performed by enterprise software?
Inventory tracking
Enterprise software supports large-scale business operations.
_____ integrates many business functions, such as accounting, finance, HR.
Enterprise resource planning
ERP systems streamline business processes.
Systems that use data created by other systems for reporting and decision-making are called _____ systems.
business intelligence
Business intelligence systems analyze data for strategic insights.
Implications for firms without consistent database systems:
They struggle to manage their value chain efficiently.
Inconsistent databases can lead to operational inefficiencies.
Cost of producing an additional unit:
marginal cost
Marginal cost is a key concept in economics and production.
Software is extremely profitable because:
the marginal cost to produce an additional copy is effectively zero.
This characteristic makes software a highly scalable business.
_____ refers to software that is free and can be modified.
Open source software
Open source software encourages community collaboration.
Outdated notion regarding open source:
OSS is fueled by loners contributing for glory.
This perception overlooks the collaborative nature of open source development.
True statement on open source software:
Linux is the flagship OSS product, available on all scales of computing devices.
Linux is widely used in various applications and devices.
LAMP stack constituents:
The LAMP stack is a popular framework for web development.