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math coprocessor: A special processor that performs arithmetic calculations on
exponential numbers. Since a computer’s main processor calculates with
integers, a math coprocessor can greatly improve system speed if you work
with large spreadsheets or some graphics programs. Some processor chips
include a built-in math coprocessor.
megabyte (MB): A unit of data storage equal to 1024 KB. Although mega means million,
one megabyte is actually 1,048,576 bytes (1024 x 1024 bytes).
memory: Chips the computer uses for temporary information storage. Information in
memory is available to the computer for processing. Two types of memory are
Random Access Memory (RAM) and Read-Only Memory (ROM). See
Random Access Memory and Read-Only Memory.
menu: A list of options on the screen, from which you can choose.
microphone: An input device that converts sound into electronic signals that can be
recorded or amplified.
microprocessor: A single integrated circuit (“chip”) that executes instructions, and
monitors and controls functions. One such chip forms the Central Processing
Unit (CPU) of a computer.
MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface): A standard for connecting musical
instruments, synthesizers and computers. The MIDI standard provides a way
of translating music into a form computers can use, and vice versa.
MIPS (Millions of Instructions Per Second): A means of measuring a computer
processor’s performance.
mode: An operational state or method of operation, for example, Sleep Mode.
modem: A device for transmitting computer information over telephone lines. A modem
converts (modulates) digital information for transmission and also converts
(demodulates) information it receives back to digital format. Many modems
also interpret and execute commands received from the computer.
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