Pathname

The list of directories and subdirectories you specify to locate a file. For example, the pathname for the file SALES which is located in the subdirectory BUSINESS of the root directory ( \ ) is \ BUSINESS\ SALES.

Peripheral

An external device (such as a printer or a modem) connected to a computer that depends on the computer for its operation.

Port

A physical input/output socket on a computer where you can connect a peripheral device.

Power-on diagnostics

Tests that the computer runs to check its internal circuitry and configuration each time you turn it on.

Power-on password

The sequence of characters you type after you turn on the computer in order to access and use your system. A power-on password can be up to seven characters long and can include letters, numbers, and blank spaces.

Primary partition

The hard disk partition where the operating system is stored and from which the computer loads the operating system.

Processor speed

See Operating speed.

Glossary 15