Glossary 1
Glossary
A
applications programs
Software designed to perform specific functions, like solving business or mathematical
problems.
AC Adapter
A device that connects an NEC Versa portable computer and an AC wall outlet to provide
AC power for running the system or recharging the battery.
B
base RAM
Area of system memory between 0 and 640 kilobytes available to the user for operating
system and application programs.
BIOS
Basic Input Output System. A collection of primitive computer routines, usually burnt into
ROM, that controls the real-time clock, keyboard, disk drives, video display, and other
peripheral devices.
bit
Binary digit. The smallest unit of computer data.
bits per second
(bps) A unit of transmission. Also called baud rate.
board
Printed circuit board. Board onto which computer components are soldered and thin wires
are printed to connect the components.
boot
To start up a computer. See cold boot and warm boot.
bus
An electronic circuit within a computer used for transmitting data or electrical power from
one device to another.
byte
Group of eight contiguous bits.
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