Glossary for Computer Literacy to Accompany "Understanding Computers, Today and Tomorrow, 2000 edition", by Charles S. Parker
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Numbers in parentheses after the definitions of terms indicate pages on which the terms are boldfaced in the text.
Absolute replication. Copying verbatim the contents in one range of cells into another range of cells. (PS 45)
Access card. A plastic card that, when inserted into a machine and combined with a password, permits access to a system. (LIV 40)
Access mechanism. A mechanical device in a disk drive that positions the read/write heads on the proper tracks. (HW 57)
Action diagram. A programming tool that helps programmers code structured programs. (IS 43)
Active-matrix. Refers to a flat-panel display technology that provides very sharp screen images; contrasts with passive-matrix. (HW 103)
ActiveX. A set of controls that enables programs or content of virtually any type to be embedded within a Web page. (NET 112)
Ada. A structured programming language developed by the Department of Defense and named after Ada Augusta Byron, the world's first programmer. (IS 48)
Add-in board. A circuit board that may be inserted into a slot within a desktop computer's system unit to add one or more functions. (HW 25)
Add-on program. Software that supplements the activities of a larger program. (PS 23)
Address. An identifiable location in storage where data are kept. Both memory and disk are addressable. (HW 7)
AI. See Artificial intelligence. (IS 15)
ALU. See Arithmetic/logic unit. (HW 6)
American National Standards Institute (ANSI). An organization that acts as a national clearinghouse for standards in the United States. (HW 12)
Analog. The transmission of data as continuous-wave patterns. Contrasts with digital. (NET 19)
Analog computer. A device that measures. Contrasts with digital computer. (HW 4)
Analysis. In program and systems development, the process of studying a problem area to determine what should be done. (IS 21)
ANSI. See American National Standards Institute. (HW 12)
Antivirus software. Software used to detect and eliminate computer viruses. (LIV 42)
APL. An acronym for A Programming Language. APL is a highly compact programming language popular for problem-solving applications. (IS 48)
Applet. A small program that provides a dynamic or interactive quality to a Web page. (NET 110)
Applications. See Applications software. (SW 5)
Applications generator. A fourth-generation-language product that can be used to quickly create applications software. (IS 50)
Applications package. A fourth-generation-language product that, when the user sets a few parameters, becomes a finished applications program ready to meet specific needs. (IS 37)
Applications software. Programs that help with type of work that people acquire computer systems to do: commonly called applications programs or applications. Contrasts with systems software. (INT 11, SW 5)
Applications software development. The process of designing, coding, debugging and testing, maintaining, and documenting applications software. (IS 36)
Arithmetic/logic unit (ALU). The part of the CPU that contains circuitry to perform arithmetic and logical operations. (HW 6)
ARPANET. The forerunner to the Internet, named after the Advanced Research Projects Agency (ARPA), which sponsored its development. (NET 49)
Artificial intelligence (Al). The ability of a machine to perform actions that are characteristic of human intelligence, such as reasoning and learning. (IS 16)
ASCII. A fixed-length, binary coding system widely used to represent data for computer processing and communications. (HW 12)
Assembler. A language translator that converts assembly language instructions into machine language. (SW 59)
Assembly language. A low-level programming language that uses mnemonic codes in place of the Os and I s of machine language. (IS 44)
Asynchronous transmission. The transmission of data over a line one character at a time, with variable time intervals between characters. Contrasts with synchronous transmission. (NET 35)
Audit. An inspection used to determine if a system or procedure is working as it should or if claimed amounts are correct. (LIV 43)
Authentication. The process of determining that a person is who he or she claims to be. (LIV 41)
Authoring software. Applications generators designed to help users and programmers more easily create applications in such areas as multimedia, the Internet, and virtual reality. (IS 51)
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Backbone. The part of a network that carries the most traffic. (NET 24)
Backup. A procedure that produces a duplicate version of any file that you can't afford to lose. (LIV 14)
Bandwidth. The difference between the highest and lowest frequencies that a transmission medium can accommodate. (NET 19)
Bar chart. A presentation graphic that uses side-by-side columns as the principal charting element. (PS 51)
Bar code. A machine-readable code that stores data as sets of bars of varying widths. (HW 92)
BASIC. An easy-to-learn, high-level programming language developed at Dartmouth College in the 1960s. (IS 45)
Batch processing. Processing transactions or other data in groups, at periodic intervals. Contrasts with transaction processing. (HW 72)
BBS. See Bulletin board system. (NET 5)
Benchmark test. A test used to measure computer system performance under typical use conditions prior to purchase. (IS 25)
Beta test. A term that refers to sending a preliminary version or release of a program to users for evaluation purposes. (IS 56)
Binary. The numbering system with two possible states. (HW 10, HW 40)
Biometric security device. A device that, upon recognition of some physiological or learned characteristic that is unique to a person, allows that person to have access to a system. (LIV 41)
Bit. A binary digit, such as 0 or 1. (HW 104)
Bit mapping. A graphical output technique in which software individually controls each pixel in a screen image. (HW 104)
Bits per second (bps). A measure of a transmission medium's speed. (NET 19)
Blocking software. A program that blocks access to certain parts of the Internet deemed objectionable, based on predetermined criteria. (NET 121)
Board. A hardware device into which processor and memory chips are fitted, along with related circuitry. (HW 18)
Bookmark. A place in a program or application that you can immediately go to after selecting the associated menu choice. (NET 69)
Boolean search. Retrieval of data by using such words as AND, OR, and NOT when specifying conditions. (NET 77)
Boot. The process of loading the operating system into the computer system's RAM. (SW 37)
Bps. See bits per second. (NET 19)
Bridge. An interface that enables two similar networks to communicate. Contrasts with gateway. (NET 33)
Browser. A software tool that makes it easy for users to find and display Web pages. (NET 67)
Bulletin board system (BBS). A computer file that is shared by several people, enabling them to post or broadcast messages. (NET)
Bug. An error in a program or system. (IS 55)
Bus. An electronic path within a computer system along which bits are transmitted. (HW 26)
Bus Network. A telecommunications network consisting of a transmission line with lines dropped off for several devices. (NET 24)
Byte. A configuration of 8 bits that represents a single character of data. (HW 13)
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C. A programming language that has the portability of a high-level language and the executional efficiency of an assembly language. (IS 46)
C++. A variant of the C language that is more widely used today than C itself. (IS 46)
Cache memory. A storage area, faster than RAM, where the computer stores data it has most recently accessed. (HW 22)
CAD. See Computer-aided design. (IS 12)
CAD/CAM. An acronym for computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing. CAD/CAM is a general term applied to the use of computer technology to automate design and manufacturing operations in industry. (IS 12)
Callback device. A device on the receiving end of a communications network that verifies the authenticity of the sender by calling the sender back. (LIV 42)
Caller identification. Refers to the use of a telephone or answering device that displays the origin of incoming calls. (LIV 49)
CAM. See Computer-aided manufacturing. (IS 13)
Cartridge tape. Magnetic tape in which the supply and take-up reels are contained in a small plastic case. (HW 66)
Cascading. The overlapping of windows on a display. Contrasts with tiling. (SW 20)
CASE. See Computer-aided software engineering. (IS 59)
Case control structure. A control structure that can be formed by nesting two or more selection control structures. (IS 41)
Cathode-ray tube (CRT). A display device that projects images on a long-necked display tube similar to that in a television set. (HW 102)
CD-ROM. An optical disk that allows a drive to read data but not write it. (HW 63)
Cell. The part of the worksheet that can hold a single constant value or formula; defined by the intersection of a row and column. (PS 37)
Cell address. The column/row combination that uniquely identifies a spreadsheet cell. (PS 37)
Cell pointer. A cursor-like mechanism used in the worksheet area to point to cells, thereby making them active. Also called the highlight (PS 39)
Cellular phone. A mobile phone that uses special ground stations called cells to process calls and communicate with the regular phone system. (NET 17)
