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Glossary Glossary-5
disc
See compact disc.
diskette
A storage device made of flexible plastic film coated with iron oxide cased in a hard
plastic shell. Also known as a 3.5" or floppy diskette. See floppy.
diskette drive
A device that enables a computer to read data from and write data to diskettes.
Disk Operating
System (DOS)
The generic name for the Microsoft Disk Operating System (MS-DOS).
DOS
See Disk Operating System.
double-click
To press the left mouse button twice in rapid succession.
download
To transfer a copy of a file from a remote computer. Contrast upload.
drive
A device that enables the reading and sometimes writing of data to a storage device.
See CD drive, diskette drive, DVD drive, hard drive, Zip drive.
driver
A program that enables the Microsoft Windows operating system to recognize and
operate devices installed in or attached to a computer, such as a PCI card or a printer.
See Plug and Play.
DSL
See digital subscriber line.
DSL modem
A device used to connect to the Internet using digital subscriber line service through
standard telephone lines. See digital subscriber line.
duplex
Describes a communication channel that is always open in both directions. In
telecommunications, it refers to the ability of both parties to transmit and receive
signals at the same time. Also known as full duplex. Compare half duplex.
DVD
See digital versatile disc.
e-mail
See electronic mail.
electronic mail
A method of sending messages and files across a network or the Internet.
enabling
software
An instruction set that must be installed before the associated hardware device can
function.
Ethernet
A family of data link protocols that specifies how data is transferred over a network.
An category 5 unshielded, twisted pair cable used to connect computers.