RAM

Random Access Memory. The portion of the computer’s memory used to run programs and store data while you work. All data stored in RAM is erased when you turn off or reset the computer; so you must store any data you want to keep on disk.

Read

To copy data from one area to another. For example, when you open a text file stored on disk, the computer reads the data from the disk and displays it on the screen.

Read/write head

The physical device inside a disk drive that reads data from and records data on the magnetic surface of a disk.

Real-time clock

A battery-powered clock inside the computer that keeps track of the time and date, even when the computer is turned off.

Reset

To reload a computer’s operating system so you can retry a task or begin using a different operating system. Resetting erases all information in RAM.

RGB

Red Green Blue. A type of color monitor.

ROM

Read Only Memory. A portion of memory that can only be read and cannot be used for temporary storage. ROM retains its contents even when you turn off the power.

Glossary 15