COM1 or COM2
The name you can assign a serial port to set or change its address. See also serial port.
command
An instruction that directs the computer to perform a particular operation.
configuration
The way in which a computer is set up to operate. Some configurable options include CPU speed, serial port designation, and memory allocation.
coprocessor
See math coprocessor.
CPU
(Central Processing Unit) See microprocessor.
CRT
D
DC
(Direct Current) The type of current available in the rechargeable battery packs used in portable computers. See also AC.
default
The factory setting your computer uses unless you instruct it otherwise. For example, when powering up, the computer will boot from the default drive.
density
The capacity of information (bytes) that can be packed onto a storage device, such as a floppy disk.
device driver
A software program that a computer must use to recognize and operate certain hardware, such as a mouse or a video monitor.
disk drive
A device that stores data on a hard or floppy disk. A floppy disk drive requires a floppy disk to be inserted; a hard disk drive has a permanently encased hard disk.
DOS
(Disk Operating System) See operating system.
DRAM
(Dynamic RAM) See RAM.
