Media Player Contents


Introducing Media Player
What Is Media Player?

Using Media Player

Media Music Credits


Introducing Media Player
What Is Media Player?

Using Media Player

Playing Media

Media Player Buttons

Media Music Credits


What Is Media Player?

Media Player lets you control the playing of various kinds of media files and hardware. For example, Media Player can control CD-ROM drivers and videodisc players. It can also play animation, graphics, sound, and MIDI sequencer files.

When you start Media Player, the following window appears:

You use the buttons to control the playing of the media piece. The scroll bar shows how much of a piece has played. Move the scroll box to play a different part of the piece.

Related Topics


Concepts

Media Player Buttons

Playing Media

Procedures

Configuring Existing Drivers

Installing Mulitmedia Drivers


Playing Media

To start playing, you choose a device from the Device menu. If the device is a simple one, you can then use the buttons to control the playing.

If the device is a compound one, you open the file you want to play, such as a waveform or graphics file, then use the buttons to play the piece.

Before Media Player can play a device or file, you need to install the media hardware, and install and configure the driver.

Related Topics


Concept

Media Player Buttons

Procedures

Opening a File

Opening a Media Device


Media Player Buttons

Once you've chosen a device and, if necessary, opened a media file, you're ready to start playing the piece.

	The Play button starts playback. When playback is started, the title bar displays the word "(playing)" following the device title.
	The Stop button stops playback. When playback is stopped, the title bar displays the word "(stopped)" following the device title.
	The Pause button pauses playback. When playback is paused, the title bar displays the word "(paused)" following the device title. Choose the Pause button again to resume playback.
	The Eject button ejects the disc or cassette from the device. The Eject button is available only with devices that include an eject function.
	The Scroll Bar shows the playback position. You can change the playback position by moving the scroll box. Media Player displays a scale above the scroll bar. The scale displays track locations or a time scale, depending on which Scale menu option is chosen.
Related Procedures


Procedures

Changing the Scale

Playing a Device


Media Music Credits

Your system includes sample MIDI files from the Media Music (TM) collection of original MIDI production music. Media Music is a product of Passport Designs, Inc., a leading developer of music software application tools and music data products for personal computers and MIDI instruments. Passport currently offers a wide range of music productivity tools, including music sequencing and notation software and a library of popular songs and original MIDI production music. For more information and a dealer referral call or write to:

Passport Design, Inc.

625 Miramontes St.

Half Moon Bay, CA USA 94019

phone: 415-726-0280, fax: 415-726-2254

To place orders call 1-800-443-3210


Media Player Commands


File Menu Commands


Device Menu Commands


Scale Menu Commands


Open Command

Opens a file to play with the specified device.

This command is only available when a compound device is open; simple devices are not associated with disk files.

Related Procedures


Procedures

Opening a Device

Opening a File


Exit Command

Exits Media Player.

Exiting Media Player ends playback of the following types of media:

Graphic and animation

MIDI sequencer

Waveform audio

Compact disc playback continues after you close Media Player.


Device Names

Specifies a media device.

The contents of the Device menu depend on which Media Control Interface (MCI) devices are installed on your system. Each menu option specifies the name of an MCI device installed on your system.

There are two types of media devices:

Simple devices

Compound devices.

Menu options for compound devices are followed by ellipses. When you choose a menu option for a compound device, Media Player displays a dialog box in which you can specify the name of the file to open.

Related Procedure


Time Command

Changes the scroll bar scale to show time intervals.

Related Procedure


Tracks Command

Changes the scroll bar scale to show track numbers.

Related Procedure


Media Player Procedures
Topics


Media Player Procedures
Topics

Opening a Media Device

Opening a File

Playing a Media Device

Changing the Scale


Opening a Media Device

Media Player uses the Media Control Interface (MCI), which supports two types of devices: simple and compound. When you open a compound device, you must specify the filename that you want to associate with the device.

To open a simple device:

Select the device name from the Device menu.

Names of simple devices are not followed by ellipses.

To open a compound device:

1	Select the media device name from the Device menu.

Names of compound devices are followed by ellipses.

2	If the file is in the current directory, double-click the name of the file in the File Name box.

If the file is not in the current directory, double-click the directory you want in the Directories box or select the drive you want in the Drives box. Then double-click the name of the file in the File Name box.

Related Procedures	Keyboard Procedure


Procedures

Opening a File

Playing a Media Device


hint

The current directory is shown above the Directories box.


hint

Instead of using the File Name, Directories, and Drives boxes to open a file, you can type the complete pathname in the File Name box and click OK.


Opening a File

If a compound device is open, you can open files to play using that device. If a simple device is open, the Open option on the File menu is dimmed.

