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202
Glossary
synchronous: Having a constant time interval between successive bits,
characters, or events. Synchronous data transmission requires both
the sending and receiving devices to use special synchronizing
characters to correct variations in timing between the devices. See
also asynchronous.
system disk: A diskette that contains the operating system files that are
needed to start the computer. Any physical diskette can be formatted
as a system disk. A system disk is also called a bootable disk.
system prompt: In MS-DOS mode, one or more characters that indicate
the operating system is ready for you to enter a command. You can
enter an operating-system command or start a program from a
system prompt.
System Configuration Information file (.SCI): This file allows you to
create a backup of the configuration and store it. You will be able to
restore the system configuration from the .SCI file.
striping: See disk striping.
swap area: An area of hard disk that acts as an extension of RAM.
Programs, or parts of programs, that are in active use but currently in
a waiting state can be shifted to this area (swapped out) so that
others can run in RAM. It is a form of virtual memory. Also called a
swap file.
T
terminate-and-stay-resident (TSR): A type of program, also called
memory resident, that stays in memory even when you aren't using
it.
terminator: A hardware item that must be installed in the last device
connected to a bus to control noise and prevent the signal from
oscillating.
token ring: A type of LAN that uses the token-passing access method
with a ring topology.
tracks: One of several concentric rings on a diskette or hard disk that
defines a distinct area of data storage. Tracks are encoded on the
disk during formatting.
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