Base memory

The amount of memory in the computer below 1MB that is available to MS-DOS and application programs-usually 640KB. Also called main memory.

Batch file

A type of file that lets you execute a series of MS-DOS commands by typing one command. Batch files are text files with the filename extension .BAT. In a batch file, each command is entered on a separate line. When you type the filename, all the commands in that file are executed sequentially.

Baud rate

A measure of the speed of data transmission. Usually equivalent to bits per second.

BIOS

Basic Input/Output System. Routines in ROM memory that handle basic input/output functions of the operating system.

Bit

A binary digit (0 or 1). The smallest unit of computer storage. The value of a bit represents the presence (1) or absence (0) of an electric charge.

Boot

To load the operating system or a program into the computer’s memory.

Byte

A sequence or group of eight bits that represents one character.

CGA

Color Graphics Adapter. A type of circuit board that is installed in one of the computer’s I/O slots that can generate up to 25 lines of text with 80 characters on each line, or monochrome graphics with a 640 x 200 resolution and four-color graphics at 320 x 200 resolution.

Character

Anything that can print in a single space on the page or the screen. Includes numbers, letters, punctuation marks, and graphic symbols.

2Glossary