The QX-10 uses RAM-random access memory-which can be both written into and read. Normally RAM is lost when a computer is switched OFF, but the QX-10 has 2K of CMOS RAM, which enables it to retain some data when you turn OFF the power. (More about CMOS RAM later.)
Programs
Almost everyone who has heard of a computer has also heard the terms program or programmer associated with computers. What is a program?
A program is a set of instructions that direct a computer to perform a specific task. An application program is designed for specific types of projects such as word processing or general ledger. Programs can be short and simple or long and complicated.
The operating system is the program that acts as the traffic cop between the application program, the computer, and the various peripheral devices (printers, modems, etc.). Without an operating system to manage the computer, it would be unable to operate effectively.
Your QX-10 has either a CP/M® or a TPM-II™ operating system. TPM-II runs any application program written for CP/M. However application programs written for TPM-II do not necessarily run under the CP/M operating system.
The QX-10 Keyboard
Your QX-10 comes with a new version of the HASCI™ keyboard. HASCI (pronounced has-key) is short for Human Applications Standard Computer Interface. This streamlined keyboard is similar to a standard typewriter keyboard. It contains some additional keys not found on a typewriter, but they are conveniently placed and easy to use. The additional keys on the HASCI keyboard are especially designed to work with the Valdocs system as well as any other software package.
The HASCI keyboard has a series of dedicated keys: four system control keys, five file control keys, five applications keys, and four typestyle keys-all labelled in English and programmed to per-