Toshiba Satellite Pro U400 - Manual (Page 170)

User’s Manual Glossary-11
Glossary
password: A unique string of characters used to identify a specific user.
The computer provides various levels of password protection such
as user and supervisor.
PC card: A credit-card-sized expansion card designed to increase the
capabilities of notebook computers. PC Cards provide functions
such as modem, fax/modem, hard disk drive, network adapter,
sound card, or SCSI adapter.
PCI: Peripheral Component Interconnect. An industry standard 32-bit bus.
peripheral: Any device, such as a printer or joystick, that is attached to the
computer and controlled by the computer's CPU.
pixel: A picture element. The smallest dot that can be made on a display or
printer. Also called a pel.
plug and play: A capability with Windows that enables the system to
automatically recognize connections of external devices and make
the necessary configurations in the computer.
pointing device: Any device, such as the TouchPad or a mouse, that
enables you to move the cursor on the screen.
port: The electrical connection through which the computer sends and
receives data to and from devices or other computers.
Power Saver: A TOSHIBA utility that lets you set the parameters for
various power-saving functions.
program: A set of instructions a computer can execute that enables it to
achieve a desired result. See also application.
prompt: A message the computer provides indicating it is ready for or
requires information or an action from you.
R
Radio frequency interference (RFI) shield: A metal shield enclosing the
printed circuit boards of the printer or computer to prevent radio and
TV interference. All computer equipment generates radio frequency
signals. The FCC regulates the amount of signals a computing
device can allow past its shielding. A Class A device is sufficient for
office use. Class B provides a more stringent classification for home
equipment use. TOSHIBA portable computers comply with Class B
computing device regulations.
Random Access Memory (RAM): Volatile memory that can be written to
as well as read. Volatile here means that information in RAM is lost
when you turn off your computer. This type of memory is used for
your computer’s main memory. See also memory. Compare ROM.
Read Only Memory (ROM): Non-volatile memory that can be read but not
written to. Non-volatile here means that information in ROM remains
whether or not the computer is receiving power. This type of
memory is used to store your computer’s BIOS, which is essential
instructions the computer reads when you start it up. See also
BIOS, memory. Compare RAM.