A buffer is a temporary storage area in the computer's memory. It is necessary because activities that require input or output are generally much slower than those that only interact with memory.

Text from the keyboard is therefore placed into a buffer until you signal the computer you are done. The computer will then act on what was entered. The signal to the computer is usually the Carriage Return or Enter key. Buffers vary in length; the DOS command line buffer, for example, can contain up to 127 characters.

When text is entered into the keyboard buffer, it usually stays there until replaced, even if brought into the computer as a command and acted on.

DOS allows limited editing of the buffer using the function keys. That will be the first subject of the keyboard tutorial.

Command Editing