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autoexec.bat: A batch file containing MS-DOS commands that the
computer performs every time you start or restart it. For example, it
contains commands that load the Windows operating system. See
also batch file.
AVI (Audio Video Interleaved): Microsoft Corporation's trade name for
synchronization and digital compression of video and audio signals.
B
backup: A copy of a file, usually on removable disk or tape, kept in case
the original is lost or damaged. Backup copies should be made of all
your important files.
bandwidth: The amount of data that can be transmitted per second over a
communications channel. Bandwidth is measured in bits per second
(bps) for digital devices and in cycles per second (cps) for analog
devices.
base memory: See conventional memory.
basic input/output system (BIOS): A set of basic computer instructions in
read-only memory (ROM). The CPU's BIOS contains the
information the computer needs to perform such tasks as
determining the amount of memory, checking for the presence of
devices, and loading the operating system. Some system
components have their own BIOS.
batch file: A file, ending with a .bat extension, containing MS-DOS
commands that you can perform together, rather than typing them
one at a time. Batch files are useful if you have a series of MS-DOS
commands that you need to type fairly often. For example, you
could use a batch file for the commands needed to log on to a
network. See also autoexec.bat.
baud (baud rate): The speed at which communication devices, such as
printers, terminals, and modems, transmit information. Information
travels as a series of electronic signals. The baud rate measures the
rate of change in these signals. This is not necessarily the same as
bits per second, although the two are related. It is named for Emil
Baudot, a pioneer in printing telegraphy. See also bits per second.
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Glossary
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