microprocessor
The integrated circuit that processes data and controls the basic functions of the computer.
modem
A device used to exchange information with other computers over telephone or data lines.
module
A circuit board that plugs into a dedicated connector on the system board in your computer.
mouse
A small input device that you guide on a flat surface to control the cursor movement and operation of the computer when using certain software programs.
N
NVRAM
(Nonvolatile RAM) A type of RAM that retains its contents even after the computer is powered off. This memory stores EISA configuration information. See also RAM and SRAM.
O
operating system
A set of programs that provides the interface between other software programs and the computer.
P
parallel port
The connector on the back of your computer that allows the transfer of data between the computer and a parallel device, such as a parallel printer.
partition
The process of dividing the storage space on a hard disk into separate areas so that the operating system treats them as separate disk drives.
password
A security feature that prevents an unauthorized user from operating your computer. See also EEPROM.
PCI
Peripheral Component Interconnect. PCI is a
