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—A device that controls the transfer of data from a
controller
computer to a peripheral device and vice versa. For
example, disk drives, monitors, keyboards, and printers all
require controllers.
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
—See
CPU
—A section of very fast memory residing between
CPU cache
the CPU and the computer's main memory that temporarily
stores data and instructions the CPU will need to execute
commands and programs. See also
cache
.
—An on-screen symbol (usually a flashing vertical line)
cursor
that indicates the position where characters will appear
when you enter data.
D
—Offers the traditional look and feel of the Windows
Desktop
desktop found in Windows
®
Windows
—The setting selected by a program when the user does
default
not specify an alternative setting.
—A component attached to the computer. Devices may
device
be external (outside the computer's case) or internal (inside
the computer's case). Printers, disk drives, and modems are
examples of devices.
device driver
computer to communicate with a device.
—An on-screen window displayed by the operating
dialog box
system or a program giving a direction or requesting input
from the user.
Direct Current (DC)
batteries. DC flows in one direction. Compare
Current (AC)
Direct Memory Access (DMA)
bypassing the CPU, that enables direct data transfer
between memory and a device.
—See
directory
—To turn a computer option off. See also
disable
®
7 and earlier releases of the
operating system.
—A program (called a "driver") that permits a
—The type of power usually supplied by
.
—A dedicated channel,
folder
.
163
Glossary
.
cache, L1 cache, L2
®
Alternating
enable
.
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