To open a file to play:

1	Select Open from the File menu.

2	If the file is in the current directory, double-click the name of the file in the File Name box.

If the file is not in the current directory, double-click the directory you want in the Directories box or select the drive you want in the Drives box. Then double-click the name of the file in the File Name box.

Related Procedures	Keyboard Procedure


Procedures

Opening a Media Device

Playing a Media Device


Playing a Media Device

After opening a media device, use the following procedures to play the device.

To start play:

Click the Play button.

To pause or restart play:

Click the Pause button.

To stop play:

Click the Stop button.

To eject a compact disc or other media element:

Click the Eject button.

To change the playback position:

Move the scroll box to a new position.

Media Player displays a scale above the scroll bar. The scale displays track locations or a time scale, depending on which Scale menu option is chosen.

Related Procedures	Keyboard Procedure


Procedures

Changing the Scale

Opening a Media Device


Play button

Starts playback.


Pause button

Pauses playback.


Stop button

Stops playback.


Eject button

Ejects the disc for devices that have this feature.


Changing the Scale

You can change the scale display above the scroll bar. There are two options to choose from:

Time scale, which shows time intervals

Track scale, which shows tracks

To change scales:

Select Time or Tracks from the Scale menu.

Related Procedure	Keyboard Procedure


Media Player Keys
Press	To

ALT+SPACEBAR	Open the Control menu.

ALT or F10	Select the first menu on the menu bar.

Letter key	Choose the menu or menu item whose underlined letter matches the one you type.

LEFT or RIGHT ARROW	Move among menus.

UP or DOWN ARROW	Move among menu items.

ENTER	Choose the selected menu item.

ESC	Cancel the selected menu.

TAB	Move from button to button (left to right).

SHIFT+TAB	Move from button to button (right to left).

SPACEBAR	Press a button.

LEFT ARROW key	Move the playing position back when the scroll bar is selected.

RIGHT ARROW key	Move the playing position forward when the scroll bar is selected.

PAGE UP	Move the playing position back in large increments when the scroll bar is selected.

PAGE DOWN	Move the playing position forward in large increments when the scroll bar is selected.


Media Player Keyboard Procedures
Topics


Media Player Keyboard Procedures
Topics

Opening a Media Device

Opening a File

Playing a Media Device

Changing the Scale


Keyboard: Opening a Media Device

To open a simple device:

1	Press ALT and then D

2	Use the UP ARROW or DOWN ARROW key to select a device name and then press ENTER.

To open a compound device:

1	Press ALT and then D

2	Use the UP ARROW or DOWN ARROW key to select a device name and then press ENTER.

3	If the file is in the current directory, press TAB and use the UP ARROW or DOWN ARROW key to select the file.

If the file is not in the current directory,press ALT+D, use the UP ARROW or DOWN ARROW key to select a drive or directory, and press ENTER. Or press ALT+V and use the UP ARROW or DOWN ARROW key to select the drive you want. Then press ALT+N, press TAB, and use the UP ARROW or DOWN ARROW key to select the file.

4	Press ENTER.

Related Procedures	Mouse Procedure


Procedures

Opening a File

Playing a Media Device


hint

The current directory is shown above the Directories box.


hint

Instead of using the File Name, Directories, and Drives boxes to open a file, you can type the complete pathname in the File Name box and press ENTER.


Keyboard: Opening a File

To open a file to play:

1	Press ALT and then F.

2	Press O.

3	If the file is in the current directory, press TAB and use the UP ARROW or DOWN ARROW key to select the file.

If the file is not in the current directory,press ALT+D, use the UP ARROW or DOWN ARROW key to select a drive or directory, and press ENTER. Or press ALT+V and use the UP ARROW or DOWN ARROW key to select the drive you want. Then press ALT+N, press TAB, and use the UP ARROW or DOWN ARROW key to select the file.

4	Press ENTER.

Related Procedures	Mouse Procedure


Procedures

Opening a Media Device

Playing a Media Device


Keyboard: Playing a Media Device

To start play:

Press TAB until you select the Play button and then press the SPACEBAR.

To pause or restart play:

Press TAB until you select the Pause button and then press the SPACEBAR.

To stop play:,


Media Player

Plays various kinds of media files and hardware. For example, Media Player can control CD-ROM drivers and videodisc players. It can also play animation, graphics, sound, and MIDI sequencer files.


application Control-menu


title bar

Contains the title of the animation window. The title bar also shows the pathname of the animation file currently playing.

Drag the title bar to move the window.


animation window

The window that contains the animation media player is playing.


title bar

Contains the title of the application running in the window, in this case Media Player. The title bar also shows whether the file or device is stopped or playing.

