Glossary

1T cell: A dynamic memory cell made from a single transistor and capable of storing a single bit of data. This cell is the basis of DRAM memory.
1U server: A rack-mountable computer server 1.75 in in height.
2U server: A rack-mountable computer server 3.5 in in height.

Abort exception: An exception that prevents a computer program from continuing execution.
Accumulator: The name commonly used in early computer architectures for the register to which computational results are directed by default.
Active power: The power consumed by an integrated circuit due to the switching of voltages. This power is directly proportional to clock frequency.
ADL: Architectural description language.
Advanced graphics port (AGP): A graphics bus standard based on the early PCI standard.
Advanced technology attachment (ATA): A storage bus standard based on a 16-bit bus.
Advanced technology extended (ATX): The most widely used form factor specifying the physical size and power connectors of a motherboard.
AGP: Advanced graphics port.
Amdahl's law: A relationship named after Gene Amdahl for calculating performance improvement of a computer system. Amdahl's law states that if speedup S is applied to a task occupying fraction F of the total execution time, the overall speed up will be 1/(1 ? F + F/ S).
AND: A logic function that is only true if all its inputs are true.
Anisotropic etch: An etch that proceeds in only one direction.
APCVD: Atmospheric pressure chemical vapor deposition.
Architectural description language (ADL)

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Microprocessor Design: A Practical Guide from Design Planning to Manufacturing