S

SCSI (Small Computer System Interface): Used to connect computers to other devices such as hard drives, scanners. Laptops do not have a SCSI interface but it is possible to get a PCMCIA to SCSI adapter.

SDRAM: Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory, high-speed memory measured in megabytes (MB).SDRAM enables a system to run applications and temporarily store documents that are being worked on.  

Seek time: The time it takes a drive to read and write retrieved data, measured in milliseconds (ms). Larger drives typically have a faster seek time.

Self-Resetting Breakers: Self-resetting thermal breakers prevent severe overcharge in case your computer doesn't sense that your battery is fully charged. This device also protects the battery from damage in the event of short circuit.  

Serial Port: A port that transmits data one bit at a time. Used for peripheral devices such as mice and modems.

Serial: A male 9-pin or 25-pin connector situated at the back of computers that enables the connection of peripheral devices and other computers via a serial cable.  

SIMM (Single In-line Memory Module): A ciruit board onto which RAM memory chips are soldered.

Simulscan: Displays the identical information on two screens, such as the notebook panel and projector.  

Smart Batteries: Most new notebooks use "smart" batteries with internal microprocessors. These special circuits communicate valuable charge/discharge information with your notebook. This helps run useful features like the battery fuel gauge while providing extra safety.

Smartphone: A combination of a phone and a handheld computer allowing user to store lots of information, work with emails and even install their own programs.  

SMS (Short Message Service): An integrated paging service which allows GSM users to send and receive text messages on their phones.

SpeedStep: Intel technology that slows the processor when the notebook is running on battery power. It reduces performance but increases battery life by about 20 to 30 percent. AMD has a similar technology called PowerNow.  

Storage Capacity: Hard drive storage capacity is measured in gigabytes. One gigabyte (GB) equals one thousand megabytes (MB). When calculating hard drive needs, consider the size and number of applications, whether you use your computer to edit video or to store large audio files. The larger the hard drive capacity, the more you'll be able to store on your hard drive.