Compaq 1200 - Manual (Page 145)

P RESARIO N OTEBOOK B EYOND S ETUP G UIDE G LOSSARY -11
1200 S ERIES
processor (short for microprocessor).
The brains of the computer.
See microprocessor.
product key A unique series of letters
and numbers that are assigned to each
software package you buy. You are asked
to enter the product key when you install
the software. When you register the
software, you transmit the product key to
the manufacturer to enter in a customer
database. Later, when you call for
technical support, you are asked for the
product key. The technician matches it
against the database to determine whether
you qualify for support. You should keep a
record of all product keys to protect your
investment. They are comparable to the
serial numbers on hardware. See software.
program Software that you install on a
computer for word processing, drawing,
manipulating photos, reconciling your
bank statement, calculating your taxes,
composing music, or playing games. It is
occasionally referred to as an application.
See software.
4
QuickDock A device that provides ports
for external devices, allowing you to
“dock” and remove your Notebook while
your hardware remains connected to the
QuickDock.
5
RAM (random access memory) The
main memory of the computer. It holds a
copy of the operating system, any
programs that are running on the computer,
and any data that is being processed. RAM
is temporary memory; turning off the
computer clears RAM. The more RAM
your computer has, the faster the programs
respond. See main memory. See also ROM.
right-click To push down and quickly
release the right mouse button to display a
shortcut menu of the most commonly used
commands for the item you clicked. See
pop-up menu.
ROM (read-only memory) Memory
that contains the basic instructions for the
microprocessor. ROM is permanent
memory; turning off the computer does not
erase it. Since you cannot change or write
to ROM, it is referred to as read only.
See microprocessor.
6
scanner A device that creates digital
images of printed documents and
photographs. Software allows you to save
and edit the images on the computer. See
digital. See also software.