Specifications

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5.Glossary
ADDRESS:
A specific location in the memory of the computer where information about programs,
data and software drivers is stored. Peripheral devices such as mouse, modems, etc.
require a specific I/0 port address and interrupt in order to function properly.
BIOS: (BASIC INPUT OUTPUT SYSTEM)
That part of a ROM that is the interface between the system hardware and the
operating system. The ROM BIOS is a group of low level programs responsible for
interfacing the computer to peripheral devices, such as disk drives, serial and parallel
ports, keyboard, and video display. Low-level BIOS routines are common to all
operating systems and are generally resident in ROM. High-level BIOS routines are
specific to the particular operating system in use and are therefore generally stored on
disk, and loaded only when the operating system is booted.
BIT:
A binary digit that is the most reducible element of computer information. Eight bits
make one byte.
BOOT or BOOTSTRAP:
A small ROM-based program which is automatically loaded when the system is first
powered up (or "booted), in order to load and execute an operating system or other
large program from disk. Also, the process of starting the computer, either by turning on
the power, pressing the Reset switch or by pressing the CTRL + ALT + DEL keys
simultaneously. The latter is known as a "warm boot".
BYTE:
Smallest unit of storage required to hold a character of information in memory or on a
disk.
BUS CLOCK:
The speed at which data is transferred between the microprocessor and the I/O
channel.
CMOS:
Acronym for Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor. CMOS integrated circuitry
uses very little electrical power. Hence CMOS RAM is ideal for storing system
configuration information that cannot be stored permanently in ROM.
COM PORT:
Communication port where devices such as a mouse or an external modem are
attached.