User’s Manual Glossary-11
Glossary
password: A unique string of characters used to identify a specific user. The
computer provides various levels of password protection such as user and
supervisor.
PC card: A credit-card-sized expansion card designed to increase the capabilities
of notebook computers. PC Cards provide functions such as modem, fax/
modem, hard disk drive, network adapter, sound card, or SCSI adapter.
PCI: Peripheral Component Interconnect. An industry standard 32-bit bus.
peripheral: Any device, such as a printer or joystick, that is attached to the
computer and controlled by the computer’s CPU.
pixel: A picture element. The smallest dot that can be made on a display or
printer. Also called a pel.
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.
pointing device: Any device, such as the TouchPad or a mouse, that enables you
to move the cursor on the screen.
port: The electrical connection through which the computer sends and receives
data to and from devices or other computers.
Power Saver: A TOSHIBA utility that lets you set the parameters for various
power-saving functions.
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.

R

Radio frequency interference (RFI) shield: A metal shield enclosing the
printed circuit boards of the printer or computer to prevent radio and TV
interference. All computer equipment generates radio frequency signals. The
FCC regulates the amount of signals a computing device can allow past its
shielding. A Class A device is sufficient for office use. Class B provides a more
stringent classification for home equipment use. TOSHIBA portable computers
comply with Class B computing device regulations.
Random Access Memory (RAM): Volatile memory that can be written to as well
as read. Volatile here means 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.