Port
A physical input/output socket on a computer where you can
connect a peripheral device.
Power-on diagnostics
Tests that the computer runs to check its internal circuitry and
configuration each time you turn it on.
Power-on password
The sequence of characters you type after you turn on the
computer in order to access and use your system. A power-on
password can be up to seven characters long and can include
letters, numbers, and blank spaces.
Processor
speed
See Operating speed
Program
A disk file that contains coded instructions and tells a computer
what to do and how to do it.
Prompt
A message the screen displays to request information or tell you
what action you need to perform next. See also Command
prompt.
Random Access Memory. The portion of the computer’s
memory used to run programs and store data while you work.
All data stored in RAM is erased when you turn off or reset the
computer; so you must store any data you want to keep on a
diskette or hard disk.
Glossary 15