Central processing unit (CPU). The piece of equipment, also known as the computer, that interprets and executes program instructions and communicates with support devices. (INT 6)
Chat. An Internet feature that supports interactive discussion groups on selected topics. (NET 60)
Check box. A screen choice that requires the user to toggle an accompanying check mark on or off, respectively indicating whether the choice is selected or not. (SW 23)
Client. A device designed to receive service in a client-server network. Contrasts with server. (NET 28)
Client-server LAN. A LAN composed of client devices, which receive services, and server devices, which provide the services. Contrasts with peer- to-peer LAN. (NET 28)
Clip art. Prepackaged artwork designed to be imported into text documents or charts, say, by word processing, desktop publishing, or presentation graphics software. (PS 20)
Cluster. An area formed where a fixed number of contiguous sectors intersect a track. (HW 51)
Coaxial cable. A transmission medium consisting of a center wire inside a grounded, cylindrical shield capable of sending data at high speeds. (NET 14)
COBOL. A high-level programming language developed for transaction processing applications. (IS 45)
Coding. The creation of programming-language instructions. (IS 54)
COM. See Computer output microfilm. (HW 115)
Communications medium. The intervening link, such as a telephone wire or cable, that connects two physically distant hardware devices. (NET 13)
Communications satellite. An earth-orbiting microwave-repeater device that relays communications signals over long distances. (NET 16)
Compiler. A language translator that converts an entire program into machine language before executing it. Contrasts with interpreter. (SW 58)
Computer. The piece of equipment, also known as the central processing unit (CPU), that interprets and executes program instructions and communicates with peripheral devices. (INT 6)
Computer-aided design (CAD). A general term applied to the use of computer technology to automate design functions. (IS 12)
Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM). A general term applied to the use of computer technology to automate manufacturing functions. (IS 13)
Computer-aided software engineering (CASE). Program products that automate systems-development and program-development activities. (IS 59)
Computer crime. The use of computers to commit criminal acts. (LIV 35)
Computer output microfilm (COM). A system for reducing computer output to microscopic form and storing it on photosensitive film. (HW 115)
Computer system. A collection of elements that includes the computer and components that contribute to making it a useful tool. (INT 6)
Computer virus. A small block of unauthorized code, concealed and transmitted from computer to computer, that performs destructive acts when executed. (LIV 36)
Concentrator. A communications device that combines control and multiplex- ing functions. (NET 33)
Connect time. The amount of time you spend online with a service provider's computers. (NET 82)
Constant value. A cell entry that contains text or a numeric value. Contrasts with formula. (PS 40)
Context sensitive. A characteristic of a user interface that adjusts program actions to accommodate the type of operation the user is currently performing. (SW 21)
Control panel. The portion of the screen display used for issuing commands and observing what is being typed into the computer system. (PS 38)
Control structure. A pattern for controlling the flow of logic in a computer program. (IS 41)
Control unit. The part of the CPU that coordinates its operations. (HW 6)
Cookies. Small files stored on your hard drive by your browser at the request of the Web servers you visit. (NET 69)
Coprocessor. A dedicated processor chip that is summoned by the CPU to perform specialized types of processing. (HW 21)
CPU. See Central processing unit. (INT 6)
Cross compatible. Refers to a software or hardware product that can work with products from other vendors. (LIV 23)
CRT. See Cathode-ray tube. (HW 102)
Cryptography. The field that deals with the art and science of encryption. (LIV 41)
Current cell. In spreadsheet software, the worksheet cell at which the highlight is currently positioned. (PS 39)
Cursor. A screen character indicating where the next input made by the user is to be entered. (HW 98)
Cyberphobia. The fear of computers. (LIV 33)
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DAT. An acronym for digital audio tape, DAT is a magnetic tape-cartridge standard. (HW 67)
Data. A collection of raw, unorganized facts. (INT 7)
Data access. The process of fetching data either sequentially or directly from a storage device. (HW 70)
Database. An integrated collection of related data files. (INT 14, PS 70)
Database administrator. The person or group of people in charge of designing, implementing, and managing the ongoing operation of a database. (PS 83)
Database management system (DBMS). A software product designed to integrate data and provide easy access to them. (PS 70)
Data bus. The bus that links the CPU to RAM. (HW 27)
Data compression. Squeezing data into a smaller storage space than they would normally require. (SW 54)
Data definition. The process of describing the characteristics of data that are to be handled by a database management system. (PS 74)
Data definition language (DDL). A language used to create, store, and manage data in a database environment. (PS 88)
Data dictionary. A facility that informs users and programmers about characteristics of data and programs in a database or a computer system. (PS 77, IS 55)
Data flow diagram. A graphically oriented systems development tool that enables a systems analyst to logically represent the flow of data through a system. (IS 22)
Data manipulation. The process of using program commands to add, delete, modify, or retrieve data in a file or database. (PS 77)
Data manipulation language (DML). A language used by programmers to supplement some high-level language supported in a database environment. (PS 89)
Data mining. Intelligent software that can analyze data warehouses for patterns that management may not even realize exist, and also infer rules from these patterns. (PS 87)
Data organization. The process of setting up data so that they may subsequently be accessed in some desired way. (HW 70)
Data processing area. The group of computer professionals charged with building and operating transaction processing systems. (IS 18)
Data warehouse. A comprehensive collection of data that describes the operations of a company. (PS 87)
DBA. See Database administrator. (PS 83)
DBMS. See Database management system. (PS 70)
DDL. See Data definition language. (PS 88)
Debugging. The process of detecting and correcting errors in computer programs or in the computer system itself. (IS 55)
Decimal. The numbering system with ten symbols-0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9. (HW 39)
Decision support system (DSS). A system that provides people with tools and capabilities to help them satisfy their own information needs. (IS 8)
Declarative language. An applications-development product in which the user or developer can tell the computer that a task needs doing and the computer automatically knows how to do it. Contrasts with procedural language. (IS 48)
Default. The assumption that a computer program makes when the user indicates no specific choice. (SW 36)
Defragmentation. The process of rewriting a program that is stored in noncontiguous clusters into contiguous clusters. (SW 55)
Design. The process that defines the look of a product as well as how it will work. (NET 104)
Desktop computer. A microcomputer system designed to fit on a desktop. Contrasts with portable computer. (INT 21)
Desktop publishing. A microcomputer-based publishing system that can fit on a desktop. (PS 24)
Detachable-reel tape. Magnetic tape wound onto a single reel, which in turn is mounted next to an empty take-up reel onto a tape drive. (HW 68)
Device driver. A utility program that enables an operating system to communicate with a specific hardware device. (SW 57)
DHTML. See Dynamic HTML. (NET 113)
Dialog box. A box that requires the user to supply information to the computer system about the task being performed. (SW 23)
Digital. The representation and transmission of data as 0 and 1 bits. Contrasts with analog. (NET 19)
Digital camera. A camera that records pictures as digital data instead of as film images. (HW 94)
Digital computer. A device that counts. (HW 4)
Direct access. Reading or writing data in storage so that the access time involved is independent of the physical location of the data. Also known as random access. Contrasts with sequential access. (HW 50)
Direct commission. A strategy for converting to a new system that involves completely deactivating the old system and then fully implementing the new system. (IS 25)
Direct manufacturer. A maker of hardware or software that sells directly to the public. (LIV 9)
Direct organization. A method of arranging data on a storage device so they can be accessed directly (randomly). (HW 75)
Directory. A collection of files that is grouped under a name of its own. Also commonly called a folder. (SW 38)
Disaster-recovery plan. A plan that maps out what an organization does to prepare for and react to disruptive events. (LIV 40)
Disk access time. The time taken to locate and read (or position and write) data on a disk device. (HW 58)
