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Subdirectory
A directory or group of files that branches down from
another subdirectory or from the root directory.
Switch
An option added to an MS-DOS command that redirects
the way the command works. Switches must be preceded
by a / (forward slash). For example, if you add the /S
switch to a FORMAT command, MS-DOS installs the
operating system on the diskette as it formats it.
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 that you are writing or copying data to during
a copy or backup operation.
Tracks
Addressable, concentric circles on a diskette, 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 diskette and 40 tracks on each side
of a double-sided 360KB diskette.
Wildcard
A character that represents an unknown character or group
of characters. The wildcard character * (asterisk) represents
a group of characters, and the wildcard character ?
(question mark) represents a single character.
Write
To store data on a disk.
Write-protect
To prevent a diskette from being overwritten by setting the
write-protect switch on a 3
+-inch
diskette or by placing a
write-protect tab over the notch on the side of a 5
$
-inch
diskette. When a diskette is write-protected, you cannot
erase, change, or record over its contents.
Glossary
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