Glossary 179DDR — Double-data rate. A technology in memory modules that potentially doublesthe output.device driver — A program that allows the operating system or some other program tointerface correctly with a peripheral. Some device drivers—such as network drivers—must be loaded from the config.sys file or as memory-resident programs (usually, fromthe autoexec.bat file). Others must load when you start the program for which theywere designed.DHCP — Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol. A method of automaticallyassigning an IP address to a client system.diagnostics — A comprehensive set of tests for your system.DIMM — Dual in-line memory module. See also memory module.DIN — Deutsche Industrie Norm.directory — Directories help keep related files organized on a disk in a hierarchical,“inverted tree” structure. Each disk has a “root” directory. Additional directories thatbranch off the root directory are called subdirectories. Subdirectories may containadditional directories branching off them.DMA — Direct memory access. A DMA channel allows certain types of data transferbetween RAM and a device to bypass the processor.DMI — Desktop Management Interface. DMI enables the management of yoursystem’s software and hardware by collecting information about the system’scomponents, such as the operating system, memory, peripherals, expansion cards, andasset tag.DNS — Domain Name System. A method of translating Internet domain names, suchas www.dell.com, into IP addresses, such as 143.166.83.200.DRAM — Dynamic random-access memory. A system’s RAM is usually made upentirely of DRAM chips.DVD — Digital versatile disc.ECC — Error checking and correction.EEPROM — Electronically erasable programmable read-only memory.EMC — Electromagnetic compatibility.EMI — Electromagnetic interference.ERA — Embedded remote access. ERA allows you to perform remote, or "out-of-band," server management on your network server using a Remote Access Controller.ESD — Electrostatic discharge.ESM — Embedded server management.
