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The fifth-generation computer effort to develop computers that can solve complex problems in ways that might eventually merit the description creative is another trend in computer development, the ideal goal being true artificial intelligence. 计算机发展的另一个趋势是“第五代”计算机的研制工作，亦即研制可以解决复杂问题而且其解决方法或许最终会与“创造性的”这一形容名副其实的计算机，理想的目标是真正的人工智能。 One path actively being explored is parallel-processing computing, which uses many chips to perform several different tasks at the same time. 正在积极探索的一条道路是并行处理计算，亦即利用许多芯片来同时执行数个不同的任务。 One important parallel-processing approach is the neural network, which mimics the architecture of the nervous system. 一种重要的并行处理方法是模仿神经系统结构的神经网络。 Another ongoing trend is the increase in computer networking, which now employs the worldwide data communications system of satellite and cable links to connect computers globally. 另一个持续不断的趋势是计算机联网的增加。计算机联网现在使用由卫星和电缆链路构成的世界范围的数据通信系统，来将全球的计算机连在一起。 There is also a great deal of research into the possibility of optical computer --hardware that processes not pulses of electricity but much faster pulses of light. 此外，大量的研究工作还投入在探索“光”计算机的可能性上——这种硬件处理的不是电脉冲而是快得多的光脉冲。 Memory refers to the computer chips that store information for quick retrieval by the CPU. Random access memory (RAM) is used to store the information and instructions that operate the computers programs. 存储器是指存储信息供中央处理器快速检索的计算机芯片。随机访问存储器（RAM）用来存储操作计算机程序的信息和指令。 Typically, programs are transferred from storage on a disk drive to RAM. RAM is also known as volatile memory because the information within the computer chips is lost when power to the computer is turned off. 通常，程序由磁盘驱动器的存储区调到随机访问存储器中。随机访问存储器也称作易失性存储器，因为当计算机的电源关闭时，计算机芯片中的信息随着丢失。 Read-only memory (ROM) contains critical information and software that must be permanently available for computer operation, such as the operating system that directs the computers actions from start up to shut down. 只读存储器（ROM）包含必须永久可供计算机操作使用的关键信息和软件，如从开机到关机一直指挥计算机的运行的操作系统