Glossary of Computer Terms—A to Z
A
ACCESS TIME: The length of
time required for a binary word in the memory section of a computer to be read
by the Central Processing Unit (CPU), or the time to read data from a
peripheral data storage area.
ACCUMULATOR: An interface
Register (memory) in the Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU), that stores interim
arithmetic information for future processing. The accumulator is interface
between the ALU and other sections of the computer.
ADDER: The digital
logic circuits in the ALU section of a computer which implements the adding
process (sum and carry) of two or more binary numbers.
ADWARE: A software
program that is designed to run once a web page has been accessed. This is
usually in the form of banner or popup advertisements. Adware can also be
designed to be installed on your system without your consent or knowledge.
These forms of adware are usually referred to as “spyware” and are used to
monitor your surfing habits so that their software can deliver better targeted
advertisements.
ADDRESS: The location of
digital information in the Memory Unit of a computer, or a digital code that
designates this location.
ALGORITHM: The sequence of
operations that defines a solution to a problem in logic.
ALPHANUMERICS: The term that
defines the letters of the alphabet (A to Z) and the ten numerals (0 to 9). The
term is generally used to mean any text data.
AMERICAN
STANDARD CODE FOR INFORMATION INTERCHANGE (ASCII): A 7-bit binary
code, providing 128 different binary combinations for standard American
keyboards. ASCII is used to encode all 26 letters of the alphabet (upper and
lower case), all ten decimal digits (0 to 9), punctuation marks, standard
graphics, and special control codes into machine language. Although ASCII has
128 different codes, only 7 bits are needed for each different code. ASCII
characters are generally stored inside 8-bit bytes, providing room for the 128
ASCII codes plus another 128 codes, totaling 256 characters. This 8-bit code is
referred to as EXTENDED ASCII.
ANSI: It stands for
American National Standards Institute. This is the place that sets standards
for data communications, like the Internet.
ANALOG: Not digital.
This is data in the form of a continuous flow. A record or a tape is analog.
Digital, on the other hand, is in pieces or samples.
ANONYMOUS FTP: Using the FTP
function of the Internet anonymously by not logging in with an actual, secret
login ID and password. Often permitted by large, host computers who are willing
to share openly some of the files on their system to outside users who
otherwise would not be able to log in. ftp.apple.com and ftp.microsoft.com are
two software company sites.
AOL: America On-Line used
to be the largest bulletin board system in the world. With the advent of AOL
v3.0 though, AOL has become the largest Internet Service Provider in the world.
Unfortunately, AOL is available in only large metro areas. It is also the
largest provider of blank diskettes in the world ;-)
APPLESHARE: This is Apple
Computer’s network system. It allows many different end users (people on
computers) to attach to one central location and get files. (Sound familiar?)
APPLET: A small Java
application that is downloaded by an ActiveX or Javaenabled web browser. Once
it has been downloaded, the applet will run on the user’s computer. Common
applets include financial calculators and web drawing programs.
APPLICATION: Computer
software that performs a task or set of tasks, such as word processing or
drawing. Applications are also referred to as programs. It does things when
called upon.
ARITHMETIC LOGIC
UNIT (ALU): The section of a computer that contains a large
amount of logic circuitry and performs the four basic arithmetic functions
(addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division). Larger units contain
circuitry for higher mathematical functions, such as: quadratic
equations, etc.
ARCHIE: Search tool
used to find resources stored on Internet-based FTP servers.
ARTIFICIAL
INTELLIGENCE: It is the technique with which a machine is made to
think and take decisions like human beings.
ASSEMBLER: A software
program that converts (translates) each symbolic instruction written in
ASSEMBLY LANGUAGE into the MACHINE LANGUAGE (binary code) of a computer.
ASSEMBLY
LANGUAGE: A programming language (source code) that consists
of a group of coded letters or labels, called mnemonics. A mnemonic is a memory
assist to help recall data. Each mnemonic represents a single instruction that
is translated into the binary code of machine language. Mnemonics are easier to
use than machine language instructions. For example, the mnemonic “MUL” tells
the computer to “Multiply”.
ASYNCHRONOUS: A term that
describes a non-clocked, or free-running digital signal that triggers
successive computer instructions; the completion of one instruction triggers
the next. The speed of operation depends only on the speed of the signal
generated through the circuit or network. In contrast with SYNCHRONOUS
operation, the computer clock controls the speed of the signals in the system.
Transferring data with the help of start and stop bits that indicate the
beginning and end of each character being sent.
ASP: Active Server
Pages. An invention from Microsoft that runs on their server software.
AVI: Stands for
Audio/Video Interleaved. Microsoft’s format for encoding video & audio for
digital transmission.
64-bit/32-bit: This denotes
the number of “pieces” (or bits) of information required by an operating system
to run a certain application. Windows XP, Windows Vista and Windows 7 have 32
bit as well as 64 bit versions. More bit means that data can be processed idn
larger chunks and system can address a larger number of locations in physical
memory.
B
BACKPLANE: A part of a
computer into which the system’s PC boards are plugged to provide a common
voltage supply, reference, and SYSTEM BUS for all computer sections. A
backplane is often called a MOTHERBOARD.
BACKBONE: Well, all of
these computers have to come together somewhere. There are many “backbones” on
the Internet. Think of the backbone as the next larger grouping of computers
you connect with to get included in the Web. You’re at the end of a rib coming
off of the backbone—get the picture? The main backbone of the Internet here in
the U.S.
is the NSFNet. It stands for National Science Foundation Net.
BANDWIDTH: The capacity of
a networked connection. Bandwidth determines how much data can be sent along
the networked wires. Bandwidth is particularly important for Internet
connections, since greater bandwidth also means faster downloads.
BASIC: The acronym for
Beginner’s All-purpose Symbolic Instruction Code. BASIC is an easy to use
programming language, originally intended for educational purposes; it is
available for personal computers in varying degrees of complexity.
BAUD RATE: (i) This is a
measurement of the amount of data that can be transferred in one second. (ii)
This is an industry-accepted method of measuring modem speed. Baud rate divided
by eight equals transmission speed in bytes per second.
BAUDOT CODE: A 5-bit digital
code having 32 possible combinations of binary “0” and “1”; for Teletype
(Telex) communications systems.
BENCHMARK: The
specifications for measuring the characteristics of a computer system, or parts
of the system, under clearly-defined conditions.
BIOS: Stands for
Basic Input/Output System. This is the little set of programs that lets all the
different parts of the computer talk to each other.
BINARY CODE: The most basic
language a computer understands, it is composed of a series of 0s and 1s. The
computer interprets the code to form numbers, letters, punctuation marks, and
symbols.
BINARY CODED
DECIMAL (BCD): A coding system in which each decimal system
numeral (0 to 9) is represented by a 4-digit (4-bit) binary code.
BINARY SYSTEM
(BASE 2): A numbering system consisting of only two digits (0
and 1), as contrasted with a DECIMAL SYSTEM that uses ten digits (0 to 9). In
electronics, “binary” and “two-state” are synonymous.
BINARY DIGIT
(BIT): The term “BIT” is the contraction of Binary Digit and is part of a
binary WORD that consists of combinations of “0” and/or “1”. There are only two
numerals in binary arithmetic (base 2) and is the basis for binary code
(Machine Language), the language of the computer. A “bit” has the same significance
in binary arithmetic that a decimal digit has in the more familiar decimal
(base 10) arithmetic system.
BISTABLE
MULTIVIBRATOR: A digital circuit having two stable electrical
states. The output signal of this circuit will remain in either state (0 or 1)
indefinitely until an external input signal causes the circuit to switch to its
other output state. This circuit is generally called a FLIP-FLOP.
BINHEX: Converts a
Macintosh program into ASCII text for transmission over the Internet. Files
with a .hqx extension are BinHex. Aladdin’s Stuffit Expander converts BinHex
documents back into their true form.
BLACK BOX: A term that
refers to an electronic circuit or system within an enclosure without
necessarily providing details of its internal elements. The black box concept
often offers a useful approach in the design of a system or in the interconnect
between two circuits or systems.
BLOG: (Slang term for
a Weblog) A blog is a person journal that can be accessed publicly and allow
people to comment on the previously posted comments. When someone posts a
comment to a blog this is called “blogging”. The person that owns the blog is
called a “blogger”. Most typically, blogs are updated on a daily basis and use
the most basic of formats so that a person with very little background in
computing can easily figure out how the blogging system works.
BLU RAY: Also known as
Blu-ray Disc. This is an optical disc format that was developed to enable
recording, playback, and rewriting of high-definition (HD) video. This
technology has a storage capacity far greater than that of traditional DVDs. A
single-layer disc can hold up to 25GB while a dual-layer disc can hold up to
50GB. DVD disc technologies use a red laser to read and write data. Blu-ray
uses a blue-violet laser (hence the name). The benefit of the blue-violet laser
over the red laser is its ability to focus the laser spot with greater
precision because of its shorter wavelength.
BLUETOOTH: Radio
technology that connects electronic devices without using a cable. Data and
voice can be exchanged at ranges of up to 10 meters without the need for
devices to be lined up together.
BMP: (pronounced
“bimp”):
It is a Microsoft Windows image file made up of little dots.
BOOLEAN ALGEBRA:
Named after George Boole, a 19th century English mathematician, who
first formulated theorems that included a mathematical analysis of the laws of
human logic. It uses algebraic-like notation to describe the interaction of
variables having only two states: “true” and
“false”. In electronics, the states are often referred to as “1” and “0” or,
“high” and “low”.
BOOTSTRAP
(BOOT): A software program for initiating the operation of a computer. The
function of the program is to set up the input and output (I/O) devices and
load the OPERATING SYSTEM from a disk, cassette, or built-in READ ONLY MEMORY
(ROM).
BOOT: To start up a
computer. Cold boot—restarting computer after having turned off the power. Warm
boot—restarting computer without having turned off the power.
BREAKPOINT: Location of a
place in a program where program execution can be stopped to permit a visual
test, printing, or other performance analyses.
BROWSER: User’s software
program for viewing & browsing information on the Internet. Software that
enables users to browse through the cyberspace of the World Wide Web. Netscape
Navigator and Microsoft’s Internet Explorer are the two primary Web browsers
today.
BUBBLE MEMORY: A high-density
memory medium upon which a magnetic film is grown on a gadolinium-gallium
garnet substrate. A small permanent magnet is mounted inside its package,
perpendicular to the surface of the substrate. When an external magnetic field
is created with an external coil, magnetic “bubble” domains are formed on the
internal magnetic film which represent patterns of “1s”. The absence of
magnetic bubbles will represent patterns of “0s”.
BUFFER: The buffer is a
section of the computer where data is stored before being used. This buffering
allows time for an application to fix differences in bit rates among other
things. It creates a space of time for compensation.
