A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Absolute cell address
A cell address in a spreadsheet that always refers to the same cell.
Access arm
The disk drive mechanism used to position the read/write heads over the
appropriate track.
Access time
The time interval between the instant a computer makes a request for a transfer
of data from a secondary storage device and the instant this operation is
completed.
Accumulator
The computer register in which the result of an arithmetic or logic operation is
formed. (Related to arithmetic and logic unit.)
Active window
The window in Microsoft Windows or Windows 95 with which the user may interact.
Address(1)
A name, numeral, or label that designates a particular location in primary or
secondary storage. (2) A location identifier for nodes in a computer network.
Address
bus Pathway through which source and
destination addresses are transmitted between RAM, cache memory, and the
processor. (See also data bus.)
ADSL (Asymmetric Digital
Subscriber Line) A technology that enables
very high-speed downstream data transmission over POTS lines and high-speed
upstream transmission.
AGP (
Alpha
(1) A reference to the letters of the alphabet. (Compare with numeric and
alphanumeric.) (2) A RISC-based microprocessor from Digital Equipment
Corporation.
Alphanumeric Pertaining to a character
set that contains letters, digits, punctuation, and special symbols. (Related to
alpha and numeric.)
Analog
signal A continuous wave form signal
that can be used to represent such things as sound, temperature, and velocity.
(See also digital signal.)
Animation
The rapid repositioning of objects on a display to create movement.
Anonymous FTP site
An Internet site that permits FTP (file transfer protocol) file transfers
without prior permission.
ANSI
The American National Standards Institute is a non-government standards-setting
organization which develops and publishes standards for "voluntary" use in the
Applet
A small program sent over the Internet or an intranet that is interpreted and
executed by Internet browser software.
Application window
A rectangular window containing an open, or running, application in Microsoft
Windows.
Applications programmer
A programmer who translates analyst-prepared system and input/output
specifications into programs. Programmers design the logic, then code, debug,
test, and document the programs.
Applications software
Software designed and written to address a specific personal, business, or
processing task.
Argument
That portion of a function which identifies the data to be operated on.
Arithmetic and logic unit
That portion of the computer that performs arithmetic and logic operations.
(Related to accumulator.)
Arithmetic operators
Mathematical operators (add [+], subtract [-], multiply [*], divide [/], and
exponentiation [^]) used in programming and in spreadsheet and database software
for computations.
Artificial intelligence (AI)
The ability of a computer to reason, to learn, to strive for self-improvement,
and to simulate human sensory capabilities.
ASCII
[American Standard Code for Information Interchange]
An encoding system.
ASCII file
A generic text file that is stripped of program-specific control characters.
Assembler language
A second generation programming language that uses easily recognized symbols,
called mnemonics, to represent instructions.
Assistant system This knowledge-based
system that helps users make relatively straightforward decisions. (See also
expert system.)
Asynchronous transmission
A protocol in which data are transmitted at irregular intervals on an as-needed
basis. (See also synchronous transmission.)
Attached file
A file that is attached and sent with an e-mail message.
Audio mail
An electronic mail capability that lets you speak your message instead of typing
it.
Audio file
A file that contains digitized sound.
Authoring software
Software that lets you create multimedia applications that integrate sound,
motion, text, animation, and images.
Automatic teller machine
(ATM) An automated deposit/withdrawal
device used in banking.
Back-end applications
software This software on the server
computer performs processing tasks in support of its clients, such as tasks
associated with storage and maintenance of a centralized corporate database.
(See also front-end applications software.)
Backbone
A system of routers and the associated transmission media that facilitates the
interconnection of computer networks.
Background (1) That part of RAM that
contains the lowest priority programs. (2) In Windows, the area of the display
over which the foreground is superimposed. (Contrast with foreground.)
Backup file
Duplicate of an existing file.
Backup
Pertaining to equipment, procedures, or databases that can be used to restart
the system in the event of system failure.
Badge
reader An input device that reads data
on badges and cards.
Bar code
A graphic encoding technique in which printed vertical bars of varying widths
are used to represent data.
Bar graphA
graph that contains bars that represent specified numeric values.
Batch processing
A technique in which transactions and/or jobs are collected into groups
(batched) and processed together.
Baud
(1) A measure of the maximum number of electronic signals that can be
transmitted via a communications channel. (2) Bits per second (common-use
definition).
Binary
A base-2 numbering system.
Bit
A binary digit (0 or 1).
Bit-mapped
Referring to an image that has been projected, or mapped, to a screen based on
binary bits. (See also raster graphics.)
Bits per second (bps)
The number of bits that can be transmitted per second over a communications
channel.
BMP
A popular format for bit-mapped files.
Boilerplate
Existing text in a word processing file that can in some way be customized to be
used in a variety of word processing applications.
Boot
The procedure for loading the operating system to primary storage and readying a
computer system for use.
Bridge
A protocol-independent hardware device that permits communication between
devices on separate local area networks.
Browsers
Programs that let you navigate to and view the various Internet resources.
Bug
A logic or syntax error in a program, a logic error in the design of a computer
system, or a hardware fault. (See also debug.)
Bulletin-board system (BBS)
The electronic counterpart of a wall-mounted bulletin board that enables users
in a computer network to exchange ideas and information via a centralized
message database.