Drag the title bar to move the window.


Minimize button

Click the Minimize button to shrink the Media Player window to an icon.


Maximize button

Click the Maximize button to enlarge the animation window to its maximum size.


File menu


Device menu


Scale menu


Help menu


menu bar

Contains the names of all the Media Player menus.

Click a menu name to display commands.


time scale

Shows the scale (in seconds) for the media piece.


left scroll arrow

Click the arrow to move the playing position back.


right scroll arrow

Click the arrow to move the playing position forward.


scroll box

Shows the current playing position in relation to the time scale.

Drag the scroll box to change the playing position.


scroll bar

Lets you change the playing position.

The scroll box's location in relation to the time scale represents the playing position.

Drag the scroll box to change the playing position.


Play button

Click the button to start playing.


Pause button

Click the button to pause playing.


Stop button

Click the button to stop playing.


˜ˆR˜€€bold


L

list box

local printer

local queue

luminosity


M

maximize	MIDI Mapper

Maximize button	MIDI sequencer

Media Control Interface	MIDI Manufacturer's Association (MMA)

memory	minimize

menu	Minimize button

menu bar	movie file

menu command	MSCDEX

menu name	multimedia extensions

menu title	Multimedia PC

MIDI	multitasking

MIDI file


N

network printer

network queue

network server

non-Windows application


O

open

option button


P

parity	print option

palette	printer-driver file

patch	printer font

patchmaps	printer queue information line

pathname	program file

picture elements	program information file (PIF)

pixels	program item

playlist	program item icon

pointer

port


Q

No defined terms.


R

RGB components

read-only

real mode

Restore button

root directory


S

sample	serial port

saturation	shortcut key

scaled font size	shrink

screen font	simple device

screen saver	solid color

scroll arrow	source directory

scroll bar	spin box

scroll box	standard mode

Search button	status bar

select	stop bits

selection cursor	synthesizer


T

Task List

text box

text file

title

title bar

topic

track


U

Up button


V

vector font

virtual memory

volume label


W

waveform

WAVE format

wildcard characters

window

window border

Windows application

wrap


X

No defined terms.


Y

No defined terms.


Z

No defined terms.


386 enhanced mode, defined
386 enhanced mode

Provides access to the virtual memory capabilities of the Intel 80386 processor. With virtual memory capabilities, Windows applications can use more memory than is physically available. Enhanced mode also allows for multitasking of non-Windows applications.


active, defined
active

Describes the selected window or icon that you are currently working with. Windows always applies the next keystroke or command you choose to the active window. If a window is active, it appears in front of all other windows on the desktop, and its title bar changes color to differentiate it visually from other windows. If an icon is made active, its Control menu appears.

Inactive is the opposite of active and describes windows or icons on the desktop that are not selected.


active printer, defined
active printer

An installed printer that has been assigned to a printer port using Setup or Control Panel. More than one printer can be set up to work on a single port, but only one can be active, since only one printer can be physically connected to the port at a time.

An inactive printer is an installed printer that is not currently connected to the printer port.


animation

The display of a series of graphic images, simulating motion. You can play animation files (.MMM extension) with the Media Player accessory. Animations are also called movies.


application, defined
application

A computer program used for a particular kind of work, such as word processing. This term is often used interchangeably with "program."


application icon, defined
application icon

An icon that represents an application that is running.


application window, defined
application window

The main window for an application. It contains the application's menu bar and main workspace. An application window may contain multiple document windows.


ARROW keys, defined
arrow keys

The four arrow keys on your computer keyboard. These keys move the cursor or pointer on your screen to locations you choose. Each arrow key moves the cursor or pointer in the direction of the arrow on the key. Each arrow key is named for the direction in which arrow points: UP ARROW, DOWN ARROW, LEFT ARROW, and RIGHT ARROW.


associate, defined
associate

To assign files that have the same extension to a program. When you choose a file with the specified extension, the associated application runs with the file loaded.


AUTOEXEC.BAT, defined
AUTOEXEC.BAT

Batch file that lists MS-DOS commands. MS-DOS automatically carries out the commands in your AUTOEXEC.BAT file when you turn on your computer. The file is located in the root directory of your first hard disk, which is usually drive C.

Typically, an AUTOEXEC.BAT file starts memory-resident utilities such as a network and sets up environment variables that are used later by applications. In addition, your AUTOEXEC.BAT file might set your MS-DOS prompt or start pop-up programs such as Borland's SideKick.


<< button, defined
<< button

Displays the previous topic in a series of topics, until you reach the first topic in the series. Then the button is dimmed. Use this button when you want to backtrack through topics the way they are organized in HyperGuide.


