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.

O

operating system

Set of programs that manage the overall operation of the computer.

overwrite

Storing information at a location where information is already stored, thus destroying the original information.

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NEC SP B-Series manual Midi