Toshiba TECRA A50 series User Manual page 181

controller
computer to a peripheral device and vice versa. For
example, disk drives, monitors, keyboards, and printers all
require controllers.
—See Central Processing Unit (CPU).
CPU
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, L1 cache, L2
cache.
cursor
that indicates the position where characters will appear
when you enter data.
D
Desktop
desktop found in Windows
Windows
default
not specify an alternative setting.
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.
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 Alternating
Current (AC).
Direct Memory Access (DMA)
bypassing the CPU, that enables direct data transfer
between memory and a device.
directory
disable
—A device that controls the transfer of data from a
—A section of very fast memory residing between
—An on-screen symbol (usually a flashing vertical line)
—Offers the traditional look and feel of the Windows
®
operating system.
—The setting selected by a program when the user does
—A component attached to the computer. Devices may
—A program (called a "driver") that permits a
—An on-screen window displayed by the operating
—See folder.
—To turn a computer option off. See also enable.
®
7 and earlier releases of the
—The type of power usually supplied by
—A dedicated channel,
Glossary
181
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