P
page
A type of message transmission in which a message is sent or received via modem to a paging device from a computer (with paging communications software) or telephone.
parallel interface
Interface that communicates multiple data bits at a time.
parallel printer
A printer with a parallel interface.
parameter
A characteristic of a device or system.
partition
Process of dividing mass storage (hard disk drive) into isolated or separate sections. Partitioning a hard drive creates additional logical drives, e.g., a
password
A string of characters that the user must enter before the system allows access or system privileges.
PC Cards
A
peripheral
Input or output device not under direct computer control. A printer is a peripheral device.
pixels
Picture elements. Tiny dots that make up a screen image.
port
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.
Glossary 7
