Epson Q50188015-1 RAM, ROM, Read, Reset, Prompt, Program, GlossaryGL-9, Root directory, Read/write head, Real time clock

Program

A disk file that contains coded instructions telling a computer what to do and how to do it.

Prompt

A message displayed on the computer screen that tells you what action you need to perform next.

RAM

Random Access Memory. The portion of the computer’s memory used to run programs and store data while you work. All data stored in RAM is erased when you turn off the computer, so you must store any data you want to save on a diskette or hard disk.

Read

To copy data from one area to another. For example, when you open a text file stored on disk, the computer reads the data from the disk and displays it on the screen.

Read/write head

The physical device inside a disk drive that reads and records data on the magnetic surface of a disk.

Real time clock

A battery-powered clock in the computer that keeps track of the current time and date even when the computer’s power is turned off.

Reset

To reload a computer’s operating system so you can retry a task or begin using a different operating system. Resetting erases the computer’s RAM.

ROM

Read Only Memory. The portion of the computer’s memory that can only be read and cannot be used for temporary storage. ROM retains its contents even when you turn off the power.

Root directory

The top level directory in MS-DOS, designated by a \ (backslash). All other directories are subdirectories of the root directory.

GlossaryGL-9