>> button, defined
>> button

Displays the next topic in a series of topics, until you reach the last topic in the series. Then the button is dimmed. Use this button to move from topic to topic in the recommended order.


Back button, defined
Back button

Displays the last topic you viewed. HyperGuide moves back one topic at a time, in the order in which you viewed them.


base-level synthesizer, defined
base-level synthesizer

One of the two types of synthesizers accommodated by Windows.

MIDI files authored for Windows include two versions of a song: one version for base-level synthesizers and another version for extended synthesizers. The distinctions between base-level and extended synthesizers are based on the number of instruments and notes the synthesizer can play.


batch file, defined
batch file

A file that runs a sequence, or "batch," of commands when you type its filename. All filenames of batch files end with the extension .BAT, even though you don't have to type this extension to run the batch file.


baud rate, defined
baud rate

Signalling speed measured by the number of signals per second.


bitmap, defined
bitmap

An image stored as an array of bits.


branch, defined
branch

A segment of the Directory Tree, representing a directory and any subdirectories it contains.


browse, defined
browse

To look through files and directories. In some dialog boxes, the Browse button shows a list of files and directories from which you can choose.


byte, defined
byte

The amount of memory space (normally 8 bits) that a computer needs to represent a single character or word.


cascading menu, defined
cascading menu

A menu that opens from a command on another menu.


CD-ROM

Compact Disc-Read Only Memory. An optical data-storage technology that allows large quantities of data (such as animations, images, music, and sound) to be stored on a compact disc similar to discs used by the music industry.


channel

MIDI uses channels to send messages to individual devices within a MIDI setup. There are 16 MIDI channel numbers. Devices in a MIDI setup can be directed to respond only to messages marked with a channel number specific to the device.


check box, defined
check box

A small square box that appears in dialog boxes and can be selected or cleared. When the check box is selected, an X appears in the box.


choose, defined
choose

To use key combinations or your mouse to carry out a command in Windows. You often choose a command after you have selected an item or made it active.


Clipboard, defined
Clipboard

A temporary storage area in memory, used to transfer information. You can cut or copy information onto the Clipboard and then paste it into another document or application.


close, defined
close

To reduce a document window or application window to an icon or, in some cases, to remove it from the desktop. You close a window by double-clicking the Control-menu box or choosing the Close command from the Control menu. When closing an application window, you can choose to save or abandon changes to the current document before you close it.


collapse, defined
collapse

To hide a level of directory information in the Directory Tree window. When you first start File Manager, all directories but the root directory are collapsed.


command, defined
command

A word or phrase, usually found in a menu, that you choose to carry out an action.


command button, defined
command button

A button in a dialog box that carries out or cancels the selected action. Two common command buttons are OK and Cancel. The button that carries out the action will often have a label that describes it (for example, Open, Create, Install). Another dialog box appears when you choose a command followed by ellipses.


command line, defined
command line

Information given to MS-DOS that specifies a command and all the pertinent information to carry it out. For example, to start Windows, you type win at the MS-DOS prompt.


complementary color, defined
complementary color

The color exactly opposite a color on the RGB color wheel. For example, the complementary color of blue is yellow.


compound device, defined
compound device

Devices, such as the waveform audio driver, that have an associated file and require a filename specification when opened.


CONFIG.SYS, defined
CONFIG.SYS

A file that defines device drivers and specifies your MS-DOS configuration. For example, a typical CONFIG.SYS file might specify the location of the MS-DOS file COMMAND.COM, define an extended memory manager, and specify how many files an application can have open at once. MS-DOS runs the commands in the CONFIG.SYS file each time you turn on your computer. Your CONFIG.SYS file is located in the root directory of your first hard disk, which is usually drive C.


Contents button, defined
Contents button

Displays the HyperGuide contents.


Control menu, defined
Control menu

The menu in the upper-left corner of a window. The Control menu appears on every application that runs in a window and on some non-Windows applications. Document windows, icons, and some dialog boxes also have Control menus.

Control menu commands move, change the size of, and close windows. You can also switch to Task List by using the Control menu. For non-Windows applications, Control menu commands transfer information and perform other functions, depending on the application.


