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choose: To use the mouse or keyboard to select a menu item, a button, or
an icon.
click: To press and release a mouse button. Refers to the left mouse
button, unless otherwise stated.
client: (1) A program that requests a service from another program. (2) In
a network, a computer that accesses shared resources provided by
the server. See client/server.
client/server: A network architecture in which processing is divided
between the workstations (which are fully functional personal
computers) and the server. The workstations handle user interaction
(front-end processing) while the server handles centralized
functions, such as database management and print spooling.
cold boot: See boot.
COM1 and COM2: Names that the operating system gives the
computer's serial ports to distinguish between them.
commands: Instructions that tell a computer and its devices what to do.
You can enter commands individually, using the keyboard or
pointing device, or combine them into macros or programs. See also
macro, program.
communications: The means by which a computer sends data to and
receives data from another computer or device.
compatibility: The ability of two computers, programs, and/or devices to
operate together. For example, if you install a modem that is not
compatible with your computer, the modem will not work.
component: A part of the computer system. Many components are
combined to create the whole system.
compression: The translation of data (video, audio, digital, or a
combination) to a more compact form for storage or transmission.
In computer terms, files are compressed by removing repetitive and
blank characters. Depending on the type of file, this can result in a
size reduction of over 90 percent. Modems use compression to
reduce the amount of time needed to send or receive a file.
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Glossary
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