Disk cache. A disk-management scheme that directs a drive to read more data than necessary for an immediate processing task during each disk fetch; a part of RAM stores the extra data to minimize the number of disk fetches. (HW 58)
Disk cylinder. On a disk pack, a collection of tracks that align vertically in the same relative position on different disk surfaces. (HW 57)
Disk drive. A direct-access secondary storage device that uses a magnetic or optical disk as the principal medium. (HW 54)
Diskette. A low-capacity, removable disk made of a tough, flexible plastic and coated with a magnetizable substance. (HW 50)
Disk utility. A program that assists users with such disk-related tasks as backup, data compression, space allocation, and the like. (SW 54)
Display device. An output device that contains a viewing screen. Also called a monitor. (HW 98)
Distributed database. A database whose contents are split up over several locations. (PS 86)
DML. See Data manipulation language. (PS 89)
Document. Any single piece of work that's created with software and, then, given a name by which it may be accessed. (INT 12)
Documentation. A description of how a program, procedure, or system works. (IS 57, LIV 18)
Document-centered computing. A view of computing in which the document itself is more central than the applications program or programs in which it was created. (SW 6)
Domain name. An ordered group of symbols, separated by periods, that identifies an Internet server. (NET 65)
Dot-matrix character. A character composed from a rectangular matrix of dots. (HW 105)
Dot pitch. The distance between display-screen pixels, in millimeters. (HW 99)
DOUNTIL control structure. A looping control structure in which the looping continues as long as a certain condition is false ("do until true"). (IS 41)
DOWHILE control structure. A looping control structure in which the looping continues as long as a certain condition is true ("do while true"). (IS 41)
Downloading. The process of transferring a file from a remote computer to a requesting computer over a network. Contrasts with uploading. (NET 31)
Downward compatible. Refers to a software product that enables a user to save files in a form that is acceptable to an earlier version or release of the product. Contrasts with upward compatible. (LIV 23)
Dragging and dropping. The process of moving an item from one part of the screen to another with a mouse. (HW 86)
DRAM. An acronym for dynamic random access memory, DRAM refers to a type of memory chip that needs to be regularly recharged as processing is taking place. (HW 21)
Drop cap. A large, decorative capital letter that sometimes appears at the beginning of an article or chapter of text. (PS 20)
Drop-down menu. See Pull-down menu. (SW 15)
DSS. See Decision support system. (IS 8)
Dumb terminal. A workstation, consisting of a display and keyboard, that can do little more than send and receive data. (NET 24)
DVD. An optical-disk standard that enables very high capacities. (HW 65)
Dynamic HTML (DHTML). A version of HTML that adds elements enabling the look of Web pages to change. (NET 113)
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EBCDIC. A fixed-length, binary coding system widely used to represent Data on IBM mainframes. (HW 12)
E-cycle. The part of the machine cycle in which the CPU locates data, carries out an instruction, and stores the results. Contrasts with I-cycle. (HW 8)
EDI. See Electronic data interchange. (NET 11)
EIS. See Executive information system. (IS 9)
Electronic data interchange (EDI). A computer procedure that enables firms to electronically exchange standard business documents-such as purchase orders and invoices. (NET 11)
Electronic mail. The computer-to-computer counterpart for interoffice mail or the postal service. Also called e-mail. (NET 4, NET 53, IS 10)
Electronic mailbox. A storage area on a hard disk used to hold messages, memos, and other documents for the receiver. (NET 5)
E-mail. See Electronic mail. (NET 4, NET 53, IS 10)
Encryption. A method of protecting data or programs so that they are unrecognizable to unauthorized users. (LIV 41)
End-user development. Systems development carried out by users. (IS 28)
Enterprise resource planning (ERP). The use of technology to integrate many of the key operations of an organization into a single, networked system. (IS 14)
Ergonomics. The field that studies the effects of things such as computer hard- ware, software, and workspaces on people's comfort and health. (LIV 33)
ERP. See Enterprise resource planning. (IS 14)
Ethernet. A collection of protocols that specify a standard way of setting up a bus-based LAN. (NET 36)
Ethics. A term that refers to standards of moral conduct. (LIV 49)
Executive information system (EIS). A decision support system tailored to the needs of a specific, top-level individual in an organization. (IS 9)
Expansion bus. The path that extends the data bus so that it links with peripheral devices. (HW 27)
Expansion slot. A socket inside the system unit into which an add-in board is plugged. (HW 25)
Expert system. A program or computer system that provides the type of advice that would be expected from a human expert. (IS 15)
Expert system shell. A prepackaged expert system that lacks only a knowledge base. (IS 17)
Extranet. An extension of an organizational intranet onto the Internet itself. (NET 29)
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Facsimile. A method for transmitting text documents, pictures, maps, diagrams, and the like over the phone lines. Abbreviated as fax. (NET 5, IS 10)
FAQS. See Frequently asked questions. (NET 59)
Fault-tolerant computing. Refers to computer systems that are built with important circuitry duplicated, for backup purposes. (SW 43)
Fax. See Facsimile. (NET 5, IS 10)
Fiber-optic cable. A transmission medium composed of hundreds of hair-thin, transparent fibers along which lasers carry data as light waves. (NET 14)
Field. A collection of related characters. (INT 14)
Field descriptor. A code used to describe the type of data-say, numeric, text, logical-that occupy a given field in a data record. (PS 76)
File. A collection of related records. (INT 14)
File directory. A listing on a storage medium that provides such data as name, length, and starting address for each stored file. (HW 54)
File extension. A group of characters appended to the main part of a filename to qualify it or to identify a specific type of file. (SW 36)
File manager. A productivity software package used to manage records and files. (PS 73)
File structure. A collection of information about the records of a file, including the names, lengths, and types of the fields. (PS 75)
File transfer protocol (FTP). A communications protocol that facilitates the transfer of files between a host computer and a user's computer. (NET 57)
Film recorder. A device that converts computer output to film. (HW 115)
Firewall. A collection of hardware or software intended to protect a company's internal computer networks from outside attack. (LIV 41)
Flat file. A file that is not interrelated with others. (PS 73)
Flat-panel display. A slim-profile display device. (HW 102)
Floppy disk. See Diskette. (HW 50)
Flowchart. A series of boxes or other symbols, connected by lines, that shows how ideas fit together. (NET 105)
Folder. A container for documents. (INT 13, SW 38)
Font. A typeface in a particular point size--for instance, 12-point Helvetica. (PS 15)
Formatting. The process of organizing a disk so that it is usable in a particular operating environment. (HW 51)
Formula. A cell entry that is used to change the contents of other cells. Contrasts with constant value. (PS 40)
FORTRAN. A high-level programming language used for mathematical, scientific, and engineering applications. (IS 47)
Fourth-generation language (4GL). An easy-to-learn, easy-to-use language that enables users or programmers to develop applications much more quickly than they could with third-generation languages. (IS 48)
Fragmented file. A file on disk that is split up into many noncontiguous areas, making access harder. (SW 55)
Freeware. Software offered for use without charge. (SW 9)
Frequently asked questions (FAQs). Typical questions asked by newcomers to Internet newsgroups, mailing lists, and chat rooms, accompanied by the answers to those questions. (NET 59)
FTP. See File transfer protocol. (NET 57)
Full backup. A procedure that produces a duplicate copy of all files onto a secondary storage medium. Contrasts with partial backup. (LIV 14)
Full-duplex transmission. A type of transmission in which messages may be sent in two directions simultaneously along a communications path. (NET 34)
Function. A prestored formula for a standard calculation. (PS 42)
Functionally obsolete. A term that refers to a product that no longer meets the needs of an individual or business. (LIV 23)
Function key. A special keyboard key that executes a preprogrammed routine when depressed. (HW 85)
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Gateway. An interface that enables two dissimilar networks to communicate. Contrasts with bridge. (NET 33)
GB. See Gigabyte. (HW 13)
GDSS. See Group decision support system. (IS 9)
Ghosted. Refers to a menu choice that has a faded appearance, indicating that the choice is unavailable in the current context. (SW 16)
Gigabyte (GB). Approximately 1 billion bytes. (HW 13)
Gopher. An information-retrieval tool for the Internet that generates hierarchical, text-intensive menus. (NET 57)
Grammar checker. Software that checks for errors in word usage. (PS 10).
