Glossary

Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide

 

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109

Term

Definition

 

 

CardBus

CardBus is the commercial name for an advanced PC Card. The CardBus technology allows

 

computer users to enjoy higher performances as far as data transfer and operating speed are

 

concerned. See PCMCIA.

 

 

CD-ROM

Abbreviation for Compact Disc Read-Only Memory. A high-capacity optical disc, usually

 

650 MB in size, capable of being read from but not written to.

 

 

CD-RW

Short for Compact Disc-ReWriteable. Compact Disc that can be used to write or rewrite data

 

to it. A CD-RW can be written to several times, a CD-R can only be written to once.

 

 

CNR

Short for Communication and Networking Riser. A hardware device that plugs into a

 

motherboard and holds chips for functions like modems and audio devices.

 

 

CPU

The CPU (Central Processing Unit) is the brains of the computer; it processes the instructions

 

of your system’s programs. The CPU is also known as the processor or microprocessor and can

 

be found on the motherboard of your computer.

 

 

CRT

A cathode ray tube (CRT) is a specialized vacuum tube in which images are produced when

 

an electron beam strikes a phosphorescent surface. Most desktop computer displays make

 

use of CRTs. The CRT in a computer display is similar to the "picture tube" in a television

 

receiver.

 

 

DC In

The Direct Current interface to which you connect your computer’s AC adapter or power

 

cable.

 

 

Driver

A driver is software enabling you to use hardware devices. For example, in order for you to

 

be able to use a printer, you must first install its driver. Many drivers, such as the mouse

 

driver, come with the operating system.

 

 

DVD-ROM

Short for Digital Versatile Disc. A type of read-only CD with a minimum capacity of 4.7 GB

 

(maximum capacity can reach 17 GB). This high storage power makes it the ideal medium for

 

storing films.