LaCie Big Disk
Triple Interface
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Glossary
and data programmed directly into the circuitry of a
programmable read-only memory or an electronically-
erasable, programmable read-only memory chip. Used
for controlling the operation of the computer or tape
drive. Distinct from the software, which is stored in ran-
dom access memory and can be altered.
Folder –
A list created on a disk to store files. Creating
folders and sub-folders enables you to organize the stor-
age of your files in a logical, hierarchical manner so that
you can find and manage them more easily.
Format, -ting, -ted –
This is a process where a device
is prepared to record data. In this process, the hard disk
writes special information onto its own recording sur-
faces into areas (blocks) that are ready to accept user
data. Since this operation causes all current user data
stored on the hard disk to be lost, this is an infrequent
operation that usually only happens at the factory that
created the hard disk. It is unusual for something to
happen to a hard disk that requires the end-user to ini-
tially perform this operation.
GB (GigaByte) –
This value is normally associated with
data storage capacity. Basically, it means a thousand mil-
lion or a billion bytes. In fact, it equals 1,073,741,824
bytes (or 1,024 x 1,024 x 1,024).
Hardware –
Physical components of a computer sys-
tem, including the computer itself and peripherals such
as printers, modems, mice, etc.
Host Bus Adapter (HBA) –
A printed circuit board
that installs in a standard microcomputer and an inter-
face between the device controller and the computer.
Also called a controller.
Initialize, -ed, Initialization –
After a hard drive (or
other storage device) is formatted and partitioned, some
special data needs to be written to it that helps the Mac
and Windows create files and save data. The process is
called initialization. This process, like formatting, causes
all user data on the storage device to be lost.
Interface –
The protocol data transmitters, data receiv-
ers, logic and wiring that link one piece of computer
equipment to another, such as a hard drive to an adapter
or an adapter to a system bus. Protocol means a set of
rules for operating the physical interface, such as: do not
read or write before the drive is ready.
I/O (Input/Output) –
Refers to an operation, program
or device whose purpose is to enter data into or to ex-
tract data from a computer.
Isochronous –
Data transfer method that ensures that
data flows continuously and at a steady rate. These trans-
fers provide guaranteed transmission opportunities at
defined intervals.
Kb (Kilobit) –
Equivalent to 1,000 bits.
Kb/s –
Kilobits per second. 480Kb/s is equal to 60KB/
s.
KB/s –
Kilobytes per second. A means of measuring
throughput.
Mb (Megabit) –
Equivalent to 1,000,000 bits.
Mb/s –
Megabits per second. A means of measuring
throughput. 480Mb/s is equal to 60MB/s.
MB/s –
Megabytes per second. A means of measuring
throughput.
Media –
The material or device used to store informa-
tion in a storage subsystem, such as a tape cartridge, CD,
DVD or disk drive.
Operating System (OS) –
Software that controls the
assignment and use of hardware resources such as mem-
ory, processor time, disk space and peripherals. An op-
erating system is the basis on which software (applica-
tions) run. Windows, Mac OS and UNIX are among
the most common.
Overwrite –
To write data on top of existing data thus
erasing the original data.
Partition, -ing –
After formatting, the hard drive is not
yet ready to store files. It must be divided into sections
that will contain special information required for a Mac
or PC to operate and other sections that will contain the
files. This process of dividing up the hard drive is called
