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Glossary
adapter An accessory board, that
connects to the system board via an
accessory board slot.
BBS Bulletin Board System. A
computer that uses a modem and
software to serve as an information
source for other computers equipped
with a modem. Hewlett-Packard has a
BBS that can be reached at +1 (408)
553-3500.
BIOS Basic Input-Output System.
Software that provides an interface
between the computer hardware and
the operating system.
bus An electrical connection over
which information is transported.
cache A block of high-speed memory
used for the temporary storage of
data.
CD-ROM Compact Disc Read Only
Memory. A mass storage device that
uses compact disc technology. CDs
can store data, but most cannot be
written to.
CMOS memory An area of your
computer’s memory whose contents
are preserved when you turn off the
computer. CMOS memory stores
information that must be maintained,
such as your computer’s
configuration.
controller A device that enables
another device (such as a hard disk)
to communicate with the computer.
device driver Software that enables
the computer to interface with a
specific peripheral, such as a printer
or display.
EPA energy star program A
standard for power management
which requires automatic power-
down to less than 30 W.
expansion slot A slot inside the
computer, connected to the system
board, that can be used for accessory
boards.
extended memory Memory which
can be addressed by the processor in
the area of memory above the first
1 MB.
HP Utilities Software provided by
Hewlett-Packard to perform certain
tasks, for example, changing the date
and time.
IDE Integrated Device Electronics.
An interface standard for
communications between the
computer and a hard disk or CD-ROM.
IRQ Interrupt Request. A signal,
which, when received by the
processor, halts the current process
and allows a different task to be
undertaken.
jumper An electrically-conductive
part that is used to connect two or
more points on a circuit board.
Commonly used to select
configuration options.