Compatibility Guide

164 Glossary
MCA
Abbreviation for Micro Channel Architecture, which is designed for
multiprocessing. MCA eliminates potential conflicts that arise when installing
new peripheral devices. MCA is not compatible with either EISA or XT bus
architecture, so older cards cannot be used with it.
memory
A system can contain several different forms of memory, such as RAM, ROM,
and video memory. Frequently, the word memory is used as a synonym for RAM;
for example, an unqualified statement such as "a system with 16 MB of memory"
refers to a system with 16 MB of RAM.
memory address
A specific location, usually expressed as a hexadecimal number, in the system's
RAM.
memory manager
A utility that controls the implementation of memory in addition to conventional
memory, such as extended or expanded memory.
memory module
A small circuit board containing DRAM chips that connects to the system board.
MHz
Abbreviation for megahertz.
MIB
Acronym for management information base. The MIB is used to send detailed
status/commands from or to an SNMP managed device.
microprocessor
The primary computational chip inside the system that controls the interpretation
and execution of arithmetic and logic functions. Software written for one
microprocessor must usually be revised to run on another microprocessor. CPU
is a synonym for microprocessor.
MIDI
Acronym for musical instrument digital interface.
mm
Abbreviation for millimeter(s).