Control-menu box, defined
Control-menu box

The box located in the upper-left corner of a window. Clicking the Control-menu box opens the Control menu for the window.


conventional memory, defined
conventional memory

The first 640K of memory that MS-DOS uses to run applications. Most computers have at least 256K of conventional memory and can accommodate up to 640K of conventional memory.


cutout, defined
cutout

A portion of a Paintbrush drawing you select with the Scissors or Pick tool.


data bits, defined
data bits

The bits in each package of data sent between two computers during telecommunication. Most characters are transmitted in 7 or 8 data bits.


default button, defined
default button

The command button in some dialog boxes that is automatically selected or chosen by Windows as the most logical or safest choice. The default button has a bold border, indicating that it will be chosen if you press ENTER. You can override a default button by choosing Cancel or another command button.


default printer, defined
default printer

The printer that Windows applications automatically use when you choose the Print command. You can have only one default printer, which must also be the active printer on the port. The printer you use most often should be made the default printer.


desktop, defined
desktop

The background of your screen, on which windows, icons, and dialog boxes appear.


desktop pattern, defined
desktop pattern

A geometric pattern that appears across your desktop. You can design your own pattern or choose one of the patterns provided by Windows.


destination directory, defined
destination directory

The directory to which you intend to copy or move one or more files.


device contention, defined
device contention

When several applications simultaneously request use of a peripheral device, such as a printer or modem.

Windows automatically handles device contention when all the applications are Windows applications. When one of the applications is a non-Windows application, however, the conflict is handled according to the options you select in the 386 Enhanced dialog box. This dialog box appears when you choose the 386 Enhanced icon in Control Panel.


device driver, defined
device driver

Tells Windows how to control a piece of hardware. Using Setup, you can install device drivers for your:

Display (monitor)

Keyboard

Mouse

Network


dialog box, defined
dialog box

A rectangular box that either requests or provides information. Many dialog boxes present options that you must choose from before Windows can carry out a command. Some dialog boxes present warnings or explain why a command can't be completed.


directory path, defined
directory path

The directions to a directory or file within your system.

In the illustration, C:\ART stands for the ART directory on drive C. Any commands you use affect the files and subdirectories in this directory.

When you want to specify a file, make sure the filename follows the directory path.


Directory Tree, defined
Directory Tree

A graphic display of a disk's directory structure. The directories on the disk are shown as branching from the disk's root directory.


Directory Tree window, defined
Directory Tree window

A File Manager window that shows the complete branching structure of the selected disk drive.


directory window, defined
directory window

A File Manager window that lists the contents of a specific directory. The directory window shows all the files and subdirectories contained in the directory.


disk-drive icon, defined
disk-drive icon

An icon in the Directory Tree window of File Manager that represents a disk drive on your system. Different icons depict floppy disk drives, hard disk drives, RAM drives, CD-ROM drives, and network disk drives.


display box, defined
display box

A display box is not an option, but a type of text box that shows an example of another option you have selected, in this case a sample of the 10 pt, underlined, Helvetica font.


document, defined
document

Whatever you create with an application, including information you enter, edit, view, or save. A document can be a business report, a spreadsheet, a picture, and so on.


document file, defined
document file

Files that are associated with an application. You can start an application and open the associated file by choosing a document file icon.


document window, defined
document window

A window inside an application window. Each document window contains a single document or other data file. There can be more than one document window inside an application window.


DOS

Disk Operating System, typically known as MS-DOS (Microsoft) or PC-DOS (IBM). This is the underlying software that must exist for your PC to operate.


drag, defined
drag

A mouse move. You drag a Windows element by pointing to it, holding down the mouse button, and sliding the mouse from one spot on the surface of your desk to another and releasing the mouse button.


drop-down list box, defined
drop-down list box

A list box that opens and closes in dialog boxes.

Before you open a drop-down list box, it looks like this:

After the list box is open, it looks like this:

NOTE: When the list is longer than the box, scroll bars are provided.


error checking, defined
error checking

A meB
)
JenhancedN@enhanced&
 €R
Text, graphics, or parts of graphics that provide links to other HyperGuide topics or more information about the current topic.

Whether text or graphics, the pointer changes to the shape of a hand whenever it is over a hotspot. If you click a hotspot that is linked to another topic, that topic will appear in the HyperGuide window. If the hotspot is linked to more information, HyperGuide displays the information in a popup window on top of the HyperGuide window.


hue, defined
hue

The position of a color along the color spectrum.


Help button bar, defined
HyperGuide button bar

Contains the HyperGuide buttons you use to move among topics and contents screens. It is located near the top of the HyperGuide window.


icon, defined
icon

A graphic representation of a disk drive, directory, group, application, document, and so on. You can restore an application icon to a window when you want to use the application.


insertion point, defined
insertion point

The place where text will be inserted when you type.The insertion point usually appears as a flashing vertical bar in an application's window or in a dialog box. The text you type appears to the left of the insertion point, which moves to the right as you type.


