Glossary
adapter An accessory board, that connects to the system board via an accessory board slot.
BBS Bulletin Board System. A computer that uses a modem and software to serve as an information source for other computers equipped with a modem.
BIOS Basic
bus An electrical connection over which information is transported.
cache A block of
CMOS memory An area of your computer’s memory whose contents are preserved when you turn off the computer. CMOS memory stores information that must be maintained, such as your computer’s configuration.
controller A device that enables another device (such as a hard disk) to communicate with the computer.
device driver Software that enables the computer to interface with a specific peripheral, such as a printer or display.
EPA energy star program A standard for power management which requires automatic power- down to less than 30 W.
expansion slot A slot inside the computer, connected to the system board, that can be used for accessory boards.
extended memory Memory which can be addressed by the processor in the area of memory above the first 1 MB.
HP Utilities Software provided by
IDE Integrated Device Electronics. An interface standard for communications between the computer and a hard disk or
IRQ Interrupt Request. A signal, which, when received by the processor, halts the current process and allows a different task to be undertaken.
jumper An
Commonly used to select configuration options.
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