S1856 Tomahawk BX/A+
79
EDO RAM
(Extended Data-Out RAM) speeds access to memory locations
by assuming that memory addresses are static: the next time it looks for a bit of
data, it will be at the same spot, or one nearby.
EEPROM
Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM, also called Flash BIOS,
is a ROM chip which can, unlike normal ROM, be updated. This allows you to
keep up with changes in the BIOS programs without having to buy a new chip.
TYAN’s BIOS updates can be found at http://www.tyan.com/html/drivers.html
ESCD
(Extended System Configuration Data) is a format for storing informa-
tion about Plug and Play devices in the system BIOS. This information helps
properly configure the system each time it boots.
Firmware
is low level software that controls the system hardware.
Form factor
is an industry term for the size, shape, power supply type,
and external connector type of the PCB (personal computer board) or
motherboard. The standard form factors are the AT and ATX, although
TYAN also makes some Baby-AT boards.
A
Global timer
is an onboard hardware timer, such as the Real Time
Clock.
Handshaking
is a form of encryption. One system, typically the server,
sends an encryption scheme to another agent, typically a client. Thus, the
client’s data is protected during transmittal to the server.
HDD
stands for Hard Disk Drive.
H-SYNC
controls the horizontal properties of the monitor.
IC
(Integrated Circuit) is the formal name for the computer chip.
IDE
Integrated Device (or Drive) Electronics is a simple, self-contained
hard drive interface. It can handle drives up to 8.4GB in size. Almost all
IDEs sold now are in fact Enhanced IDEs (EIDEs).
GLOSSAR
Y