Glossary
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LaCie Big Disk User’s Manual
9. 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 retrieval in case the original is erased, damaged, or destroyed.
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 comprised 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, considered 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 (usually RAM) set aside to store frequently used data from electro-mechani-
cal storage (hard drives, floppy disks, CD/DVD-ROM, tape cartridges, etc.) Therefore, storing frequently used data in RAM
can enhance your system’s overall response to disk-intensive operations significantly.
Configuration –
When talking about a PC, configuration 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 system and various device managers (drivers), as
well as hardware settings and options set by the user via configuration files.
Controller –
This is a component or an electronic card (referred to in this case as a "controller card") that enables a computer
to communicate with or manage certain peripherals. The controller manages the operation of the peripheral associated 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
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