DIMM

Dual Inline Memory Module. Circuit board with pins connecting to different memory chips on both sides of the board, which allows for wider and faster data transfer (128-bit). See SIMMs.

DMA

Direct Memory Access. A method for transferring data, usually between memory and a disk drive, without going through the CPU.

DMI

Desktop Management Interface. A standard for PCs that allows manipulation of PC components over a network from a centralized location.

DRAM

Dynamic Random Access Memory. Memory used to store data in most computers. DRAM is temporary and must be continually refreshed. It is only active when the computer is turned on.

driver

A software program that enables peripheral devices (for example, printer, monitor, mouse, CD-ROM drive) to work with computers.

DVD

Digital versatile disc or digital video disc. A type of CD-ROM that holds a minimum of 4.7 GB, enough for a full-length movie. The DVD specification supports disks with capacities of from 4.7 GB to 17 GB and access rates of 600 Kbps to 1.3 Mbps. One of the features of DVD drives is that they are backward- compatible with CD-ROM disks. This means that DVD players can play old CD- ROMs, CD-I disks, and video CDs, as well as new DVD-ROMs. Newer DVD players can also read CD-R disks. DVD uses MPEG-2 to compress video data. See MPEG.

E

ECC memory

Error Checking and Correcting memory. Advanced type of memory that can find and correct certain types of single-bit memory errors, providing greater data integrity. Advanced ECC can correct some double-bit errors.

ECP

Extended Capabilities Port. A parallel-port standard for PCs that supports bidirectional communication between the PC and attached devices (such as a printer). ECP is about 10 times faster than the older Centronics standard. Another modern parallel port for PCs that offers similar performance is the EPP (Enhanced Parallel Port).

EDO memory

Extended Data Out memory. A faster type of asynchronous computer memory that holds its last-requested data in a cache after releasing it. EDO memory is designed for use with the Intel Pentium and Pentium II processors.

Glossary 7

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