User's Guide

Mbps — megabits per second — One million bits per second. This measurement is typically used for

transmission speeds for networks and modems.

MB — megabyte — A measurement of data storage that equals 1,048,576 bytes. 1 MB equals 1024 KB. When

used to refer to hard drive storage, the term is often rounded to 1,000,000 bytes.

MB/sec — megabytes per second — One million bytes per second. This measurement is typically used for

data transfer ratings.

memory — A temporary data storage area inside your computer. Because the data in memory is not

permanent, it is recommended that you frequently save your files while you are working on them, and always

save your files before you shut down the computer. Your computer can contain several different forms of

memory, such as RAM, ROM, and video memory. Frequently, the word memory is used as a synonym for

RAM.

memory address — A specific location where data is temporarily stored in RAM.

memory mapping — The process by which the computer assigns memory addresses to physical locations at

start-up. Devices and software can then identify information that the microprocessor can access.

memory module — A small circuit board containing memory chips, which connects to the system board.

MHz — megahertz — A measure of frequency that equals 1 million cycles per second. The speeds for

computer microprocessors, buses, and interfaces are often measured in MHz.

microprocessor — A computer chip that interprets and executes program instructions. Sometimes the

microprocessor is referred to as the processor or the CPU (central processing unit).

modem — A device that allows your computer to communicate with other computers over analog telephone

lines. Three types of modems include: external, PC Card, and internal. You typically use your modem to

connect to the Internet and exchange e-mail.

module bay — A bay that supports devices such as optical drives, a second battery, or a Dell TravelLite™

module.

monitor — The high-resolution TV-like device that displays computer output.

mouse — A pointing device that controls the movement of the cursor on your screen. Typically you roll the

mouse over a hard, flat surface to move the pointer or cursor on your screen.

ms — millisecond — A measure of time that equals one thousandth of a second. Access times of storage

devices are often measured in ms.

network adapter — A chip that provides network capabilities. A computer may include a network adapter on

its system board, or it may contain a PC Card with an adapter on it. A network adapter is also referred to as a

NIC (network interface controller).

NIC — See network adapter.

notification area — The section of the Windows taskbar that contains icons for providing quick access to

programs and computer functions, such as the clock, volume control, and print status. Also referred to as

e 8 of 14Glossar

1/13/2004file://C:\Documents%20and%20Settin

s\msclark1\Local%20Settin

s\Tem

\~hhBAF1.htm