Bus
An electrical pathway through which the processor sends data and commands to RAM
and all peripheral devices.
Bus topology
A computer network that permits the connection of terminals, peripheral devices,
and microcomputers along an open-ended central cable.
Button bar
A software option that contains a group of pictographs that represent a menu
option or a command.
Byte
A group of adjacent bits configured to represent a character or symbol.
C
A transportable programming language that can be used to develop software.
C++
An object-oriented version of the C programming language.
Cache memory
High-speed solid-state memory for program instructions and data.
CAD
See computer-aided design.
Carrier
Standard-sized pin connectors that permit chips to be attached to a circuit
board.
Cascading menu
A pop-up menu that is displayed when a command from the active menu is chosen.
Cascading windows
Two or more windows that are displayed on a computer screen in an overlapping
manner.
Cathode-ray tube
See CRT.
CBT
See computer-based training.
CD production station
A device used to duplicate locally produced CD-ROMs.
CD writer
A peripheral device that can write once to a CD-R disk to create an audio CD or
a CD-ROM.
CD-R
[Compact Disk-Recordable] The medium on which CD writers
create CDs and CD-ROMs.
CD-ROM disk
[Compact-Disk Read-Only Memory disk] A type
of optical laser storage media.
CD-ROM drive
A storage device into which an interchangeable CD-ROM is inserted for
processing.
CD-ReWritable
(CD-RW) This technology allows users to rewrite to the same CD media.
Cell address
The location--column and row--of a cell in a spreadsheet.
Cell
The intersection of a particular row and column in a spreadsheet.
Central processing unit (CPU)
See processor.
Centronics connector
A 36-pin connector that is used for the electronic interconnection of computers,
modems, and other peripheral devices.
CGM
A popular vector graphics file format.
Channel capacity
The number of bits that can be transmitted over a communications channel per
second.
Channel
The facility by which data are transmitted between locations in a computer
network (e.g., terminal to host, host to printer).
Chief information officer
(CIO) The individual responsible for all
the information services activity in a company.
Chip
See integrated circuit.
Choose
To pick a menu item or icon in such a manner as to initiate processing activity.
CISC
[Complex Instruction Set Computer] A computer design
architecture that offers machine language programmers a wide variety of
instructions. (Contrast with RISC.)
Click
A single tap on a mouse's button.
Client application (1) An application
running on a networked workstation or PC that works in tandem with a server
application. (See also server application.) (2)In object linking an
embedding, the application containing the destination document.
Client computer Typically a PC or a
workstation which requests processing support or another type of service from
one or more server computers. (See also server computer.)
Client/server computing
A computing environment in which processing capabilities are distributed
throughout a network such that a client computer requests processing or some
other type of service from a server computer.
Clip art
Prepackaged electronic images that are stored on disk to be used as needed in
computer-based documents.
Clipboard
An intermediate holding area in internal storage for information en route to
another application.
Clone
A hardware device or a software package that emulates a product with an
established reputation and market acceptance.
Coaxial cable
A shielded wire used as a medium to transmit data between computers and between
computers and peripheral devices.
COBOL
[Common Business Oriented Language]
A third-generation programming language designed to handle business problems.
Code
(1) The rules used to translate a bit configuration into alphanumeric characters
and symbols. (2) The process of compiling computer instructions into the form of
a computer program. (3) The actual computer program.
Command
An instruction to a computer that invokes the execution of a preprogrammed
sequence of instructions.
Common carrier
A company that provides channels for data transmission.
Common User Access (CUA)
The standard by which all software applications designed to be run under
Microsoft's Windows must adhere.
Communications channel
The facility by which data are transmitted between locations in a computer
network.
Communications protocols
Rules established to govern the way data in a computer network are transmitted.
Communications server
The LAN component that provides external communications links.
Communications software
(1) Software that enables a microcomputer to emulate a terminal and to transfer
files between a micro and another computer. (2) Software that enables
communication between remote devices in a computer network.
Compatibility
Pertaining to the ability of computers and computer components (hardware and
software) to work together.
Compile
To translate a high-level programming language into machine language in
preparation for execution.
Compiler
A program that translates the instructions of a high-level language to
machine-language instructions that the computer can interpret and execute.
Compound document
A document, such as a word processing document, that contains one or more linked
objects from other applications.
CompuServe
An online information service.
Computer
An electronic device capable of interpreting and executing programmed commands
for input, output, computation, and logic operations.
Computer competency
A fundamental understanding of the technology, operation, applications, and
issues surrounding computers.
Computer matching
The procedure whereby separate databases are examined and individuals common to
both are identified.
Computer monitoring
Observing and regulating employee activities and job performance through the use
of computers.
Computer network An integration of
computer systems, terminals, and communications links.
Computer operator
One who performs those hardware-based activities needed to keep production
information systems operational in the mainframe environment.
Computer system
A collective reference to all interconnected computing hardware, including
processors, storage devices, input/output devices, and communications equipment.
Computer virus
See virus.
Computer-aided
design (CAD) Use of computer graphics
in design, drafting, and documentation in product and manufacturing engineering.
Computer-aided software
engineering (CASE) An approach to software
development that combines automation and the rigors of the engineering
discipline.
Computer-based
training (CBT)
Using computer technologies for training and education.
Computerese
A colloquial reference to the language of computers and information technology.
Configuration
The computer and its peripheral devices.