Graphical user interface (GUI). A term that refers to the graphics screens that make it easier for users to interact with software. (SW 11)
Graphics tablet. An input device that consists of a flat board and a pointing mechanism that traces over it, storing the traced pattern in computer memory. (HW 88)
Group decision support system (GDSS). A decision support system that helps several people to routinely interact through a computer network to solve common problems. (IS 8)
Groupware. Software that enables several people to collaborate in their work. (NET 8)
GUI. See Graphical user interface. (SW 11)
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Hacking. Using a microcomputer system or terminal to penetrate the security of a remote computer system. (LIV 38)
Half-duplex transmission. Any type of transmission in which messages may be sent in two directions-but only one way at a time-along a communications path. (NET 38)
Handwriting recognition device. A device that can identify handwritten characters. (HW 96)
Hard copy. A permanent form of computer system output-for example, information printed on paper or film. Contrasts with soft copy. (HW 85)
Hard disk. A system consisting of one or more rigid platters and an access mechanism. (HW 55)
Hard return. A line break inserted when the user presses the Enter key to control line spacing in a document. Contrasts with soft return. (PS 7)
Hardware. Physical equipment in a computing environment, such as the computer and its peripheral devices. Contrasts with software. (INT 11)
Hashing. A mathematical transformation in which a record's key field determines where the record is stored. (HW 75)
Helper package. A program designed to work alongside another program. (NET 74)
Hexadecimal. The numbering system with 16 symbols-0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, A, B, C, D, E, and F. (HW 42)
Hierarchical database management system. A DBMS that stores data in the form of a tree, where the relationship between data elements is one-to-many. (PS 82)
Hierarchical local network. A local network in which a relatively powerful host CPU at the top of the hierarchy interacts with workstations at the bottom. (NET 30)
High-level language. The class of programming languages that includes BASIC, COBOL, C, FORTRAN, and Pascal. (IS 45)
Highlight. See Cell pointer. (PS 39)
History list. A browser feature that stores descriptions and addresses of the last several Web sites you visited. (NET 69)
Hit. One request for access to a page or graphics file made to a server computer. (NET 119)
Home page. The starting page for a Web site. (NET 57)
Host computer. The main computer in a network. (NET 24)
Host language. A programming language used to code database applications. (PS 90)
Hot swappable. Refers to a hardware device that can be brought online or offline without power to the main computer system shut off. (HW 28)
HTML. See Hypertext markup language. (NET 108)
HTML converter. A program designed to produce Web pages from documents already existing in other formats. (NET 116)
HTML Wizard. A program that automatically generates Web pages from screen selections made by the user. (NET 114)
Hyperlink. An icon, image, or specially marked text that represents a link to a new file, application, or Web page. Also called hypermedia. (NET 56, SW 19)
Hypermedia. See Hyperlink. (NET 56)
Hypertext markup language (HTML). The most widely used language for developing Web pages. (NET 108)
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Icon. A graphical image on a display screen that invokes some action when selected. (SW 16)
I-cycle. The part of the machine cycle in which the control unit fetches a program instruction from memory and prepares it for subsequent processing. Contrasts with E-cycle. (HW 8)
If-then-else control structure. See Selection control structure. (IS 41)
Illustration program. A program that enables users to paint, draw, or manipulate photographs. (PS 28)
Imagemap. A screen image with embedded hyperlinks. (SW 17)
Image scanner. A device that can read into computer memory a hard-copy image such as a text page, photograph, map, or drawing. (HW 93)
Impact dot-matrix printer. A device with a print head holding multiple pins, which strike an inked ribbon in various combinations to form characters on paper. (HW 105)
Impact printing. A technology that forms characters by striking a pin or hammer against an inked ribbon, which presses the desired shape onto paper. Contrasts with nonimpact printing. (HW 105)
Indexed organization. A method of organizing data on a direct-access storage medium so that they can be accessed directly (through an index) or sequentially. (HW 72)
Indexing. A procedure that creates a table, or index, that specifies how data records are to be arranged on output. (PS 79)
Inference engine. A program used to apply rules to the knowledge base in order to. reach decisions. (IS 16)
Information. Data that have been processed into a meaningful form. (INT 8)
Information reporting system. An information system whose principal outputs are preformatted reports. (IS 8)
Information system. A system designed to provide information to enable people to make decisions. (IS 7)
Information systems department. The area in an organization that consists of computer professionals. (IS 18)
Infrared transmission. Communications in which data are sent as infrared light rays. (NET 18)
Ink-jet printer. A printer that forms images by spraying droplets of charged ink onto a page. (HW 107)
Input. What is supplied to a computer process. Contrasts with output. (INT 6)
Input device. A piece of hardware through which a user supplies data and pro- grams to the computer. Contrasts with output device. (INT 6, HW 85)
Insertion point. A cursor character that shows where the next key pressed will appear onscreen. (PS 6)
Instruction. A statement in a computer-programming language that causes the computer to take an action. (HW 17)
Instruction set. The set of machine-level instructions available to a computer. (HW 17)
Integrated software program. A collection of abbreviated software products bundled together into a single package and sold at price that is less than the sum of the prices of the individual components. (SW 6)
Internet. A global network linking thousands of networks and millions of individual users, businesses, schools, and government agencies. (NET 7, NET 48)
Internet address. A unique identifier assigned to a specific location on the Internet, such as a host computer, Web site, or user mailbox. (NET 65)
Internet content provider (IPP). An organization or individual providing information for distribution over the Internet. (NET 51)
Internet presence provider (IPP). An organization whose server computers host Web pages. (NET 102)
Internet relay chat (IRC). An Internet feature that allows people to type messages to others and to get responses in real time. (NET 60)
Internet service provider (ISP). An organization that provides basic access to the Internet (NET 50)
Interpreter. A language translator that converts program statements line by line into machine language, immediately executing each one. Contrasts with compiler. (SW 58)
Intranet. A private network-often one set up by a company for employees-that implements the infrastructure and standards of the Internet and World Wide Web. (NET 29)
IPP. See Internet presence provider. (NET 102)
IRC. See Internet relay chat. (NET 60)
ISA. A popular PC bus standard; stands for Industry Standard Architecture. (HW 27)
ISDN. A digital phone service that offers high-speed transmission over ordinary phone lines. Stands for integrated services digital network. (NET 23)
ISP. See Internet service provider. (NET 50)
Iteration control structure. See Looping control structure. (IS 41)
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Java. A programming language, created at Sun Microsystems, that is used to add interactive or dynamic features to Web pages. (NET 110)
Joystick. An input device that resembles a car's gear shift. (HW 87)
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KB. See Kilobyte. (HW 13)
Key field. A field that helps identify a record. (HW 70)
Keyboard. An input device composed of numerous keys, arranged in a con- figuration similar to that of a typewriter, that generate letters, numbers, and other symbols when depressed. (HW 85)
Kilobyte (KB). Approximately 1,000 bytes (1,024, to be exact). (HW 13)
Kiosk. A computer station-often located in a store, lobby, or exhibit-that provides users information through an easy-to-use input mechanism such as a touch screen. (HW 87)
Knowledge base. The part of the expert system that contains specific facts about the expert area and any rules the expert system will use to make decisions based on those facts. (IS 16)
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LAN. See Local area network. (NET 27)
Landscape. An output mode with images more wide than high. Contrasts with portrait. (HW 101)
Laptop computer. A portable personal computer weighing about 8 to 15 pounds. (INT 21)
Laser printer. A printer that works on a principle similar to that of a photocopier. (HW 106)
LCD. An acronym for liquid-crystal display, LCD refers to flat-panel displays that use charged liquid crystals to provide light and special color filters to paint the screen. (HW 102-103)
Language translator. A systems program that converts applications program into machine language. (SW 57)
Legacy system. See Technologically obsolete. (LIV 23)
Light pen. An electrical device, resembling an ordinary pen, used to enter computer input. (HW 86)
Line chart. A presentation graphic in which the principal charting element is an unbroken line. (PS 53)
Line printer. A high-speed printer that produces output a line at a time. (HW 111)
LISP. A language used widely for artificial-intelligence applications. (IS 48)
List box. A screen-window panel that requires the user to select an item from a predetermined list. (SW 23)
Local area network (LAN). A local network, without a host computer, usually composed microcomputer workstations and shared peripherals. Contrasts with wide-area network. (NET 27)
Local bus. A bus that connects the CPU directly to peripheral devices that require the most speed. (HW 28)
Local network. A privately run communications network of several machines located within a few miles or so of one another. (NET 27)
Logic error. An error that results when a running program is producing incorrect results. Also called a run-time error. Contrasts with syntax error. (IS 55)
Logo. A computer language often used to teach children how to program. (IS 48)
Looping (iteration) control structure. The control structure used to represent a looping operation. (IS 41)
Low-level language. A highly detailed, machine-dependent class of programming languages. (IS 44)
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Machine cycle. The series of operations involved in the execution of a single machine-level instruction. (HW 8)
Machine language. A binary-based programming language that the computer can execute directly. (HW 17)
Machine-readable form. Any form that represents data so that computer equipment can read them. (INT 6)
Mac OS. The operating system for Apple's Macintosh line of computer systems. (SW 48)
Macro. A predetermined series of keystrokes or commands that can be invoked by a single keystroke or command. (PS 17)
Magnetic disk. A secondary storage medium that records data through magnetic spots on platters made of rigid metal or flexible plastic. (HW 50)
Magnetic ink character recognition (MICR). A banking-industry technology that processes checks by sensing special characters inscribed in magnetic ink. (HW 96)
Magnetic tape. A plastic ribbon with a magnetizable surface that stores data as a series of magnetic spots. (HW 66)
Mailing label feature. A routine that generates address labels. (PS 18)
