NEC SX, Service And Reference Manual

Page: 108 / 117

4 Glossary
M
megabyte
(MB) 1,048,576 bytes.
memory
Electronic storage area in a computer that retains information and programs. A
computer has two types of memory — read-only memory (ROM) and random
access memory (RAM).
menu
A video display of programs or options.
microprocessor
A semiconductor central processing unit that is the principal component of a
microcomputer. Usually contained on a single chip that includes an arithmetic logic
unit, control logic, and control-memory unit.
mode
A method of operation; for example, the NEC Versa operates in either normal or
power-saving modes.
modem
MOdulator-DEModulator. A device that links computers over a telephone line.
N
nonvolatile memory
Storage media that retains its data when system power is turned off. Nonvolatile
memory in the Versa is a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) chip
which is backed up by an internal battery. The backup battery preserves the
clock/calendar data and system configuration parameters stored in CMOS. See
volatile memory.
O
operating system
Set of programs that manage the overall operation of the computer.
overwrite
Storing information at a location where information is already stored, thus
destroying the original information.
P
page
A type of message transmission in which a message is sent or received via modem
to a paging device from a computer (with paging communications software) or
telephone.