Connectivity
Pertains to the degree to which hardware devices, software, and databases can be
functionally linked to one another.
Context-sensitive
Referring to an on-screen explanation that relates to a user's current software
activity.
Control clerk
A person who accounts for all input to and output from a computer center.
Control unit
The portion of the processor that interprets program instructions, directs
internal operations, and directs the flow of input/output to or from RAM.
Cooperative processing
An environment in which organizations cooperate internally and externally to
take full advantage of available information and to obtain meaningful, accurate,
and timely information.
Coprocessor
An auxiliary processor that handles a narrow range of tasks, usually those
associated with arithmetic operations.
CPU
See processor.
Cracker
An overzealous hacker who "cracks" through network security to gain unauthorized
access to the network. (Contrast with hacker.)
Cross-platform technologies
Enabling technologies that allow communication and the sharing of resources
between different platforms.
CRT
[Cathode-Ray Tube] The video monitor component of a
terminal.
Cryptography
A communications crime-prevention technology that uses methods of data
encryption and decryption to scramble codes sent over communications channels.
CSMA/CD access method
[Carrier Sense Multiple Access/Collision Detection]
A network access method in which nodes on the LAN must contend for the right to
send a message.
Current window
The window in a GUI in which the user can manipulate text, data, or graphics.
Cursor, graphics Typically an arrow or
a cross hair which can be moved about a monitor's screen by a point-and-draw
device to create a graphic image or select an item from a menu. (See also
cursor, text.)
Cursor,
text A blinking character that
indicates the location of the next keyed-in character on the display screen.
(See also cursor, graphics.)
Cursor-control keys
The arrow keys on the keyboard that move the cursor vertically and horizontally.
Custom programming
Program development to create software for situations unique to a particular
processing environment.
Cyberphobia
The irrational fear of, and aversion to, computers.
Cylinder
A disk storage concept. A cylinder is that portion of the disk that can be read
in any given position of the access arm. (Contrast with sector.)
Data
Representations of facts. Raw material for information. (Plural of datum.)
Data bits
A data communications parameter that refers to a timing unit.
Data bus
A common pathway between RAM, cache memory, and the processor through which data
and instructions are transferred. (See also address bus.)
Data cartridge
Magnetic tape storage in cassette format.
Data communications
The collection and distribution of the electronic representation of information
between two locations.
Data communications
specialist A person who designs and
implements computer networks.
Data compression
A method of reducing secondary storage requirements for computer files.
Data entry
The transcription of source data into a machine-readable format.
Data entry operator
A person who uses key entry devices to transcribe data into machine-readable
format.
Data file
This file contains data organized into records.
Data flow diagram
A design technique that permits documentation of a system or program at several
levels of generality.
Data item
The value of a field. (Compare with field.)
Data mining
An analytical technique that involves the analysis of large databases, such as
data warehouses, to identify possible trends and problems.
Data path
The electronic channel through which data flows within a computer system.
Data
processing (DP) Using the computer to
perform operations on data.
Data processing (DP) system
Systems concerned with transaction handling and record-keeping, usually for a
particular functional area.
Data transfer rate
The rate at which data are read/written from/to secondary storage to RAM.
Data warehouse
A relational database created from existing operational files and databases
specifically to help managers get the information they need to make informed
decisions.
Data warehousing
An approach to database management that involves moving existing operational
files and databases from multiple applications to a data warehouse.
Database
The integrated data resource for a computer-based information system
Database administrator (DBA)
The individual responsible for the physical and logical maintenance of the
database.
Database record
Related data that are read from, or written to, the database as a unit.
Database software
Software that permits users to create and maintain a database and to extract
information from the database.
Debug
To eliminate bugs in a program or system. (See also bug.)
Decision support system (DSS)
An interactive information system that relies on an integrated set of
user-friendly hardware and software tools to produce and present information
targeted to support management in the decision-making process. (Contrast with
MIS and EIS.)
Decode
To reverse the encoding process. (Contrast with encode.)
Decoder
That portion of a processor's control unit that interprets instructions.
Dedicated keyboard port
A port built into the system board specifically for the keyboard.
Dedicated mouse port
A port built into the system board specifically for the cursor control device.
Default options
Preset software options that are assumed valid unless specified otherwise by the
user.
Density
The number of bytes per linear length or unit area of a recording medium.
Desktop
The screen in Windows upon which icons, windows, a background, and so on are
displayed.
Desktop film recorders
An output device that permits the reproduction of high-resolution
computer-generated graphic images on 35-mm film.
Desktop
PC A non-portable personal computer
that is designed to rest on the top of a desk. (Contrast with laptop PC
and tower PC.)
Desktop publishing (DTP) Refers to the
capability of producing typeset-quality camera-ready copy for publication from
the confines of a desktop.
Desktop publishing software
Software that allows users to produce near -typeset -quality copy for
newsletters, advertisements, and many other printing needs, all from the
confines of a desktop.
Destination application,
clipboard The software application into
which the clipboard contents are to be pasted. (contrast with source
application).
Detailed system design
That portion of the systems development process in which the target system is
defined in detail.
Device controller
Microprocessors that control the operation of peripheral devices.
Device driver software
Software that contains instructions needed by the operating system to
communicate with the peripheral device.
Dial-up
line
See switched line.
