Boolean
/ˈbuːliən/
adjective … “Relating to true/false logic.”
Boolean refers to a data type, algebra, or logic system based on two possible values: true and false. Boolean concepts underpin digital electronics, logic gates, computer programming, and decision-making systems. Named after mathematician George Boole, Boolean logic allows complex conditions to be expressed using operators like AND, OR, and NOT.
Key characteristics of Boolean include:
Circuit Design
/ˈsɜːrkɪt dɪˈzaɪn/
noun … “Planning and creating electrical circuits.”
Circuit Design is the process of defining the components, connections, and layout of an electrical or electronic circuit to achieve a specific function. It involves selecting resistors, capacitors, inductors, transistors, integrated circuits, and other elements, arranging them logically, and ensuring proper operation under desired electrical conditions. Circuit design can be analog, digital, or mixed-signal and is central to developing devices ranging from microprocessors to power systems.
Control Unit
/kənˈtroʊl ˈjuːnɪt/
noun … “CPU component that directs operations.”
Control Unit is a central part of a CPU or microprocessor responsible for managing and coordinating the execution of instructions. It interprets instructions from memory, generates control signals, and orchestrates the operation of the ALU, Registers, and other components to ensure correct timing and sequencing.
Ohm
/oʊm/
noun … “Unit of electrical resistance.”
Ohm is the standard unit used to quantify resistance in an electrical circuit. One ohm (Ω) is defined as the resistance that allows one ampere of current to flow when one volt of voltage is applied across it, according to Ohm’s law (V = I × R).
Key characteristics of Ohm include:
Resistance
/rɪˈzɪstəns/
noun … “Opposition to the flow of electric current.”
Resistance is a property of a material or component that limits the flow of current when a voltage is applied. It is a fundamental concept in electricity and circuit design, affecting power consumption, heat generation, and signal behavior in electronic systems.
Key characteristics of Resistance include:
Energy Storage
/ˈɛnərdʒi ˈstɔːrɪdʒ/
noun … “Capturing energy for later use.”
Energy Storage refers to the methods and systems used to capture energy produced at one time and release it when needed, ensuring a steady supply despite variable demand or intermittent generation. Energy can be stored in electrical, chemical, mechanical, or thermal forms, and energy storage is critical for balancing supply and demand in power grids, renewable energy systems, and portable devices.
Key characteristics of Energy Storage include:
State Transition
/steɪt trænsˈɪʃən/
noun … “Change from one system state to another.”
State Transition refers to the movement of a system, device, or computational model from one defined state to another in response to inputs, events, or conditions. State transitions are fundamental in finite-state machines, sequential circuits, software workflows, and control systems, enabling predictable and deterministic behavior based on system rules.
Control Logic
/kənˈtroʊl ˈlɑːdʒɪk/
noun … “Circuitry that directs operations in digital systems.”
Control Logic is the part of a CPU or digital system responsible for orchestrating the flow of data, managing instruction execution, and coordinating the operation of various components such as the ALU, Registers, and memory. It interprets instructions, generates timing signals, and ensures that each part of the system performs the correct operation at the right time.
Register
/ˈrɛdʒɪstər/
noun … “Small, fast storage inside a CPU.”
Register is a tiny, high-speed storage location within a CPU or microprocessor used to hold data, instructions, or addresses temporarily during processing. Registers allow the CPU to access and manipulate information much faster than using main memory, making them essential for instruction execution, arithmetic operations, and control flow.
Key characteristics of Register include:
Arithmetic Logic Unit
/ˌeɪ ɛl ˈjuː/
noun … “Circuit that performs arithmetic and logic operations.”
ALU, short for Arithmetic Logic Unit, is a fundamental component of a CPU or microprocessor that executes mathematical calculations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division) and logical operations (AND, OR, NOT, XOR). The ALU processes binary data from registers or memory and outputs the result to registers, memory, or other parts of the system.