NEC PowerMate CT manual Master, Megabyte, Microprocessor, Modem, Nonvolatile memory

M

master

Part of a two-sided communication that initiates commands (to a “slave” that carries out the commands).

megabyte

(MB) 1,048,576 bytes.

memory

Electronic storage area in a computer that retains information and programs. A computer has two types of memory: read-only memory (ROM) and random access memory (RAM).

microprocessor

A semiconductor central processing unit that is the principal component of a microcomputer. Usually contained on a single chip that includes an arithmetic logic unit, control logic, and control-memory unit.

MIDI

Musical Instrument Digital Interface. An interface for connecting suitably equipped musical instruments to suitably equipped computers.

MIF

Management Information File. A file stored on a PC that holds system data such as a model ID and serial number that can be manipulated over a network from a centralized location.

MMX

A processor architecture that enhances multimedia and communications. This technology processes multiple data elements in parallel, speeding up such things as image processing, motion video, speech synthesis, telephony, and 3-D graphics.

modem

MOdulator-DEModulator. A device that links computers over a telephone line.

MPC

Multimedia Personal Computer, a software and hardware standard developed by a consortium of computer firms led by Microsoft. There are three MPC standards, called MPC, MPC2, and MPC3, respectively. Each specifies a minimum hardware configuration for running multimedia software.

MPEG

Motion Pictures Expert Group. Audio/Video technology that allows for better than VHS quality video and almost CD quality audio by using advanced compression techniques. MPEG files allow for more realistic motion with a smaller file size than earlier formats, making it a popular format for digital full-length movies. Files in the MPEG format have an

.MPG extension.

N

nonvolatile memory

Storage media that retains its data when system power is turned off. Nonvolatile memory is a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) chip that is backed up by an internal battery. The backup battery preserves the clock/calendar data and system configuration parameters stored in CMOS. See volatile memory.

10 Glossary