Glossary 17
plug and play
Refers to the ability of a computer system to automatically configure
expansion boards and other devices. This enables you to plug in a
device and use it, without worrying about setting DIP switches,
jumpers, and other configuration elements.
port
Any connection by which data can enter or leave a computer or
peripheral. You plug cables into ports. Provides the means for an
interface between the microprocessor and external devices. A cable
connector is usually plugged into the port to attach the device to the
computer.
processor
In a computer, a functional unit that interprets and executes
instructions.
prompt
A special symbol indicating the beginning of an input line. Also a
message that appears on the screen indicating that the user must take
a certain action.
R
RAM
Random Access Memory. A storage device into which data is entered
and from which data is retrieved in a nonsequential manner. On the
system board, RAM is semiconductor-based memory that can be read
and written to by the microprocessor or other hardware devices. In
RAM, data can be directly and randomly read or written (with any
choice for the address). It’s the storage location for data that needs to
be immediately available for every application in use on your
computer.
read
To extract data from a storage device such as a diskette.
ROM
Read-Only Memory. Memory in which stored data cannot be
modified by the user except under special conditions.