thank you to both replies so far. I will actually print them and keep them
with my notes.

the basic insights will be helpful. I have been studying the manual. But I
was hoping for an easier way. It just seems so technical and concentrated
that it is a bit off putting. So, I am just taking it in small chunks and
yes I am practicing and burning up batteries (I got some rechargeable NiHi's
and a charger)

And I have been searching the web, I will check out the links you provided.
I found a nice glossary at Steve's digicam site. I did some cut and paste
to build a reference of the terms I'm not yet familiar with.

Thanks again for your guidance.