CPU
Central Processing Unit. The primary unit of the computer that interprets instructions, performs the tasks you indicate, keeps track of stored data, and controls all input and output operations.
Cursor
The highlighted marker that shows your position on the screen.
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.
Data
Information such as text or graphics stored or processed by a computer.
Data diskette
A formatted diskette on which you store data files (as opposed to program files).
Default
Any value or setting that takes effect when the computer is turned on or reset. A default value stays in effect unless you override it temporarily by changing a setting or you reset the default value itself.
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.
Glossary 5