Configuration

The particular setup of your computer’s internal and external components. A typical configuration consists of a computer with a certain amount of memory, one diskette drive, and one hard disk drive connected to a monitor, printer, and keyboard.

Control code

A command (generated when you hold down [T] and press another key on the keyboard) that instructs the computer to perform a specific function.

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. Some of these programs require you to leave the program diskette in the drive while you use it. See also Key disk.

CPU

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

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