Definition

parallel presence detect (PPD)

Part of the Microprocessors glossary:

Also see PPD file (Postscript Printer Description file).

Parallel presence detect (PPD) is a method of using resistor s to communicate a memory module 's speed and density to the basic input/output system ( BIOS ) when a computer boots (starts or restarts). The BIOS uses this information to configure the memory modules to run correctly or to detect if an incorrect memory module has been installed. Today, serial presence detect ( SPD ) is used on newer memory modules because SPD can store up to 400 times more information than PPD. PPD is used with 30- and 72- pin SIMM s.

PPD indicates the memory module's specifications using parallel pins on the module that transmit a binary code. If a pin has a resistor connected to it, it's a logical zero. If a pin does not have a resistor connected to it, it's a logical one. The combination of resistors connected and not connected make up the binary code that the BIOS uses.

This was last updated in March 2011
Posted by: Margaret Rouse

Related Terms

Definitions

  • brownout reset

    - A brownout reset is a circuit that causes a computer processor to reset (or reboot) in the event of a brownout, which is a significant drop in the power supply output voltage. (WhatIs.com)

  • Intel 4004

    - The Intel 4004 was one of the first microprocessors ever produced, released in 1971. The 4004 was designed by Federico Faggin, Masatoshi Shima and others. (WhatIs.com)

  • octal latch

    - An octal latch is an integrated circuit (IC) that contains eight binary digital circuits called latches. A latch is a form of sequential logic circuit. (WhatIs.com)

Glossaries

  • Microprocessors

    - Terms related to microprocessors, including definitions about silicon chips and words and phrases about computer processors.

  • Hardware

    - Terms related to computer hardware, including definitions about cables, connectors and power supply units and words and phrases about computing peripheral devices including the keyboard, mouse, au...

  • Internet applications

    - This WhatIs.com glossary contains terms related to Internet applications, including definitions about Software as a Service (SaaS) delivery models and words and phrases about web sites, e-commerce ...

Ask a Question. Find an Answer.Powered by ITKnowledgeExchange.com

Ask An IT Question

Get answers from your peers on your most technical challenges

Ask Question

Tech TalkComment

Share
Comments

    Results

    Contribute to the conversation

    All fields are required. Comments will appear at the bottom of the article.