Mailing lists. A service through which discussion groups communicate through shared e-mail messages. (NET 59)
Mainframe. A large computer that performs business transaction processing. (INT 24)
Main memory. The computer system's principal bank of memory; contrasts with memory products such as ROM and flash memory. (HW 8)
Maintenance. The process of making upgrades and minor modifications to systems or software over time. (IS 56)
Maintenance programmer. A programmer involved with keeping an organization's existing programs in working order. (IS 37)
Marketing database. An electronic repository containing information useful for niche- marketing products to consumers. (LIV 48)
Markup language. A language made up of tags or symbols that describe what a document should look like when displayed. (NET 108)
Master rile. A file that contains relatively permanent, descriptive data about the subject defined by one of the key fields of the file. Contrasts with transaction file. (HW 72)
Maximize. Enlarging a window so that it fills the entire screen. Contrasts with minimize. (SW 21)
MB. See Megabyte (HW 13)
Megabyte (MB). Approximately 1 million bytes. (HW 13)
Memory. See Primary storage. (INT 9, HW 7)
Menu. A set of options from which the user chooses to take a desired action. (SW 14)
Menu bar. A horizontal list of choices that appears on a highlighted line, usually below the window title. Also called the main menu. (SW 14)
Merge feature. A routine specifically designed to produce form letters. (PS 17)
Message box. A dialog box that pops up on the screen to warn the user or to provide status information. (SW 24)
MICR. See Magnetic ink character recognition. (HW 96)
Microcode. Instructions built into the CPU that control the operation of its circuitry. (HW 8)
Microcomputer. A computer system driven by a microprocessor. Also called a microcomputer system. (INT 20)
Microcomputer system. See microcomputer. (INT 20)
Microfiche. A sheet of film, often 4 by 6 inches, on which computer output images are stored. (HW 115)
Microprocessor. A CPU on a silicon chip. (INT 20)
Microsecond. One one-millionth of a second. (HW 9)
Microsoft Internet Explorer. A widely used browsing program. (NET 67)
Microspacing. A technique used by many printers and software products to insert fractional spaces between characters. (PS 15)
Microwave. An electromagnetic wave in the high-frequency range. (NET 16)
Midrange computer. An intermediate-sized and medium-priced computer. (INT 23)
Millisecond. One one-thousandth of a second. (HW 9)
Minimize. Reducing a window to an icon on the taskbar. Contrasts with maximize. (SW 21)
Mixed cell referencing. Copying formulas in one range of cells into another range, while varying some cell references and leaving others constant. (PS 46)
MMX. A technology used on recent Intel computer chips to enhance multimedia processing. (HW 18)
Modem. A communications device that enables digital computers and their support devices to communicate over analog media. (NET 22)
Monitor. A display device without a keyboard. (HW 98)
Monochrome. A term used to refer to a device that produces outputs in a sin- gle foreground color. (HW 102)
Monospacing. A printing feature that allocates the same amount of space on a line to each character. Contrast with proportional spacing. (PS 15)
Mosaic. A freeware tool that was the first GUI Web browser to gain wide acceptance; most commercial browsers today are enhanced forms of Mosaic. (NET 67)
Motherboard. See System board. (HW 18)
Mouse. A common pointing device that you slide along a flat surface to move a pointer around a display screen and make selections. (HW 86)
Mouse pointer. An onscreen, context-sensitive symbol that corresponds to movements made by a mouse. (HW 86)
MS-DOS. An operating system widely on early PC-compatible microcomputer systems. (SW 44)
Multimedia. A term that refers to computer systems and applications that involve a combination of text, graphics, audio, and video data. (INT 8)
Multiplexer. A communications device that interleaves the messages of several low-speed devices and sends them along a single high-speed path. (NET 33)
Multiprocessing. A technique for simultaneous execution of two or more program sequences by multiple processors operating under common control. (SW 43)
Multiprogramming. Concurrent execution of two or more programs on a single computer. (SW 41)
Multitasking. A capability of an operating system to execute for a single user two or more programs or program tasks concurrently. (SW 41)
Multithreading. The capability of a task to be divided into small pieces that provide improved operating-system response. (SW 41)
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Nanosecond. One one-billionth of a second. (HW 9)
Natural-language interface. Software that allows users to communicate with the computer in a conversational language such as English, Spanish, and Japanese. (IS 52)
Netiquette. Proper etiquette for exchanges on the Internet (NET 59)
Netscape Navigator. A widely used browsing program. (NET 67)
NetWare. The most widely used operating system on local area networks (LANs). (SW 52)
Network. A system of machines that communicate with one another. (INT 16)
Network computer. A stripped-down desktop microcomputer that is optimized for the Internet and intracompany communications. (INT 21)
Network database management system. A DBMS in which the relationship between data elements can be either many-to-one or many-to-many. (PS 82)
Network interface card (NIC). An add-in board though which a workstation connects to a local network. (NET 21)
Network operating system (NOS). An operating system that enables the network administrator in an organization to control network tasks. (SW 48)
Neural-net computing. An expert-system technology in which the human brain's pattern- recognition process is emulated by a computer system. (IS 17)
Newsgroup. A service that works like an electronic newspaper, carrying articles posted by subscribers and responses to them (called threads). (NET 59)
NIC. See Network interface card. (NET 21)
Nonimpact printing. A technology that forms characters and other images on a surface by means of heat, lasers, photography, or ink jets. Contrasts with impact printing. (HW 106)
Noninterfaced. Refers to a monitor that draws every screen line of pixels on each screen refresh; contrasts with interlaced monitors that draw in every other line. (HW 100)
Nonvolatile storage. Storage that retains its contents when power is shut off. Contrasts with volatile storage. (HW 49)
NOS. See Network operating system. (SW 48)
Notebook computer. A portable personal computer weighing about 6 to 8 pounds. (INT 21)
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OA. See Office automation. (IS 10)
Object. A storable entity composed of data elements and instructions that apply to the elements. (PS 84)
Object module. A program that is in compiled form. Contrasts with source module. (SW 58)
Object-oriented database management system. A DBMS in which two or more types of data-text, graphics, sound, or video-are combined with methods that specify their properties or use. (PS 84)
Object-oriented programming language. A language that works with objects that encapsulate data and instructions rather than with separate instructions and data. (IS 51)
OCR. See Optical character recognition. (HW 90)
Office automation (OA). Computer-based, office-oriented technologies such as word processing, desktop publishing, electronic mail, teleconferencing, and the like. (IS 10)
Offline. A state that does not allow a device to send data to or receive data from other devices. Contrasts with online. (INT 18)
OLE. An acronym for object linking and embedding, OLE refers to pro- grams and applications that can be nested and launched inside each other. (NET 112)
One-entry-point/one-exit-point rule. A rule stating that each program control structure will have only one entry point into it and one exit point out of it. (IS 41)
Online. A state that allows a device to send data to or receive data from other devices. Contrasts with offline. (INT 18)
Operating environment. A term that refers to a user interface or operating system--for instance, DOS, DOS-with-Windows, and Windows. (SW 46)
Operating system. The main collection of systems software that enables the computer system to manage the resources under its control. (SW 34)
Optical character recognition (OCR). The use of reflected light to input marks, characters, or codes. (HW 90)
Optical disk. A disk read by reflecting pulses of laser beams. (HW 63)
Output. The results of a computer process. Contrasts with input. (INT 6)
Output device. A piece of hardware that accepts data and programs from the computer. Contrasts with input device. (INT 6, HW 85)
Outsourcing. The practice by which one company hires another company to do some or all of its information-processing activities. (IS 19)
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Packet switching. A transmission technique that breaks messages into smaller units that travel to a destination along possibly different paths. (NET 39)
Page description language (PDL). A language for communicating instructions to a printer. (PS 26)
Page-makeup software. A program used to compose page layouts in a desktop publishing system. (PS 27)
Page printer. A high-speed printer that generates a full page of output at a time. (HW 111)
Palette. A menu that enables users to choose such attributes as colors and textures. (SW 19)
Palmtop computer. A portable personal computer that you can hold in your hand. (INT 21)
Parallel conversion. A computing system in which two or more CPUs share work, simultaneously processing separate parts of it. (HW 30)
Parallel processing. A computing system in which two or more CPUs share work, simultaneously processing separate parts of it. (HW 30)
Parallel transmission. Data transmission in which each bit in a byte has its own path and all of the bits in a byte are transmitted simultaneously. Contrasts with serial transmission. (NET 20)
Parity bit. An extra bit added to the byte representation of characters to ensure there is always either an odd or even number of I -bits transmitted with every character. (HW 14)
Partial backup. A procedure that produces a duplicate copy of selected files onto a secondary storage medium. Contrasts with full backup. (LIV 15)
Pascal. A structured, high-level programming language that is often used to teach programming. (IS 46)
Passive-matrix. Refers to a flat-panel display technology that provides adequate but not outstandingly sharp screen images; contrasts with active-matrix. (HW 103)
Password. A word or number used to permit selected individuals access to a system. (LIV 40)
Path. An ordered list of directories that lead to a particular file or directory. (SW 39)
PBX. See Private branch exchange. (NET 31)
PC. See Personal computer. (INT 20)
PC card. A small card that fits into a slot on the exterior of a portable computer to provide new functions. Also called a PCMCIA card. (HW 26)
PC compatible. A personal computer based on Intel microprocessors or compatible chips. (INT 22)
PC-DOS. The operating system designed for and widely used by early IBM microcomputers. (SW 44)
PCI. A widely adopted local-bus standard; stands for peripheral component interconnect. (HW 28)
PCMCIA. An acronym for Personal Computer Memory Card International Association. See also PC Card. (HW 26)
PDA. An acronym for personal digital assistant. See Palmtop computer. (INT 22)
PDL. See Page description language. (PS 26)
Peer-to-peer LAN. A LAN in which all of the user workstations and shared peripheral devices operate on the same level. Contrasts with client-server LAN. (NET 28)
Pentium. A family of Intel microprocessors. (HW 18)
Peripheral equipment. The devices that work with a computer. (INT 6)
Personal computer (PC). A microcomputer system designed to be used by one person at a time. (INT 20).