International MIDI Association (IMA)

The non-profit MIDI organization that circulates information about the MIDI specification.


keymaps, defined
keymaps

Percussion instruments are key-based--each note plays a different percussion instrument. Keymaps translate MIDI key values to ensure the proper percussion instruments are used to play MIDI files. All MIDI files for Windows are authored using standard key assignments based on the General MIDI Mode standard.


keyword, defined
keyword

Words in the HyperGuide Search dialog box that are associated with topics. Each application's documentation has its own keyword list, including the glossary words in HyperGuide. You select from the list of keywords or type a keyword to see the list of topics associated with that keyword.


kilobyte, defined
kilobyte

The measurement used for the size of a computer's memory, where 1 kilobyte (K) = 1,024 bytes.


list box, defined
list box

A box within a dialog box that lists available choices--for example, the list of all available files in a directory. If all the choices don't fit in the box, there will be a vertical scroll bar to the right of the list box. In some list boxes, you can select more than one item.


local printer, defined
local printer

A printer that is directly connected to your printer by a cable.


local queue, defined
local queue

Lists the files that you directed to any active printer connected to your computer. The computer and printers are connected locally by a cable.

When Print Manager starts printing on a local printer, its icon appears at the bottom of your screen. If you restore the icon to a window, you see the print queue for any active printer connected to your computer. You can use the Print Manager window to check the status of files in the print queue or to interrupt or cancel a print job.


luminosity, defined
luminosity

The brightness of the color on a scale from black to white.


maximize, defined
maximize

To enlarge a window to its maximum size by using the Maximize button or the Maximize command.


Maximize button, defined
Maximize button

The small button at the upper-right corner of a window that contains an Up arrow. Mouse users can click the Maximize button to enlarge a window to its maximum size. Keyboard users can use the Maximize command on the Control menu.


Media Control Interface, defined
Media Control Interface (MCI)

A standard control interface for multimedia devices and files. MCI allows a multimedia application to easily control a variety of multimedia devices and files.


memory, defined
memory

The space in a computer where information is stored while you are working with it. Most PCs have a small amount of read-only memory (ROM), containing the built-in programs that start the operation of the computer when it is turned on, and a large amount of random-access memory (RAM) for users' programs and data.


menu, defined
menu

A list of available commands in an application window. Menu names appear in the menu bar near the top of the window. The Control menu, represented by the Control-menu box at the left end of the title bar, is common to all Windows applications. You use a command on a menu by selecting the menu name, then choosing the command you want.


menu bar, defined
menu bar

The horizontal bar containing the names of an application's menus. It appears just under the title bar.


menu command, defined
menu command

A word or phrase in a menu that you choose to carry out an action, such as copying a file.


menu name, defined
menu name

The name for a particular menu that appears in the menu bar and opens a menu when you choose it.


menu title, defined
menu title

A word or phrase in the menu bar that identifies a group of commands. Selecting the menu title causes the title to be highlighted and its menu of commands to appear below it.


MIDI

Musical Instrument Digital Interface. MIDI sets a communications standard for transferring data between musical instruments and associated devices.


MIDI file

A file format for storing MIDI songs. In Windows, MIDI files have a .MID filename extension.


MIDI Mapper

A Control Panel option that lets you create and edit MIDI setup maps. Windows uses these maps to translate and redirect MIDI data.


MIDI Sequencer

Software that creates or plays songs stored as MIDI files. When a sequencer plays MIDI files, it sends MIDI data from the file to a MIDI synthesizer that produces the sounds. Windows provides a MIDI sequencer to play MIDI files.


MIDI Manufacturer's Association (MMA)

A collective organization composed of MIDI instrument manufacturers and MIDI software companies. The MMA works with the MIDI Standards Committee to maintain the MIDI specification.


minimize, defined
minimize

To reduce a window to an icon using the Minimize button or the Minimize command. The document or application remains open (or running), and can be the active application or document.


Minimize button, defined
Minimize button

The small button at the upper-right corner of a window that contains a Down arrow. Mouse users can click the Minimize button to reduce a window to an icon. Keyboard users can use the Minimize command on the Control menu.


movie file

A multimedia data file with a .MMM filename extension. You can play movie files with the Media Player accessory. Movie files are also called animations.


MSCDEX

Microsoft Compact Disc Extensions. MSCDEX is software that makes CD-ROM drives appear to DOS as network drives. You must have MSCDEX installed on your computer for the CD-ROM drive to work.


multimedia extensions

Additional features added to Windows version 3.0 that enable your computer to run animations, play sound and MIDI files, and display high-quality images.


