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unit size or stripe width.

DMA — direct memory access — A channel that allows certain types of data transfer between RAM and a device to bypass the processor.

docking device — provides port replication, cable management, and security features to adapt your notebook to a desktop workspace.

DMTF — Distributed Management Task Force — A consortium of hardware and software companies who develop management standards for distributed desktop, network, enterprise, and Internet environments.

domain — A group of computers, programs, and devices on a network that are administered as a unit with common rules and procedures for use by a specific group of users. A user logs on to the domain to gain access to the resources.

DRAM — dynamic random-access memory — Memory that stores information in integrated circuits containing capacitors.

driver — Software that allows the operating system to control a device such as a printer. Many devices do not work properly if the correct driver is not installed in the computer.

DSL — Digital Subscriber Line — A technology that provides a constant, high-speed Internet connection through an analog telephone line.

dual-core— A technology in which two physical computational units exist inside a single processor package, thereby increasing computing efficiency and multi-tasking ability.

dual display mode — A display setting that allows you to use a second monitor as an extension of your display. Also referred to as extended display mode.

DVD-R— DVD recordable — A recordable version of a DVD. Data can be recorded only once onto a DVD-R. Once recorded, the data cannot be erased or written over.

DVD+RW — DVD rewritable — A rewritable version of a DVD. Data can be written to a DVD+RW disc, and then erased and written over (rewritten). (DVD+RW technology is different from DVD-RW technology.)

DVD+RW drive — drive that can read DVDs and most CD media and write to DVD+RW (rewritable DVDs)

discs.

DVI — digital video interface — A standard for digital transmission between a computer and a digital video display.

E

ECC — error checking and correction — A type of memory that includes special circuitry for testing the accuracy of data as it passes in and out of memory.

ECP — extended capabilities port — A parallel connector design that provides improved bidirectional data transmission. Similar to EPP, ECP uses direct memory access to transfer data and often improves performance.

EIDE — enhanced integrated device electronics — An improved version of the IDE interface for hard drives and CD drives.

EMI — electromagnetic interference — Electrical interference caused by electromagnetic radiation.

ENERGY STAR® — Environmental Protection Agency requirements that decrease the overall consumption of electricity.

EPP — enhanced parallel port — A parallel connector design that provides bidirectional data transmission.

ESD — electrostatic discharge — A rapid discharge of static electricity. ESD can damage integrated circuits found in computer and communications equipment.

expansion card — A circuit board that installs in an expansion slot on the system board in some computers, expanding the capabilities of the computer. Examples include video, modem, and sound cards.

expansion slot — A connector on the system board (in some computers) where you insert an expansion card, connecting it to the system bus.

ExpressCard — A removable I/O card adhering to the PCMCIA standard. Modems and network adapters are common types of ExpressCards. ExpressCards support both the PCI Express and USB 2.0 standard.

Express Service Code — A numeric code located on a sticker on your Dell™ computer. Use the Express Service Code when contacting Dell for assistance. Express Service

Glossary

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