Phased conversion. A strategy for converting to a new system that involves implementing the new system modularly. (IS 25)
Picosecond. One one-trillionth of a second. (HW 9)
Pie chart. A presentation graphic in which the principal charting element is a pie-shaped image that is divided into slices, each of which represents a share of the whole. (PS 53)
Pilot conversion. A strategy for converting to a new system that involves testing the new system at only one location initially. (IS 26)
Pipelining. A CPU feature designed to begin processing a new instruction as soon as the previous instruction reaches the next stage of the machine cycle. (HW 29)
Pixel. A single dot on a display screen. (HW 99)
PL/I. A structured, high-level language that can be used for scientific, engineering, and business applications. (IS 48)
Platform. A foundation technology by which a computer operates. (INT 22)
Plotter. An output device that prints graphs and diagrams. (HW 114)
Plug-and-play. The ability of a computer to detect and configure new hardware components. (HW 26)
Plug-in program. A program that enhances another program with features the latter doesn't have. (NET 74)
Pointing device. A piece of input hardware that moves an onscreen pointer such as an arrow, cursor, or insertion point. (HW 86)
Pointing stick. A trackball-like device placed between the keys of many portable computers. (HW 88)
Point-of-sale (POS) system. A computer system, commonly found in department stores and supermarkets, that uses electronic cash register terminals to collect, process, and store data about sales transactions. (HW 93)
Point size. A measurement for scaling typefaces. (PS 15)
Port. A socket on the back of a computer's system unit into which a peripheral device may be plugged. (HW 23)
Portable computer. A microcomputer system that is compact and light enough to, be carried about easily, for use at different locations. Contrasts with desktop computer. (INT 21)
Portal. The page your browser first displays when you turn it on. (NET 69)
Portrait. An output mode with images more high than wide. Contrasts with landscape. (HW 101)
POS. See Point-of-sale system. (HW 93)
PPP. A protocol that resembles SLIP but allows more reliable and secure communications. (NET 81)
Precompiler. A computer program that translates an extended set of programming language commands into standard commands of the language. (PS 89)
Preliminary investigation. A brief study of a problem area to assess whether or not a full- scale project should be undertaken. Also called a feasibility study. (IS 21)
Presentation graphic. A visual image, such as a bar chart or pie chart, that is used to present data in a highly meaningful form. (PS 50)
Presentation graphics software. A program package used to prepare line charts, bar charts, pie charts-and other information-intensive images-and to present them to an audience. (PS 55)
Primary storage. Also known as memory, this section of the computer system temporarily holds data and program instructions awaiting processing, intermediate results, and processed output. Contrasts with secondary storage. (INT 9, HW 7)
Printer. A device that records computer output on paper. (HW 105)
Privacy. In a computer processing context, refers to how information about individuals is used and by whom. (LIV 45)
Private branch exchange (PBX). A call-switching station dedicated to the transmissions of a single organization. (NET 31)
Procedural language. A programming language in which the programmer must write code that tells the computer, step-by-step, what to do. Contrasts with declarative language. (IS 48)
Processing. The conversion of input to output. (INT 6)
Productivity software. Computer programs, such as word processors and spreadsheets, designed to make workers more productive in their jobs. (INT 11)
Program. A set of instructions that causes the computer system to perform specific actions. (INT 9)
Program flowchart. A visual design tool showing step by step how a computer pro- gram will process data. (IS 39)
Programmer. A person who writes computer programs. (INT 16, IS 37)
Programming language. A set of rules used to write computer programs. (INT 9, IS 44)
Project manager. A systems analyst who is put in charge of a team that is building a large system. (IS 19)
Prompt. Displayed text or symbols indicating the computer system's readiness to receive user input. (SW 10)
Proportional spacing. A printing feature that allocates more horizontal space on a line to some characters than to others. Contrasts with monospacing. (FS 15)
Proprietary software. A software product to which someone owns the rights. (SW 7)
Protocol. A set of conventions by which machines establish communication with one another in a telecommunications environment. (NET 34)
Prototyping. A systems development alternative whereby a small model, or prototype, of the system is built before a full-scale systems development effort is undertaken. (IS 27)
Pseudocode. A technique for structured program design that uses English-like statements to outline the logic of a program. (IS 42)
Pull-down menu. A menu of subcommands that drops down vertically from a horizontal menu bar or appears alongside another pull-down menu. Also called a drop-down menu. (SW 15)
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QBE. See Query by example. (PS 78)
Quality assurance. The process of making sure quality programs are written in a quality way. (IS 57)
Query by example (QBE). An onscreen query form in which users can simply illustrate what information they want by filling in filtering criteria. (PS 78)
Queue. A group of items awaiting computer processing. (SW 44)
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RAD. See Rapid applications development. (IS 60)
Radio button box. A panel of alternative choices-preceded by round, graphical screen elements-in which one and only one choice can be selected by the user. (SW 23)
RAID. A storage method that hooks up several small disks in parallel to do the job of a larger disk, but with better performance. (HW 61)
RAM. See Random access memory. (HW 21)
Random access. See Direct access. (HW 50)
Random access memory (RAM). The computer system's main memory. (HW 21)
Range. A set of contiguous cells arranged in a rectangle. (PS 41)
Rapid applications development (RAD). Refers to program development tools that help with the quick generation of user interfaces and sticking together of reusable code. (IS 60)
Rapid development. A program-development approach in which a principal objective is delivering a finished product quickly. (IS 58)
Read-only memory (ROM). A software-in-hardware module from which the computer can read data. but to which it cannot write data. (HW 23)
Read/write head. The component of a disk access mechanism or tape drive that inscribes or retrieves data. (HW 48)
Realtime processing. Processing that takes place quickly enough so that results can guide current and future actions. (HW 74)
Recalculation feature. The ability of spreadsheet software to quickly and automatically recalculate the contents of several cells, based on new operator inputs. (PS 40)
Record. A collection of related fields. (INT 14)
Redlining. A word-processing feature that provides the electronic equivalent of the editor's red pen. (PS 19)
Reduced instruction set computing (RISC). A processor design architecture that incorporates fewer instructions in CPU circuitry than conventional computer systems. (HW 29)
Reference shelf. A software product that provides a number of handy reference books online. (PS 23)
Register. A high-speed staging area within the CPU that temporarily stores data during processing. (HW 8)
Relational database management system. A computer program for database management that links data in related files through common fields. (PS 70)
Relative cell replication. Copying formulas in a source range of cells into a target range of cells relative to the row and column coordinates of the cells in the target range. (PS 44)
Release. A minor upgrade of a software product. (LIV 22)
Repeater. A device that amplifies signals over a network. (NET 32)
Request for proposal (RFP). A document containing a general description of a system that an organization wishes to acquire. (IS 23)
Request for quotation (RFQ). A document distributed to potential vendors containing a list of specific hardware, software, and services that an organization wishes to acquire. (IS 24)
Reusable code. Program segments that can be reused over and over again in the construction of applications programs. (IS 55)
Rewritable CD. An optical disk that allows users to repeatedly write to and read from its surface. (HW 65)
RFP. See Request for proposal. (IS 23)
RFQ. See Request for quotation. (IS 24)
Ring network. A telecommunications network that connects machines serially in a closed loop. (NET 24)
RISC. See Reduced instruction set computing. (HW 29)
Robotics. The study of robot technology. (IS 17)
ROM. See Read-only memory. (HW 23)
Root directory. The topmost directory in a directory structure. (SW 38)
Router. A device used on WANs to decide the paths along which to send messages. (NET 32)
RPG. A report-generation language used by small businesses. (IS 48)
Ruler line. An onscreen element, resembling a conventional ruler, that enables you to set line widths, tab settings, indents, and the like. (PS 12)
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Screen saver. A software product designed to protect the phosphor coating on the inside of a display screen from damage when the display is turned on but is not used for an extended period. (LIV 17)