Multimedia PC

Multimedia personal computer. A multimedia computer satisfies a minimum set of hardware/software requirements necessary for multimedia computing. The requirements include:

An 80286/386/486 microprocessor running at 10MHz or faster

2MB or more of RAM

30MB or larger hard disk

VGA display

A digital audio subsystem

A CD-ROM drive

Systems software compatible with Microsoft Windows version 3.0 with multimedia extensions


multitasking, defined
multitasking

The ability of a single computer to perform several tasks simultaneously.

Multitasking makes it possible to print one document while editing another, or to perform lengthy computations while you work on something else.


network printer, defined
network printer

A printer that is accessible to your computer only through a network.


network queue, defined
network queue

Lists the files on the network server if you are using a network printer.


network server, defined
network server

A computer on a network that provides a particular service to other computers. For example, a disk server manages a large file server, and a print server manages a printer.


non-Windows application, defined
non-Windows application

An application that was not designed to run in Windows. Generally, non-Windows applications do not conform to Windows user-interface standards.


open, defined
open

To display the contents of a directory or file in a window, or to enlarge an icon to a window.


option button, defined
option button

A small round button that appears in a dialog box and is used to select an option. Within a group of related option buttons, you can select only one button.


palette

Defines the colors used in a bitmap image. Every device independent bitmap (DIB) has an associated color palette.


parity, defined
parity

The method of detecting errors in data transmission.


patch

A particular setup of a MIDI synthesizer that results in a particular sound, usually a sound simulating a specific musical instrument.


patchmaps, defined
patchmaps

A patch is a specific sound created by a synthesizer. A synthesizer plays notes using sounds defined as patches. Patchmaps translate MIDI patch changes to ensure the proper instruments are used to play MIDI files. All MIDI files for Windows are authored using standard patch assignments based on the General MIDI Mode standard.


pathname, defined
pathname

The directions to a directory or file within your system. For example, C:\WINDOWS3\APPTS\JUNE.CAL is the pathname of the JUNE.CAL file in the APPTS subdirectory in the WINDOWS3 directory on drive C.


picture elements, defined
picture elements

The smallest graphics unit on the screen. Also known as pels.


pixels, defined
pixels

The smallest graphic units on the screen. Also known as picture elements (pels).


playlist, defined
playlist

A list of compact disc titles and tracks that determines the order in which the tracks on the disc are played.

Use the Program button to assign or edit titles, and to change the playlist.


pointer, defined
pointer

In Windows, the shape of the pointer indicates its function.

	For selecting Windows items, scrolling, resizing windows, and moving windows and dialog boxes with your mouse. This is the pointer you will see most often.
	For choosing a HyperGuide hotspot.
	For selecting text with your mouse.
	For changing the size of a window with your mouse.
	For changing the location or size of a window with your keyboard.
	For indicating the application is processing your request.


port, defined
port

A connection on a computer where you plug in a cable that carries data to a device.

LPT ports are parallel ports. COM ports are serial ports. EPT is a port used for certain printers, such as the IBM Personal Pageprinter. You can use the EPT port only if you have installed a special card in your computer.


print options, defined
print options

Printer-specific settings such as page orientation--portrait or landscape--or the manner in which paper feeds through the printer. These options vary from printer to printer.


printer-driver file, defined
printer-driver file

A file that gives Windows important information about how to control your printer, including details about printer features and the printing interface, descriptions of fonts (such as sizes and styles), character translations, and control sequences the printer uses to achieve various formats. Windows has printer-driver files for most commonly used printers.


printer font, defined
printer font

A series of dots connected by lines that can be scaled to different sizes. Another name for printer fonts is vector (or stroke) fonts. Plotters typically use vector fonts.


printer queue information line, defined
printer queue information line

Indicates the following:

The name of the printer.

Where the printer connects to your computer.

The current status of the printer.


program file, defined
program file

A file that contains information that controls an application. In File Manager, each program file is represented by an icon. You can start the application by choosing the icon. Filenames for program files can have these extensions: .EXE, .COM, .PIF, and .BAT.


program information file (PIF), defined
program information file (PIF)

A file that provides important information that Windows needs to run a non-Windows application. PIFs contain information such as the name of the file, a startup directory, whether the program writes directly to the screen or to memory, and multitasking options for applications running in 386 enhanced mode.


program item, defined
program item

A program file or associated document represented by an icon in Program Manager. The program item provides the instructions Windows needs to start an application and open a document (if specified) when you choose the icon.


