IBM 865741Y Handbook - Page 261

network. (1) An arrangement of nodes and connecting branches. (T) (2) A configuration of data processing devices and software connected for information interchange. network server. See server. separate wires. Contrast with serial port. parity bit. A check bit appended to an array of binary digits to make the sum of all the binary digits, including the check bit, always odd or always even. (A) nonvolatile. (1) Pertaining to a storage device whose contents are not lost when power is cut off. (T) (2) Contrast with volatile. O OBI. Options by IBM. operating system. Software that controls the execution of programs and that may provide services such as resource allocation, scheduling, input/output control, and data management. Although operating systems are predominantly software, partial hardware implementations are possible. (T) PCI. Peripheral component interconnect. performance. One of the two major factors, together with facility, on which the total productivity of a system depends. Performance is largely determined by a combination of throughput, response time, and availability. physical. (1) Pertaining to actual implementation or location as opposed to conceptual content or meaning. (A) (2) Contrast with logical. (A) pin. One of the conducting contacts of an electrical connector. P port. An access point for data entry or exit. (Contrast with connector.) packet. In data communication, a sequence of binary digits, including data and control signals, that is transmitted and switched as a composite whole. The data, control signals, and possibly error control information are arranged in a specific format. (I) parallel port. An access point through which a computer transmits or receives data that consists of several bits sent simultaneously on POST. Power-on self-test. power-on self-test (POST). A series of diagnostic tests that are run automatically by a device when the power is turned on. processing. The performance of logical operations and calculations on data, including temporary retention of data in microprocessor Glossary 243