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Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide
Glossary
94
nN
CD-ROM
Abbreviation for Compact Disc Read-Only Memory. A high-capacity optical disc, usually 650
MB in size, capable of being read from but not written to.
CD-RW
Short for Compact Disc-ReWriteable. Compact Disc that can be used to write or rewrite data
to it. A CD-RW can be written to several times, a CD-R can only be written to once.
CNR
Short for Communication and Networking Riser. A hardware device that plugs into a
motherboard and holds chips for functions like modems and audio devices.
CPU
The CPU (Central Processing Unit) is the brains of the computer; it processes the instructions
of your system’s programs. The CPU is also known as the processor or microprocessor and can
be found on the motherboard of your computer.
CRT
A cathode ray tube (CRT) is a specialized vacuum tube in which images are produced when
an electron beam strikes a phosphorescent surface. Most desktop computer displays make
use of CRTs. The CRT in a computer display is similar to the "picture tube" in a television
receiver.
DC In
The Direct Current interface to which you connect your computer’s AC adapter.
Driver
A driver is software enabling you to use hardware devices. For example, in order for you to
be able to use a printer, you must first install its driver. Many drivers, such as the mouse
driver, come with the operating system.
DVD-ROM
Short for Digital Versatile Disc. A type of read-only CD with a minimum capacity of 4.7 GB
(maximum capacity can reach 17 GB). This high storage power makes it the ideal medium for
storing films.
DVD-RW
Short for DVD-Rewriteable. A DVD format that allows the user to record and erase multiple
times on a single DVD disc. By comparison, a DVD-R can only be written to once.
DVD+RW
A slightly different rewritable DVD format, DVD+RW is backed by a group of companies
known as the DVD+RW Consortium, which includes Sony. Its advantages include high-
compatibility, high-capacity and easy-to-use functionality.
DVD±RW drive
The DVD±RW drive is both a DVD-RW and DVD+RW drive.