Epson LT - 286e - Manual (Page 146)

Operating system
A collection of programs that allows a computer to control all
of its operations. The operating system determines how
programs run on the computer and supervises all input and
output. Your computer comes with MS-DOS, an operating
system by Microsoft.
Option card
A circuit board you install in a slot in your main unit. Option
cards provide additional capabilities, such as a mouse, fax, or
network. The expansion slot on the LT-286e is accessed from
the bottom of the computer.
Parallel
A type of interface that transmits data in groups of bits.
Distinguished from serial, a type of interface in which bits are
transmitted one at a time.
Parameter
A term added to a command that tells the computer how to
perform the command (for example, what data file to use or
what particular conditions to expect).
Parity
A bit used to verify the accuracy of data.
Partition
To divide a hard disk into logical sections for use by one or
more operating systems. You must partition a hard disk before
you can use it, even if you intend to install only one operating
system on the disk.
Glossary
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