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.

MS-DOS

Microsoft Disk Operating System. The operating system most commonly used with your computer. See also Operating system.

Multifrequency monitor

A monitor that accepts input at different frequencies and can display a variety of resolutions.

Numeric keypad

The number and cursor control keys grouped to the right of the keyboard.

12 Glossary