=BINARY:= A two-digit numbering system based on the digits 0 and 1. It is the basis for calculations on all computers, and the basis for storing and retrieving information, including alphabet characters. =BIT:= The smallest unit of information the computer recognizes. A bit is represented by the presence or absence of an electronic pulse, 0 or 1. =BUG:= A fault or error in a computer program. =BYTE:= A byte is composed of several bits, and is used to represent one character--such as a letter, number, or punctuation mark. The older microcomputer systems used 8 bits per byte, but the newer ones are based on 16 or 32 bits per byte. =CHIP:= A thin silicon wafer on which electronic components are deposited lithographically in the form of integrated circuits. =COBOL (Common Business-Oriented Language):= A high-level programing language widely used in business applications. =COMPUTER NETWORK:= Two or more computers that are connected so they can exchange information. =COMPUTER PROGRAM:= A collection of instructions that together direct the computer to perform a particular function. =CP/M (Control Program for Microprocessors):= A popular operating system for small computers. =CPU (Central Processing Unit):= The part of the computer that controls and organizes the operations of the other parts of the computer and does the calculations. =CRT (Cathode Ray Tube):= A video screen that can be used for viewing output. =DATA:= The information, such as numbers or letters, that are put into the computer system. =DEBUG:= To remove the errors in a computer program. =DIAGNOSTIC:= A program for detecting and isolating a problem or mistake in the computer system; features that allow systems or equipment to self-test for flaws. =DISK:= A revolving plate on which data and programs are stored. Also called DISKETTE. =DISK DRIVE:= A part of the computer system that reads and writes material on the disk. It can be part of the main hardware or a peripheral attached to the system. =DOCUMENTATION:= 1. The instruction manual for a program (software) or piece of hardware. 2. The process of describing a computer program so others using the program can see how it works. =DOWNTIME:= Any time a computer is not available or not working because of a machine fault or failure. Downtime includes repair delay time, repair time, and machine-spoiled work time. =EDIT:= To change or add data to an existing document or program. =FLOPPY DISK:= A small, flexible storage device made of magnetic material. It looks like a soft phonograph record and is usually 5¼ inches or 8 inches in diameter. =FORTRAN (FORmula TRANslation):= A computer language widely used to solve scientific and engineering problems, mainly for large commercial systems. =GARBAGE:= Meaningless information. =HARD COPY:= A printout on paper of information from the computer.