BUNDLED: A term
describing a computer system that includes all necessary hardware and software
that will allow the system to operate as advertised.
BUS (BUSS): There are wires
between all the parts of your computer. There is a wire from the memory to the
brain, and from the brain to the printer, etc., etc. Those wires are called
busses. They differ from one another by the amount of data they will transfer
at one time.
BUS CONTROLLER: A circuit that
generates commands and control signals for sequencing and timing of the data
transmitted on a bus.
BURST: Most people
know this from “pipeline burst cache.” Burst means to send data in a large
package all at one time rather than small bits over a longer time.
BUG: A malfunction
due to an error in the program or a defect in the equipment.
BYTE: A byte is a
computer data transfer or data storage measurement. One byte equals 8 bits.
C
C: A programming
language developed at AT&T.
CACHE: Web browsers
store accessed information in a folder on your hard drive called a cache. Some
also store information in memory for faster access. This saves time when a user
goes to another page on a site with the same graphics. The Iowa Newspaper
Association site uses many of the same graphics throughout to take advantage of
this feature to speed browsing.
CAD-CAM: Computer Aided
Drawing-Computer Aided Manufacturing. The instructions stored in a computer
that will be translated to very precise operating instructions to a robot, such
as for assembling cars or lasercutting signage.
CD-ROM (COMPACT
DISK READ-ONLY MEMORY): An aluminized disk, 4.72" in diameter
that provides an optical storage medium for digital data up to 650 Megabytes. A
laser beam permanently burns data into its surface which cannot be
over-written, altered, or erased, providing read-only memory capability. Larger
size disks are generally called “laser disks”.
CD-R or WORM
(COMPACT DISK, WRITE ONCE, READ MANY MEMORY): A blank disk
that can be programmed once, permanently storing up to 650 Megabytes of digital
data. Once programmed, it has essentially the same features as a CD-ROM.
CD-E or CD R/W
(COMPACT DISK, ERASABLE, READ/WRITE MEMORY): Capable of storing up to
650 Megabytes of digital data. It uses a magneto-optical technology that
combines the storage capacity and reliability of optical disks and the erasability
of magnetic media.
CGA: Stands for
Color Graphics Adapter. It’s a piece of hardware that plays with colors.
CGI: Common Gateway
Interface. A programming standard that allows visitors to fill out form fields
on a Web page and have that information interact with a database, possibly
coming back to the user as another Web page. CGI may also refer to
Computer-Generated Imaging, the process in which sophisticated computer
programs create still and animated graphics, such as special effects for movies.
CHARACTER
GENERATOR: A circuit that accepts digital data and forms the
corresponding letters and numerals for a monitor or printer.
CHAT: Typing text
into a message box on a screen to engage in dialog with one or more people via
the Internet or other network.
CHIP A tiny wafer of
silicon containing miniature electric circuits that can store millions of bits
of information.
CLIENT/SERVER: Computer
technology that separates computers and their users into two categories: clients or
servers. When you want information from a computer on the Internet, you are a
client. The computer that delivers the information is the server. A server both
stores information and makes it available to any authorized client who requests
the information.
CLIPBOARD: A temporary
data (text and graphics) storage facility used when transferring data to a new
location.
CLOCK: A digital pulse
generator that controls the timing of a computer and, to a great extent,
determines the speed (number of instructions per second) capability of the computer.
Generally, it is located in the CPU.
CLONE: An imitation or
copy of the original. Usually refers to building a computer system that is
based on and compatible with another computer company’s system.
CLUSTER: In a Windows
environment, Cluster refers to the allocated space within files measured in
units. A cluster is part of a group of a logical disk sector. Cluster can also
refer to a group of computers networked together and used as a single unit.
CLUSTERING: This is a way
of connecting two (or more) computers together using clustering hardware so
that they share the processing load. If ten computers of equal processing speed
are clustered together, you would in a sense have a single computer with ten
times the processing capacity. The most common use of this technique is with
search engines where it is used to provide speedy search results. A couple of
other common uses of clustering can be to increase storage capacities or for
networks that require load balancing to increase a networks availability and
stability.
CMOS LOGIC: A CMOS
technology monolithic IC “logic family” characterized by low power dissipation
per gate, high chip density, and relatively high propagation delay per gate
compared with bipolar IC logic families.
COBOL: Stands for
Common Business Oriented Language.
CODEC: Short form for
Compressor/Decompressor. This technology is used for compressing and
decompressing data. Codecs are widely used in both hardware and software. A few
examples of codecs are: Cinepak, Indeo and MPEG.
COM: Stands for
Component Object Module.
COMPILER: A software
program that converts (translates) a complete software program written in
high-level language SOURCE CODE (such as PASCAL or FORTRAN) into machine
language. The entire source code is edited, compiled, and run at one time as
compared to an INTERPRETER that is run one line at a time. This is an
application that converts a programming language into a machine language
program.
COMPLEMENT: Reversal of bit
values:
“1s” become “0s” and “0s” become “1s”.
CONCURRENCY: The independent
execution of two or more sequences of events that are either occurring, or
appearing to occur simultaneously.
CONSOLE: The term
referring to a combination of a DISPLAY and KEYBOARD.
CONTROL BUS: A set of
transmission lines whose function is to carry synchronization signals and
control data as part of the SYSTEM BUS.
CONTROL UNIT
(CU): Part of the CPU containing the CLOCK, PROGRAM COUNTER and INSTRUCTION
REGISTER. The CONTROL UNIT also generates control signals and manages the
CONTROL BUS.
COOKIE: A text file
sent by a Web server that is stored on the hard drive of a computer and relays
back to the Web server things about the user, his or her computer, and/or his
or her computer activities.
COUNTER: A circuit whose
output(s) change state in a specified sequence on receiving appropriate input
signals. The circuit can provide a required output pulse after receiving a
specified number of input pulses.
COUNTERFEITING: People make
duplicate CDs of original software and sells them at low price.
CPU: Stands for
Central Processing Unit. This is the brain of your computer. It is made up of
two parts:
The Arithmetic Logic Unit (this does all the processing) and the Control
Unit (this makes sure every part of the computer is working together to present
the information).
CRACKER: A person who
“breaks in” to a computer through a network, without authorization and with
mischievous or destructive intent (a crime in some states).
CRASH: A hardware or
software problem that causes information to be lost or the computer to
malfunction. Sometimes a crash can cause permanent damage to a computer.
CSS: Stands for
Cascading Style Sheets.
CURSOR: A moving
position-indicator displayed on a computer monitor that shows a computer
operator where the next action or operation will take place.
CYBERSPACE: This is a term
that gives us a way to sort of “see” what we are surfing while on the Net. It’s
a generic term for the entire Internet, not just the World Wide Web.
2. Slang for the Internet.
D
DAISY-WHEEL
PRINTER: An impact printer that uses a print element shaped like a flat disk or
large thimble to form the alphanumeric and punctuation marks that are part of
its print element. Unlike dot-matrix, ink-jet, and laser printers, daisy-wheel
printers can not print graphics. See LETTER-QUALITY PRINTER.
DATABASE: A collection of
similar information stored in a file, such as a database of addresses. This
information may be created and stored in a database management system (DBMS).
DATA: Anything that
is recorded or used for processing. The stuff that transfers between computers
needed a name — data seemed good.
DATA RATE: Speed that
information moves from one item to another. This is usually in the form of
bits.
DATA-BASE
MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (DBMS): A software program that controls and
supervises the updating, editing, and execution of items from multiple files in
a data base environment.
DDR: Stands for
“Double Data Rate.” A type of advanced SDRAM designed to deliver data at a
double rate of speed for a given clock frequency.
DEBUG: The process of
detecting, locating, and correcting a problem in a software program or
hardware.
DECODER: A software,
hardware or circuit that is designed to translate a coded or scrambled signal
in to a readable form. A common use for this is by cable companies that
scramble a signal until a subscriber becomes authorized to view the signal. The
cable company then decodes the signal in to a viewable form.
DECRYPTION:This is a
process of converting information in to a readable form that has been encrypted
by the use of an encryption algorithm. A common use could be that a person
would like to protect sensitive data that resides on their computer system, so
they would use an encryption software to scramble the information. The same
software that scrambles the information would be the only authorized entity to
decrypt the information. This software could be made available to any
authorized person for decryption purposes at other locations.
DECREMENT: The reduction
of the numerical contents of a counter. A decrement of 1 is usually assumed,
unless otherwise specified. It is the complementary operation of INCREMENT.
DEFAULT: The pre-defined
configuration of a system or an application. In most programs, the defaults can
be changed to reflect personal preferences.
DESKTOP: The main
directory of the user interface. Desktops usually contain icons that represent
links to the hard drive, a network (if there is one), and a trash or recycling
can for files to be deleted. It can also display icons of frequently used
applications, as requested by the user.
DESKTOP
PUBLISHING: The production of publication-quality documents
using a personal computer in combination with text, graphics, and page layout
programs.
DEVICE: In a computer
system, this term refers to a unit of processing equipment external to the CPU.
It is sometimes synonymous with the term PERIPHERAL.
DEDICATED LINE: This is a phone
line meant specifically for one thing, like being attached to a computer.
DEMODULATION: This is the
process of converting analog information (like over phone lines) into digital
information (like in a computer). See “Modem” for more.
DIAL-UP LINE: This is a
telephone line that is connected to a server. When it is called, tones are
exchanged between the server and the devise calling in order to attach.
DIAL-IN: An Internet
account that can connect any stand-alone computer directly to the Internet. The
account is used by having a computer-based software application dial-in to an
Internet service provider (ISP). The software connects with the ISP and
establishes a TCP/IP link to the Internet that enables your software to access
Internet information. The computer that accesses a dial-in connection needs
either a modem to connect via a regular phone line or a terminal adapter (TA)
to connect via an ISDN phone line.
DIGITAL: Your CD player
is digital. It is a series of small samples of data playing together very
quickly (30,000 times a second). Digital recording of information means
representing the bits of data through ones and zeros. Playing the bits back to
again create what was recorded is called digital processing.
DIODE-TRANSISTOR
LOGIC (DTL): One of the first bipolar monolithic IC families of
logic gates. A diode in an IC logic gate performs the required logic with a
transistor amplifying and inverting the output. The DTL family has been made
obsolete by the Transistor-Transistor Logic (TTL) family.
DIRECTORY: A list of files
stored in the computer.
DISK: Two distinct
types. The names refer to the media inside the container:
A hard disc stores vast
amounts of data. It is usually inside the computer but can be a separate
peripheral on the outside. Hard discs are made up of several rigid coated metal
discs. Currently, hard discs can store 15 to 30 Gb (gigabytes)
A floppy disc, 3.5" square, usually inserted into the computer and
can store about 1.4 megabytes of data. This has become obsolete now.
