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258 Glossary
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CPU
Central processing unit. A computer chip that
interprets and executes program instructions. Also
referred to as the microprocessor.
CRIMM
Continuity Rambus in-line memory module (RIMM).
Module that provides electrical continuity through
the Rambus channel when the channel is not fully
populated. All Rambus slots in a system must be filled
with either a RIMM or a CRIMM.
D-Sub
See Subminiature-D.
DAT
Digital audio tape. A type of magnetic tape originally
designed for audio format, now also used in
computers to back up data. DAT cassettes are about
the physical size of audio cassettes and can store
numerous GB of data.
Data Striping
The segmentation of logically sequential data, such
as a single file, so that segments can be written to
multiple devices, usually hard drives, in a round-robin
manner. This method is useful if the microprocessor
i s c apa bl e o f tr an sf er ri ng da t a f ast er th an a s i n gl e d riv e
can supply or accept it. While data is being
transferred from the first drive, the second drive can
locate the next segment.
dB
Decibel(s). A measurement of relative loudness of a
sound or, in electronics, for the relative difference
between two power levels.
DC
Direct current. An electric current flowing in one
direction only. See AC.
DCE
Data communication equipment. In computer data
transmission, DCE is the RS-232 interface that a
modem or other serial device uses to exchange data
with the computer. See also DTE.
Device
Any piece of equipment that is not part of the
essential computer (such as the microprocessor,
RAM, and data buses) but is connected to or installed
in the computer. Some devices are installed inside
the main part of the computer, such as the hard drive,
CD drive, and network adapter. Other devices are
outside the computer, such as the printer, but are
attached by a cable or wireless connection.
DIMM
Dual in-line memory module. A slim circuit board
containing RAM chips, as does a SIMM. DIMMs
normally have 168 pins. See also RIMM.
DIN
Deutsche Industrie Normenausschuss. A German
standards organization and member of ISO.
DIN is also a form of connector on your computer
that is round, has 5 pins, and is typically used to
connect AT keyboard cable connectors. See also
Mini-DIN.
DMA
Direct memory access. An electronic pathway or direct
channel on which a device can bypass the
microprocessor and transfer data directly to RAM. A
DMA channel is often one of the resources assigned
when configuring an expansion card or EIDE drive.
DMA is a recent alternative to PIO.
DMI
Desktop Management Interface. A standard of WfM
that provides a method to determine various
management attributes of a computer through the
use of a standard software interface.
DMTF
Distributed Management Task Force. An industry
organization leading the development, adoption, and
unification of management standards and initiatives