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Glossary
Double buffering The process of
using two frame buffers for smooth
animation. Graphical contents of one
frame buffer are displayed while
updates occur on the other buffer.
When the updates are complete, the
buffers are switched. Only complete
images are displayed, and the process
of drawing is not shown. The result is
the appearance of smooth animation.
DIMM Dual In-line Memory Module.
These memory modules provide a 64-
bit data path for improved system
performance.
DSP Digital Signal Processor.
ECC Error Correcting Code can
detect and correct data errors in
memory modules.
Eight-bit color The color range
possible with an eight-bit graphics
system. Each pixel in an 8-bit system
can display one of 256 colors (28) at
any given time. These colors are
typically obtained from a color map.
expansion slot A slot inside the
computer, connected to the system
board, that can be used for accessory
boards.
extended memory Memory which
can be addressed by the processor in
the area of memory above the first
1 MB.
Frame buffer Display memory that
temporarily stores (buffers) a full
frame of picture data at one time.
Frame buffers are composed of arrays
of bit values that correspond to the
display's pixels. The number of bits
per pixel in the frame buffer
determines the complexity of images
that can be displayed.
Graphical user interface (GUI)
The graphical user interface (GUI)
provides the user with a method of
interacting with the computer and its
special applications, usually via a
mouse or another selection device.
The GUI usually includes such things
as windows, an intuitive method of
manipulating directories and files,
and icons.
IDE Integrated Device Electronics.
An interface standard for
communications between the
computer and a hard disk or CD-ROM.
IRQ Interrupt Request. A signal, that
when received by the processor, halts
the current process and allows a
different task to be undertaken.
jumper An electrically-conductive
part that is used to connect two or
more points on a circuit board.
Commonly used to select
configuration options.
LAN Local Area Network. A general-
purpose communications network
that interconnects a variety of devices
within a limited geographical area. A
LAN might connect computers on
adjacent desks, within a building, or
within several buildings of a campus.
Mapping The transformation of one
coordinate system into another. In the