DIRECT ADDRESS: A memory
accessing mode in which the contents of the accessed location is called the
OPERAND.
DIRECT MEMORY
ACCESS (DMA): A method of transferring blocks of data directly
between an external device and the computer system memory without the need for
intervention by the CPU. This method significantly speeds up the data transfer
rate, improving system efficiency.
DISK DRIVE: The
mechanical/electronic section that can accept and operate a compatible floppy
or hard disk. It may include several motors (for disk rotation and
reading/writing head positioning), position sensors, and control circuits.
DISK MIRRORING: simultaneously
storing a copy of information on another disc so that the information can be
recovered if the main disc crashes.
DISK STRIPING: storing a bit
of information across several discs (instead of storing it all on one disc and
hoping that the disc doesn’t crash).
DISK OPERATING
SYSTEM (DOS): A software program on a disk which coordinates the
operation, transfer of data, supervision, and control of a computer. This
software program must first be booted into the working memory of the computer
from the disk before it can operate.
DISK STORAGE: A method of
storing software programs and data on a rotating circular disk (either a floppy
or hard disk) coated with magnetic material, such as iron oxide. Data is
written (stored) and read (retrieved) by movable read/write heads positioned
over data tracks on the surface of the disk. Addressable portions of the disk
can be selected for read or write operations.
DISPLAY: A peripheral
device serving as a computer readout, such as a cathode-ray tube (CRT),
flat-panel (generally for laptop computers), or other readout devices. The
screen can be amber, green, or full-color display. Also called a MONITOR.
DNS: This stands for
Domain Name System. The Internet runs by assigning different sites “Names.”
They are actually 4-part strains of numbers associated with names, but names
nonetheless. Getting a DNS error means that the address you are attempting to
reach is not recognized by the Internet community.
DOCUMENTATION: Information
that explains how to use computer hardware or software. It is usually provided
as a manual or stored on a disk.
DOMAIN: A domain is a
computer, web site or network that is connected to the Internet. A typical
domain name looks like this: www.5starsupport.com. The
“www” prefix signifies that it is connected to the world wide web. The
“5starsupport” or body usually indicates the company name and the suffix “com”
is the indicates that it is a commercial site.
DONGLE: A device that
attaches to a computer to control access to a particular application. Dongles
provide the most effective means of copy protection. The dongle passes through
all data coming through the port so it does not prevent the port from being
used for other purposes. In fact, it’s possible to attach several dongles to
the same port.
DOT-MATRIX
PRINTER: An impact printer with a computer-driven, multipin print element
(print-head). It create images by imprinting a series of tiny dots on a paper
to print a wide variety of character styles and/or finely detailed graphics.
Generally, these printers are extremely fast and are used for draft-quality
documents and precise graphics.
DOTS PER INCH
(DPI): The measurement of density on dot-matrix printers or other dot-matrix
devices. As the DPI increases, image clarity increases.
DOWNLOAD: The process of
transferring information from a web site (or other remote location on a
network) to the computer. It is possible to “download a file” or “view a
download.”
v. To transfer information from a web site (or other remote
location on a network) to the computer.
DOWNSTREAM: This refers
data that is received from an ISP. Upstream in the data you send back. Some new
technology allows for tremendous downstream data transfer rates (100 kilobytes
per second or more), but with very slow upstream rates (33.6 kilobits per
second or less).
DOWN TIME: A period of
time during which a computer is not functioning. It is inoperable because of
temporary or permanent failure of hardware or software, or when routine
hardware or software maintenance procedures are indicated.
DPI: Stands for Dots
Per Inch.
DRIVERS: A driver is a
software program that is the driving force behind a device. Each computer
device needs a driver. Many drivers are included with a computers operating
system when you purchase it.
DROP-DOWN MENU: A menu window
that opens vertically on-screen to display context-related options. Also called
pop-up menu or pull-down menu.
DSL: Digital
Subscriber Line. A method of connecting to the Internet via a phone line. A DSL
connection uses copper telephone lines but is able to relay data at much higher
speeds than modems and does not interfere with telephone use.
DTP: Desk Top
Publisher (ing): A PC Term that describes a
program that enables you to design, create and print a variety of projects such
as letterheads, birthday cards, calendars, business cards, invitations etc.
that would have previously only been possible by using the services of an
outside printers business.
DUAL CORE: This refers to
a new Central Processing Unit (CPU) structure. The difference between a single
core and dual core is that a dual core system has two CPU’s that are
electronically wired together. These two CPU’s wired together in parallel gives
twice the performance than that of its single core counterpart.
DUMB TERMINAL: This a video screen
that is seeing manipulation in another computer. Example: If you log in
to AOL, your computer is not doing the work — AOL’s computer is. You are just
being offered a window into that world. That window is your screen. It’s a
terminal, but it’s just watching — thus a dumb terminal.
DVD: Digital Video
Disc—Similar to a CD-ROM, it stores and plays both audio and video.
DYNAMIC RANDOM
ACCESS MEMORY (DRAM): A type of semiconductor memory in which the
presence or absence of a capacitive charge in each element of the memory
represents the state of the bit (1 or 0). This charge must be periodically
recharged (refreshed) to maintain the desired binary state of the element. See
RANDOM ACCESS MEMORY.
E
EBOOK: An electronic
(usually hand-held) reading device that allows a person to view digitally
stored reading materials.
EBCDIC: Extended Binary
Coded Decimal Interchange Code. It is also called the Extended ASCII Code, as
it adds an eighth digit to the normal sevendigit code.
EDITOR: A program for
preparing and/or modifying a SOURCE PROGRAM or other file by addition,
deletion, or change.
E-COMMERCE: It means buying
or selling any product online using the internet technology. Many companies
have set up their web sites which provide the facilities to order and purchase
their products and services online.
E-MAIL: (Electronic
mail) Messages transmitted over the Internet from user to user. E-mail can
contain text, but also can carry with it files of any type as attachments.
However, this does NOT guarantee the receiver has the software to open or use
the attachment.
E-MAIL
SHORTHAND: Over time, Internet e-mailers have come up with
their own shorthand to save their poor fingers and confuse those new to the
Internet. Here are some common ones:
BTW: by the way
FWIW: for what it’s worth
EMOTICON: A text-based
expression of emotion created from ASCII characters that mimics a facial
expression when viewed with your head tilted to the left. Here are some
examples:
:-) Smiling
:-( Frowning
;-) Winking
:_( Crying
EMITTER-COUPLED
LOGIC (ECL): A bipolar monolithic IC logic gate family
characterized by very high speed operation and relatively high power
dissipation compared with other monolithic IC logic families.
EMULATION: The process of
imitation (simulation) of one computer system by another. The imitating
program, or device (emulator), accepts the same data, executes the same
programs, and achieves the same results.
ENGINE: (as in “Search
Engine”):
This is the working part of a database or application.
ENCRYPTION: The process of
transmitting scrambled data so that only authorized recipients can unscramble
it. For instance, encryption is used to scramble credit card information when
purchases are made over the Internet.
EPROM (ERASABLE
PROGRAMMABLE READ-ONLY MEMORY): A general term for a
non-volatile, semiconductor memory that can be programmed, erased, and
reprogrammed many times without damage to the device.
ETHERNET: This is a
method of file transfer that uses dedicated cables rather than dial up phone
lines. Ethernets are usually set up attaching end users to a central system
like an Intranet. It was invented by Xerox believe it or not.
ETHERNET CARD: A board inside
a computer to which a network cable can be attached.
EVENT: An occurrence
during the execution of a task, such as the completion of an input/output
operation.
EXECUTE: The command to
run a specified instruction or software program.
EXTENDED BINARY
CODED DECIMAL INTERCHANGE CODE (EBCDIC): An 8-bit code developed by
IBM for their mainframe computers, providing 256 bit-pattern equivalents of
standard keyboard symbols.
F
FAQs: (Frequently
Asked Questions) Files that are maintained at Internet sites to answer frequently
asked questions. INA has a FAQ section for its members.
FAT: Stands for File
Allocation Table. Basically this is a table of contents in a directory that
tells the computer what al is in there. Look at your Netscape cache, you’ll see
a FAT. It’ll be the first file.
FAN-IN: The maximum
number of output terminals from other logic gates that can be connected to an
input terminal of a specified logic gate.
FAN-OUT: The maximum
number of input terminals that can be connected to the output terminal of a specified
logic gate.
FETCH: The command to
obtain an instruction from a stored program.
FIBER-OPTIC: This is a new
style of cable being used for very high speed data transmission. It works by
pushing (modulating) a light wave across cable. The data is carried along with
the light.
FILE: A collection of
related data treated as a single unit. In a computer, a file can exist on a
disk, magnetic tape, or as an accumulation of information in memory.
FILE
COMPRESSION: Many computer files can be reduced in size for
downloading. Files with .ZIP extension have been “zipped” using PKZip software.
Files with .SIT extension have been “stuffed” using Stuffit software. Files
with .PDF have also been compressed using Adobe Acrobat. The Acrobat files have
the added feature of viewing, printing and placing, using Adobe’s Reader
program. For example, the Bulletin starts as a 3.5 megabyte file and is
compressed to less than 150 kilobytes. That’s a compression ratio of almost
24:1
FILE SHARING: This is the
most important feature of the Internet. This is a method of allowing one server
to give the same file to many different end users.
FIREWALL: A combination
of hardware and software that protects a local area network (LAN) from Internet
hackers. It separates the network into two or more parts and restricts
outsiders to the area “outside” the firewall. Private or sensitive information
is kept “inside” the firewall.
FIREWIRE: Apple?Computer’s
high-speed data transfer. Frequently used to import video to a computer.
FIRMWARE: A combination
of a software program in hardware, such as a READ-ONLY MEMORY (ROM), or a disk
that has files or software programs written on its surface.
FIRST IN, FIRST
OUT (FIFO): The term refers to the sequence of entering and
then retrieving data from a data storage section of a computer. The first data
entered is the first data retrieved.
FLAMES: Insulting,
enraged Internet messages.
FLAG: An indicator of
a specific condition that informs a section of a program that this condition
has already occurred and is identified by the presence or absence of the flag.
A flag can be implemented in software and/or hardware.
FLASH MEMORY
(FLEXIBLE ARCHITECTURE for SHARED MEMORY): This type of non-volatile
memory has the ability to retain its information even when there is no power
source. Flash Memory is best known for its use in hand help devices where it is
used to store the operating system and core applications. Other devices that
use Flash Memory are:
Digital Cameras ,Audio Players ,Cell Phones, Pagers, USB Drives
and Printers
FLIP-FLOP
CIRCUIT: A logic circuit having two stable output states. It has the ability to
change from one state to the other when an input pulse is applied in a
specified manner. It is also called a BISTABLE MULTIVIBRATOR.
