| A | B |
|---|
| serial port | the external connector on a computer thats is used to as an interface between the computer and a serial device such as a modem. |
| parallel port | the parallel port is found on just about all PC's. It's a 25 pimp interface cable (DB-25) that is desined for connection to a printer. |
| modem | a device to turn digital sounds to anlog translated back to digital at another modem without loss. |
| asynchronous | this method of communication transfers data without a specific timing mechanism between the two communicating parties. |
| RS232C | serial interface used on a PC, usually implemented as a 9-pin or 25-pin interface. |
| request to send (RTS) | the RS-232 handskating signal sent from the originating mode to the receiving modem request permission to begin the data transmission. |
| data set ready (DSR) | an S-232 handshaking signal that is sent from a modem by its computer, indicating it's ability to send data. |
| clear to send (CTS) | an RS-232 handshaking , signal , sent form the receiver to the transmitter, indicating readiness to access data |
| USB standard | hardware interface for low-speed peripherals such as the keyboard, mouse, joystick, scanner, printer, and telephony device |
| fire wire | a high-speed serial bus developed by Apple and Texas Instruments that allows fo the connecion of up to 63 devices |
| hot swap | to change out a device without needing to power down the PC during intallation or remove the device. |
| centronics | parallel port standard that uses a 36-pin connector to connect to the printer, and DB-25 connector to connect to the PC |
| crosstalk | interface caused by "leaks" from a nearby communication channel. |
| data rate | the number of bits f data that are transmited per second. Not to be confused with baud rate. |
| baud rate | the number of signal changes taht a data tranmission line makes in one second. Not to be cofused with data rate. |
| framming | the process of using start, stop, and parity bitch to verify saynchronous transmission. |
| handshaking | signals transmitted back and forth over a communications netwrok that establish a balid connection between two stations. |
