POST (power-on self-test)

A test performed by the computer whenever you turn on the power or press the reset button. POST checks system integrity.

RAM (random-access memory)

A portion of the computer system’s memory that is designed as a temporary storage area for data and programs. RAM includes conventional and extended memory. You can write to and read from RAM. Information stored in RAM is erased when the system is turned off. To preserve your data, you need to save it to a disk.

ROM (read-only memory)

Permanent computer memory dedicated to a particular function. For example, the instructions for starting the computer when you first turn on power are contained in ROM. You cannot write to ROM. (ROM is not the same as random-access memory).

Root directory

The main directory in a drive.

SIMM (single inline memory module)

A small circuit board with memory chips.

Window

A rectangular area on you screen in which you view an application program or a file.

68 Advantage! 9000 Series User’s Manual