Glossary 285
compliant.
POST — power-on self-test — Diagnostics programs, loaded automatically by the
BIOS, that perform basic tests on the major computer components, such as memory,
hard drives, and video. If no problems are detected during POST, the computer
continues the start-up.
processor — A computer chip that interprets and executes program instructions.
Sometimes the processor is referred to as the CPU (central processing unit).
PS/2 — personal system/2 — A type of connector for attaching a PS/2-compatible
keyboard, mouse, or keypad.
PXE — pre-boot execution environment — A WfM (Wired for Management)
standard that allows networked computers that do not have an operating system to be
configured and started remotely.
R
RAID — redundant array of independent disks — A method of providing data
redundancy. Some common implementations of RAID include RAID 0, RAID 1,
RAID 5, RAID 10, and RAID 50.
RAM — random-access memory — The primary temporary storage area for program
instructions and data. Any information stored in RAM is lost when you shut down your
computer.
readme file — A text file included with a software package or hardware product.
Typically, readme files provide installation information and describe new product
enhancements or corrections that have not yet been documented.
read-only — Data and/or files you can view but cannot edit or delete. A file can have
read-only status if:
• It resides on a physically write-protected floppy disk, CD, or DVD.
• It is located on a network in a directory and the system administrator has assigned
rights only to specific individuals.
refresh rate — The frequency, measured in Hz, at which your screen's horizontal lines
are recharged (sometimes also referred to as its vertical frequency). The higher the
refresh rate, the less video flicker can be seen by the human eye.
resolution — The sharpness and clarity of an image produced by a printer or displayed
on a monitor. The higher the resolution, the sharper the image.
RFI — radio frequency interference — Interference that is generated at typical radio
frequencies, in the range of 10 kHz to 100,000 MHz. Radio frequencies are at the
lower end of the electromagnetic frequency spectrum and are more likely to have
interference than the higher frequency radiations, such as infrared and light.
book.book Page 285 Tuesday, August 28, 2007 10:20 AM
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