FLOATING-POINT
ARITHMETIC: A method in which the decimal point location of a
number in an arithmetic operation is determined by the number’s exponent value
in base 10. All exponents are equalized prior to the operation to set a decimal
point in its proper location in the final computation. Floatingpoint arithmetic
extends a computer’s mathematical capability beyond the limit imposed by a
fixed word length and contributes to easier programming.
FLOW CHART: A symbolic
representation of the processing steps performed by a software program or a
graphic sequence of logic operations implemented in hardware. A flow chart
helps to visualize the procedure(s) necessary to design a software program or a
final hardware system.
FOLDER: A structure for
containing electronic files. In some operating systems, it is called a
“directory.”
FONTS: Sets of
typefaces (or characters) that come in different styles and sizes.
FORMAT: An orderly,
structured arrangement of data elements (bits, bytes, and/or fields) that is
necessary to produce a larger entity, such as: a list, record,
table, file, or dictionary. Also, it is the term that describes the preparation
of a magnetic disk to allow it to accept digital data.
FQDN: (Fully
Qualified Domain Name) The “official” name assigned to a computer.
Organizations register names, such as “INAnews.com” or “CNAads.com.”
FORTRAN: A
science-oriented high-level software language, derived from the contraction of
the terms FORmula TRANslator.
FREEWARE Software
created by people who are willing to give it away for the satisfaction of
sharing or knowing they helped to simplify other people’s lives. It may be
freestanding software, or it may add functionality to existing software.
FREQUENCY SHIFT
KEYING (FSK): A technique of digitally keying (modulating) an
audio tone (carrier wave) so that a commercial telephone line can carry digital
data.
See MODEM.
FTP: (File Transfer
Protocol) The basic Internet function that enables files to be transferred
between computers. You can use it to download files from a remote, host
computer, as well as to upload files from your computer to a remote, host
computer. (See Anonymous FTP).
FULL DUPLEX: A data
transmission mode that provides simultaneous and independent transmission and
reception. A conventional telephone communication is an example of this
technique.
G
GATE: See LOGIC GATE.
GATE ARRAY: A group of
standard logic gates that can be interconnected into a complete circuit or
system. Also called LOGIC ARRAY.
GATEWAY: As in Common
Gateway Interface (CGI). It is a piece of software that allows two items to
communicate with each other. They are used to make connections between
computers and systems inside that computer.
GENERAL PURPOSE
INTERFACE BUS (GPIB): A BUS specification standard (IEEE 488) for
controlling peripheral devices.
GIF: (Graphics
Interchange Format) A graphics file format that is commonly used on the
Internet to provide graphics images in Web pages. All graphic files should
remain under 5 kilobytes in size to speed page loading. See JPEG and kbps.
GIGABYTE (GB): 1024 megabytes.
Also called gig.
GIGO (GARBAGE
IN, GARBAGE OUT): The term describing the output of a computer whose
operation or accuracy is faulty.
GLITCH: The cause of an
unexpected malfunction.
GOPHER: One of the
first commonly used interfaces for the Internet with a format structure and
resource for providing information. It was created at the University of
Minnesota who’s mascot is the gopher.
GRAPHICS: Schematic
drawings, pictures, line drawings, and/or diagrams generated by data entered
into a computer via a keyboard or a data base.
GROUPWARE: Software that
allows networked individuals to form groups and collaborate on documents,
programs, or databases.
GUI: Graphical User
Interface. A system that simplifies selecting computer commands by enabling the
user to point to symbols or illustrations (called icons) on the computer screen
with a mouse.
H
HACKER: A person with
technical expertise who experiments with computer systems to determine how to
develop additional features. Hackers are occasionally requested by system
administrators to try and “break into” systems via a network to test security.
The term hacker is sometimes incorrectly used interchangeably with cracker. A
hacker is called a “white hat” and a cracker a “black hat.”
HALF-DUPLEX: A
communications mode that allows transmission and reception of digital data
between computers, but not simultaneously.
HANDSHAKING: The process by
which two devices initiate communications. Handshaking begins when one device
sends a message to another device indicating that it wants to establish a
communications channel. The two devices then send several messages back and
forth that enable them to agree on a communications protocol.
HARD COPY: A paper
printout of what you have prepared on the computer.
HARDWARE: The physical
and mechanical components of a computer system, such as the electronic
circuitry, chips, monitor, disks, disk drives, keyboard, modem, and printer.
HARD-DISK DRIVE:
A sealed unit containing high-density, high-speed, rigid metal disks,
and recording heads to store digital data. It reads and writes data faster than
floppy disks.
HELPER
APPLICATION: This is an application your browser uses to
manipulate a downloaded program.
HEXADECIMAL: The base 16
number system using 16 symbols (0 to 9 and A to F) to represent 16 decimal
numerals (0 to 15).
HIGH-LEVEL
LANGUAGE (HLL): A programming language (source code) consisting of
a unique group of symbols and command statements representing a series of
machine operations. A COMPILER or INTERPRETER translates (converts) a HLL into
MACHINE LANGUAGE. BASIC, FORTRAN, PASCAL, ALGOL, and ADA are some examples of
high-level languages.
HOME PAGE: The main page
of a Web site used to greet visitors, provide information about the site, or to
direct the viewer to other pages on the site.
HOST: A computer that
“hosts” outside computer users by providing files, services or sharing its
resources. INAs Web site is a hosted site. Having a hosted site has the
advantage for a company of not having to worry about security, maintenance or
upgrading. The disadvantage is a loss of control over these issues, although it
is relatively easy to move to a new host.
HOTLIST: List of URLs
saved within the Mosaic Web browser. (Bookmark in Netscape.)
HTML: (Hypertext
Markup Language) The basic language that is used to build hypertext documents
on the World Wide Web.
HTTP: (Hypertext
Transfer Protocol) The set of rules (protocol) used by the computers to
transfer hypertext documents over the internet.
HYPERTEXT: Text in a
document that contains a hidden link to other text. You can click a mouse on a
hypertext word and it will take you to the text designated in the link. The
wonderful thing about hypertext, however, is its ability to link—using http
over the World Wide Web—to any Web document.
HYPERLINK: Text or an
image that is connected by hypertext coding to a different location. By
selecting the text or image with a mouse, the computer “jumps to” (or displays)
the linked text.
HYPERMEDIA: Integrates
audio, graphics, and/or video through links embedded in the main program.
I
IBM: Stands for
International Business Machines
ICONS: Symbols or
illustrations appearing on the computer screen that indicate program files or
other computer functions.
IEEE 488: See GENERAL
PURPOSE INTERFACE BUS
IMPACT PRINTER: A
computer-driven mechanical imprinting device where the characters are formed by
the printer-head key striking a ribbon to imprint the character’s image onto a
paper.
INCREMENT: The increase in
the numerical contents of a counter. An increment of one is usually assumed,
unless otherwise specified.See DECREMENT.
INK-JET PRINTER:
A printer that forms characters by electrostatically aiming and
depositing a tiny patterned drop of ink onto the paper to be printed.
INPUT/OUTPUT
(I/O) SECTION: The section that interfaces between the computer’s
SYSTEM BUS and the peripherals feeding data into and taking data out of the
computer. Depending on the number of peripherals in a system, the I/O sections
can have a single PORT or multiple ports.
INSTRUCTION: A software
statement that specifies a machine operation. Also called a COMMAND.
INSTRUCTION SET
(INSTRUCTION REPERTOIRE): A description of the total operational
capabilities of a computer provided by the computer or the CPU (MPU)
manufacturer. It consists of a listing of binary words for each executable
commands. It is sometimes called the computer’s MICROCODE.
INTERPRETER: A high-level
language translator that converts individual highlevel computer language
program instructions (source code) into machine instructions. It translates and
executes each statement line-by-line during the running of the program.
INTERRUPT: The suspension
of normal program execution to perform a higher priority service routine as
requested by a peripheral device. After completion of the service routine
operation, the interrupted program routine is resumed at the point where it was
interrupted.
INTERNET: Established in
the 1960s by the US government, the Internet was developed so that government
agencies and universities could link research centers in response the perceived
notion that the Soviet Union was becoming more advanced in the space race. The
Internet was created as a “de-centralized” network, meaning that there is no
one place that makes up the Internet. This was done to make sure the Internet
survived a nuclear war. Today, the Internet is a vast collection of e-mail,
Usenet groups, FTP sites, and Web sites, with millions upon millions of users
from around the world.
INTERNET PIRACY:
Unauthorized copies downloaded over the internet falls under internet
piracy.
INTERNET SERVICE
PROVIDER: (ISP) It is a company which provides Internet
access to its customers.
INTERFACE: This is any
type of point where two different things come together. Most often, the term is
used to describe the programs between you and your computer like Windows, OS/2
and others. What you see on the screen is the interface between you and what
your computer is doing.
INPUT: Data that goes
into a computer device.
INPUT DEVICE: A device, such
as a keyboard, stylus and tablet, mouse, puck, or microphone, that allows input
of information (letters, numbers, sound, video) to a computer.
INSTANT
MESSENGING (IM): A chat application that allows two or more people
to communicate over the Internet via real-time keyed-in messages.
IP: (Internet
Protocol) The rules that provide basic Internet functions. (See TCP/IP).
IP (INTERNET
PROTOCOL) ADDRESS: An Internet Protocol address is a unique set of
numbers used to locate another computer on a network. The format of an IP
address is a 32-bit string of four numbers separated by periods. Each number
can be from 0 to 255 (i.e., 1.154.10.266). Within a closed network IP addresses
may be assigned at random, however, IP addresses of web servers must be
registered to avoid duplicates.
IRC: (Internet Relay
Chat) Currently an Internet tool with a limited use that lets users join a
“chat” channel and exchange typed, text messages. Few people have used IRC, but
it is going to create a revolution in communication when the Internet can
provide the bandwidth to carry full-color, live-action video and audio. IRC
came into its own during the Gulf War where unbiased reports of the war were
sent back to the United States using Internet Relay Chat to get around US
military censors.
ISDN: (Integrated
Services Digital Network) A set of communications standards that enable a
single phone line or optical cable to carry voice, digital network services and
video.
ISO: Stands for the
International Standards Organization. Someone has to say what is the standard
for transferring data. These people are it. You’ll find them in Paris.
J
JAVA: Java is a
programming language, which allows a programmer to write the code once on their
computer platform and is then usable on any Javaaware computer platform.
JAVA SCRIPT: This is a
language very close to Java that allows for more interaction with the viewer.
JPEG: (Joint
Photographic Experts Group) The name of the committee that designed the
photographic image-compression standard. JPEG is optimized for compressing
full-color or gray-scale photographic-type, digital images. Photos are
generally stored in JPEG format on the Internet. All graphics files should
remain very small with an option for the user to view a larger photo. Graphics
are stored in GIF format.
