Switch
An option added to an MS-DOS command that modifies the
way the command works. Switches are usually preceded by a /
(forward slash). For example, if you add the /S switch to a
FORMAT command, MS-DOS installs the operating system on a
diskette as it formats it. See Parameters.
System diagnostics
A series of checks you can perform on the computer to make sure
the hardware is functioning correctly.
System diskette
A diskette that contains the operating system.
Target diskette
The diskette to which you are copying data during a copy or
backup operation.
Tracks
Addressable, concentric circles on a disk, resembling the grooves
on a record, which help to divide the diskette into separate
accessible areas. There are 80 tracks on each side of a double-
sided 720KB, 1.2MB, and 1.44MB diskette and 40 tracks on each
side of a double-sided 360KB diskette. The number of tracks on a
hard disk depends on its capacity.
VGA
Video Graphics Array. A type of high-resolution color display
adapter that can display monochrome text and graphics at up to
720 x 400 resolution, 16-color graphics at up to 640 x 480
resolution, or 256-color graphics at 320 x 200 resolution.
Video card
The display adapter card that is installed in one of the computer’s
option slots. The video card provides the interface to which you
connect the monitor and it controls the way the monitor displays
text and graphics.
Glossary 15