10 Glossary
codec
Coder-decoder. Used primarily with Internet phone and video
conferencing products, this software compresses digitized data
and decompresses it at the other end, allowing for faster data
transfer and less delays
cold boot
Process of starting up the computer by turning on the power. If
power is already on, the process means to turn off the computer
and turn it on again. A cold boot reinitializes all devices.
compression
Any scheme for recording data with fewer bits. For example,
stating how many times something occurs can be shorter than
stating each occurrence. It is shorter to say “print a million
white pixels” than to say “print white pixel number one, print
white pixel number two . . .”
D
default
The system’s factory setting for a specific device feature or
system function. A setting that a computer uses if it has not
been modified by a user.
DIMM
Dual Inline Memory Module. Circuit board with pins
connecting to different memory chips on both sides of the
board, which allows for wider and faster data transfer (128-bit).
See SIMMs.
DMA
Direct Memory Access. A method for transferring data, usually
between memory and a disk drive, without going through the
CPU.