JUGHEAD Search browser
like “Archie”.
JUMP: An instruction
that causes the computer to fetch the next instruction to be executed from a
location other than the next sequential location in memory.
K
KEYBOARD: A peripheral
device consisting of alphanumerics, punctuation marks, and other special
function keys that are mechanically arranged to allow the entry of data,
commands, and other information into the system.
K OR KBPS: (kilobites per
second). A speed rating for computer modems that measures (in units of 1,024
bits) the maximum number of bits the device can transfer in one second under
ideal conditions.
KILOBYTE (KB) This is about a
thousand bytes of space. In reality, it’s two to the 10th power or 1,024 bytes.
L
LANDSCAPE: A printer
feature, generally controlled by software, which rotates the output image by
90º to print across the length rather than the width of the paper.
LAPTOP AND
NOTEBOOK: Small, lightweight, portable battery-powered
computers that can fit onto your lap. They each have a thin, flat, liquid
crystal display screen.
LASER (LIGHT
AMPLIFICATION by STIMULATED EMISSION of RADIATION): A system that
generates high-intensity, highly-focused light for many purposes, including
printers, high-density memory media, and a light generator for fiber optic
transmission systems.
LASER DISK: See CD-ROM
LASER PRINTER: A
computer-driven photocopier that creates an original image of the text or
graphics from the output of the computer. A computercontrolled laser beam
“paints” the desired image inside the photocopier and then prints the image on
a sheet of paper.
LAST-IN,
FIRST-OUT (LIFO): A method of storing and retrieving data in a stack,
table, or list.
LEASED LINE: A leased phone
line that provides a full-time, dedicated, direct connection to the Internet.
LIBRARY: A collection of
standard software instructions, programs, routines, and subroutines in a
computer’s memory.
LIGHT PEN: A
light-sensitive stylus for forming graphics by touching coordinates on a display
screen, thereby seeming to draw directly on the screen.
LINK: See hyperlink.
LINKAGE: Instructions
that connect one program to another, providing continuity of executions between
the programs.
LINUX: A UNIX like,
open-source operating system developed primarily by Linus Torvalds. Linux is
free and runs on many platforms, including both PCs and Macintoshes.
LIST SERVE: An Internet
application that automatically “serves” mailing lists by sending electronic
newsletters to a stored database of Internet user addresses. Users can handle
their own subscribe/unsubscribe actions without requiring anyone at the server
location to personally handle the transaction.
LIVE SCRIPT: This is the
former name of Java Script. There are few updates between the two.
LOCAL AREA
NETWORK (LAN): A combined hardware/software technique for
interconnecting company related multiple computers or computer terminals
through a high-speed networking system.
LOGIC GATE: A digital
circuit resulting in an output whose state (0 or 1) depends on the specific
combination of the states of input signals. Definitions of the more commonly
used logic gates are listed below:
AND: All inputs must be in a “1”
state to produce a “1” state output.
NAND (NOT AND): All inputs must be in a “1” state to produce a “0” state
output.
NOR (NOT OR): Any one input, or more, in a “1” state will produce a “0”
state output.
NOT (INVERTER): A logic gate having only one input and one output. If the
input is in a “1” state, the output is in a “0” state and vice versa.
OR: Any one input, or more, in a “1” state will produce a “1”
state at the output.
XOR (EXCLUSIVE OR): If any of the
inputs are in a “1” state, but not if two or more inputs are “1”, the output is
in a “1” state.
LOOK AHEAD: 1. A feature of
a CPU which allows the masking of an interrupt request until the current
sequential instruction has been completed.
2. A feature of an adder circuit in the ALU section which
allows the circuit to look ahead to see that all the generated arithmetic
carrys are available for addition.
LOOPING: The repetition
of program instructions until a conditional exit situation is encountered.
LOGIN: To attach to a
computer. It has also come to represent your User ID command.
LOGIN SCRIPT: This is the
small text file that is run by the server gateway to make the attachment
between it and your computer.
M
MACHINE
LANGUAGE: Sets of numeric binary code instructions in a
computer which execute its operations. All other programming languages (SOURCE
PROGRAMS) must be translated into machine language (OBJECT PROGRAM) before
entering the CPU.
MACRO: A combination
of commands, instructions, or keystrokes which may be stored in a computer’s
memory to be executed as a single command by a single keystroke or a
simultaneous combination of keystrokes.
MACROASSEMBLER: An assembly
language translator that converts macro expressions into several machine
language instructions. Although macros simplify program coding and speed up
execution of a program, a code for each macro must also be generated.
MAC OS: An operating
system with a graphical user interface, developed by Apple? for Macintosh?
computers. Current System “X.1” (10) combines the traditional Mac interface
with a strong underlying UNIX? operating system for increased performance and
stability.
MAILING LIST: An e-mail based
discussion group. Sending one e-mail message to the mailing list’s list server
sends mail to all other members of the group. Users join a mailing list by subscribing.
Subscribers to a mailing list receive messages from all other members. Users
have to unsubscribe from a mailing list to stop receiving messages forwarded
from the group’s members.
MALWARE: The adware
designed to monitor your keyboard keystrokes so that the author of the software
can gain access to your password protected accounts are referred to as
“malware” due to its malicious intent. MEGABYTE (MB): About a million
bytes of space. Actually it’s 2 raised to the 20th power or 1,048,576 bytes of space.
MEMORY: Temporary
storage for information, including applications and documents. The information
must be stored to a permanent device, such as a hard disc or CD-ROM before the
power is turned off, or the information will be lost. Computer memory is
measured in terms of the amount of information it can store, commonly in
megabytes or gigabytes.
MENU: A
context-related list of options that users can choose from.
MENU BAR: The horizontal
strip across the top of an application’s window. Each word on the strip has a
context sensitive drop-down menu containing features and actions that are
available for the application in use.
MERGE: To combine two
or more files into a single file.
MHz: An abbreviation
for Megahertz, or one million hertz. One MHz represents one million clock
cycles per second and is the measure of a computer microprocessor’s speed. For
example, a microprocessor that runs at 300 MHz executes 300 million cycles per
second. Each instruction a computer receives takes a fixed number of clock
cycles to carry out, therefore the more cycles a computer can execute per
second, the faster its programs run. Megahertz is also a unit of measure for
bandwidth.
MICROPROCESSOR: A complete
central processing unit (CPU) contained on a single silicon chip.
MINIMIZE: A term used in
a GUI operating system that uses windows. It refers to reducing a window to an
icon, or a label at the bottom of the screen, allowing another window to be
viewed.
MICROCOMPUTER: A
microprocessor-based computer, consisting of an MPU, internal semiconductor
memory, input and output sections, and a system bus, all on one, or several
monolithic IC chips inserted into one or several PC boards. The addition of a
power supply and connecting cables, appropriate peripherals (keyboard, monitor,
printer, disk drives, etc.), an operating system and other software programs
can provide a complete microcomputer system. The microcomputer is generally the
smallest of the computer family, however, the improvement in performance
capability of newer microcomputer systems can make the microcomputer as
powerful as larger systems.
MICROPROCESSOR
UNIT (MPU): The Central Processor Unit (CPU) implemented in
monolithic IC technology, usually, but not necessarily, on one VLSI chip. In
many cases, the SYSTEM BUS is also included on the MPU chip.
MIDI: Stands for
Music Instrument Digital Interface. It allows a computer to store and replay a
musical instrument’s output.
MINICOMPUTER: Considered to
be more capable than a microcomputer but less powerful than a mainframe.
Generally, the WORD-WIDTH of the minicomputer is between 12 to 32 bits.
MIME
(Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions): A set of Internet
functions that extends normal e-mail capabilities and enables computer files to
be attached to e-mail. Files sent by MIME arrive at their destination as exact
copies of the original so that you can send fully-formatted word processing
files, spreadsheets, graphics images and software applications to other users
via simple e-mail. Aladdin’s Stuffit Expander will automatically convert MIME
files.
MNEMONIC: A symbolic
label or code reminder that assists the user in remembering a specific
operation or command.
See ASSEMBLY LANGUAGE.
MODEL: A
representation of a process or system that can be controlled to demonstrate the
effects that various actions will have on the process or system.
MONITOR: The visual
readout device of a computer system. A monitor can be in several forms:, a
cathode ray tube (CRT), a liquid crystal display (LCD), or a flat-panel,
full-color display. See DISPLAY.
MODEM: A device that
connects two computers together over a telephone or cable line by converting
the computer’s data into an audio signal. Modem is a contraction for the
process it performs: modulate-demodulate.
MOSAIC: The first Web
browser to have a consistent interface for the Macintosh, Windows, and Unix
environments. It was created at the National Center for Supercomputing
Applications (NCSA). The success of this browser is really responsible for the
expansion of the Web.
MOUSE: A small
hand-held device, similar to a trackball, used to control the position of the
cursor on the video display; movements of the mouse on a desktop correspond to
movements of the cursor on the screen.
MP3:Stands for MPEG
(Moving Picture Expert Group) Audio Layer 3. This is a compression standard
that was developed to create a small audio file size while keeping a high
quality sound. The small file size allows the sound to be streamed or
downloaded over the Internet with ease.
MP4: Stands for
MPEG (Moving Picture Expert Group): 4. Finalized
toward the end of 1998, this became an International Standard in the beginning
of 1999. This was developed to provide low bandwidth multimedia applications.
MPEG: Stands for
Motion Picture Experts Group. A format to make, view, and transfer both digital
audio and digital video files.
MULTITASKING: The technique
of using several applications programs (tasks) in a computer system or on
several terminals in a network at the same time. Multitasking can
simultaneously work with several programs or interrelated tasks that share
memories, codes, buffers, and files.
MULTIUSER: The term
describing the capability of a computer system to be operated at more than one
terminal at the same time.
MULTIPLEXER This is a piece
of hardware that allows one item to take the place of several. An example would
be using a multiplexer to allow 10 computers to attach where only one could
before.
MULTIMEDIA: Software
programs that combine text and graphics with sound, video, and animation. A multimedia PC contains the
hardware to support these capabilities.
N
NACS: Stands for Netware
Asynchronous Communication Services.
NEGATIVE LOGIC: This term
refers to logic in which the negative voltage represents the “1” state and the
zero voltage represents the “0” state.
See POSITIVE LOGIC.
NESTING: Embedding
commands or data in levels of other data so that specific routines or
instructions can be executed or accessed continuously in loops, without
returning to the main program.
NETSCAPE
NAVIGATOR: Currently the dominant World Wide Web browser.
Information on the latest version of the browser can be found at
www.netscape.com.
NETWORK ADAPTER:
This is the hardware that allows the computers that are part of a
network to communicate with each other.
NETWORK: A system of
interconnected computers.
