CD-R
CD recordable. A recordable version of a CD. Data can be recorded only once onto a
CD-RW
CD rewritable. A rewritable version of a CD. Data can be written to a
Chip
See IC.
CIM
Common Information Model. CIM allows remote management application programs to access system management information on a client computer running any Microsoft Windows® OS that includes the WBEM core components.
Clock Speed
The speed, given in MHz, that indicates how fast computer components operate that are connected to the system bus. The speed is generated by a quartz crystal on the system board that acts as a kind of metronome. Components that are synchronized with the clock speed can run faster or slower, but their speed is determined by multiplying or dividing a factor by the clock speed.
cm
Centimeter(s). A measurement of length equal to 0.39 inch.
CMOS
Complementary
COA
Certificate of Authenticity. The Microsoft Windows COA is a
to as the Product Key or Product ID. For more information, see http://support.dell.com.
COM Port
A shortened reference to communications port. The typical designation for a serial port connection to a modem or other serial device. Most computers support one or two serial ports designated as COM1 and COM2.
Control Code
An I/O character that causes an action rather than appears as part of the data. You can input most control codes by simultaneously pressing the <Ctrl> key and a letter or character on the keyboard. Some control codes usually have their own assigned keys, such as <Escape>, <Tab>, <Delete>, <Backspace>, and <Enter>. Different OSs and programs have their own conventions for what effect certain control codes will have, such as interrupting the current process or suspending output. Control codes can also be used to affect an output device, such as causing a printer to start a new line of text.
Controller
Part of a computer, typically a separate circuit board or chip, that allows the computer to use certain kinds of devices. Types of controllers include
COO
Cost of ownership. Business asset data that helps an organization collect and track information about its assets. COO data is contained in a file on a computer, defining the fiscal aspects of the computer, such as ownership status, warranty information, lease configuration, acquisition information, and so on. The computer is a technology investment, and COO business asset data provides organizations with information they can use to target the reduction of maintenance and support costs, as well as to assist system integrators track the cost of computers they provide for their customers.
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