Cylinders
The vertical alignment of tracks in a hard disk that can be lined up under one read/write head. The number of tracks on a disk is equal to the number of cylinders times the number of heads.
Data
Information such as text or graphics stored or processed by a computer.
Data diskette
A formatted diskette on which you store data files (as opposed to program files).
Default
Any value or setting that takes effect when the computer is turned on or reset. A default value stays in effect unless you override it temporarily by changing a setting or you reset the default value itself.
Device
A piece of equipment that is part of a computer system and performs a specific task, such as a disk drive, a monitor, or a printer.
Device driver
A file containing instructions that allow your computer to recognize and control a device.
Diagnostics
The tests and procedures the computer performs to check its internal circuitry and set up its configuration.
Glossary 5