Default directory

The directory you are logged onto and working in. Also known as the current directory.

Default drive

The disk drive from which MS-DOS executes your next command, unless you tell it to do otherwise (by including a drive designator with the command). Also known as the current drive.

Delimiter

A character or space used to separate different parts of an MS-DOS command.

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.

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.

6 G l o s s a r y