Chapter Eight Key Terms

Bootable disk — For DOS, a floppy disk that can upload the OS files necessary for computer startup. It must have the two hidden system files IO.SYS and MSDOS.SYS, and also COMMAND.COM.

Diagnostic cards — Adapter cards designed to discover and report computer errors and conflicts at POST time (before the computer boots up), often by displaying a number on the card.

Diagnostic software — Utility programs that help troubleshoot computer systems. Some DOS diagnostic utilities are CHKDSK and SCANDISK. PC-Technician is an example of a third-party diagnostic program.

Documentation — Manuals, tutorials, and Help files that provide information that a user needs in order to use a computer system or software application.

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) — Another name for static electricity, which can damage chips and destroy system boards, even though it might not be felt or seen with the naked eye.

Ground bracelet — An antistatic wrist strap used to dissipate static electricity. Typically grounded by attaching an alligator clip to the computer chassis or to a nearby ground mat.

Ground mat — An antistatic mat designed for electronic workbenches to dissipate static electricity. It often uses a wire attached to the ground connection in an electrical outlet.

Static electricity — See Electrostatic discharge.

Video driver — A program that tells the computer how to effectively communicate with the video adapter card and monitor. It is often found on a floppy disk that is shipped with the card.