boot To start or re-start the computer. During the start-up process, information necessary for the computer to operate is loaded into memory. See main memory.

browser Software that searches for, displays, and downloads text, graphics, sound, and video from the Internet. Microsoft Internet Explorer and Netscape Navigator are two popular browsers.

bug A mistake in the design of computer software or hardware. Because of their complexity, many have minor bugs. As soon as the manufacturer becomes aware of the problem, modifications are made to correct it.

bulletin board An electronic notice board on the Internet where people can post notices for others with similar interests. Professional organisations and clubs often have bulletin boards for members to share information

and opinions.

byte Eight bits of data (eight individual electronic on/off signals, strung together to make a message that the computer can interpret). Most information is organised into bytes. One byte of data is usually required to represent a single character that

GLOSSARY-2

you can see on the screen (a letter, number, punctuation mark, or other symbol). For example, the byte 01001000 represents the capital letter H. See bit.

C

cable modem A modem that allows you to access the Internet via your cable television provider. Continuously connected to the Internet, it allows high-speed, high-capacity data transfer.

CD (compact disc) Media used in a CD-ROM drive. The disc is a circular piece of plastic that stores digital data on one side, using laser technology.

CD-ROMA compact disc with read-only data. You cannot erase or record over the data.

CD-RWA compact disc with re-writable data. You can write to the disc using a re- writable or recordable CD drive.

chat An Internet feature that allows you to exchange typed messages with another person (or a group of people) in real time. A message you type instantly displays on the other person’s computer.

PRESARIO NOTEBOOK BEYOND SET-UP GUIDE

1200 SERIES

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HP 1215EA manual GLOSSARY-2