Glossary

P

parallel: Refers to two or more processes or events that can occur simultaneously, and without interfering with each other. See also serial.

parallel interface: Refers to a type of information exchange that transmits information one byte (8 bits) at a time. See also serial interface.

parity: 1) The symmetrical relationship between two parameter values (integers) both of which are either on or off; odd or even; 0 or 1.

2)In serial communications, an error detection bit that is added to a group of data bits making the sum of the bits even or odd. Parity can be set to none, odd, or even.

password: A unique string of characters used to identify a specific user. The computer provides various levels of password protection such as user, supervisor and eject.

pel: The smallest area of the display that can be addressed by software. Equal in size to a pixel or group of pixels. See pixel.

peripheral component interconnect: An industry standard 32-bit bus.

peripheral device: An I/O device that is external to the central processor and/or main memory such as a printer or a mouse.

plug and play: A capability with Windows that enables the system to automatically recognize connections of external devices and make the necessary configurations in the computer.

pixel: A picture element. The smallest dot that can be made on a display or printer. Also called a pel.

port: The electrical connection through which the computer sends and receives data to and from devices or other computers.

Port Replicator: Devices that enables one-point connection to a number of peripheral devices and provides additional ports and slots.

printed circuit board (PCB): A hardware component of a processor to which integrated circuits and other components are attached. The board itself is typically flat and rectangular, and constructed of fiberglass, to form the attachment surface.

program: A set of instructions a computer can execute that enables it to achieve a desired result. See also application.

prompt: A message the computer provides indicating it is ready for or requires information or an action from you.

TOSHIBA TE2300

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