Glossary

The following list defines or identifies technical terms, abbreviations, and acronyms used in Dell® user documents.

NOTE: Unless otherwise specified, these definitions may not apply to operating systems other than

MS-DOS ® or Microsoft® Windows®.

Abbreviation for ampere(s).

Abbreviation for alternating current.

adapter card

An expansion card that plugs into an expansion-card con- nector on the computer’s system board. An adapter card adds some specialized function to the computer by provid- ing an interface between the expansion bus and a peripheral device. Examples of adapter cards include network cards, sound boards, and SCSI adapters.

ADC

Abbreviation for analog-to-digital converter.

ADI

Abbreviation for Autodesk Device Interface.

Abbreviation for artificial intelligence.

ANSI

Acronym for American National Standards Institute.

application program

Software designed to help you perform a specific task, such as a spreadsheet or word processor. Application programs are distinct from operating system and utility software.

ASCII

Acronym for American Standard Code for Information In- terchange. A text file containing only characters from the ASCII character set (usually created with a text editor, such as MS-DOS Editor or Notepad in Windows), is called an ASCII file.

ASIC

Acronym for application-specific integrated circuit.

ASPI

Advanced SCSI programming interface.

autoexec.bat file

When you boot your computer, MS-DOS runs any com- mands contained in the text file, autoexec.bat (after running any commands in the config.sys file). An autoexec.bat file is not required to boot MS-DOS, but provides a convenient place to run commands that are essential for setting up a consistent computing environment—such as loading mouse or network software.

backup

A copy of a program or data file. As a precaution, you should back up your computer’s hard-disk drive on a reg- ular basis. Before making a change to the configuration of your computer, you should back up important start-up files, such as autoexec.bat and config.sys for MS-DOS or win.ini and system.ini for Windows.

base memory

Synonym for conventional memory. See also convention- al memory.

BASIC

Acronym for Beginner’s All-Purpose Symbolic Instruc- tion Code, a programming language. MS-DOS includes a version of BASIC.

Glossary 151

2100/180, 2100/200 specifications

The Dell 2100/200 and Dell 2100/180 are innovative offerings from Dell that cater to the demands of a variety of users, ranging from small businesses to larger enterprises. Both models are designed to deliver high performance and reliability, making them indispensable tools in the modern computing environment.

The Dell 2100/200 features an impressive Intel processor that ensures fast and efficient performance, making it suitable for multitasking and handling complex applications. Coupled with a generous RAM configuration, this model can easily manage demanding workloads, resulting in smoother performance and faster processing times. In contrast, the Dell 2100/180, while slightly less powerful, still maintains robust performance levels that are well-suited for general productivity tasks and everyday use.

Both models come equipped with ample storage options, featuring hard disk drives that provide significant space for data and application storage. Users can choose between traditional HDDs and solid-state drives (SSDs), allowing them to prioritize speed and performance based on their specific needs. The flexibility in storage options ensures that users can customize their systems according to their requirements, enhancing the overall user experience.

Connectivity is another area where the Dell 2100 series excels. Both models come with a range of ports including USB, HDMI, and Ethernet, allowing for seamless connectivity with various peripherals and networks. This versatility makes the machines ideal for environments where multiple devices need to be connected simultaneously, whether for presentations, data transfer, or internet access.

In terms of energy efficiency, both the Dell 2100/200 and Dell 2100/180 incorporate advanced cooling technologies that minimize energy consumption while maximizing performance. This not only helps reduce operational costs but also contributes to a more sustainable computing environment.

The design of these models is another distinguishing feature. With a compact form factor, they fit easily into office spaces while maintaining a professional appearance. Their durable build quality ensures longevity, making them a worthwhile investment for businesses.

Overall, the Dell 2100/200 and Dell 2100/180 serve as powerful and reliable machines that combine advanced technologies and user-centric designs. Whether for business or personal use, these models provide a solid foundation for effective computing, ensuring that users can achieve their goals efficiently and effectively.