IBM Netfinity 3000, User Handbook Manual

Page: 337 / 370

milliwatt (mw) . One thousandth of
a watt.
modem (modulator/demodulator) .
(1) A functional unit that modulates
and demodulates signals. One of
the functions of a modem is to
enable digital data to be transmitted
over analog transmission facilities.
(T) (A) (2) A device that converts
digital data from a computer to an
analog signal that can be
transmitted on a telecommunication
line, and converts the analog signal
received to data for the computer.
multicast
. (1) Transmission of the
same data to a selected group of
destinations. (T)
(2) See LAN
multicast.
multicast address . See group
address.
N
n-type semiconductor . A
semiconductor doped with donor
impurities that when energized
generates a predominance of
negative charge carriers (free
electrons). Contrast with p-type
semiconductor. See also NMOS.
N-type semiconductors have a
higher level of conductivity than
p-type semiconductors and have
faster switching rates, but allow
lower-density packing of
components. P-type and n-type
semiconductor materials are often
layered together to obtain a
rectifying action between the two
dissimilar materials (CMOS).
nanosecond (ns) . One thousand
millionth (10
−
9 ) of a second.
NetBIOS . Network BIOS. An
operating system interface for
application programs used on IBM
personal computers that are
attached to the IBM Token-Ring
Network. See also BIOS.
network . (1) An arrangement of
nodes and connecting branches. (T)
(2) A configuration of data
processing devices and software
connected for information
interchange.
network server . See server.
NMOS . Negative-channel metal
oxide semiconductor.
negative-channel metal oxide
semiconductor (NMOS)
. A
technology used in the manufacture
of field-effect transistors that utilize
the properties of an n-type
semiconductor material, usually
doped silicon, and that when
energized, produce a flow of
negative charge carriers.
nonvolatile
. (1) Pertaining to a
storage device whose contents are
not lost when power is cut off. (T)
(2) Contrast with volatile.
Glossary
303