LaCie Big Disk
Triple Interface
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Glossary
Glossary
Asynchronous –
Data transfer method where the data is
transferred independently of other processes. With this
transfer method, the intervals between transmissions
can vary, and data can be resent if it is initially missed.
Backup –
(1) The act of creating at least one additional
copy of data onto a different (and safe) storage device
from where it can be retrieved at a later time if needed.
(2) A copy of a file, directory, or volume on a separate
storage device from the original, for the purposes of re-
trieval in case the original is erased, damaged, or de-
stroyed.
Bit –
The smallest measure of computerized data, either
a 1 or a 0. Eight bits equal one byte, or one character.
Block –
A very small section of the storage media com-
prised of one or more sectors. A block is the smallest
amount of space allocated on a drive for data storage. By
default, a sector of data consists of 512 bytes.
Buffer –
RAM cache that is faster than the data that is
being delivered. Buffers are used so data may be stored
and delivered to the receiving item as it is needed.
Bus
– Electronic links that enable data to flow between
the processor, RAM and extension cables (peripherals).
Byte –
A sequence of adjacent binary digits, or bits, con-
sidered as a unit, 8 bits in length. There are 8 bits in 1
byte. See also MB (Megabyte) or GB (Gigabyte).
Cache, -ing –
This is an area of electronic storage (usu-
ally RAM) set aside to store frequently used data from
electromechanical storage (hard drives, floppy disks,
CD/DVD-ROM, tape cartridges, etc.) Therefore, stor-
ing frequently used data in RAM can enhance your
system’s overall response to disk-intensive operations
significantly.
Configuration –
When talking about a PC, configu-
ration is understood to be the sum of the internal and
external components of the system, including memory,
disk drives, the keyboard, the video subsystem and other
peripherals, such as the mouse, modem or printer. The
configuration also implies software: the operating sys-
tem and various device managers (drivers), as well as
hardware settings and options set by the user via con-
figuration files.
Controller –
This is a component or an electronic card
(referred to in this case as a “controller card,” such as
PCI or PCMCIA cards) that enables a computer to
communicate with or manage certain peripherals. The
controller manages the operation of the peripheral asso-
ciated with it, and links the PC bus to the peripheral via
a ribbon cable inside the PC. An external controller is
an expansion card which fills one of the free slots inside
your PC and which enables a peripheral (CD-ROM
drive, scanner or printer, for instance) to be connected
to the computer.
Cross-platform –
Term that refers to a device that is
able to be operated by both Mac and Windows operat-
ing systems.
Data Stream –
The flow of data that accomplishes a task,
usually related to moving data from storage to computer
RAM or between storage devices.
Digital –
Discrete information that can be broken down
to zero or one bits.
Driver (peripheral manager) –
A software component
that enables the computer system to communicate with
a peripheral. Most peripherals will not operate correctly
– if at all – if the appropriate drivers are not installed on
the system.
File System –
Links the physical map of a disc to its
logical structure. Thanks to the file system, users and
computers can easily display path, directories and files
recorded onto the disc.
Firmware –
Permanent or semi-permanent instructions
