Megahertz (MHz)

A unit used to measure oscillation frequency (of a computer’s internal timing clock). A megahertz is one million cycles per second. The Equity 386 computer operates at 8 MHz or 20 MHz.

Memory

The area where your computer stores data. Memory contents can be permanent and inalterable (ROM) or temporary (RAM).

Memory module

A small circuit board with an edge connector that contains memory chips. You can add 256KB or 1MB memory modules to the memory card inside the Equity 386 to expand the computer’s memory. A memory module is commonly called a SIMM (single inline memory module).

MGA

Monochrome Graphics Adapter. The type of display adapter that can display monochrome text or graphics on the screen.

Microprocessor

A small version of a CPU contained on one semiconductor chip.

Modem

A device that allows a computer to transmit signals over telephone lines so it can send and receive data. Modem stands for Modulator/DEModulator.

Monitor

The piece of hardware that contains the screen and displays information.

Monochrome monitor

A monitor that displays in only one color, such as green or amber, as opposed to a color monitor which can display in several colors.

Mouse

A hand-held pointing device with one or more buttons. When you slide the mouse over a flat surface in a certain direction, the cursor moves in the same direction on the screen.

10 Glossary