NEWBIE: Someone who is
new to the Internet. You cease to be a newbie almost AS SOON AS YOU LEARN TO
STOP TYPING IN ALL CAPS (which is considered shouting and in very poor taste).
NIBBLE: A sequence of
four adjacent bits, or a half-byte. A hexadecimal or BCD coded digit can be
represented by a nibble.
NODE: The endpoint of
a network branch or the junction of two or more branches.
NON-VOLATILE
MEMORY: A memory where stored data remains undisturbed by the removal of electrical
power.
O
OBJECT: Something that
contains both the data and the application that operates on that data.
OBJECT CODE: Machine
language code produced by a translator program, such as an assembler,
interpreter, or compiler. Instructions in object code can be executed by a
Central Processing Unit (CPU). See SOURCE CODE.
OOP: Stands for
Object Oriented Program. A larger program made up of smaller objects.
OPEN SOURCE: Computer
programs whose original source code was revealed to the general public so that
it could be developed openly. Software licensed as open source can be freely
changed or adapted to new uses, meaning that the source code of the operating
system is freely available to the public. Programmers may redistribute and
modify the code, as long as they don’t collect royalties on their work or deny
access to their code. Since development is not restricted to a single
corporation more programmers can debug and improve the source code faster
OPERATING
SYSTEM: A set of instructions that tell a computer on how to operate when it is
turned on. It sets up a filing system to store files and tells the computer how
to display information on a video display. Most PC operating systems are DOS
(disc operated system) systems, meaning the instructions are stored on a disc
(as opposed to being originally stored in the microprocessors of the computer).
Other well-known operating systems include UNIX, Linux, Macintosh, and Windows.
OPERATION CODE
(OP-CODE): Part of a computer instruction word that designates
the function performed by a specific instruction. For example, op-codes for
arithmetic instructions include: “ADD”, “SUB”,
“MUL” and “DIV”.
OUTPUT: Data that come
out of a computer device. For example, information displayed on the monitor,
sound from the speakers, and information printed to paper.
OVERFLOW: An error
condition occurring in a computer when a mathematical operation produces a
result having a magnitude that exceeds the capacity of the computer’s
arithmetic register.
P
PALM: A hand-held
computer.
PASCAL: A high-level
programming language that is structured to encourage efficient programming
habits (documentation) and is used extensively in educational institutions and
engineering environments.
PARALLEL
OPERATION: A method of data transmission in which all bits of
a digital word are handled simultaneously with each bit on a separate line.
Although faster and simpler to install and operate than SERIAL OPERATION, this
method requires more transmission lines (real estate).
PARITY: A method of
verifying the accuracy of binary data after it has been transferred to or from
a storage area.
PARTITION: A portion of a
hard disk that functions as a separate unit. A single hard disk can be divided
into several partitions, each of which functions as a separate drive and has
its own volume name (such as D:, E:, F:, and so on). The purpose is to make the
drive more efficient, as the computer can search smaller sections for a
specific file rather than the entire drive. The verb to partition refers to the
process of dividing the hard drive into partitions.
PC BOARD: Printed Circuit
board. A board printed or etched with a circuit and processors. Power supplies,
information storage devices, or changers are attached.
PCMCIA (PERSONAL
COMPUTER MEMORY CARD INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION): A package in a
plastic card form containing semiconductor memory, particularly FLASH. These
cards are plugged into the card slot in laptop computers.
PDA: Personal Digital
Assistant. A hand-held computer that can store daily appointments, phone
numbers, addresses, and other important information. Most PDAs link to a
desktop or laptop computer to download or upload information.
PDF: Stands for
Portable Document Format. A technology developed by Adobe and was designed to
capture all of the elements of a printed document and place it in a singe image
file. This PDF file can be navigated, printed or attached to an email for
sharing. In order to be able to view a PDF file on your computer, you will need
to download and install the free Acrobat Reader. Once installed, anytime a PDF
file is clicked, the image file will automatically be viewed.
PEER TO PEER: A type of
network in which each workstation has equivalent capabilities and
responsibilities. This differs from client/server architectures, in which some
computers are dedicated to serving the others. Peer-to-peer networks are
generally simpler and less expensive, but they usually do not offer the same
performance under heavy loads.
PEN DRIVE: A small
keyring-sized device that can be used to easily transfer files between
USB-compatible systems. Available in a range of capacities (and in some cases,
with an MP3 player built-in). Plug it in to any USB port and it will be
automatically detected by the Operating System.
PENTIUM CHIP: Intel’s fifth
generation of sophisticated high-speed microprocessors. Pentium means “the
fifth element.”
PERIPHERAL: A term
designating the various kinds of machines and devices that work in conjunction
with a computer but are not necessarily part of the computer structure.
Typically, peripherals refer to: printers,
keyboards, monitors, scanners, CD ROM drives, and plotters. A hard drive,
floppy disk drive, and a MODEM are considered to be peripheral devices even
though they may be physically located inside a computer.
PERSONAL
COMPUTER (PC): A single-user computer containing a central
processing unit (CPU) and one or more memory circuits.
PETABYTE: A measure of
memory or storage capacity and is approximately a thousand terabytes.
PETAFLOP: A theoretical
measure of a computer’s speed and can be expressed as a thousand-trillion
floating-point operations per second.
PICT: Pronounced
“Pick,t.” It is another image format.
PLATFORM: The operating
system, such as UNIX®, Macintosh®, Windows?, on which a
computer is based.
PLUG-IN: This is a
program that your browser uses to manipulate a downloaded file. It differs from
a Helper Application in that the plug-in works inside the browser window.
PLUG AND PLAY: Computer
hardware or peripherals that come set up with necessary software so that when
attached to a computer, they are “recognized” by the computer and are ready to
use.
PLUG-COMPATIBLE:
A term that describes the ability of peripherals to be interchanged
without modification.
POLLING: A process in
which a number of peripheral devices, remote stations, or nodes in a computer
network are interrogated, one at a time, to determine if service is required.
POP (Post Office
Protocol): An Internet protocol that enables a single user to
read e-mail from a mail server.
POP (Point of
Presence): A site that has an array of telecommunications
equipment:
modems, digital, leased lines and Internet routers. An Internet access
provider may operate several regional PoPs to provide Internet connections
within local phone service areas. An alternative is for access providers to
employ virtual PoPs (virtual Points of Presence) in conjunction with third
party provider.
POP-UP MENU: A menu window
that opens vertically or horizontally onscreen to display context-related
options. Also called drop-down menu or pull-down menu.
PORT: An input/output
channel (either parallel or serial), terminated at a connector on the computer.
It interconnects the computer’s input and/or output terminals to an appropriate
source and/or destination.
PORTRAIT: A term that
designates the position of conventional printing across the width of a page.
POSITIVE LOGIC: This logic
represents the reverse of NEGATIVE LOGIC. It is the more commonly used form of
logic. A positive voltage represents a “1” state and a negative (or zero)
voltage represents a “0” state.
POWER PC: A competitor of
the Pentium chip. It is a new generation of powerful sophisticated
microprocessors produced from an Apple-IBMMotorola alliance.
PPP: Stands for
Point To Point Protocol. It’s a software application that allows an attachment
to a server.
PRINT SPOOLER: A device for
temporarily storing data to be printed when the printer is functioning. It
provides uninterrupted data entry and editing while the printer is active and
while other data awaits transmission to the printer.
PRINTER: A mechanical device
for printing a computer’s output on paper.
PROGRAM: A complete
sequence of computer software instructions necessary to provide an application,
solve a specific problem, perform an action, or respond to external stimuli in
a prescribed manner. As a verb, it means to develop a program.
PROGRAM COUNTER
(PC): A special-purpose register in the CPU which contains the address of the
next instruction to be fetched and executed. PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC ARRAY
(PLA): An unprogrammed, generalpurpose logic structure in monolithic IC form
consisting of an array of similar, and/or compatible logic gates. Also called
PROGRAMMABLE ARRAY LOGIC (PAL).
PROGRAMMABLE
READ-ONLY MEMORY (PROM): A blank read-only memory (ROM) that is
programmed with external programming equipment after manufacture. Once
programmed, it is not re-programmable and is considered to be a ROM.
PROGRAMMING
LANGUAGE: A series of instructions written by a programmer
according to a given set of rules or conventions (“syntax”). High-level
programming languages are independent of the device on which the application
(or program) will eventually run; low-level languages are specific to each
program or platform. Programming language instructions are converted into
programs in language specific to a particular machine or operating system
(“machine language”) so that the computer can interpret and carry out the
instructions. Some common programming languages are BASIC, C, C++, dBASE,
FORTRAN, and Perl.
PROPAGATION
DELAY: The time required for the output of a logic gate to respond to a
combination of input pulses.
PROTOCOLS: Computer rules
that provide uniform specifications so that computer hardware and operating
systems can communicate. It’s similar to the way that mail, in countries around
the world, is addressed in the same basic format so that postal workers know
where to find the recipient’s address, the sender’s return address and the
postage stamp. Regardless of the underlying language, the basic “protocols”
remain the same.
PROXY-SERVER: A server that
acts as an intermediary between a workstation user and the internet so that the
enterprise can ensure security, administrative control, and caching service. A
proxy server is associated with, or part of, a gateway server that separates
the enterprise network from the outside network and a firewall server that
protects the enterprise network from the outside intrusion.
PUCK: An input
device, like a mouse. It has a magnifying glass with crosshairs on the front of
it that allows the operator to position it precisely when tracing a drawing for
use with CAD-CAM software.
PULL-DOWN MENU: A menu window
that opens vertically on-screen to display context-related options. Also called
drop-down menu or pop-up menu.
PUSH: The instruction
used to deposit a word on top of a stack.
PUSH-DOWN STACK:
A dedicated temporary storage register in a computer, sometimes part of
a system memory, structured so that data (words) in the stack are retrieved in
reverse order of entry. See LIFO.
PUSH TECHNOLOGY:
Internet tool that delivers specific information directly to a user’s
desktop, eliminating the need to surf for it. PointCast, which delivers news in
user-defined categories, is a popular example of this technology.
Q
QUERY: This is to make
a computer request of a database.
QUICK-TIME
PLAYER: A multimedia technology developed by Apple Computer. Developed to
display video, sound, animation, graphics, text, music and 360 degree virtual
reality (VR) scenes. Apple makes its QuickTime plug-in available for free and
once installed on your computer system, you can watch streaming media within a
web page.
R
RAID: Redundant Array
of Inexpensive Disks. A method of spreading information across several disks
set up to act as a unit, using two different techniques.
RAM: Random Access
Memory. One of two basic types of memory. Portions of programs are stored in
RAM when the program is launched so that the program will run faster. Though a
PC has a fixed amount of RAM, only portions of it will be accessed by the
computer at any given time. Also called memory.