Scripting language. A programming language used to create small programs that supply interactive or dynamic content to HTML documents. (NET 113)
Scroll bar. A horizontal or vertical bar along an edge of a window that allows the user to view available information that is currently outside the window. (SW 22)
SDLC. See Systems development life cycle. (IS 20)
Search engine. A software tool used to look for specific information over the Internet. (NET 75)
Secondary storage. Storage on media such as disk and tape that supplements memory. Also called external storage. Contrasts with primary storage. (INT 10)
Sector. A pie-shaped area on a disk surface. (HW 51)
Security. A collection of measures for protecting a computer system's hard- ware, software, and data from damage or tampering. (LIV 18)
Selecting text. The process of highlighting text on the screen in order to move or copy it, delete it, or apply a special treatment to it. (PS 7)
Selection (if-then-else) control structure. The control structure used to represent a decision operation. (IS 41)
Sequence control structure. The control structure used to represent operations that take place sequentially. (IS 41)
Sequential access. Fetching stored records in the same order in which they are physically arranged on the medium. Contrasts with direct access. (HW 50)
Sequential organization. Arranging data on a physical medium in either ascending or descending order by the contents of some key field. (HW 71)
Serial transmission. Data transmission in which every bit in a byte must travel down the same path in succession. (NET 20)
Server. A computer that manages shared devices, such as laser printers or high-capacity hard disks, on a client-server network. (NET 28)
Shareware. Software that people can copy and use in exchange for a nominal fee. (SW 8)
Shortcut keystrokes. Keystrokes that make it possible for commands to be entered with minimal keystroking. (SW 11)
SIMM. An acronym for single in-line memory module, a SIMM is a board upon which RAM chips are mounted. (HW 21)
Simplex transmission. Any type of transmission in which a message can be sent along a path in only a single prespecified direction. (NET 34)
Site license. An agreement that allows access by several people in an organization to a proprietary software product. (SW 7)
SLIP. A version of TCP/IP that enables individuals and organizations to connect to the Internet over ordinary phone lines. (NET 81)
Smart card. A credit-card-sized piece of plastic with storage and microprocessor. (HW 96)
Soft copy. A nonpermanent form of computer-system output-for example, a screen display. Contrasts with hard copy. (HW 85)
Soft return. An automatic line return carried out by word-processing software. Contrasts with hard return. (PS 7)
Software. Computer programs. Contrasts with hardware. (INT 11)
Software piracy. The unauthorized copying or use of computer programs. (LIV 38)
Software publisher. A company that creates software. (LIV 9)
Software suite. A collection of software products bundled together into a single package and sold at price that is less than the sum of the prices of the individual components. (SW 5, LIV 5)
Source data automation. The process of collecting data at their point of origin in digital form. (HW 89)
Source module. A program before it is compiled. Contrasts with object module. (SW 58)
Spam. Unsolicited, bulk electronic mail sent over the Internet. (LIV 47)
Speakers. Output devices that produce sound. (HW 112)
Spelling checker. A program or routine that checks for misspelled words. (PS 9)
Spooling program. A program that manages input or output by temporarily holding it in secondary storage to expedite processing. (SW 43)
Spreadsheet. A productivity-software product that supports quick creation and manipulation of tables and financial schedules. (PS 36)
SQL. See Structured query language. (PS 78)
Star network. A telecommunications network consisting of a host device connected directly to several other devices. (NET 24)
Storage. An area that holds materials going to or coming from the computer. (INT 6)
Storage media. Objects that store computer-processed materials. (INT 6)
Storyboard. An ordered series of sketches that shows what each page in a presentation should look like. (NET 106)
Streaming. A term often used to describe audio or video transmissions that can begin to be played at a client workstation before their associated files have been fully downloaded. (NET 72)
Structure chart. A program design tool that shows the hierarchical relationship between program modules. (IS 38)
Structured programming. An approach to program design that makes program code more systematic and maintainable. (IS 41)
Structured query language (SQL). A popular language standard for information retrieval in relational databases. (PS 78)
Style sheet. A collection of design specifications saved as a file for later use to format documents in a particular way. (PS 22)
Subdirectory. Any directory below the root directory. (SW 38)
Subnotebook computer. A portable personal computer weighing about 2 to 6 pounds. (INT 21)
Supercomputer. The fastest and most expensive type of computer. (INT 25)
Surge suppressor. A device that protects a computer system from random electrical power spikes. (LIV 16)
SVGA. A display-device standard widely used on Pentium-class computers. (HW 104)
Synchronous transmission. The timed transmission of data over a line one block of characters at a time. Contrasts with asynchronous transmission. (NET 35)
Syntax. The grammatical rules that govern a language. (SW 10)
Syntax error. An error that occurs when the programmer has not followed the rules of a language. Contrasts with logic error. (IS 55)
System. A collection of elements and procedures that interact to accomplish a goal. (IS 4)
System acquisition. The phase of the systems development life cycle in which equipment, software, or services are acquired from vendors. (IS 23)
System board. The main circuit board of the computer to which all computer-system components connect. Also called a motherboard. (HW 18)
System clock. The timing mechanism within the computer system that governs the transmission of instructions and data through the circuits. (HW 8)
System design. The phase of the systems development life cycle in which the parts of a new system and the relationships among them are formally established. (IS 23)
System implementation. The phase of systems development that encompasses activities related to making the computer system operational and successful once it is delivered by the vendor. (IS 25)
Systems analysis. The phase of the systems development life cycle in which a problem area is thoroughly examined to determine what should be done. (IS 21)
Systems analyst. A person who studies systems in an organization in order to determine what actions need to be taken and how these actions may best be achieved with computer resources. (IS 18, IS 37)
Systems development. The ongoing process of improving ways of doing work. (IS 4)
Systems development life cycle (SDLC). The process consisting of the five phases of system development: preliminary investigation, systems analysis, system design, system acquisition, and system implementation. (IS 20)
Systems software. Background programs, such as the operating system, that enable application programs to run on a computer system's hardware. Contrasts with applications software. (INT 11, SW 4, SW 34)
System unit. The hardware unit that houses the CPU and memory, as well as a number of other devices. (HW 18)
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Table. In a relational DBMS, an entity with columns and rows that is capable of being interrelated with other database data. (PS 73)
Tag. An HTML code that sends a document-formatting instruction to a browser. (NET 108)
Tape drive. A secondary storage device on which magnetic tapes are mounted for processing. (HW 66)
Task. A part of a program that performs a well-defined chore. (SW 41)
Taskbar. In Windows 9X, a bottom-of-screen area that enables you to launch applications and observe system-status information. (SW 12)
TB. See Terabyte. (HW 13)
TCP/IP. A collection of communications protocols through which PCs accessing the Internet can understand each other and exchange data. (NET 81)
Technologically obsolete. A term that refers to a product that still meets the needs of an individual or business, although a newer v6rsion or release has superseded it in the marketplace. Also called a legacy system. (LIV 23)
Telecommunications. Transmission of data over a distance. (NET 4)
Telecommuting. Working at home and being connected by means of electronic devices to other workers at remote locations. (NET 10, IS 11)
Teleconferencing. Using computer and communications technology to carry on a meeting between people in different locations. (NET 10, IS 10)
Telnet. A communications protocol that lets workstations serve as terminals to a remote server computer. (NET 58)
Template. An onscreen form that requires only that the operator fill in a limited number of input values. Alternatively, a pattern or style for documents of a certain type. (PS 22, PS 47, PS 74)
Terabyte (TB). Approximately I trillion bytes. (HW 13)
Terrestrial microwave station. A ground station that receives microwave signals, amplifies them, and passes them on to another station. (NET 16)
