8 Glossary

FTP
File Transfer Protocol. A method of transferring files between two computers on a TCP/IP
network (such as the Internet). “A no nymous FTP” (the most common usa ge on the Internet)
allows a user to download files without having an account at the remote computer.
function key
The set of keys on the keyboard (usually F1 through F12 ) that let you get help and error
message information or quickly select frequently used commands.
G
graphics accelerator
A term referring to a higher end vide o controller that handles high-sp e ed graphics and
usually contains several megabyte s o f onboard video memory.
GUI
Graphical User Interface. Method of presenting information on a computer screen utilizing
icons, pull-down menus, and a mouse.
H
hertz
(Hz) A unit of frequency equal to one cycle per second.
hexadecimal
A number system that uses 16 as the base. (Place value indicates powers of 16.) It uses the
digits 0-9 and A-F. Used around computers because a byte (eight binary digits) easily
converts to a two digit hexadecimal number. Hexadecimal numbers are often indicated with
the letter H, a dollar sign, or a subscripted 16 after the number. Compare binary, decimal.
host adapter
An expansion board that serves as a controller for SCSI devices.
hot key
Combination of two or three keys (such as Ctrl-Alt-D) that you pr ess simultaneously for a
particular function.
hot plugging
The ability to add and remove devices to a computer while the computer is running and
have the operating system automatically recognize the change. The Universal Serial Bus
(see USB ) external bus standard supports hot plugging. This is also a feature of PCMCIA.
Hot plugging is also called hot swapp ing.
I
IDE
Intelligent Drive Electronics. A hard drive type that has controller electronics built into the
drive and delivers high throughput.
interface
A connection that enables two devices to communicate.