Texas Instruments TravelMate 5000 Series User Reference Manual page 250

Glossary
data file — A grouping of information with common
descriptive attributes. For example, a customer data file
might consist of basic customer information. Each file
might represent one customer.
data processing — The input, storage, manipulation, and
dissemination of information using sequences of
mathematical and logical operations.
default value — A value that your computer assumes as a
response to a prompt, unless instructed otherwise.
device driver — The small programs used to control
external devices or to run other programs. A device driver
directs production, manipulation, and presentation of
appropriate signals by the computer so that the external
device will perform as required.
diagnostics programs — The programs that test the
components of your computer to verify proper operation or
to diagnose problems.
directory — The list of all files, which itself is a file, on your
computer storage medium for easy reference.
disk controller — A device that controls how information is
transferred between the system unit and the hard disk or
floppies.
disk drive — A device that rotates magnetic media and
accesses data by means of a read/write head.
diskette — See floppy.
DOS — The disk operating system, programs that act as
translator between you and your computer; also see
operating system.
6 Glossary