O-P

O-P

operating system

A sequence of programming codes that instructs a computer about its various parts and peripherals and how to operate them. Operating systems, such as Windows, deal only with the workings of the hardware and are separate from software programs.

parallel

A type of external port used to connect printers and other similar devices.

path

The collection of folders and subfolders (listed in order of hierarchy) that hold a particular file.

peripheral

A device connected to the computer that provides communication or auxiliary functions.

pixel

The individual picture elements that combine to create a video image.

Plug and Play (PnP)

Hardware that includes its manufacturer and model information in its ROM, enabling Windows to recognize it immediately upon startup and install the necessary drivers if not already set up.

pop-up

A small browser window, typically without menus or other navigational elements, that opens seemingly of its own accord when you visit or leave another website.

port

An interface on a computer to which you can connect a device, either internally or externally.

printer

The piece of computer hardware that creates hard copy printouts of documents.