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cold boot
Process of starting up the computer by turning on the power. If power is already on, the
process means to turn off the computer and turn it on again. A cold boot reinitializes all
devices.
compression
Any scheme for recording data with fewer bits. For example, stating how many times
something occurs can be shorter than stating each occurrence. It is shorter to say "print a
million white pixels" than to say "print white pixel number one, print white pixel number
two . . ."
D
default
The system's factory setting for a specific device feature or system function. A setting that a
computer uses if it has not been modified by a user.
DIMM
Dual Inline Memory Module. Circuit board with pins connecting to different memory chips
on both sides of the board, which allows for wider and faster data transfer (128-bit). See
SIMMs.
DMA
Direct Memory Access. A method for transferring data, usually between memory and a disk
drive, without going through the CPU.
DMI
Desktop Management Interface. A standard for PCs that allows manipulation of PC
components over a network from a centralized location.
DRAM
Dynamic Random Access Memory. Memory used to store data in most computers. DRAM
is temporary and must be continually refreshed. It is only active when the computer is
turned on.
driver
A software program that enables peripheral devices (for example, printer, monitor, mouse,
CD-ROM drive) to work with computers.
DVD
Digital versatile disc or digital video disc. A type of CD-ROM that holds a minimum of 4.7
GB, enough for a full-length movie. The DVD specification supports disks with capacities
of from 4.7 GB to 17 GB and access rates of 600 Kbps to 1.3 Mbps. One of the features of
DVD drives is that they are backward-compatible with CD-ROM disks. This means that
DVD players can play old CD-ROMs, CD-I disks, and video CDs, as well as new DVD-
ROMs. Newer DVD players can also read CD-R disks. DVD uses MPEG-2 to compress
video data. See MPEG.
6 Glossary
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