Appendix 2 Glossary Of Terms - AMSTRAD cpc 6128 User Instruction

Appendix 2
Glossary of Terms
Some commonly used terms from the world of computing,
explained for 6128 users ....
Accumulator
A memory location within the microprocessor circuit at the heart of the
microcomputer that stores data temporarily while it is being processed. Used
extensively in machine code programming - BASIC users need never know it
exists!
Acoustic coupler
Also known as an Acoustic Modem. An electronic attachment for a computer that
connects a telephone handset to . • . the computer and enables the latter to
communicate over the normal voice telephone network. In this way, a computer
can communicate with public information systems such as PRESTEL, and with
other users of home computers, in order to exchange software,· get data and
information etc.
Address
The number in an instruction that identifies the location of a 'cell' in a computer's
memory. By means of its address, a particular memory location can be selected so
that its contents can be found and 'read', in the case of RAM, both written <\nd
read.
Adventure game
A cult with some, and a bore to others. A text-based computer game in which the
player is invited to participate in a series of pseudo random events based on
trying to find a way around a maze or labyrinth.
Algorithm
A grandiose name for a complicated formula or sum. A sequence 'of logical and
arithmetic steps to perform a defined task in computing.
Alphanumeric
The attribute that describes the difference between a letter or number and a
graphics character.
Glossary
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