Text box. A space in a dialog box in which the user is expected to type information. (SW 23)
Text chart. A presentation graphic in which the principal element is text. (PS 54)
Thermal-transfer printer. A printer that places images on paper by heating ink from a wax- based ribbon or by heating a special dye. (HW 108)
Thesaurus feature. A program or routine that enables electronic lookup of word synonyms. (PS 11)
Tiling. Arranging screen windows so that they appear side by side. Contrasts with cascading. (SW 20)
Time-sharing. An interleaved processing technique for a multi-user environment in which the computer handles users' jobs in repeated cycles. (SW 42)
Token ring. A ring-based LAN that uses token passing to control transmission of messages. (NET 37)
Toolbar. An icon menu, composed of small graphics called buttons, that stretches either horizontally or vertically across the screen. (SW 17)
Top-down design. A structured design philosophy whereby a program or system is subdivided into well-defined modules and organized into a hierarchy. (IS 39)
Touch-screen display. A display device that generates input when you touch a finger to the screen. (HW 86-87)
Track. A path on an input/output medium where data are recorded. (HW 51)
Trackball. An input device that exposes the top of a sphere, which the user moves to control an onscreen pointer. (HW 87)
Traditional systems development. An approach to systems development whereby the five phases of the systems development life cycle are carried out in a predetermined sequence. (IS 27)
Trailblazer page. A Web page that provides links to sites on a given subject. (NET 118)
Transaction file. A file that contains data resulting from a transaction involving a subject upon which data is stored in a master file. (HW 72)
Transaction processing. Processing transaction data in a random sequence, as the transactions normally occur in real life. Contrasts with batch processing. (HW 73)
Transaction processing system. A system that handles an organization's business transactions. (IS 6)
Trojan horse. Adding concealed instructions to a computer program so that it will still work but will also perform prohibited duties. (LIV 36)
Twisted-pair wire. A communications medium consisting of wires twisted in sets of two and bound into a cable. (NET 14)
Typeface. A collection of text characters that share a common design. (PS 15)
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Uniform resource locator (URL). A unique identifier representing the location of a specific Web page on the Internet. (NET 65)
Uninterruptible power supply (UPS). A surge suppressor with a built-in battery, the latter of which keeps power going to the computer when the main power goes off. (LIV 16)
Unix. A long-standing operating system most commonly used on midrange computers, microcomputer networks, graphics work- stations, and the Internet. (SW 50)
Universal product code (UPC). The bar code that is prominently displayed on the packaging of many retail goods, identifying the product and manufacturer. (HW 93)
Universal serial bus. A relatively new bus standard that allows enabled devices to hook up to a single, hot-swappable port. (HW 28)
UPC. See Universal product code. (HW 93)
Upgrading. The process of buying new hardware or software in order to add capabilities and extend the life of a computer system. (LIV 21)
Uploading. The process of transferring a file from a local computer to a remote computer over a network. Contrasts with downloading. (NET 31)
UPS. See Uninterruptable power supply. (LIV 16)
Upward compatible. The ability of an application to work on a later version or release of the software on which it was created. Contrasts with downward compatible. (LIV 23)
URL. See Uniform resource locator. (NET 65)
UseNet. A protocol that defines how newsgroups are handled by server computers. (NET 59)
User. A person who needs the results that a computer produces. (INT 18)
User interface. The manner in which a computer product makes its resources available to users. (SW 10)
Utility program. A general-purpose program that performs some frequently encountered operation in a computer system. (SW 53)
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Value-added resellers (VARs). Companies that buy hardware and software from others and make computer systems out of them that are targeted to particular vertical markets. (LIV 9)
Vaporware. Software that is announced long before it is ready for market or even designed. (LIV 51)
VAR. See Value-added reseller. (LIV 9)
Vendor rating system. A weighted scoring procedure for evaluating competing vendors of computer products or services. (IS 24)
Version. A major upgrade of a software product. (LIV 22)
Very-high-level language. A problem-specific, declarative language that is generally much easier to learn and use than conventional high-level languages such as BASIC, FORTRAN, and COBOL. (IS 48)
VGA. The display device standard most widely used on 386 and 486 computers. (HW 104)
Virtual memory. An area on disk where the operating system stores programs divided into manageable pieces for processing. (SW 42)
Virtual reality. A hardware-and-software technology that allows computer systems to create illusions of real-life experiences. (SW 26)
Visual BASIC. A rapid-development product-with both procedural and declarative components-that is used to create Windows and Office applications. (IS 51)
Voice chat. Internet communication that enables you to speak to others. (NET 62)
Voice-input device. A device that enables a computer to recognize the human voice. (HW 95)
Voice mail. An electronic mail system that digitally records spoken phone messages and stores them in an electronic mailbox. (NET 5)
Voice-output device. A piece of hardware that plays back or imitates human speech. (HW 114)
Volatile storage. Storage that loses its contents when power is shut off. Contrasts with nonvolatile storage. (HW 49)
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WAN. See Wide area network. (NET 31)
Warranty. A conditional pledge made by a manufacturer to protect consumers from losses due to defective units of a product. (LIV 20)
Watermark. A lightly shaded art image that appears to underlie a document's text. (PS 20)
Web-page-authoring software. A program that simplifies the creation of Web pages by automatically generating HTML and other types of supporting code. (NET 113)
Web publishing. The process of developing pages for the Web. (NET 98)
Web server. A computer that stores and distributes Web pages upon request. (NET 57)
Web site. A collection of related Web pages belonging to an individual or organization. (NET 57, NET 98)
What-if analysis. An approach to problem solving in which the decision maker commands the computer system to recalculate a set of numbers based on alternative assumptions. (PS 40)
Wide area network (WAN). A network that spans a large geographic area. Contrasts with local area network. (NET 31)
Wildcard character. A character that substitutes for others in a filename. (SW 37)
Window. A box of related information that appears overlaid on a display screen. (SW 20)
Window area. See Worksheet area. (PS 39)
Windows NT. An operating system designed by Microsoft Corporation for both workstation and network applications within organizations. Beginning in 2000, Microsoft started naming this operating system Windows 2000. (SW 53)
Windows 3x. A graphical operating environment created by Microsoft Corporation to run in conjunction with DOS. Two widely used versions are Windows 3.1 and Windows 3.1 1. (SW 45)
Windows 95. The operating system that succeeded the combination of DOS with Windows 3.x. (SW 47)
Windows 98. The upgrade to Windows 95. (SW 47)
Windows 2000. Microsoft's high-end operating system, formerly known as Windows NT.
Wizard. A program feature that assists users in completing tasks, such as creating documents of a certain type. (PS 23, SW 26)
Word. A group of bits that a computer system treats as a single unit. (HW 20)
Word processing. The use of computer technology to create, manipulate, and print text materials such as letters, legal contracts, and manuscripts. (PS 4)
Wordwrap. The feature of a word processor that automatically places soft returns. (PS 7)
Workflow software. A program that tracks the progress of documents in a system and measures the performance of people processing the documents. (IS 9)
Workgroup computing. Several people using desktop workstations to collaborate in their job tasks. (NET 8, IS 8)
Worksheet. The computerized counterpart to the ruled, paper ledgers commonly associated with accountants. (PS 36)
Worksheet area. The portion of the screen that contains the window onto the worksheet. Also called the window area. (PS 39)
World Wide Web (WWW). A network within the Internet consisting of data organized as page images with hyperlinks to other data. (NET 56)
WORM. An optical disk that allows the user's drive to write data only once and then read it read an unlimited number of times. (HW 63)
WWW. See World Wide Web. (NET 56)
WYSIWYG. An acronym for the phrase what you see is what you get, indicating a display screen image identical or very close to the look of the eventual printed output. (PS 11)
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Yahoo!. A widely used search engine. (NET 76)
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Zip disk. A removable disk capable of storing 100 or more megabytes of information. (HW 54)
Zoom feature. A feature that lets you magnify text or graphics images onscreen. (PS 12)