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Appendix
Cache
A special memory subsystem that is used to speed up the data traffer. It stores
the contents of frequently accessed RAM locations and the addresses where
these data items are stored.
Chipset
A collection of integrated chips designed to perform one or more related
functions. For example, a modem chipset contains all the primary circuits for
transmitting and receiving data; a PC chipset provides the electronic interfaces
between all subsystems.
CMOS (complementary metal-oxide semiconductor)
CMOS is a widely used type of semiconductor, which features high speed and
low power consumption. PCs usually contain a small amount of battery-pow-
ered CMOS memory to retain the date, time, and system setup parameters.
COM
In MS-DOS system, the name of a serial communications port. DOS supports
four serial ports. For example, if a modem is connected to one serial port and a
serial mouse to another, they are identified as COM1 and COM2.
DIMM (dual in-line memory module)
A small circuit board that holds memory chips. A SIMM (single in-line memory
module) has a 32-bit path to the memory chips whereas a DIMM has 64-bit
path.
DMA (direct memory access)
A transfer mode between the main memory and the peripheral devices that
without passing through the CPU. Using the DMA controller, data is trans-
ferred much faster.
DRAM (Dynamic RAM)
A most common type of computer memory. It usually uses one transistor and
a capacitor to represent a bit. As the development of technology, the memory
type and specification used in computer becomes variety, such as SDRAM,
DDR SDRAM, and RDRAM. For further instruction, please see the table
below:
A-2
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