COMMAND.COM

The program file that enables MS-DOS to carry out commands such as DIR, COPY, and ERASE. COMMAND.COM must be stored in the root directory of your hard disk if you want to boot MS-DOS from the hard disk.

Command prompt

The message that tells you MS-DOS is loaded and ready to receive instructions. The MS-DOS command prompt ordinarily displays the current operating drive (A> or C>, for example). You can add other information to the command prompt by using the PROMPT command.

Configuration

The particular arrangement of the hardware components of your computer. Your configuration, for example, might include a printer and an internal modem, as well as your built-in hard disk and diskette drive.

Control code

A command (generated by holding down the Ctrl key and pressing another key on the keyboard) that instructs the computer to perform a specific function.

Controller

A hardware component of your computer that oversees the operation of the hard disk or diskette drive.

Coprocessor

An optional integrated circuit (chip) that assists the CPU in performing certain tasks.

C P U

Central Processing Unit. The integrated circuit (chip) responsible for interpreting program instructions, performing calculations, and controlling input and output operations.

C R T

Cathode Ray Tube. A type of video display. A color monitor is an example of a CRT.

4 G l o s s a r y