Dialog box
A window that is displayed when the user must choose parameters or enter further
information before the chosen menu option can be executed.
Digital camera
A camera that records images digitally rather than on film.
Digital convergence
The integration of computers, communications, and
consumer electronics, with all having digital compatibility.
Digital signal Electronic signals that
are transmitted as in strings of 1s and 0s. (See also analog signal.)
Digital videodisk (DVD) The successor
technology to the CD-ROM that can store up to about 10 gigabytes.
Digitize
To translate data or an image into a discrete format that can be interpreted by
computers.
DIMM
[Dual In-line Memory Module] A small circuit board,
capable of holding several memory chips, that has a 64-bit data path and can be
easily connected to a PC's system board. (Contrast with SIMM.)
Dimmed
A menu option, which is usually gray, that is disabled or unavailable.
Digitizer tablet and pen
A pressure-sensitive tablet with the same x-y coordinates as a
computer-generated screen. The outline of an image drawn on a tablet with a
stylus (pen) or puck is reproduced on the display.
Direct conversion
An approach to system conversion whereby operational support by the new system
is begun when the existing system is terminated.
Direct access
See random access.
Direct-access file See random file.
Direct-access processing
See random processing.
Direct-access storage device
(DASD) A random-access secondary storage.
Disk, magnetic
A secondary storage medium for random-access data storage available in
permanently installed or interchangeable formats.
Disk address
The physical location of a particular set of data or a program on a magnetic
disk.
Disk
caching A hardware/software technique
in which frequently referenced disk-based data are placed in an area of RAM that
simulates disk storage. (See also RAM disk.)
Disk cartridge
An environmentally sealed interchangeable disk module that contains one or more
hard disk platters.
Disk density
The number of bits that can be stored per unit of area on the disk-face surface.
Disk drive,
magnetic A magnetic storage device
that records data on flat rotating disks. (Compare with tape drive, magnetic.)
Disk optimizer
A program that reorganizes files on a hard disk to eliminate file fragmentation.
Diskette
A thin interchangeable disk for secondary random-access data storage (same as
floppy)
Docking station
A device into which a notebook PC is inserted to give the notebook PC expanded
capabilities, such as a high-capacity disk, interchangeable disk options, a tape
backup unit, a large monitor, and so on.
Document file
The result when work with an applications program, such as word processing, is
saved to secondary storage.
Document icon
A pictograph used by Windows within an application to represent a minimized
document window.
Document window
Window within an application window that is used to display a separate document
created or used by that application.
Document-conversion program
Software that converts files generated on one software package into a format
consistent with another.
Domain expert
An expert in a particular field who provides the factual knowledge and the
heuristic rules for input to a knowledge base.
Domain name
That portion of the Internet URL following the double forward slashes (//) that
identifies an Internet host site.
DOS
[Disk Operating System] See MS-DOS.
Dot pitch
The distance between the centers of adjacent pixels on a display.
Dot-matrix printer
A printer that arranges printed dots to form characters and images.
Double click
Tapping a button on a point-and-draw device twice in rapid succession.
Download
The transmission of data from a remote computer to a local computer.
Downsizing
Used to describe the trend toward increased reliance on smaller computers for
personal as well as enterprise-wide processing tasks.
Downtime
The time during which a computer system is not operational.
DP
See data processing.
Drag
A point-and-draw device procedure by which an object is moved or a contiguous
area on the display is marked for processing.
Drag-and-drop software
Software that lets users drag ready-made shapes from application-specific
stencils to the desired position on the drawing area to do drawings for
flowcharting, landscaping, business graphics, and other applications.
Draw software
Software that enables users to create electronic images. Resultant images are
stored as vector graphics images.
Driver
module The program module that calls
other subordinate program modules to be executed as they are needed (also called
a main program).
DTP
See desktop publishing.
DVD
See digital videodisk.
Dynamic RAM
(DRAM)A type of RAM technology that
requires stored data to be refreshed hundreds of times per second.
E-commerce (electronic commerce)
Business conducted online, primarily over the Internet.
E-mail
See electronic mail.
E-mail server
A host or network that services e-mail.
E-time
See execution time.
EBCDIC
[Extended Binary Coded DecimalInterchange
Code] An 8-bit encoding system.
Echo
A host computer's retransmission of characters back to the sending device.
Enhanced Data Output (
Education coordinator
The person within an organization who coordinates all computer-related
educational activities.
Edutainment software
Software that combines education and entertainment.
EFT[Electronic
Funds Transfer] A computer-based system allowing electronic transfer
of money from one account to another.
EGA[Enhanced
Graphics Adapter] A circuit board that enables the interfacing of
high-resolution monitors to microcomputers.
Electronic commerce
See e-commerce.
Electronic data interchange
(EDI) The use of computers and data
communications to transmit data electronically between.
Electronic dictionary
A disk-based dictionary used in conjunction with a spelling-checker program to
verify the spelling of words in a word processing document.
Electronic document
See online document.
Electronic funds transfer
See EFT.
Electronic
mail A computer application whereby
messages are transmitted via data communications to "electronic mailboxes" (also
called E-mail). (Contrast with voice message switching.)
Electronic messaging
A workgroup computing application that enables electronic mail to be associated
with other workgroup applications.
Electronic money
(e-money) A payment system in which all monetary transactions are handled
electronic.