RAM DISK (DISK
EMULATOR): A portion of a hard drive configured to emulate a
RAM. It accesses information quickly, but its data must be saved in a
non-volatile memory for future use. Otherwise, the information is lost when
power is removed.
RANDOM ACCESS: A technique of
accessing (reading) a word of data from a memory structure by the CPU. Since a
word in the memory can be accessed directly, the time required is independent
of its location (address) in the memory structure. It is sometimes called a
“direct access” method.
RANDOM ACCESS
MEMORY (RAM): A volatile, semiconductor storage structure that
accesses temporary data with a random or direct accessing method. It is more
accurately referred to as “erasable read/write” memory. Data in this memory can
be read by the CPU, edited, altered, erased, or new information written over
existing data by computer commands. Its data must be saved for future access by
writing it into a non-volatile memory. See NON-VOLATILE MEMORY and VOLATILE
MEMORY.
READ-ONLY MEMORY
(ROM): A semiconductor memory whose data cannot be erased, or overwritten; it
can only be accessed (read) for use by the CPU. The data in a ROM is of a
permanent nature and is programmed by the ROM manufacturer. In many cases, its
programmed information identifies the dedicated function of a computer. A ROM
can also be in the physical form of a module (tape or disk) that is plugged
into a computer to change its operation from one program to another.
REALAUDIO: This is a
method of playing sounds invented by Rob Glasser that creates a buffer between
the supplying server and your computer. The file is played without downloading
it completely.
REAL TIME: This is method
of processing data the moment it is received. Batch mode is a term used for a
mainframe computer dealing with data when it has the time.
REAL-TIME DATA: Time-dependent
data processed by a computer whose output data is capable of controlling other
time-related events, such as traffic control. Real time is the actual time it
takes for an event to occur.
REBOOT: To restart a
computer. In DOS, you can reboot by pressing the Alt, Control and Delete keys
simultaneously. This is called a warm boot. You can also perform a cold boot by
turning the computer off and then on again.
On Macs, you reboot by selecting the “Restart” option from the
Special menu.
REFRESH: Generally, to
update something with new data. For example, some Web browsers include a
refresh button that updates the currently display Web pages. This feature is
also called reload. To recharge a device with power or information. For
example, dynamic RAM needs to be refreshed thousands of times per second or it
will lose the data stored in it.
Similarly, display monitors must be refreshed many times per
second. The refresh rate for a monitor is measured in hertz (Hz) and is also
called the vertical frequency, vertical scan rate, frame rate or vertical
refresh rate. The old standard for monitor refresh rates was 60Hz, but a new
standard developed by VESA sets the refresh rate at 75Hz for monitors
displaying resolutions of 640x480 or greater. This means that the monitor
redraws the display 75 times per second. The faster the refresh rate, the less the
monitor flickers.
REGISTER: A temporary
storage unit for quick, direct accessibility of a small amount of data for
processing. Most computers include a set of internal registers that can be
accessed more quickly than the system’s main memory.
RESIDENT SOFTWARE:
The program(s) residing in the main memory of a computer system. For
convenience of operation, several software programs can reside in RAM after the
computer is turned on and booted, and they can be accessed quickly from within
another program.
RESOLUTION: Refers to the
sharpness and clarity of an image. The term is most often used to describe
monitors, printers, and bit-mapped graphic images. In the case of dot-matrix
and laser printers, the resolution indicates the number of dots per inch. For example,
a 300-dpi (dots per inch) printer is one that is capable of printing 300
distinct dots in a line 1 inch long. This means it can print 90,000 dots per
square inch.
RS-232-C: Identifies an
interconnection standard for serial operation. It specifies the configuration
and type of connectors in the computer’s serial I/O port(s) and peripheral
serial port(s).
ROUTER: A network
device that enables the network to reroute messages it receives that are
intended for other networks. The network with the router receives the message
and sends it on its way exactly as received. In normal operations, they do not
store any of the messages that they pass through.
RIGHT-CLICK: Using the right
mouse button to open context-sensitive dropdown menus.
S
SATA: Serial Advanced
Technology Attachment. A computer bus designed to transfer data to and from a
hard drive using serial signaling technology. Because SATA cables are thinner
than its ribbon type counterpart, they can be connected to more devices while
maintaining its signal integrity.
SCANNER: An electronic
device that uses light-sensing equipment to scan paper images such as text,
photos, and illustrations and translate the images into signals that the
computer can then store, modify, or distribute.
SCRATCH PAD
MEMORY: A group of internal registers used for the temporary storage of data
being collected and sorted for immediate processing. It is analogous to a pad
of paper for quickly jotting down notes.
SDRAM: Short for
“Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory”. This is a newer type of DRAM that
has the ability to run at much higher clock speeds than conventional memory.
SEARCH ENGINE: It is a
programme that makes it possible to look for and retrieve material on the
Internet, particularly the Web. The most popular search engine is Google.
SERVER: A computer that
shares its resources and information with other computers, called clients, on a
network.
SERIAL: This is a
consecutive occurrence of two items in the same channel.
SECTOR: A section of a
recording track on a magnetic disk.
SEMICONDUCTOR
MEMORY: Data storage devices formed with semiconductor components (generally
monolithic ICs). See RAM, ROM, PROM, EPROM, EAPROM, EEPROM, and FLASH.
SERIAL
OPERATION: A method of data transmission where the data is
handled in sequence, one bit at a time.
See PARALLEL OPERATION.
SERVICE ROUTINE:
A set of instructions for performing a programmed operation, typically,
in response to an interrupt command.
SERVER: This is a
mainframe computer that serves the other computers attached to it.
SHAREWARE: Software
created by people who are willing to sell it at low cost or no cost for the
gratification of sharing. It may be freestanding software, or it may add
functionality to existing software.
SHAREWARE: This is an
application that a programmer makes available to users for a set amount of time
and then asks for a donation. In return for the donation, a registration number
is often returned that can be used to “turn on” the features of the program.
SHELL ACCOUNT: A software
application that lets you use someone else’s Internet connection. It’s not the
same as having your own, direct Internet connection, but pretty close. Instead,
you connect to a host computer and use the Internet through the host computer’s
connection. Most users connect via shell accounts because of the current high
cost to have direct Internet access.
SHELL: This is a
program that sets parameters and acts as a series of boundaries in which an
application can run.
SHIFT: A computer
operation consisting of moving a group of adjacent data bits either to the left
or to the right by a prescribed number of positions. The move is done in a
SHIFT REGISTER for a carry-over operation.
SIGNATURE FILE: An ASCII text
file, maintained within e-mail programs, that contains a few lines of text for
your signature. The programs automatically attach the file to your messages so
you don’t have to repeatedly type a closing.
SIMPLEX: A data
transmission mode that provides transmission in one direction only.
See FULL DUPLEX and HALF DUPLEX.
SIMULATION: The imitation
of a logical operation of one computer by another to measure and evaluate the
operation of the computer being designed. Simulation is primarily intended to
provide an analysis of program logic, independent of hardware environment, and
is extremely useful for debugging a new software program prior to committing it
to ROM.
SKYPE: This is a
peer-to-peer voice over Internet protocol (VoIP). This Internet telephony
network was created by the same people that created Kazaa (Niklas Zennström and
Janus Friis). It was developed as a free desktop software application that
gives users the ability to make free Internet phone calls to other Skype users
or you can use the application to place and receive phone calls to and from
traditional phone lines for a reduced fee.
SLIP/PPP: (Serial Line
Internet Protocol/Point-to-Point Protocol) The basic rules that enable
computers to connect, usually by dial-up modem, directly to other computers
that provide Internet services.
SMTP: (Simple Mail
Transfer Protocol) The basic programming language behind the Internet’s e-mail
functions. SMTP is poised for a major upgrade, because it doesn’t provide such
simple information as unsend or e-mail status.
SOCIAL NETWORKING:
Social Networking is a online community of internet users. It provides a
virtual community in which the members with common interests may communicate
with each other. Facebook, Orkut are two most popular Social Networking Sites.
SOFTWARE: This is a program,
the actual code the computer reads. All other stuff is hardware.
SOURCE CODE
(SOURCE PROGRAM): A set of computer instructions in hard-copy or
stored form. When written in a language other than machine language, the source
code requires translation by an assembler (or macroassembler), interpreter, or
compiler into object code.
SPIDER: A process search
engines use to investigate new pages on a web site and collect the information
that needs to be put in their indices.
SPREADSHEET: Software that
allows one to calculate numbers in a format that is similar to pages in a
conventional ledger.
SPAM: This is to
transmit unwanted messages, usually over email, to a great many people.
SPOOFING: To fool. In
networking, the term is used to describe a variety of ways in which hardware
and software can be fooled. Email spoofing, for example, involves trickery that
makes a message appear as if it came from a legitimate business email address.
SPOOLING: The process of
storing a device (eg: printer) output signal in a
queue, while the device can take on other actions. When the device is ready to
take on other actions, it will draw from the queue.
The term spooling is derived from the acronym “Spool”: Simultaneous
Peripheral Operations On-Line.
STATE: The logic input
or output condition of a binary digital circuit: the state is
either a “0” or “1”.
STACK: A dynamic,
sequential data list usually contained in the computer system’s main memory. It
has special provisions to access data from either end. Storage and retrieval of
data from the stack is performed automatically by the CPU.
STATIC MEMORY: A type of
semiconductor read/write memory (RAM) that does not require periodic refresh
cycles. As long as electrical power is ON, the data in a static memory is
maintained.
STORAGE: Devices used to
store massive amounts of information so that it can be readily retrieved.
Devices include RAIDs, CD-ROMs, DVDs.
STREAMING: Taking packets
of information (sound or visual) from the Internet and storing it in temporary
files to allow it to play in continuous flow.
STYLUS AND
TABLET: A input device similar to a mouse. The stylus is pen shaped. It is used
to “draw” on a tablet (like drawing on paper) and the tablet transfers the
information to the computer. The tablet responds to pressure—the firmer the
pressure used to draw, the thicker the line appears.
STORAGE
CAPACITY: The amount of data that can be retained in a memory
unit. It is expressed either by a number of bits or bytes (8-bit words).
STREAMER/STREAMING
TAPES: A small tape recorder, usually in cassette form, is used to store data
from a hard disk for the purpose of backing up this data.
SUBROUTINE: A short program
segment that performs a specific function and is available for general use by
other programs and routines.
SUPERCOMPUTER: The largest
mainframe computer featuring exceptionally high speed operation while
manipulating huge amounts of information.
SUPPORT CHIPS: Computer-related
circuits other than the CPU. Examples are: main memory (RAM and ROM), I/O
ports, and system bus.
SURFING: Exploring the
Internet.
SURGE PROTECTOR:
A controller to protect the computer and make up for variances in
voltage.
