NEC PowerMate CT manual Prompt, Read, Reset, Resolution, RS-232C

port

Any connection by which data can enter or leave a computer or peripheral. Provides the means for an interface between the microprocessor and external devices. A cable connector is usually plugged into the port to attach the device to the computer.

processor

In a computer, a functional unit that interprets and executes instructions.

prompt

A special symbol indicating the beginning of an input line. Also a message that appears on the screen indicating that the user must take a certain action.

R

RAM

Random Access Memory. A storage device into which data is entered and from which data is retrieved in a nonsequential manner. On the system board, RAM is semiconductor-based memory that can be read and written to by the microprocessor or other hardware devices. In RAM, data can be directly and randomly read or written (with any choice for the address).

It’s the storage location for data that needs to be immediately available for every application in use on your computer.

RDRAM

Rambus Dynamic Random Access Memory: Memory used to store data in computers. Rambus technology is incorporated onto dynamic-random-access-memory (DRAM) chips and the logic devices that control them. The Rambus DRAM delivers more than ten times the performance of conventional DRAMs. A single RDRAM transfers data at speeds up to 800 MHz over a narrow, Rambus Channel to Rambus compatible ICs. See DRAM.

read

To extract data from a storage device such as a diskette.

RIMM

Rambus Inline Memory Module: Circuit board with pins connecting up to eight RDRAM memory chips on each side of the board, which allows for wider and faster data transfer. See RDRAM and DIMMs.

ROM

Read-Only Memory. Memory in which stored data cannot be modified by the user except under special conditions.

reset

The process of returning a device to zero or to an initial or arbitrarily selected condition.

resolution

The degree of screen image clarity. Video display resolution is determined by the number of pixels on the screen. Resolution is usually specified in pixels by scan lines, for example, 640 by 480. See pixels.

RS-232C

Standard interface for serial devices.

12 Glossary