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Glossary 363
recommended that you frequently save your files while you are working on them, and always save your files before you
shut down the computer. Your computer can contain several different forms of memory, such as RAM, ROM, and video
memory. Frequently, the word memory is used as a synonym for RAM.
memory address — A specific location where data is temporarily stored in RAM.
memory mapping — The process by which the computer assigns memory addresses to physical locations at start-up.
Devices and software can then identify information that the processor can access.
memory module — A small circuit board containing memory chips, which connects to the system board.
MHz — megahertz — A measure of frequency that equals 1 million cycles per second. The speeds for computer
processors, buses, and interfaces are often measured in MHz.
Mini PCI — A standard for integrated peripheral devices with an emphasis on communications such as modems and
NICs. A Mini PCI card is a small external card that is functionally equivalent to a standard PCI expansion card.
Mini-Card — A small card designed for integrated peripherals, such as communication NICs. The Mini-Card is
functionally equivalent to a standard PCI expansion card.
modem — A device that allows your computer to communicate with other computers over analog telephone lines. Three
types of modems include: external, PC Card, and internal. You typically use your modem to connect to the Internet and
exchange e-mail.
module bay — See media bay.
MP — megapixel — A measure of image resolution used for digital cameras.
ms — millisecond — A measure of time that equals one thousandth of a second. Access times of storage devices are often
measured in ms.
N
network adapter — A chip that provides network capabilities. A computer may include a network adapter on its system
board, or it may contain a PC Card with an adapter on it. A network adapter is also referred to as a NIC (network interface
controller).
NIC — See network adapter.
notification area — The section of the Windows taskbar that contains icons for providing quick access to programs and
computer functions, such as the clock, volume control, and print status. Also referred to as system tray.
ns — nanosecond — A measure of time that equals one billionth of a second.
NVRAM — nonvolatile random access memory — A type of memory that stores data when the computer is turned off or
loses its external power source. NVRAM is used for maintaining computer configuration information such as date, time,
and other system setup options that you can set.
O
optical drive — A drive that uses optical technology to read or write data from CDs, DVDs, or DVD+RWs. Example of
optical drives include CD drives, DVD drives, CD-RW drives, and CD-RW/DVD combo drives.