Dell 530 manual Cpu, Crimm, Dat, Dce, Dimm, Din, Dma, Dmi, Dmtf

w w w . d e l l . c o m s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m

CPU

Central processing unit. A computer chip that interprets and executes program instructions. Also referred to as the microprocessor.

CRIMM

Continuity Rambus in-line memory module (RIMM). Module that provides electrical continuity through the Rambus channel when the channel is not fully populated. All Rambus slots in a system must be filled with either a RIMM or a CRIMM.

D-Sub

See Subminiature-D.

DAT

Digital audio tape. A type of magnetic tape originally designed for audio format, now also used in computers to back up data. DAT cassettes are about the physical size of audio cassettes and can store numerous GB of data.

Data Striping

The segmentation of logically sequential data, such as a single file, so that segments can be written to multiple devices, usually hard drives, in a round-robin manner. This method is useful if the microprocessor is capable of transferring data faster than a single drive can supply or accept it. While data is being transferred from the first drive, the second drive can locate the next segment.

dB

Decibel(s). A measurement of relative loudness of a sound or, in electronics, for the relative difference between two power levels.

DC

Direct current. An electric current flowing in one direction only. See AC.

DCE

Data communication equipment. In computer data transmission, DCE is the RS-232interface that a

modem or other serial device uses to exchange data with the computer. See also DTE.

Device

Any piece of equipment that is not part of the essential computer (such as the microprocessor, RAM, and data buses) but is connected to or installed in the computer. Some devices are installed inside the main part of the computer, such as the hard drive, CD drive, and network adapter. Other devices are outside the computer, such as the printer, but are attached by a cable or wireless connection.

DIMM

Dual in-line memory module. A slim circuit board containing RAM chips, as does a SIMM. DIMMs normally have 168 pins. See also RIMM.

DIN

Deutsche Industrie Normenausschuss. A German standards organization and member of ISO.

DIN is also a form of connector on your computer that is round, has 5 pins, and is typically used to connect AT keyboard cable connectors. See also Mini-DIN.

DMA

Direct memory access. An electronic pathway or direct channel on which a device can bypass the microprocessor and transfer data directly to RAM. A DMA channel is often one of the resources assigned when configuring an expansion card or EIDE drive. DMA is a recent alternative to PIO.

DMI

Desktop Management Interface. A standard of WfM that provides a method to determine various management attributes of a computer through the use of a standard software interface.

DMTF

Distributed Management Task Force. An industry organization leading the development, adoption, and unification of management standards and initiatives

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