Glossary 297

program — A set of instructions that can be executed by a computer. The general classes of programs (also called software) are operating system, application, and utility. See also operating system, application, utility.

properties — The attributes of an object or device. For example, the properties of a file include the file’s type, size, and creation date.

R

RAM (random access memory) — Volatile memory that can be

 

 

written to as well as read. By volatile, we mean that information in

 

RAM is lost when you turn off your computer. This type of memory

 

is used for your computer’s main memory. See also memory.

 

Compare ROM.

 

random access memory — See RAM.

 

read-only memory — See ROM.

 

reboot — See boot, restart.

 

removable disk — A disk that can be removed from a disk drive. A

 

diskette is one example of a removable disk.

 

resolution — A measure of the sharpness of the images that can be

 

produced by a printer or displayed on a screen. For a printer,

 

resolution is expressed in dots per inch (dpi). For a screen, it is

 

expressed as the number of pixels available horizontally and

 

vertically.

 

restart — Synonymous with reboot. To reset the computer by reloading

 

the operating system without turning the computer off. See also

 

boot.

 

RJ11 — A modular connector used on most U.S. telephone systems and

 

direct-connect modems. The RJ11 connector is a 6-wire connector.

 

ROM (read-only memory) — Non-volatile memory that can be read

 

but not written to. By non-volatile, we mean that information in

 

ROM remains whether or not the computer is receiving power. This

 

type of memory is used to store your computer’s BIOS, which is

 

essential instructions the computer reads when you start it up. See

 

also BIOS, memory. Compare RAM.

S

select — To highlight or otherwise specify text, data, or graphics with the

intent to perform some operation on it.