EMBEDDED CHIPS
Microprocessors ("computer chips") used in both single, isolated, devices
like cellular phones and fully integrated, systems, like automated
production plants. All embedded chips behave in some way like a computer
though some are very simple systems compared with a desktop PC.
COBOL
A computer programming language infrequently used today, but which is used
by many older systems. Its infrequent use in the last couple of decades
has led to a significant decline in the number of programmers fluent in
this language, and thus a decline in the number of programmers who can fix
y2k problems in COBOL coded applications.
LEGACY SYSTEMS
Computer and computer-like systems designed many years ago which are still
in use today. Occasionally, newer systems have been built around these
systems and are dependent upon the output of these systems.
BIOS (Basic Input Output System)
The BIOS are the area in a personal computer where information central to
the starting of the computer (type and size of hard drive, memory and of
course date) is stored. While many older BIOSes can not be easily
upgraded, many modern machines use flash BIOS which stores its information
to a rewritable chip, meaning it can be upgraded as necessary.
OPERATING SYSTEM
In simple terms it is the program that bridges the gap between the user,
the hardware and all of the applications. Common Operating Systems
include Windows 95/98/NT, Linux, and the MacOS.
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