SVGA: Stands for
Super Video Graphics Adapter. It’s a high level monitor.
SYNCHRONOUS
COMMUNICATION: A method of transferring binary data, in serial
form, between computers or between a computer and its peripherals. Transmission
of data is at a rate set by the computer’s clock with synchronization bits
located at the beginning of each message or block of data.
SYNTAX: A set of
grammatical rules defining valid use of specific commands or instructions in a
computer language.
SYSTEMS
SOFTWARE: A general term for software that supervises,
sequences, and coordinates programs. Systems software may include programs,
such as:
operating systems, assemblers, interpreters, compilers, software
debugging programs, text editors, utilities and peripheral drivers.
T
T1: An Internet
backbone line that carries up to 1.536 million bits per second (1.536Mbps).
T3: An Internet line
that carries up to 45 million bits per second (45Mbps). That’s 160 times as
fast as a 28.8k modem!
TCP/IP: Stands for
Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol. This is a large grouping of
programs and standards that govern how information moves round the Internet.
The protocols were established around 1970-1980 to allow computers to attach to
one another.
TERABYTE (TB): It’s about a
trillion bytes. Actually it’s 2 to the 40th power or 1,009,511,627,776 bytes.
TERAFLOP: A measure of a
computer’s speed. It can be expressed as a trillion floating-point operations
per second.
TERMINAL: This is what
you look at when you’re on the Internet. It’s your computer screen.
TERMINAL
EMULATION: This is an application that allows your terminal to
act as a dumb terminal.
TEXT EDITOR: See EDITOR.
TELNET: An Internet
protocol that let you connect your computer as a remote workstation to a host
computer anywhere in the world and to use that computer as if you were logged
on locally.
THIRD-PARTY
SOFTWARE: Software developed by a software company rather
than by a computer manufacturer or user.
THREAD: In online
discussions, a series of messages that have been posted as replies to each
other. A single forum or conference typically contains many threads covering
different subjects. By reading each message in a thread, one after the other,
you can see how the discussion has evolved. You can start a new thread by
posting a message that is not a reply to an earlier message.
THROUGHPUT: The number of
instructions executed per second, measured in millions of instructions per
second (MIPS) or billions of instructions per second (BIPS).
TOGGLE: To switch back
and forth between two states or conditions of operation, as in a toggle switch.
TOP-DOWN
HIERARCHICAL DESIGN: A hardware and/or software design approach that
starts at the most general level of a machine or software program. It proceeds,
step-by-step, to lower levels, adding detail as the design progresses.
TRACK: A ring on the
surface of a magnetic disk.
TRACKBALL: Input device
that controls the position of the cursor on the screen; the unit is mounted
near the keyboard, and movement is controlled by moving a ball.
TRACTOR-FEED: A pin-fed
device for advancing continuous form paper through a computer printer.
TRANSISTOR-TRANSISTOR
LOGIC (T2L): A logic gate family that provides higher-speed and
higher-power than the obsolete DTL logic family. The first transistor in the
circuit performs the required logic. Another transistor amplifies and inverts
the output. Improved pin-compatible versions of this logic family are called
TTL-Schottky (T2L-S) and Low Power TTLS (LPT2L-S).
TRANSLATOR: See ASSEMBLER,
MACROASSEMBLER, INTERPRETER, and COMPILER.
TRANSPARENT: Something that
occurs without being known to the user.
TRI-STATE LOGIC:
The term that designates the possible conditions of a specific logic
gate output: “0”, “1” or “undefined”.
TROJAN: A type of
computer virus that is loaded into an unsuspecting users system via a host
program such as a free game. The Trojan can be programmed by the author to
perform many actions once activated by the user. These actions usually have
malicious intent. The term “Trojan” comes from ancient Greece, where the Greeks
used a wooden horse containing hidden Greek soldiers to gain entrance to the
city of Troy.
TRUNCATE: The dropping of
digits or characters from one end of a data item causing loss of accuracy or
information.
TRUTH TABLE: A tabulation of
all possible combinations of states at the inputs of a logic gate which will
result in a specific logic state at the output of the gate.
TURNKEY SYSTEM: A complete
computer system ready to operate without any hardware or software modification
or addition.
TWAIN: Stands for
Technology Without An Interesting Name. I like this, I found it on another
site.
U
ULTRA-BOOK: An Ultra Book
is higher end type of Sub Note Book defined by INTEL.
UNFORMATTED
(UNINITIALIZED) DISK: A blank magnetic disk with no track/sector
identification recorded on it that allows users to implement their own
track/sector identifications.
UNIX: This is an
operating system developed by AT&T. It’s big push it that it allows one
server to service many different end users at one time.
UPLOAD: The process of
transferring information from a computer to a web site (or other remote location
on a network) and To transfer information from a computer to a web site (or
other remote location on a network).
UPS: Universal Power
Supply or Uninterruptible Power Supply. An electrical power supply that
includes a battery to provide enough power to a computer during an outage to
back-up data and properly shut down.
URL: Uniform
Resource Locator.
1. The protocol for identifying a document on the Web.
2. A Web address (e.g., www.census.gov).
A URL is unique to each user. See also domain.
USB: Universal
Serial Bus. An industry standard for connecting different compatible peripheral
devices across multiple platforms. Devices include printers, digital cameras,
scanners, game pads, joysticks, keyboards and mice, and storage devices.
USER-FRIENDLY PROGRAM:
A software program that has been designed to easily direct the user
through the operation or application of a program. A menu-driven program is
considered to be “user-friendly”.
USENET: Another name
for Internet Newsgroups. A distributed bulletin board system running on news
servers, Unix hosts, on-line services and bulletin board systems. Collectively,
all the users who post and read articles to newsgroups. The Usenet is
international in scope and is the largest decentralized information utility. The
Usenet includes government agencies, universities, high schools, organizations
of all sizes as well as millions of stand-alone PCs.
USER: Someone
attached to a server or host.
UTILITY: A software
program designed to perform a computer system’s routine housekeeping functions,
like copying, deleting files, and/or providing techniques to simplify the
execution of a program.
V
V.42bis: A worldwide
modem standard for data compression that lets modems reach data transfer speeds
of up to 34,000 bits per second.
VDD: Stands for
Virtual Device Driver.
VERONICA: Stands for Very
Easy Rodent Oriented Net-wide Index to Computerized Archives. A database of
menu names from a large number of Gopher servers. A quick and easy way to
search Gopher resources for information by keyword.
VGA: Stands for
Video Graphics Adapter. This is a lower level color monitor.
VIRUS: An unauthorized
piece of computer code attached to a computer program or portions of a computer
system that secretly copies itself from one computer to another by shared discs
and over telephone and cable lines. It can destroy information stored on the
computer, and in extreme cases, can destroy operability.
VIDEO
TELECONFERENCING: A remote “face-to-face chat,” when two or more
people using a webcam and an Internet telephone connection chat online. The
webcam enables both live voice and video.
VIRTUAL REALITY
(VR): A technology that allows one to experience and interact with images in a
simulated three-dimensional environment. For example, you could design a room in
a house on your computer and actually feel that you are walking around in it
even though it was never built. (The Holodeck in the science-fiction TV series Star Trek: Voyager would be the ultimate virtual
reality.) Current technology requires the user to wear a special helmet,
viewing goggles, gloves, and other equipment that transmits and receives
information from the computer.
VOCABULARY: A list of
operating codes or instructions available to the software programmer for
writing a program in a specific language.
VOLATILE MEMORY:
A memory whose contents are irretrievably lost when power is removed. If
data in RAM must be saved after power shut-down, back-up in nonvolatile memory
(magnetic disk, tape, or CD-R) is essential.
VRML: Stands for
Virtual Reality Modeling Language. It’s a form of application that gives a 3-D
effect to pictures sometimes allowing you to “move” through them.
W
WAIS: Stands for Wide
Area Information Servers. Searches large indexes of information on the
Internet.
WAIT STATE: An internal
condition of delay in processing time executed by the CPU when a synchronizing
control signal is not present. Wait states synchronize the timing of a CPU with
the relatively slower access time of the computer’s main memory.
WAN: Stands for Wide
Area Network, like the Internet.
WAV: Stands for
WAVeform sound format. Microsoft’s format for encoding sound files.
WEBCAM: A video
camera/computer setup that takes live images and sends them to a Web browser.
WINCHESTER
DRIVE: See HARD-DISK DRIVE
WINDOW: A portion of a
computer display used in a graphical interface that enables users to select
commands by pointing to illustrations or symbols with a mouse. “Windows” is
also the name Microsoft adopted for its popular operating system.
WINDOWING: The ability of
a program to divide a display screen into smaller sub-units that permit
portions of different sections of a program, or different programs, to be
displayed on the screen, edited, and copied independently.
WORD PROCESSING
(WP): The term refers to a program, that allows creating, editing, formatting,
displaying, printing, and storage of text with great flexibility and ease.
Different WP programs provide different, and sometimes, more desirable
capabilities than others.
WORD: The set of
binary bits handled by a computer as a primary unit of data. The width (number
of bits) of a computer word depends on the hardware design. Wider words imply
higher levels of precision, higher speed, and more intricate instructions.
Typically, each location in memory contains one word.
WORD PROCESSOR: A computer
system or program for setting, editing, revising, correcting, storing, and
printing text.
WORLD WIDE WEB
(“WWW” OR “THE WEB”): A network of servers on the Internet that use
hypertext-linked databases and files. It was developed in 1989 by Tim
Berners-Lee, a British computer scientist, and is now the primary platform of
the Internet. The feature that distinguishes the Web from other Internet
applications is its ability to display graphics in addition to text.
WORM
(WRITE-ONCE, READ-MANY): A high-density optical disk memory available
in a variety of formats from 5.25" to 14". The WORM can be programmed
once, permanently saving a user’s data. It then becomes an optical disk
read-only memory having essentially the same features as a CD-ROM. Also called
CD-R (CD-RECORDABLE).
WORKSTATION: The work area
and/or equipment used for computer operations, including computer-aided design
(CAD). The equipment generally consists of a monitor, keyboard, printer and/or
plotter, and other output devices.
WORKGROUP: Persons sharing
files and data between themselves.
WPG: Stands for Word
Perfect Graphics.
WRITE: The process of
storing data into a memory.
WYSIWYG: What You See Is
What You Get. When using most word processors, page layout programs (See
desktop publishing), and web page design programs, words and images will be
displayed on the monitor as they will look on the printed page or web page.
X-Y-Z
X-Y PLOTTER: A
computer-driven printing mechanism that draws coordinate points in graph form.
ZOOM: The process of
proportionately enlarging or reducing an image displayed on a computer monitor.
ZIP: Stands for Zone Information Protocol. This is an application that allows for the compression of application files.
ZIP: Stands for Zone Information Protocol. This is an application that allows for the compression of application files.
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