Format
When a hard disk is formatted, the computer writes a magnetic track pattern onto a disk surface,
specifying the locations of the tracks and sectors. This information must exist on a hard disk before it
can store data.
FTP (File Transfer Protocol)
In the Internet suite of protocols, an application layer protocol that uses TCP and Telnet services to
transfer bulk-data files between machines or hosts.
Hard Disk Drive (HDD)
A stand alone disk drive that reads and writes data on rigid disks and can be attached to a port on the
system unit. Synonymous with fixed disk drive, hard drive.
Head
The tiny electromagnetic coil and metal pole used to create and read back magnetic patterns on the disk.
HPFS (High Performance File System)
HPFS is the file system used by OS/2. HPFS is more efficient, gives better performance and
resists fragmentation better that FAT.
Interface
A hardware or software protocol (contained in the electronics of the disk controller and drive) that
manages the exchange of data between the hard disk drive and the computer. The most common
interfaces for small computer systems are ATA (IDE) and SCSI.
Jumpers and Jumper Settings
Jumpers are small pieces of plastic with a conductive center. Jumpers are used to connect pins on a
device to provide settings that are changeable by the user, but remain constant during operation.
LVD(Low Voltage Differential)
Also known as Ultra2SCSI. A highly compatible computer disk drive interface that is faster and more
reliable than previous SCSI.
Motherboard
The Motherboard holds the computer's main processors and circuitry. It also contains the
memory, BIOS, interconnection circuitry and the expansion slots.
Multi-mode
The drive can operate on an LVD bus or a single-ended bus.
NTFS (NT File System)
NTFS is an advanced file system used by Windows NT. NTFS provides built-in compression,
large partition support and better performance.
Operating System
Software that controls the execution of programs and that may provide services such as resource
allocation, scheduling, input/output control, and data management. Although operating systems are
predominantly software, partial hardware implementations are possible.
OS/2
IBM storage products
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IBM Hard Disk Drive Technical Support Center version 1.0
