Specifications

October 8, 2003 Networking Alpha Signs (9700-0112C)
70 Glossary
Address of a network device that is receiving data. For example, the address in a message packet identifying
which sign is to receive it.
destination node
In the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model, the nodes that represent the host computers at each end of a
connection. In a packet-switching network, the node attached to the device that is receiving the data.
device
Any hardware component attached to a computer system.
device driver
The software or firmware that translates operating system requests into a format that is recognizable by
specific hardware, such as an adapter.
DHCP
Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol. A method of automatically assigning a TCP/IP address to a client.
digital display
An electronic sign that combines text and graphics to convey a fixed or changeable, moving or unmoving
advertising or locational message. See also electronic display.
digital sign
An electronic sign that combines text and graphics to convey a fixed or changeable, moving or unmoving
advertising or locational message. See also electronic display.
DIP switches
Switches are housed in a rectangular box on a circuit board and control specific features to whichever device
they belong. The switches are binary, either on or off, and are often used in place of groups of jumpers.
display
An electronic sign that combines text and graphics to convey a fixed or changeable, moving or unmoving
advertising or locational message. See also electronic display.
display array
Rows and columns. The number of dots or pixels vertically and horizontally in a sign. For example, 16 x 80
means that the sign has 16 dots vertically and 80 dots horizontally, for a total of 1280. The characters and graphics
of a message are formed by turning on or activating specific patterns of pixels within the display array.
DLL
Dynamic Link Library. An OS/2 and Windows software feature that allows executable code modules to be
loaded on demand and linked to run time.
driver board
A circuit board in an LED sign that takes information from the micro board and uses it to turn an LED on or
off. Display cubes are mounted, socketed, or soldered on a driver board.
drop test
A test done on each new product to determine whether its packaging material is sufficient for shipping. ETL is
an example of a company that performs the test.
duplex adapter