Personal Computer User Manual

Diagnostics
The tests and procedures the computer performs to check its
internal circuitry and set up its configuration.
DIP switch
A small switch on a computer, option card, or printer that
controls a particular function. DIP stands for Dual In-line
Package.
Directory
A list of files stored in a particular area on a disk; part of a
structure for organizing files into groups. A directory listing
shows the name, location, and size of the files in the directory.
A directory can contain both files and subdirectories.
Disk
The collective term for diskettes and hard disks.
Disk drive
The physical device that allows the computer to read from and
write to a disk. A diskette drive has a disk slot into which you
insert a diskette. A hard disk is sealed inside a protective unit.
Diskette
A flat piece of flexible plastic coated with magnetic material
and used to store data permanently.
Display adapter card
The circuit board installed in one of the computer’s option slots
that provides the interface to which you connect the monitor.
The display adapter card controls the way the monitor displays
text and graphics. Also known as Video card.
Glossary 7