Satellite A500/A500D

D

data: Information that is factual, measurable or statistical that a computer can process, store, or retrieve.

data bits: A data communications parameter controlling the number of bits (binary digits) used to make up a byte. If data bits = 7 the computer can generate 128 unique characters. If data bits = 8 the computer can generate 256 unique characters.

DC: Direct Current. Electric current that flows in one direction. This type of power is usually supplied by batteries.

default: The parameter value automatically selected by the system when you or the program do not provide instructions. Also called a preset value.

delete: To remove data from a disk or other data storage device. Synonymous with erase.

device driver: A program (called a “driver”) that permits a computer to communicate with a device.

dialog box: A window that accepts user input to make system settings or record other information.

disable: To turn a computer option off. See also enable.

Digital Audio: An audio compression standard that enables high-quality transmission and real-time playback of sound files.

disk drive: The device that randomly accesses information on a disk and copies it to the computer’s memory. It also writes data from memory to the disk. To accomplish these tasks, the unit physically rotates the disk at high speed past a read-write head.

disk storage: Storing data on magnetic disk. Data is arranged on concentric tracks much like a phonograph record.

display: A CRT, LCD, or other image producing device used to view computer output.

documentation: The set of manuals and/or other instructions written for the users of a computer system or application. Computer system documentation typically includes procedural and tutorial information as well as system functions.

double click: To press and release the pointing device’s primary button rapidly twice without moving the pointing device. In the Windows operating system, this refers to the pointing device’s left button, unless otherwise stated.

driver: A software program, generally part of the operating system, that controls a specific piece of hardware (frequently a peripheral device such as a printer or mouse).

DVD: An individual digital versatile (or video) disc. See also DVD-ROM.

Glossary-6

User’s Manual