digital computer: a computer capable of performing calculations by counting is and
Os; data is represented as digital "on-off" states. (2-2a)
direct (or random) access: a type of storage in which access can be made directly to
the data in any storage location found on magnetic core, magnetic disk, magnetic drum,
or magnetic card). (2-8c)
disk (hard disk): a round magnetized plate, usually made of plastic or metal,
organized into concentric tracks and preshaped sectors for storing data. (2-6b(3)(a))
disk drive: a mechanism that rotates a storage disk and reads or records data. (2-
6b(3)(c))
*download: receive or capture electronically; copy a file or any portion thereof. (3-7e)
E
electromechanical: composed of both electrical and mechanical parts. (1-11)
*electronic mail: the transmission of messages at high speeds between workstations,
either by communications network facilities or local area networks; typically for
interoffice correspondence, calendars, schedules, short messages between individuals.
(4-11)
*encode: convert information into computer language. (2-4)
F
*fax: an acronym for facsimile transmission, that is, transmission of images over a
communication system. (4-6)
*field: a meaningful item of data, and so forth, a Social Security number. (3-3b(1))
file: a group of related records. (3-3b(1))
floppy disk (diskette): a flexible platter covered with magnetic recording material that
permanently stores programs and data. Floppy disks come in two basic sizes: 5 1/4
inches and 3 1/2 inches and hold 360K to 1.4 megabytes of information. Most users
need at least 1 to 2 floppy disks or a hard drive. (2-6b(3)(a))
*flowchart: graphic representation of the processing that is performed in a program.
(2-6c(1))
MD0057
G-3