Encode
To apply the rules of a code. (Contrast with decode.)
Encoding system
A system that permits alphanumeric characters and symbols to be coded in terms
of bits.
Encryption/decryption
The encoding of data for security purposes. Encoded data must be decoded or
deciphered to be used.
Enterprise-wide information
system Information systems which provide
information and processing capabilities to workers throughout a given
organization.
Ergonomics
The study of the relationships between people and machines.
Exception report
A report that has been filtered to highlight critical information.
Executable program file
A file that contains programs that can be executed run.
Execution time The elapsed time it
takes to execute a computer instruction and store the results (also called
E-time).
Executive
information system (EIS) A system
designed specifically to support decision making at the executive levels of
management, primarily the tactical and strategic levels.
Exit routine
A software procedure that returns you to a GUI, an operating system prompt, or a
higher-level applications program.
Expansion board These add-on circuit
boards contain the electronic circuitry for many supplemental capabilities, such
as a fax modem, and are made to fit a particular type of bus. (Also called
expansion cards.)
Expansion bus
An extension of the common electrical bus which accepts the expansion boards
that control the video display, disks, and other peripherals. (See also bus.)
Expansion card See expansion board.
Expansion slots
Slots within the processing component of a microcomputer into which optional
add-on circuit boards may be inserted.
Expert
system An interactive knowledge-based
system that responds to questions, asks for clarification, makes
recommendations, and generally helps users make complex decisions. (See also
assistant system.)
Expert system shell
The software that enables the development of expert systems.
Export
The process of converting a file in the format of the current program to a
format that can be used by another program. (Contrast with import.)
Extended ASCII
An 8-bit extension of the ASCII encoding system that includes 128 non-standard
ASCII symbols.
Facsimile
(fax) The transferring of images, usually
of hard-copy documents, via telephone lines to another device that can receive
and interpret the images.
FAQ
A frequently asked question.
Fault tolerant
Referring to a computer system or network that is resistant to software errors
and hardware problems.
Fax modem
A modem that enables a PC to emulate a facsimile machine. (See also modem.)
Fax
See facsimile.
Feedback loop
A closed loop in which a computer-controlled process generates data that become
input to the computer.
Fetch instruction
That part of the instruction cycle in which the control unit retrieves a program
instruction from RAM and loads it to the processor.
Fiber optic cable
A data transmission medium that carries data in the form of light in very thin
transparent fibers.
Field
The smallest logical unit of data. Examples are employee number, first name, and
price. (Compare with data item.)
File
(1) A collection of related records. (2) A named area on a secondary storage
device that contains a program or digitized information (text, image, sound, and
so on).
File allocation table (FAT)
MS-DOS's method of storing and keeping track of files on a disk.
File compression
A technique by which file size can be reduced.
Compressed files are decompressed for use.
File format
The manner in which a file is stored on secondary storage.
File server
A dedicated computer system with high-capacity disk for storing the data and
programs shared by the users on a local area network.
File Transfer Protocol (FTP)
A communications protocol that is used to transmit files over the Internet.
Filtering
The process of selecting and presenting only that information appropriate to
support a particular decision.
Firewall
Software that is designed to restrict access to an organization's network or its
Intranet.
Fixed
disk See hard disk.
Flaming
A barrage of scathing messages from irate Internet users sent to somebody who
posts messages out of phase with the societal norms.
Flash memory
A type nonvolatile memory that can be altered easily by the user.
Flat files
A file that does not point to or physically link with another file.
Flat-panel monitor
A monitor, thin from front to back, that uses liquid crystal and gas plasma
technology.
Floating menu
A special-function menu that can be positioned anywhere on the work area until
you no longer need it.
Floppy disk
See diskette.
Floppy disk drive
A disk drive that accepts either the 3.5-inch or 5.25-inch diskette.
FLOPS
[Floating point operations per second] A
measure of speed for supercomputers.
Flowchart
A diagram that illustrates data, information, and work flow via specialized
symbols which, when connected by flow lines, portray the logic of a system or
program.
Flowcharting
The act of creating a flowchart.
Font
A typeface that is described by its letter style, its height in points, and its
presentation attribute.
Footprint
(1) The evidence of unlawful entry or use of a computer system. (2) The floor or
desktop space require for a hardware component.
Foreground (1) That part of RAM that
contains the highest priority program. (2) In Windows, the area of the display
containing the active window. (Contrast with background.)
Formatted disk
A disk that has been initialized with the recording format for a specific
operating system.
FORTRAN[FORmula
TRANslator] A high-level programming language designed primarily for
scientific applications.
Fourth-generation language
(FOURTH GENERATION LANGUAGE)A programming
language that uses high-level English-like instructions to retrieve and format
data for inquiries and reporting.
Frame
A rectangular area in a desktop publishing-produced document into which
elements, such as text and images, are placed.
Frames
(web page) The display of more than one independently controllable sections on a
single Web page.
Front-end
applications software Client software
that performs processing associated with the user interface and applications
processing that can be done locally.
Front-end processor
A processor used to offload certain data communications tasks from the host
processor.
Full-duplex line A communications
channel that transmits data in both directions at the same time. (Contrast with
half-duplex line.)
Full-screen editing
This word processing feature permits the user to move the cursor to any position
in the document to insert or replace text.
