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. The Equity 386SX/20 PLUS comes with device drivers that provide super VGA features for various programs when used with a multi-frequency monitor.

Diagnostics

The tests and procedures the computer performs to check its internal circuitry and set up its configuration.

DIP switch

Dual Inline Package switch. A small switch on a computer, option card, or printer that controls a particular function.

Directory

A list of files stored in a particular area on a disk; part of a structure for organizing files into groups. A directory listing shows the name, location, and size of the files in the directory. A directory can contain both files and subdirectories.

Disk

The collective term for diskettes and hard disks.

Disk drive

The physical device that allows the computer to read from and write to a disk. A diskette drive has a disk slot into which you insert a diskette. A hard disk is sealed inside a protective unit.