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6. Glossary
Bus-
Electronic links that enable data to flow between the processor, RAM and
extension cables (peripherals).
Configuration-
When talking about a PC, configuration is understood to be
the sum of the internal and external components of the system, including
memory, disk drives, the keyboard, the video subsystem and other peripherals,
such as the mouse, modem or printer. The configuration also implies software:
the operating system and various device managers (drivers), as well as
hardware settings and options set by the user via configuration files.
Controller-
This is a component, or an electronic card (referred to in this
case as a "controller card"), which enables a computer to communicate with
certain peripherals. The controller manages the operation of the peripheral
associated with it and links the PC bus to the peripheral via a ribbon cable
inside the PC. An external controller is an expansion card which fills one of the
free slots inside your PC and enables a peripheral (CD-ROM drive, scanner or
printer) to be connected to the computer.
Data Stream
- The flow of data that accomplishes a task, usually related to
moving data from storage to computer RAM or between storage devices.
Digital-
Discrete information that can be reduced to zero bits or one bit.
Driver (peripheral manager)
- A software component which enables the
computer system to communicate with a peripheral. Most peripherals will not
operate correctly — if at all — if the appropriate drivers are not installed on
the system.
Folder-
A list created on a disk to store files. Creating folders and subfolders
enables you to organize the storage of your files in a logical, hierarchical
manner so that you can find and manage them more easily.
Hardware-
Physical components of a computer system, including the
computer itself and peripherals such as printers, modems, mice, etc.
Hub-
A device which links several peripherals together onto the same bus.
Active hubs, which regenerate and retransmit signals down the cable, require
a power supply. Passive hubs only interconnect various components.
Interface-
Junction between two items of hardware or software enabling
them to exchange information by adopting common physical/logical rules.
