GLOSSARY
ACPI
Advanced Configuration and Power Interface. A power
management specification developed by Microsoft, Toshiba,
and Intel. ACPI, which will be part of Windows 98, enables
the operating system to control the amount of power sent
to each device attached to the computer. ACPI will enable
manufacturers to produce computers that automatically
power up as soon as you touch the keyboard. With ACPI,
the operating system can turn off peripheral devices, such
as CD-ROM players, when they are not in use. See also
OnNow/(ACPI).
bus
A common pathway across which data can travel within a
computer. This pathway is used for communication and can
be established between two or more computer elements. In
any computer, data travels over one or more buses between
memory, the CPU, and peripheral components like NICs,
video display adapters, SCSI controllers, and disk drives.
bus mastering
A bus design that allows NICs to move data and access the
computer’s memory and peripherals without support from
the CPU.
CAU
Controlled access unit. An intelligent hub.
Class of Service (or Traffic Prioritization)
A 3Com DynamicAccess feature that helps to optimize
network performance by letting you prioritize your
applications for efficient network access. High-priority
tokens are requested when the network transmits data
for selected applications.
Book Page 1 Saturday, November 1, 1997 3:13 PM