Glossary

icon

A graphic image on the screen that represents an element.

image transfer roller

The part inside a page printer that transfers the image from the photoconductive drum to the paper.

laser printer

A high-resolution peripheral used to print text and graphics onto paper or other media. A rotating mirror is used to reflect laser beams onto a photosensitive drum; the image of the page is then transferred via electrostatic charged toner. The final image is fused onto a piece of charged paper using heat as it is rolled against the drum, setting the toner onto the paper (or other media).

manual feed tray

An external bay for loading paper into the printer manually.

N-up printing

A series of printer settings that produces multiple, reduced documents on one sheet of paper.

off line

A state in which the printer cannot receive data or perform any other operation.

on line

A state in which the printer can receive data and operate.

operating system

A program or group of programs that control the functions of the computer and its peripheral devices such as the printer.

paper basis weight

The standard for specifying paper weight. The metric standard, applicable to all grades of paper is gm/m2. The U.S. system for basis weight varies according to the grade of paper and is based upon a 500 sheet ream. The measurement of weight in the U.S. is pounds.

paper feed roller

A rolling mechanism that carries the paper through the various functions of the printer during the printing process.

Glossary Appendix A

A-3

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NEC 1100 Icon, Image transfer roller, Laser printer, Manual feed tray, Up printing, Off line, On line, Operating system

1100 specifications

The NEC 1100, introduced in the early 1980s, stands as a significant milestone in the evolution of computing technology. It is widely recognized for its role in pioneering advancements that shaped the landscape of computing during its time.

One of the main features of the NEC 1100 is its architecture. It operates on a 16-bit microprocessor, specifically the NEC 780, which allows for efficient data processing and improved performance over its predecessors. This architectural design provided enhanced functionality, enabling the NEC 1100 to handle complex tasks that were challenging for earlier systems.

The NEC 1100 was equipped with a robust memory capacity, supporting both RAM and ROM configurations. Typically, it featured 64KB of RAM, expandable to accommodate increased processing demands, alongside a ROM that facilitated essential system instructions. This flexibility in memory management underscored its adaptability to various user needs, making it suitable for both personal and business applications.

Furthermore, the NEC 1100 employed advanced input/output (I/O) capabilities, which included multiple ports, enabling easy connectivity with peripherals such as printers, modems, and disk drives. This extensive range of I/O options contributed to its versatility, allowing users to customize their configurations according to specific requirements.

In terms of software, the NEC 1100 supported several operating systems, including Microsoft's MS-DOS and various other compatible systems. This compatibility made it a preferred choice among software developers, fostering a rich ecosystem of applications that could leverage the NEC 1100's capabilities.

One of the notable characteristics of the NEC 1100 is its commitment to reliability and durability. The design emphasized robust engineering, ensuring that the system could withstand continuous usage in various environments, a critical factor for businesses relying on consistent performance.

The NEC 1100 also featured pioneering display technologies, embracing CRT monitors that allowed for crisp visuals and effective graphical outputs. This was a significant advantage at a time when text-based interfaces were the norm, allowing users to engage with graphical applications seamlessly.

In summary, the NEC 1100 is not just a computer; it's a testament to the technological advancements of its era. With its 16-bit architecture, expandable memory, extensive I/O capabilities, and support for various operating systems, it laid the groundwork for future innovations in personal computing. Its reliability and adaptability made it a cornerstone in the transition from basic computing to more complex, user-oriented systems, influencing generations of technology to come.