Parallel
The type of interface that transmits data in groups of bits. See
Interface and SeriaI.
Parameter
A qualifier added to a command that tells the computer what
particular conditions to look for.
Parent directory
The directory immediately above a given directory in the
directory tree. In pathnames, the parent directory is represented
by the symbol .. (two periods).
Data signals sent during communications to detect errors in
transmitting or receiving data.
Partition
The area defined on a hard disk for use by an operating system;
to divide a hard disk into separate sections or logical drives.
Pathname
The list of directories and subdirectories you need to specify to
locate a file. For example, the pathname for the file SALES
which is located in the subdirectory BUSINESS of the root
directory (\) is \BUSINESS\SALES.
Peripheral
A device (such as a printer or a modem) connected to a
computer that depends on the computer for its operation.
Port
A physical input/output socket on a computer where you can
connect a peripheral device.
Parity