Toshiba PPM78U05L01E User Manual

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Glossary-6
User’s Manual
PORTÉGÉ M780
data bits: A data communications parameter controlling the number of bits 
(binary digits) used to make up a byte. If data bits = 7 the computer 
can generate 128 unique characters. If data bits = 8 the computer 
can generate 256 unique characters.
DC: Direct Current. Electric current that flows in one direction. This type of 
power is usually supplied by batteries.
default: The parameter value automatically selected by the system when 
you or the program do not provide instructions. Also called a preset 
value.
delete: To remove data from a disk or other data storage device. 
Synonymous with erase.
device driver: A program that controls communication between a specific 
peripheral device and the computer.
dialog box: A window that accepts user input to make system settings or 
record other information.
disk drive: The device that randomly accesses information on a disk and 
copies it to the computer’s memory. It also writes data from memory 
to the disk. To accomplish these tasks, the unit physically rotates the 
disk at high speed past a read-write head.
disk storage: Storing data on magnetic disk. Data is arranged on 
concentric tracks much like a phonograph record.
display: A CRT, LCD, or other image producing device used to view 
computer output.
documentation: The set of manuals and/or other instructions written for 
the users of a computer system or application. Computer system 
documentation typically includes procedural and tutorial information 
as well as system functions. 
DOS: Disk Operating System. See operating system.
driver: A software program, generally part of the operating system, that 
controls a specific piece of hardware (frequently a peripheral device 
such as a printer or mouse).
DVD-R (+R, -R): A Digital Versatile Disc-Recordable disk can be written 
once and read many times. The DVD-R drive uses a laser to read 
data from the disc.
DVD-RAM: A Digital Versatile Disc-Random Access Memory is a 
high-capacity, high performance disc that lets you store large 
volumes of data. The DVD-ROM drive uses a laser to read data 
from the disc.
DVD-R (Dual Layer): A disc having two layers on one side with the DVD-R 
storage capacity about 1.8 times larger than before. The DVD-RW 
drive uses a laser to read data from the disc.
DVD-ROM: A Digital Versatile Disc-Read Only Memory is a high capacity, 
high performance disc suitable for play back of video and other 
high-density files. The DVD-ROM drive uses a laser to read data 
from the disc.