Glossary
Glossary
This glossary provides general definitions of key terms. For an expanded list look in standard reference books on computers.
Active Matrix - Flat screen technology that controls each pixel with an individual transistor.
Address (Physical) - A specific location in memory where a unit record, or sector, of data is stored.
Application Program - Computer program that actually performs a useful task. Word processors, spreadsheets, and desktop publishing programs are application programs.
AUTOEXEC.BAT File - An
Batch File - A file containing several commands that execute in sequence as a group, or batch. MS- DOS batch files must have a filename extension of
.BAT.
Boot - Short for Bootstrap. Transfer of a disk operating system program from storage on floppy disk or hard disk drive to computer’s working memory. Now refers generally to the system initialization process.
Boot Disk - A disk with an operating system installed which loads itself into RAM on power up.
Character - Anything that can print in a single space on the page or the screen. Includes numbers, letters, punctuation marks, and graphic symbols.
Command Processor - The part of an operating system that processes commands entered by you. The command processor in
CPU - Central Processing Unit. The piece of hardware which interprets instructions, performs the tasks you indicate, keeps track of stored data, and controls all input and output operations.
Crash - A malfunction in the computer hardware or software, usually causing loss of data.
Cursor - The arrow, vertical
Diagnostics - Tests and procedures the computer performs to check its internal circuitry and set up its configuration.
DIP Switches - Small switches on a piece of hardware such as a CPU, a printer, or an option
card. DIP switch settings control various functions and provide a system with information about itself. DIP stands for Dual
Directory - A list of the files stored on a disk or a part of a disk. Sometimes called a Folder.
Disk Drive - The physical device which allows the computer to read from and write to a disk. A floppy disk drive has a disk slot into which you insert floppy disks. A hard disk drive is permanently fixed inside the system unit.
DOS - Disk Operating System. A computer program which continuously runs and mediates between the computer user and the Application Program, and allows access to disk data by disk filenames. The Disk Operating System controls the computer’s input and output functions. See Operating System.
DSTN- Dual Scan Twisted Nematic. By dividing the screen in two, then refreshing both sides simultaneously, this technique offers a sharper picture than conventional passive matrix screens.
ECP - Extended Capabilities Port. Parallel port with an asynchronous,
EPP - Enhanced Parallel Port. Parallel port with an asynchronous,
File - A group of related pieces of information called records, or entries, stored together on disk. Text files consist of words and sentences. Program files consist of codes and are used by computers to interpret and carry out instructions.
Floppy disk - A flat piece of flexible plastic coated with magnetic material and used to store data permanently.
Format - To prepare a new disk (or erase an old one) so it can receive information. Formatting a disk divides it into tracks and sectors which create addressable locations on it.
Hard Disk Drive - Sometimes called rigid disk drives, or fixed disk drives. Unlike floppy disks, hard disks are fixed in place inside the system unit. They can process data faster and store many
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