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Glossary
Bit - The smallest unit of digital data. In binary code, a bit is represented logically as a
either a 1 or a 0.
Buffer – RAM cache that temporarily stores data so it can be delivered to a device as it
is needed.
Bus – An electronic link that can transmit data between digital devices, such as com-
puters and computer peripherals.
Byte – A unit of digital data, usually made up of eight bits.
Capacity – The amount of data that can be stored on a hard drive or other storage
device.
Daisy chain – A hardware configuration in which peripheral devices are connected to
each other in a series. The FireWire interface, for example, supports a daisy chain of up
to 62 drives.
Data Transfer Rate – The speed at which data transfers to and from the drive.
Device Driver – A software program that enables a computer to communicate with
peripheral devices, such as hard drives and CD-ROM drives. Each type of device
requires a different driver.
External Hard Drive – A external peripheral device containing a hard drive mecha-
nism connected to a computer via a data communication interface.
FAT32 – A file system that organizes files on a disk. This file system is standard for
Windows 98SE and Me, and is supported under Windows 2000 and XP. A single file is
limited in size to 4 GB.
Format – Sets up a file system for storing and retrieving files on a disk. Referred to as
initialization on Mac.
Gigabyte – 1,024 megabytes (binary); 1,000 megabytes (decimal), or approximately
one billion bytes.
Hard Drive – An electromechanical device used for information storage and retrieval,
incorporating one or more rotating disks (platters) on which data is recorded, stored,
and read magnetically.
Hardware – Physical components of a computer system.
Hot-Pluggable – The ability to connect and disconnect external devices while the
computer is running.
Hub – A device which links peripherals together onto the same data bus.
Interface – Junction between two items of hardware or software for the exchange of
data.
Mb (Megabit) – One million bits.
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