K (kilobyte): RAM and disk capacity are measured in kilobytes,
1K being the equivalent of 1,024 bytes.
L
laser: a device capable of producing a narrow beam of high intensity that can carry
data.
laser printer: a nonimpact printer that uses laser beams and electrophotographic
technology to form high-quality images.
library: a collection of routines or programs, normally on disk, that may be readily
accessible for use by a computer. Most systems have several libraries.
light pen: a pen-shaped object with a light-sensitive cell at one end, used as an
alternative to the keyboard to communicate with the screen's electronics.
Local Area Network (LAN): networks of computers and devices connected directly by
local system: peripherals linked directly to one or more CPUs.
M
main storage: the internal storage of a computer from which instructions are executed;
the fastest storage of a computer.
mainframe computer (maxicomputer): full-sized computer that handles a large
volume of data for hundreds of users.
*management information systems (MIS): a formal computer information network;
allows multiple users with different applications access to both routine reports and on-
the-spot information for decision-making. (3-3a)
mB (megabyte): 1,000,000 bytes; 1 mB equals 1,024K; RAM and disk capacity are
measured in megabytes.
microcomputer: a very small computer, designed for use in small personal business
applications; often a special purpose, single-function computer on a chip.
microprocessor:
the CPU of a
microcomputer; a
tiny processor that fits on a
single
semiconductor chip (more formal, rarely used name, "integrated circuit").
MD0058
G-5