Dell OptiPlex GX240 User's Guide - Page 277

complete the OS setup or reinstallation. Also referred to as the Product Key or Product ID. For more information, see http://support.dell.com. COM Port A shortened reference to communications port. The typical designation for a serial connection to a modem or other serial device. Most computers support one or two serial connectors designated as COM1 and COM2. Control Code An I/O character that causes an action rather than appears as part of the data. You can input most control codes by simultaneously pressing the key and a letter or character on the keyboard. Some control codes usually have their own assigned keys, such as , , , , and . Different OSs and programs have their own conventions for what effect certain control codes will have, such as interrupting the current process or suspending output. Control codes can also be used to affect an output device, such as causing a printer to start a new line of text. Controller Part of a computer, typically a separate circuit board or chip, that allows the computer to use certain kinds of devices. Types of controllers include harddrive, network, keyboard, interrupt, and graphics controllers. COO Cost of ownership. Business asset data that helps an organization collect and track information about its assets. COO data is contained in a file on a computer, defining the fiscal aspects of the computer, such as ownership status, warranty information, lease configuration, acquisition information, and so on. The computer is a technology investment, and COO business asset data provides organizations with information they can use to target the reduction of maintenance and support costs, as well as to assist system integrators track the cost of computers they provide for their customers. CPU Central processing unit. A computer chip that interprets and executes program instructions. Also referred to as the microprocessor. CRIMM Continuity Rambus in-line memory module (RIMM). Module that provides electrical continuity through the Rambus channel when the channel is not fully populated. All Rambus slots in a system must be filled with either a RIMM or a CRIMM. 25