computer (redirected from General-purpose computer)

computer,

n a device capable of accepting data in the form of facts and figures, manipulating them in a prescribed way, and supplying the results of these processes as meaningful information. This device usually consists of input and output devices, storage, arithmetic and logic units, and a control unit. Usually an automatic, stored-program machine is implied.

computer, digital,

n a computer that operates on discrete data by performing arithmetic and logic processes on them.

computer graphics,

n the use of computers to create illustrations or designs.

computer imaging,

n in general, a branch of computer science that works with digital images. In surgical terms, the production of hypothesized postprocedural images, e.g., to show a patient what his face will look like after cosmetic surgery; also called digital imaging.

computer language,

n the vocabulary and syntax of a set of symbols that are used to instruct a computer on what to do (e.g., Java, Ada, or C++).

computer literacy,

n a functional knowledge of the use and application of computers, from word processing to data management.

computer output microfilm (COM),

n a system that allows a computer user to produce microfilm copies of computer output. The COM unit operates independently of the CPU and is therefore called an
off-line device. Output from computer processing is recorded on generic media and later recorded on microfilm.

computer simulation,

n the use of computers to replicate a mechanical or biologic function.