The marking device that shows where you are in a window, menu, or dialog box and what you have selected. The selection cursor appears as a dotted box around the text in a dialog box option.


serial ports, defined
serial ports

Ports used by your system, named COM1, COM2, and so on. Serial ports are typically used for connecting modems, mouse devices, and some kinds of printers.


shortcut key, defined
shortcut key

A key or key combination, available for some commands, that you can press to carry out a command without first selecting a menu. The shortcut key for a command is listed to the right of the command name on the menu.


shrink, defined
shrink

To reduce a window to an icon using the Minimize button or the Minimize command. The document or application remains open (or running), and can be the active application or document.


simple device, defined
simple device

Devices, such as audio compact-disc players, that don't have an associated file and can be opened without a filename specification.


solid color, defined
solid color

A color directly supported by your display.


source directory, defined
source directory

The directory containing the file or files you intend to copy or move.


spin box, defined
spin box

A spin box shows one item in a range of possible choices. Clicking the Up or Down arrow to the right of the entry lets you "spin" through the available choices until your choice appears in the display rectangle.


standard mode, defined
standard mode

The normal operating mode for running Windows. This mode provides access to extended memory. In standard mode, you can also switch among non-Windows applications.


status bar, defined
status bar

A line of information located at the top or bottom of a window. For example, in a directory window the status bar tells how many files are selected, how much disk space they occupy, and the total number of files in the directory. In the Directory Tree window, the status bar shows the number of bytes available on the disk and the total disk capacity. Not all windows have a status bar.


stop bits, defined
stop bits

The timing unit between characters.

Stop bits are not actually bits; they determine the time between transmitted characters.


synthesizer

An electronic instrument able to make music and sounds by creating its own audio waveforms and sending them out to an audio system.


Task List, defined
Task List

A window that shows all the applications you have running so you can switch among them. You can open the Task List window by choosing Switch To from the Control Menu or by pressing CTRL+ESC.


text box, defined
text box

A box within a dialog box where you type the information needed to carry out a command. When the dialog box appears, the text box may be blank or may contain text.


text file, defined
text file

A file containing only plain text, numbers or symbols. The text in a text file is uniform and does not contain any formatting, such as bold, underline, or different fonts and font sizes. A text file usually consists of characters coded from the ASCII character set.

The advantage of a text file is that it can be transferred to almost any text editor or word processor. Also, MS-DOS and Windows use text files, such as AUTOEXEC.BAT, CONFIG.SYS, and WIN.INI.


title

Another name for a software application written to run on a Multimedia PC.


title bar, defined
title bar

The horizontal bar at the top of a window that contains the title of the window or dialog box. On many windows, the title bar also contains the Control-menu box and Maximize and Minimize buttons.


topic, defined
topic

The level in the HyperGuide hierarchy at which you see information in the main window. This information can be in the form of a Quick Look graphic, an explanation of a command, a conceptual overview, a procedure, or a table of keys. Information in pop-up windows and contents screens are not considered topics.


track

A sequence of sound on a CD disc, which usually corresponds to a song.


Up button

Moves up one level in the HyperGuide hierarchy.


vector fonts, defined
vector fonts

A series of dots connected by lines that can be scaled to different sizes.


virtual memory, defined
virtual memory

A memory management system used by Windows running in 386 enhanced mode, which allows Windows to behave as if there were more memory than is actually present in the sytem. Virtual memory equals the amount of free RAM plus the amount of disk space allocated to a swap file that Windows uses to simulate additional RAM.


volume label, defined
volume label

The name you give a disk by using the Label command. Disk labels are optional. You see this information in File Manager only if you assigned a label to your disk. You can change or add a disk label through File Manager.


WAVE format, defined
WAVE format

Microsoft's format for digitized waveform files. These files have a .WAV extension.


waveform

A sound waveform graphically displays variances in air pressure over time. An audio signal waveform graphically displays variances in voltage over time.


wildcard characters, defined
wildcard characters

Two MS-DOS characters you can substitute for all or part of a file or directory name when you want to find similarly-named files or want one command to affect a number of files or directories.

An asterisk (*) substitutes for all characters. A question mark (?) substitutes for a single character.

For example, this entry covers all files with a .DOC extension in the current directory:

*.DOC

And this entry covers everything named with FY, three other characters, and the extension .90:

FY???.90


window, defined
window

A rectangular area on your screen in which you view an application or document. You can open, close, and move windows, and change the size of most windows. You can open several windows on the desktop at the same time and you can shrink windows to icons or enlarge them to fill the entire desktop.


window border, defined
window border

The outside edge of a window. You can lengthen or shorten each border. You can also change the width of the border with Control Panel's Desktop command.


Windows application, defined
Windows application

An application that was designed for Windows and will not run without Windows. All Windows applications follow the same conventions for arrangement of menus, style of dialog boxes, use of the keyboard and mouse, and so on.


wrap, defined
wrap

The automatic movement of the insertion point from the end of one line to the beginning of the next line as you type. When text wraps, you do not need to press ENTER at the end of each line in a paragraph.