Glossary

M

main memory Physical memory chips (RAM) inside the computer. Every program you launch and every file you open must be copied from a storage disk, disc, or floppy into main memory. The amount of main memory in your computer determines how many programs you can run and how much data you can process at one time. Memory is measured in megabytes (1 million bytes or characters) of information. Most personal computers come with a minimum of 32 megabytes of main memory—the minimum recommendation for Windows programs. You can insert extra memory (visit the following Web site for more information:

www.compaq.com/consumersupport).

See also RAM and byte.

microprocessor A silicon chip inside your computer that processes the instructions and data from input devices (such as the keyboard and mouse) and communicates them to output devices (such as the monitor, speakers, and printer).

Microsoft Internet Explorer

A Web browser developed by

the Microsoft Corporation.

See also browser.

Microsoft Windows The most popular computer operating system in the world. It is characterized by the use of windows and icons. Each running program and open file has its own window. Instead of memorizing commands, you click icons to communicate with the computer. Clicking the minimize button shrinks a program to an icon on the taskbar. Clicking the icon redisplays the program as a window. You can have several windows open at the same time and toggle from one to another by using Alt+Tab. (Press and hold down the Alt key, press the Tab key, and then release both keys. A palette with an icon for each program is displayed. Click the icon for the program you want.) See also Windows desktop, Windows Explorer, and Windows taskbar.

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Mobile Internet PC User’s Guide

Presario 2700 Series