printer port

Name assigned to the parallel port by the Windows operating system. A second parallel device is assigned LPT2 (if there is another parallel port). Also called the printer port.

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.

read

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

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.

S

SEC

Single-Edge Contact. The SEC cartridge containing the Pentium II processor. See Slot 1.

serial interface

An interface that communicates information one bit at a time.

Glossary 13

Page 135
Image 135
NEC SP B-Series manual To extract data from a storage device such as a diskette