Input

An input is an interface that converts your actions into bits and bytes (information that the computer can use).  Input can also mean the action performed on an input or the information given by the input.


Example
A keyboard is an input since you can type on it and the computer receives information about which keys you have typed.

The bits and bytes representing the letters you type are also called inputs.

Another input is a camera connected to the computer

The bits and bytes that the computer receives from the camera is also an input.

Tomorrow: Output

Interface

An interface is what allows people to interact with computers.  Any "bridge" between the computer and the person using it is an interface.

Example

The screen you are using now to read this sentence is an interface because it allows the computer to show you information it finds.

Tomorrow: Input

Byte

The byte (pronounced "bite") is a grouping of 8 bits that forms a meaningful piece of information for a computer to use.  For a computer, a byte is like a word made up of bits.


Example
The ASCII system (pronounced "ask ee") describes how to convert bytes to letters.  A few examples:
A is 01000001
B is 01000010
. is 00101110
Byte is 01000010 01111001 01110100 01100101


Tomorrow: Interface

Bit

A bit is a container, the simplest part of a computer. All of a computer's information is held in billions of bits, which are recorded and read while you use a computer.

A bit can either be full or empty: if it is full, it is called "1," and if it is empty, "0." Because there are two options, computers are said to use the "binary system" consisting of two numbers, the 1 and the 0.

Example

A group of bits that a computer uses might look like this: 1011000011010111100.

Tomorrow: Byte

Hint: click on the word "Byte" above to go directly to the "Byte" page.