Function
A predefined operation that performs mathematical, logical, statistical,
financial, and character-string operations on data in a spreadsheet or a
database.
Function key
A special-function key on the keyboard that can be used to instruct the computer
to perform a specific operation.
Function-based information
system An information system designed for
the exclusive support of a specific application area, such as inventory
management or accounting.
Functional specifications
Specifications that describe the logic of
an information system from the user's perspective.
Gb
See gigabit.
GB
See gigabyte.
General system design
That portion of the systems development process
in which the target system is defined in general.
General-purpose computer
Computer systems that are designed with the flexibility to do a variety of
tasks, such as CAI, payroll processing, climate control, and so on.
Geosynchronous orbit
An orbit that permits a communications satellite to maintain a fixed position
relative to the surface of the earth.
GFLOPS
A billion FLOPS. (See FLOPS).
Gigabit
(Gb) One billion bits.
Gigabyte
(GB) One billion bytes.
GIF
A popular format for bit-mapped files.
Gopher
A type of menu tree to "go for" items on the Internet, thus bypassing
complicated addresses and commands.
Graceful exit
Quitting a program according to normal procedures and returning to a
higher-level program.
Grammar and style checker
An add-on program to word processing software that highlights grammatical
concerns and deviations from effective writing style in a word processing
document.
Graphical user interface
(GUI) A user-friendly interface that lets
users interact with the system by pointing to processing options with a
point-and-draw device.
Graphics adapter
A device controller which provides the electronic link between the motherboard
and the monitor.
Graphics-conversion program
Software that enables files containing graphic images to be passed between
programs.
Graphics file
A file that contains digitized images.
Graphics mode
One of two modes of operation for PC monitors. (Contrast with text mode.)
Graphics software
Software that enables you to create line drawings, art, and presentation
graphics.
Gray scales
The number of shades of a color that can be presented on a monochrome monitor's
screen or on a monochrome printer's output.
Green computing
Environmentally sensible computing.
Group windows
A window within the Windows Program Manager that contains groups of program-item
icons.
Groupware
Software whose application is designed to benefit a group of people. (Related to
workgroup computing.)
Hacker
A computer enthusiast who uses the computer as a source of recreation. (Contrast
with cracker.)
Half-duplex line A communications
channel that transmits data in one direction at the same time. (Contrast with
full-duplex line.)
Half-size expansion board
An expansion board that fits in half an expansion slot.
Handheld PC
Any personal computer than can be held comfortably in
a person's hand (usually weighs less than a pound). (See also personal
digital assistant.)
Handshaking
The process by which both sending and receiving devices in a computer network
maintain and coordinate data communications.
Hard copy
A readable printed copy of computer output. (Contrast with soft copy.)
Hard disk
A permanently installed, continuously spinning magnetic storage medium made up
of one or more rigid disk platters. (Same as fixed disk; contrast with
interchangeable disk.).
Hard disk drive
See hard disk.
Hardware
The physical devices that comprise a computer system. (Contrast with software.)
Help command
A software feature that provides an online explanation of or instruction on how
to proceed.
Help desk
A centralized location (either within an organization or outside of it) where
computer-related questions about product usage, installation, problems, or
services are answered.
High-level language A language with
instructions that combine several machine-level instructions into one
instruction. (Compare with machine languageor low-level language.)
Home page
The web page that is the starting point for accessing information at a site or
in a particular area.
Horizontal scroll bar
A narrow screen object located along the bottom edge of a window that is used to
navigate side to side through a document.
Host computer
The processor responsible for the overall control of a computer system.
Host mode
A mode of PC operation in which remote users can call in and establish a
communications link via terminal emulation. (Contrast with terminal emulation.)
Hotkey
A seldom used key combination that, when activated, causes the computer to
perform the function associated with the key combination.
Hot plug
A universal serial bus (USB) feature that allows
peripheral devices to be connected to or removed from the USB port while the PC
is running.
HTML
(HyperText Markup Language) The language used to compose and format most
of the content found on the Internet.
Http (HyperText Transfer
Protocol) The primary access method for
interacting with the Internet.
Hub
A common point of connection for computers and devices in a network.
Hyperlinks
A collective reference to hypertext links and hypermedia links.
Hypermedia Software that enables the
integration of data, text, graphics, sounds of all kinds, and full-motion video.
(See also hypertext.)
Hypertext
Data management software that provides links between key words in the
unstructured text-based documents. (See also hypermedia.)
I/O
[Input/Output] Input or output or both.
I-time
See instruction time.
IBM Personal Computer (IBM
PC) IBM's first personal computer (1981).
This PC was the basis for PC-compatible computers.
Icons
Pictographs used in place of words or phrases on screen displays.
Idea processor
A program or word processing feature that allows the user to organize and
document thoughts and ideas in outline form.
Image processing
A reference to computer applications in which digitized images are retrieved,
displayed, altered, merged with text, stored, and sent via data communications
to one or several remote locations.
Image scanner
A device which can scan and digitize an image so that it can be stored on a disk
and manipulated by a computer.
Impact printer
A printer that uses pins or hammers which hit a ribbon to transfer images to the
paper.
Import
The process of converting data in one format to a format that is compatible with
the calling program. (Contrast with export.)
Inference engine
The logic embodied in the software of an expert system.
Information
Data that have been collected and processed into a meaningful form.
