Glossary 211memory address — A specific location where data is temporarily stored in RAM.memory mapping — The process by which the computer assigns memory addresses tophysical locations at start-up. Devices and software can then identify information thatthe processor can access.memory module — A small circuit board containing memory chips, which connects tothe system board.MHz — megahertz — A measure of frequency that equals 1 million cycles per second.The speeds for computer processors, buses, and interfaces are often measured in MHz.Mini PCI — A standard for integrated peripheral devices with an emphasis oncommunications such as modems and NICs. A Mini PCI card is a small external cardthat is functionally equivalent to a standard PCI expansion card.Mini-Card — A small card designed for integrated peripherals, such ascommunication NICs. The Mini-Card is functionally equivalent to a standard PCIexpansion card.modem — A device that allows your computer to communicate with other computersover analog telephone lines. Three types of modems include: external, PC Card, andinternal. You typically use your modem to connect to the Internet and exchange e-mail.module bay — See media bay.MP — megapixel — A measure of image resolution used for digital cameras.ms — millisecond — A measure of time that equals one thousandth of a second.Access times of storage devices are often measured in ms.Nnetwork adapter — A chip that provides network capabilities. A computer mayinclude a network adapter on its system board, or it may contain a PC Card with anadapter on it. A network adapter is also referred to as a NIC (network interfacecontroller).NIC — See network adapter.notification area — The section of the Windows taskbar that contains icons forproviding quick access to programs and computer functions, such as the clock, volumecontrol, and print status. Also referred to as system tray.ns — nanosecond — A measure of time that equals one billionth of a second.NVRAM — nonvolatile random access memory — A type of memory that stores datawhen the computer is turned off or loses its external power source. NVRAM is used formaintaining computer configuration information such as date, time, and other system
