To commit a document to the computer's memory. To do so, press the Ctrl+'S' keys, or click on the toolbar button or go to the File menu and click on Save.

A way of saving a file under a different name or format. If the file was previously saved under a different name or format, that version will remain unchanged. This is useful for saving an edited file, while still keeping the original.

A device for converting images on paper into electronic images that can then be manipulated and reproduced by a PC. See Digital, Digital image.

A Picture that appears on-screen when the PC is left idle for a specified time.

To move through the contents of a windows or menu vertically or horizontally.

Huge databases on the World Wide Web that are used to locate information on the Internet. They can look for either key words or phrases, or for categories, then sub-categories.

To choose a file, folder, image, piece of text or any other item, by before manipulating it in some way. Fro example, selecting some text before styling it.

A socket at the rear of the system unit where peripheral devices, such as a modem, are connected. Most PCs have two serial ports, identified as COM1 and COM2. Compare Parallel port.

Programs, or reduced versions of programs, that can be sampled for free for a limited period. Users must then purchase the program to continue to use it.

An icon on the Desktop that links to a file, folder or program stored on the hard disk. It is created to provide quicker access to the file, and looks identical to the icon of the linked item, except that it has a small arrow in the bottom left-hand corner.

Programs that allow users to perform Specific functions such as to draw up accounts. Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Outlook are examples of Software. 

A collection of programs that come in a single package, often supplied when a PC is bought. For example, Microsoft Works is a software suite that includes word processing, database and spreadsheet programs.

A device that lets users record, play and edit sound files. Fits into an expansion slot within the system unit. See Sound file.

A file containing audio data. To hear the sound, double click on the file (you will need speakers and a sound card).

A document for storing and calculating numerical data. Spreadsheets are used mainly for financial planning and accounting.

The button on the left of the Taskbar through which users can access the Start menu and its options, which include Programs or Help. It is sometimes referred to as the Windows button.

A bar that appears along the bottom of program windows, giving users information about the document being worked on.

Altering the appearance of the content of a file. For Example, by making text bold (heavier-looking and more distinct) or italic (slanting to the right), or by changing its colour and size. See Format.

A portable storage device similar in appearance to a floppy disk. Each disk can store up to 200Mb of data. A super-disk drive can also read floppy disks. See also Floppy disk, Jaz disk, zip disk.

The software that operates the PC, managing its hardware and programs. Windows it the system software for PCs.

The rectangular box-shaped part of the Pc that contains the hard disk, the CPU, memory and sockets for connections to peripheral devices.