Conventional memory

The memory in the computer below 1MB that is available to MS-DOS and application programs-usually 640KB. Also called base memory or main memory.

Coprocessor

See Math coprocessor.

Copy-protected program

A program containing a software “lock” that prevents it from being copied. See also Key disk.

CPU

Central Processing Unit. The primary device that interprets instructions, performs tasks, keeps track of stored data, and controls input and output operations. See also Microprocessor.

Cursor

The highlighted marker or pointer that shows where keystrokes will appear when typed or where the next mouse command will be executed.

Cylinders

The vertical alignment of tracks in a hard disk that can be lined up under one read/write head. The number of tracks on a disk is equal to the number of cylinders times the number of heads. See also Tracks.

Default

Any value or setting choice that applies when you don’t specify an alternative. A default value stays in effect unless you override it temporarily or change the default value itself.

4 Glossary