Information resource
management (IRM) A concept advocating that
information be treated as a corporate resource.
Information service
An commercial network that provides remote users with access to a variety of
information services.
Infoseek
An Internet search engine.
Internet service provider
(ISP) Any company that provides individuals and organizations with access
to, or presence, on the Internet.
Information society
A society in which the generation and dissemination of information becomes the
central focus of commerce.
Information superhighway
A metaphor for a network of high-speed data communication links that will
eventually connect virtually every facet of our society.
Information system
A computer-based system that provides both data processing capability and
information for managerial decision making.
Information technology
A collective reference to the integration of computing technology and
information processing.
Information-based decision
See nonprogrammed decision.
Infrared port
See IrDA port.
Intelligent agent
See software agent.
Ink-jet printer
A nonimpact printer in which the print head contains independently controlled
injection chambers that squirt ink droplets on the paper to form letters and
images.
Input
Data entered to a computer system for processing.
Input/output
A generic reference to input and/or output to a computer.
Input/output-bound operation
The amount of work that can be performed by the computer system is limited
primarily by the speeds of the I/O devices.
Insert mode
A data entry mode in which the character entered is inserted at the cursor
position.
Instruction
A programming language statement that specifies a particular computer operation
to be performed.
Instruction register
The register that contains the instruction being executed.
Instruction time The elapsed time it
takes to fetch and decode a computer instruction (also called I-time).
Integrated
circuit (IC)
Thousands of electronic components that are etched into a tiny silicon chip in
the form of a special-function electronic circuit.
Integrated information system
An information system that services two or more functional areas, all of which
share a common database.
Integrated Services Digital
Network (ISDN) A digital
telecommunications standard.
Interactive
Pertaining to online and immediate communication between the user and the
computer.
Interchangeable disk
A magnetic disk that can be stored off-line and loaded to the computer system as
needed. (Contrast with hard disk, or fixed disk.)
Internet, the (the Net)
A global network that connects more than tens of thousands of networks, millions
of large multiuser computers, and tens of millions of users in more than 100
countries.
Internet site specialist
The person responsible for creating and maintaining one or more Internet sites.
Interoperability
The ability to run software and exchange information in a multiplatform
environment.
Intranet
An Internet-like network whose scope is restricted the networks within a
particular organization.
Invoke
Execute a command or a macro.
IrDA port
Enables wireless transmission of data via
infrared light waves between PCs, printers, and other devices (also called
infrared port).
Jaz cartridge
An interchangeable 3-inch hard disk cartridge that can store up to 1 GB of
information.
Jaz drive
A disk drive that uses interchangeable Jaz cartridges.
Joystick
A vertical stick that moves the cursor on a screen in the direction in which the
stick is pushed.
Jukebox
A storage device for multiple sets of CD-ROMs, tape cartridges, or disk modules
enabling ready access to vast amounts of online data.
Kb
See kilobit.
KB
See kilobyte.
Kernel
An operating system program that loads other operating system programs and
applications programs to RAM as they are needed.
Key field
The field in a record that is used as an identifier for accessing, sorting, and
collating records.
Key pad
That portion of a keyboard that permits rapid numeric data entry.
Keyboard
A device used for key data entry.
Keyboard templates
Typically, a plastic keyboard overlay that indicates which commands are assigned
to particular function keys.
Kilobit
(Kb) 1024, or about 1000, bits.
Kilobyte
(KB) 1024, or about 1000, bytes.
Knowledge base
The foundation of a knowledge-based system that contains facts, rules,
inferences, and procedures.
Knowledge engineer
Someone trained in the use of expert system shells and in the interview
techniques needed to extract information from a domain expert.
Knowledge worker
Someone whose job function revolves around the use, manipulation, and
dissemination of information.
Knowledge-acquisition
facility That component of the expert
system shell that permits the construction of the knowledge base.
Knowledge-based system
A computer-based system, often associated with artificial intelligence, that
helps users make decisions by enabling them to interact with a knowledge base.
LAN operating system
The operating system for a local area network.
LAN server
A high-end PC on a local area network whose resources are shared by other users
on the LAN.
Landscape
Referring to the orientation of the print on the page. Printed lines run
parallel to the longer side of the page. (Contrast with portrait.)
Laptop PC
Portable PC that can operate without an external power source. (Contrast with
desktop PC and tower PC.)
Laser printer
A page printer that uses laser technology to produce the image.
Layout
A reference to the positioning of the visual elements on a display or page.
Leased
line See private line.
Librarian
The person in a computer center who keeps track of interchangeable disks and
tapes, and maintains a reference library of printed and computer-based material.
Line printer
A printer that prints a line at a time.
Listserv
An Internet mailing lists.
Load
To transfer programs or data from secondary to
primary storage.
Local area
network (LAN or local net) A system of
hardware, software, and communications channels that connects devices on the
local premises. (Contrast with wide area network.)
Local bus
A bus that links expansion boards directly to the computer system's common bus.
Local net
See local area network.
Log off
The procedure by which a user terminates a communications link with a remote
computer. (Contrast with log on.)
Log on
The procedure by which a user establishes a communications link with a remote
computer. (Contrast with log off.)
Logic error
A programming error that causes an erroneous result when the program is
executed.
Logical operators AND, OR, and NOT
operators can be used to combine relational expressions logically in
spreadsheet, database, and other programs. (See also relational operators.)
