RS-232C

A standard serial interface. You can easily connect an RS-232C compatible device to your computer.

Sector

A contiguous section of a disk track that provides an address at which the computer can access data.

Self test

The diagnostics procedure the computer performs to check its hardware whenever you turn on or reset the computer.

Serial

The type of interface that transmits data one bit at a time. See also interface and Parallel.

Software

The programs that enable the computer to perform the tasks and functions you indicate.

Stop bit

A signal sent in serial communications to mark the end of a character.

Subdirectory

A directory or group of files that branches down from another subdirectory or from the root directory.

Switch

An option added to an MS-DOS command that redirects the way the command works. Switches must be preceded by a / (forward slash). For example, if you add the /S switch to a FORMAT command, MS-DOS installs the operating system on a diskette as it formats it.

System diskette

A diskette that contains the operating system.

Tracks

Addressable, concentric circles on a diskette, resembling the grooves on a record, which divide the diskette into separate accessible areas. There are 80 tracks on each side of a double-sided, double-density diskette.

GL-10

Glossary