HP Compaq Presario,Presario 800AP Supplementary Manual page 142

plug-and-play A feature, introduced with
Windows 95, to simplify the use of some
peripheral devices. Once the device has
been installed (in accordance with the
manufacturer's instructions), you can plug
it into the computer while the computer
is running. The operating system auto-
matically recognizes the new device.
(In order to connect a non-plug-and-play
device, you must first shut down the
computer.) See peripheral.
pop-up menu A list of options that pops
up when you right-click an icon on the
desktop or taskbar, the vacant part of the
desktop, a selection in a document, or a file
in Windows Explorer. See right-click.
processor (short for microprocessor).
The brains of the computer.
See microprocessor.
product key A unique series of letters
and numbers that are assigned to each
software package you buy. You are asked
to enter the product key when you install
the software. When you register the
software, you transmit the product key to
the manufacturer to enter in a customer
database. Later, when you call for
technical support, you are asked for the
product key. The technician matches it
against the database to determine whether
you qualify for support. You should keep a
record of all product keys to protect your
investment. They are comparable to the
serial numbers on hardware. See software.
program Software that you install on a
computer for word processing, drawing,
manipulating photos, reconciling your
bank statement, calculating your taxes,
composing music, or playing games. It is
occasionally referred to as an application.
See software.
QuikDock A device that provides ports
for external devices, allowing you to
"dock" and remove your Notebook while
your hardware remains connected to the
QuikDock.
RAM (random access memory)
The main memory of the computer.
It holds a copy of the operating system,
any programs that are running on the
computer, and any data that is being
processed. RAM is temporary memory;
turning off the computer clears RAM.
The more RAM your computer has,
the faster the programs respond.
See main memory. See also ROM.