Appendix A

CPU (Central Processing Unit)

The CPU, sometimes called “Processor,” actually functions as the “brain” of the computer. It interprets and executes program commands and processes data stored in memory.

Device Driver

A device driver is a special set of instructions that allows the computer’s operating system to communicate with devices such as VGA, audio, Ethernet, printer, or modem.

DVD

DVD is essentially a bigger, faster CD that can hold video as well as audio and computer data. With these capacities and access rates, DVD discs can provide you with dramatically-enhanced high-color, full-motion videos, better graphics, sharper pictures, and digital audio for a theater-like experience. DVD aims to encompass home entertainment, computers, and business information with a single digital format, eventually replacing audio CD, videotape, laserdisc, CD-ROM, and video game cartridges.

ExpressCard

ExpressCard slot is 26 pins and support one ExpressCard/34mm or one ExpressCard/54mm expansion card. This new interface is faster by using a serial bus supporting USB 2.0 and PCI Express instead of the slower parallel bus used in the PC card slot. (Not compatible with previous PCMCIA cards.)

Hardware

Hardware is a general term referring to the physical components of a computer system, including peripherals such as printers, modems, and pointing devices.

IDE (Integrated Drive Electronics)

IDE devices integrate the drive control circuitry directly on the drive itself, eliminating the need for a separate adapter card (in the case for SCSI devices). UltraDMA/66 or 100 IDE devices can achieve up to 33MB/Sec transfer.

Kensington® Locks

Kensington® locks (or compatible) allow the Notebook PC to be secured usually using a metal cable and lock that prevent the Notebook PC to be removed from a fixed object. Some security products may also include a motion detector to sound an alarm when moved.

Laser Classifications

As lasers became more numerous and more widely used, the need to warn users of laser hazards became apparent. To meet this need, laser classifications were established. Current classification levels vary from optically safe, requiring no controls (Class 1) to very hazardous, requiring strict controls (Class 4).

CLASS 1:A Class 1 laser or laser system emits levels of optical energy that are eye-safe and consequently require no controls. An example of this class of laser system is the checkout scanning device found in most grocery stores or lasers used in optical drives.

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