I/O Processor

Intelligent processor or controller that handles the input/output operations of a computer.

 

Index

Similar to a directory, but used to establish a physical to logical cross reference. Used to update the physical disk address (tracks and sectors) of files and to expedite accesses.

 

Initialization

Applying input patterns or instructions to a device so that all operational parameters are at a known value.

 

Input

Data entering the computer to be processed; also user commands or queries.

 

Input/Output (I/O)

The process of entering data into or removing data from a computer system or a peripheral device.

 

Inside Diameter

The smallest radial position used for the recording and playback of flux reversals on a magnetic disk surface.

 

Integrated Drive Electronics (IDE)

The most common interface standard for connecting hard-disk drives to PCs. Also known as: ATA. See Also Enhanced IDE, and ATAPI.

 

Intelligent Peripheral

A peripheral device that contains a processor or microprocessor to enable it to interpret and execute commands.

 

Interface

The data transmitters, data receivers, logic, and wiring that link one piece of computer equipment to another, such as a disk drive to a controller or a controller to a system bus.

 

Interface Standard

The interface specifications agreed to by various manufacturers to promote industry-wide interchangeability of products such as a disk drive. Interface standards generally reduce product costs, allows buyers to purchase from more than one source, and allow faster market acceptance of new products.

 

Interleave

An ordering of physical sectors to be skipped between logical sectors on your hard disk. On all IDE drives the Interleave is optimized 1:1.

 

Interrupt

A signal, usually from a subsystem to a central processing unit, to signify that an operation has been completed or cannot be completed.