Toshiba Portege Z20-B Series User Manual page 172

172
Glossary
controller
computer to a peripheral device and vice versa. For
example, disk drives, monitors, keyboards, and printers all
require controllers.
—See
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
cursor
that indicates the position where characters will appear
when you enter data.
D
Desktop
desktop found in Windows 7 and earlier releases of the
Windows operating system.
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
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
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
—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
—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
.
folder
—See .
—To turn a computer option off. See also
—The type of power usually supplied by
—A dedicated channel,
.
cache, L1 cache, L2
Alternating
enable
.