Logical security
That aspect of computer-center security that deals with user access to systems
and data.
Loop
A sequence of program instructions executed repeatedly until a particular
condition is met.
Low-level
language A language comprising the
fundamental instruction set of a particular computer. (Compare with
high-level programming language.)
Mac OS
The operating system for the Apple family of microcomputers.
Machine cycle
The cycle of operations performed by the processor to process a single program
instruction: fetch, decode, execute, and place result in memory.
Machine language
The programming language that is interpreted and executed directly by the
computer.
Macintosh
Apple Computer's mainline personal computer.
Macintosh System
The operating system for the Apple Macintosh line of personal computers.
Macro
A sequence of frequently used operations or keystrokes that can be invoked to
help speed user interaction with microcomputer productivity software.
Macro language
Programming languages whose instructions relate specifically to the
functionality of the parent software.
Magnetic stripe
A magnetic storage medium for low-volume storage of data on badges and cards.
(Related to badge reader.)
Magnetic tape cartridge
Cartridge-based magnetic tape storage media.
Magnetic tape drive
See tape drive, magnetic.
Magnetic tape
See tape, magnetic.
Magnetic-ink
character recognition (MICR)
Magneto-optical disk
An optical laser disk with read and write capabilities.
Magneto-optical technology
An erasable recording technology that incorporates attributes of both magnetic
and optical storage technologies.
Mail merge
A computer application in which text generated by word processing is merged with
data from a database (e.g., a form letter with an address).
Mailing list
An Internet-based capability that lets people to
discuss issues of common interest via common e-mail.
Main menu
The highest-level menu in a menu tree.
Main
program Same as driver module.
Mainframe computer
A large computer that can service many users simultaneously in support of
enterprise-wide applications.
Management
information system (MIS) A
computer-based system that optimizes the collection, transfer, and presentation
of information throughout an organization, through an integrated structure of
databases and information flow.
Massively parallel processing
(MPP) An approach to the design of
computer systems that involves the integration of thousands of microprocessors
within a single computer.
Master file
The permanent source of data for a particular computer application area.
Mb
See megabit.
MB
See megabyte.
Megabit
(Mb) 1,048,576, or about one million,
bits.
Megabyte
(MB) 1,048,576, or about one million,
bytes.
Megahertz
(MHZ) One million hertz (cycles per
second).
Memory
See RAM.
Menu
A display with a list of processing choices from which a user may select.
Menu bar
A menu in which the options are displayed across the screen.
Menu tree
A hierarchy of menus.
Message
A series of bits sent from a terminal to a computer, or vice versa.
Metafile
A class of graphics that combines the components of raster and vector graphics
formats.
MHZ
See megahertz.
MICR
See magnetic-ink character recognition.
MICR inscriber
An output device that enables the printing of characters for magnetic ink
character recognition on bank checks and deposit slips.
MICR reader-sorter
An input device that reads the magnetic ink character recognition data on bank
documents and sorts them.
Microcomputer (or micro)
A small computer (See also personal computer, PC).
Microprocessor
A computer on a single chip. The processing component of a microcomputer.
Microsecond
One millionth of a second.
Microsoft Network (MSN)
An online information service sponsored by
Microsoft Corporation.
Microwave signal
A high-frequency line-of-sight electromagnetic wave used in wireless
communications.
Millisecond
One thousandth of a second.
Minicomputer (or mini)
A midsized computer.
Minimize
Reducing a window on the display screen to an icon.
MIPS
Millions of instructions per second.
MIS planner
The person in a company who has the responsibility for coordinating and
preparing the MIS plans.
Mnemonics
A memory aid often made up from the initials of the words in a term or process.
Modem
[MOdulator-DEModulator] A device used to convert
computer-compatible signals to signals that can be transmitted over the
telephone lines, then back again to computer signals at the other end of the
line.
Monitor
A television like display for soft-copy output in a computer system.
Morphing
Using graphics software to transform one image into an entirely different image.
The term is derived from the word metamorphosis.
Motherboard See as system board.
Mouse
A point-and-draw device that, when moved across a desktop a particular distance
and direction, causes the same movement of the cursor on a screen.
Mouse pen
A point-and-draw device that is rolled across the desktop like a mouse and held
like a pen.
MS-DOS
[Microsoft-Disk Operating System] A
microcomputer operating system.
Multifunction expansion board
An add-on circuit board which contains the electronic circuitry for two or more
supplemental capabilities (for example, a serial port and a fax modem).
Multifunction printer
Multifunction machines that can handle several
paper-related tasks such as computer-based printing, facsimile, scanning, and
copying.
Multimedia upgrade kit
A kit containing the necessary hardware and software to upgrade a PC to run
multimedia applications (CD-ROM, sound card, and so on).
Multimedia application
Computer applications that involve the integration of text, sound, graphics,
motion video, and animation.
Multiplatform environment
A computing environment which supports more than one platform.
Multiplexor
A communications device that collects data from a
number of low-speed devices, then transmits the combined data over a single
communications channel. At the destination, it separates the signals for
processing.
Multitasking
The concurrent execution of more than one program at a time.
Multiuser microcomputer
A microcomputer that can serve more than one user at any given time.
Nanosecond
One billionth of a second.
National Information Infrastructure (NII) Refers to a futuristic network of high-