Specifications

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CONFIG.SYS:
A file usually located in the root directory of the boot disk that contains information
required to load installable device drivers and other system configuration parameters.
CONVENTIONAL MEMORY:
System main memory from 0 to 640KB. Many programs run in this area.
COPROCESSOR:
An auxiliary processor that reduces microprocessor overhead and increases system
speed by executing certain math related functions. System with a Pentium

processor,
the math coprocessor is built into the microprocessor.
CPU: (CENTRAL PROCESSING UNIT)
Also called the microprocessor. The “brain" of the computer, where program
instructions and arithmetic operations are executed.
CPU CLOCK:
The speed at which the microprocessor executes its instructions.
DOS: (DISK OPERATING SYSTEM)
Software that controls the activities performed by the computer. DOS sets up an
environment under which application software can load and function. It is an interface
between the system and application software.
DRAM: (DYNAMIC RANDOM ACCESS MEMORY)
A type of RAM that requires a refresh cycle to keep information valid. Main system
memory uses DRAM.
EXPANSION SLOT:
A connector on the system board into which an adapter card can be inserted.
EXTENDED MEMORY:
Memory beyond the 1 MBYTES limit that is accessed by programs such as Windows.
HERTZ:
A unit of frequency which is equivalent to one cycle per second.
INTERFACE:
The connection between the system board and a peripheral.
INTERLEAVING:
A technique for improving system performance by speeding up memory access.
Successive memory locations are assigned to different memory banks. Then, when the
system requires the information, it accesses both banks simultaneously rather than
having to access a single bank sequentially.