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B
backup: A copy of a file, usually on removable disk or tape, kept in case the original is
lost or damaged. It's a good idea to keep backup copies of all your important
files.
bandwidth: The amount of data that can be transmitted per second over a
communications channel. Bandwidth is measured in bits per second (bps) for
digital devices and in cycles per second (cps) for analog devices.
base memory: See conventional memory.
basic input/output system (BIOS): A set of basic computer instructions in read-only
memory (ROM). The CPU's BIOS contains the information the computer
needs to perform such tasks as determining the amount of memory, checking
for the presence of devices, and loading the operating system. Some system
components have their own BIOS.
batch file: A file, ending with a .BAT extension, containing MS-DOS commands that you
can perform together, rather than typing them one at a time. Batch files are
useful if you have a series of MS-DOS commands that you need to type fairly
often. For example, you could use a batch file for the commands needed to log
on to a network. See also AUTOEXEC.BAT.
baud (baud rate): The speed at which communications devices such as printers,
terminals, and modems transmit information. Information travels as a series of
electronic signals. The baud rate measures the rate of change in these
signals. This is not necessarily the same as bits per second, although the two
are related. It is named for Emil Baudot, a pioneer in printing telegraphy. See
also bits per second.
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