Epson QX-10 - Manual (Page 22)

The QX-10 uses RAM-random access memory-which can be
both written into and read. Normally RAM is lost when a com-
puter is switched OFF, but the QX-10 has 2K of CMOS RAM, which
enables it to retain some data when you turn OFF the power. (More
about CMOS RAM later.)
Programs
Almost everyone who has heard of a computer has also heard
the terms program or programmer associated with computers. What
is a program?
A program is a set of instructions that direct a computer to per-
form a specific task. An application program is designed for specific
types of projects such as word processing or general ledger. Pro-
grams can be short and simple or long and complicated.
The operating system is the program that acts as the traffic cop
between the application program, the computer, and the various
peripheral devices (printers, modems, etc.). Without an operating
system to manage the computer, it would be unable to operate
effectively.
Your QX-10 has either a CP/M ® or a TPM-II™ operating system.
TPM-II runs any application program written for CP/M. However
application programs written for TPM-II do not necessarily run
under the CP/M operating system.
The QX-10 Keyboard
Your QX-10 comes with a new version of the HASCI™
keyboard. HASCI (pronounced has-key) is short for Human Ap-
plications Standard Computer Interface. This streamlined keyboard
is similar to a standard typewriter keyboard. It contains some ad-
ditional keys not found on a typewriter, but they are convenient-
ly placed and easy to use. The additional keys on the HASCI
keyboard are especially designed to work with the Valdocs system
as well as any other software package.
The HASCI keyboard has a series of dedicated keys: four system
control keys, five file control keys, five applications keys, and four
typestyle keys-all labelled in English and programmed to per-