• Computer glossary - R

    by
    computerguru
    Published on 02-03-2010 07:00 PM

    RAID (Redundant Array of Inexpensive/Independent Disks) —an excessive set of inexpensive (independent) disks. The range of technologies for failure-free high-performance disk arrays from set of equally sized disks.

    RAM (Random Access Memory) — the main computer memory storing files or programs as they are running.

    RAMDAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter with Random Access Memory) — a digital-to-analogue converter on video cards responsible for digital signals conversion into color signals forming the image on the screen.

    RDRAM (Rambus Dynamic Random Access Memory) — a dynamic operative memory device designed according the Rambus technology. A quick-operating but too expensive RAM memory, not widely spread due to its high cost.

    Remote control — gaining control over users’ computers (with or without their consent) from a computer located elsewhere. Such access may be dangerous if used incorrectly and illegally.

    Replica — an action of virus’s copying itself for futher propagation.

    Resident / Resident virus — a program or a file considered resident, i.e. stored in the computer memory and continuously tracing operations executed on the computer.

    Resolution — an image quality parameter. Is estimated in dots horizontally and vertically, or in dots per inch (dpi). For example – 800x600 dots.

    Retail — a complete option of computer components and software supply in a box with a detailed documentation. Moreover, software disks are usually enclosed to components.

    RFC (Request For Comments) — standards determining the operation of the Internet and networks on the IP protocol base.

    RGB (Red Green Blue) — name of analogue or digital videosignals, as well as a color mode, where each colour is a combination of the three basic colours.

    RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computer) — a computer with a reduced set of instructions. The term is related to processors in which every instruction is executable in one machine phase. Thus, complex instructions are impossible to execute, however, the execution speed is higher.

    ROM (Read Only Memory) — a memory type, not rewritable under normal conditions; thus, its content is permanent.

    Root directory — the main disk catalogue or folder.

    Router — a device for setting of the data root in a network, a dispatcher.

    Rootkit — a program designed for hiding of objects like processes, files, Windows register enters. This software type is not actually harmful but is often used by hackers for hiding their trails in compromised systems. There are harmful software types utilizing rootkits to hide their presence in a system.

    Routine — an unchangeable sequence of instructions composing a program part of a multiple use.