Command prompt

The symbol or message that tells you MS-DOSis loaded and ready to receive instructions. The default command prompt displays the current drive and directory. If you are logged onto drive C, the command prompt may look like this: C:>.

Configuration

The particular setup of a group of components. A typical system configuration consists of a computer with one diskette drive, one hard disk drive, and a monitor, connected to a printer.

Control code

A command (generated when you hold down Ctrl and press another key on the keyboard) that instructs the computer to perform a specific function.

Conventional memory

The memory in your computer (up to 640KB) used by MS-DOS and application programs. Also called base memory or main memory.

Coprocessor

An optional device that enables the computer to process certain mathematical calculations faster.

Copy-protected program

A type of program that cannot be copied. Some copy-protected programs require you to leave the program diskette in the diskette drive while you are using it. Some also require the computer to be running at low speed (simulated 8 MHz) instead of high speed (20 MHz). See also Automaric speed.

4 Glossary