Computer terminology. Constantly updated.
32-bit
In Windows, this refers to the way memory is accessed. 32-bit application access memory in 32-bit “chunks” (4-bytes). Large portions of Window and other applications were (or may still be) 32-bit applications, and may run faster because it is more efficient to access chunks of memory.
64-bit
In Windows, this refers to the way memory is accessed. 64-bit application access memory in 64-bit “chunks” (8-bytes). Many new applications, such as graphics and multimedia programs work best with 64 bit or higher access memory. Often applications now run at 128 bit or 256 bit rates.
AGP
Accelerated Graphics Port (sometimes known as Advanced Graphics Port) is a high speed channel for connecting Video Cards to computer motherboards.
Alt
A special key on most computer keyboards that allows users to access alternate features and keyboard “hotkeys”. Alt is almost always used in conjunction with another key, such as “F4″ or “Ctrl”.
Analog
Refers to information processing techniques that send data as a directly representative electronic signal. (e.g. a voice is transmitted across a telephone line as an electrical signal with the same amplitude and frequency as spoken words.)
ANSI
American National Standards Institute. Publishes standards for various aspects of the computer industry.
Application Software
Software that is designed and written for a specific personal, organizational, or processing task, such as graphics software.
Arrow Keys
A set of 4 keys at the right of the computer keyboard that can be used to control the movement of the cursor on the screen up, down, left, and right.
ASCII
American Standard Code for Information Interchange. The ASCII Character Set is the standard set of alphanumeric characters (letters and numbers) used by computers.
Association
Linking a document with the program that created it so that both can be opened with a single command. For example, double-clicking a DOC file opens Word for Windows and loads the selected document.
ATA
An interface standard for the connection of storage devices such as hard disks, solid-state drives, and CD-ROM drives in computers. The terms “integrated drive electronics” (IDE), “enhanced IDE” and “EIDE” have come to be used interchangeably with ATA (now Parallel ATA).
Auto Arrange
In Windows 95 and 98 Explorer, auto arrange organizes the visible icons into a regular grid pattern.
Autoexec.bat
In DOS and Windows based PCs, the file that contains a list of commands that are automatically executed on system start up.
Avatar
In multiuser internet environments and games, an avatar is a user’s own graphical representation.
Background Operation
A job performed by a program when another program is in the active window. For example, printing, or creating a backup, can be done by Windows 98 as a background operation.
Backup
To create a copy of a disk’s contents on another location for safe keeping. Since hard drives are not infallible, it is recommended that you backup its contents regularly.
Bandwidth
Maximum rage of signal frequencies, amount of data, or number of users a data carrier can handle.
Batch
A set of commands and operations that are executed in sequence without human supervision. In MS-DOS, a batch file is a text file—such as autoexec.bat—that consists of a list of DOS commands which the computer reads and carries out.
Baud
Measurement of electronic communication transmission speed. The number of “elements” transmitted per second. It was named after J.M.E. Baudot, the inventor of the Baudot telegraph code. At slow speeds (300 bps), it truly repesents bps i.e. 300 baud = 300 bps, but at higher speeds, more than one bit can be encoded per electrical change cycle, so higher data rates are typically conveyed as bps instead of baud.
Baud Rate
The speed at which telecommunicated data is transmitted, measured in bytes-per-second (BPS).
BBS
Bulletin Board Systems. Users dial into the BBS or access it on the world wide web, and exchange information between users such as news, opinions, and information. Users can “talk” to other users who are on the BBS at the same time.
Binary
Refers to the ‘language’ computers speak. Binary code (or machine language) consists only of zeroes and ones (i.e. a choice is either on or off), called bits. Letters and other information have a specific binary representation, made up of up to 8 bits (one byte).
BIOS
Basic Input Output System. Provides a way for software to access computer hardware. This contains important information about the computer, i.e. the type and location of drives, amount of memory, etc.
Bit (b)
From Binary Digit, the bit is the smallest unit of information recognized by a computer and its related equipment. (abbreviation is lower case).
Bitmap
A data presentation format in which every pixel of an image is stored as bits in a file, each “mapped” to a specific area of the total image.
Bit Rate (Data Rate)
Number of bits that are transferred per unit of time, usually seconds.
Boot
To start a computer. A “cold boot” refers to the process of turning a computer on at the power source (switching it on). A “warm boot” (or “re-boot”) refers to, basically, restarting the operating system.
Boot Disk
The disk on which the operating system is stored.
bps
Bits per second (notice the lower case b).
Broadband
A term loosely used to describe any of several high-speed methods of delivering internet access to the home. Contrasted with dial-up access, which has a maximum speed of 56 Kbps, broadband in the U.S. is generally rated at a speed of between 64 Kbps and 768 Kbps.
Browse
To search through or examine a directory tree of files, directories, disks, workstations, workgroups, or domains. Often done via a “Browse” button in a dialog box.
Browser
A software program that allows users to view content on the Internet and World Wide Web.
Buffer
A storage device, or area on a storage device, which holds data temporarily, until needed for processing or printing. A buffer can also be used to aid communication between two devices with very different processing speeds (such as two modems, or the CPU and the printer).
Bug
An error in a computer program or system, or a malfunction in a computer hardware component. One of the final steps in writing a computer program is to debug it, or search and repair any obvious or common errors.
Bus
In computer architecture, a bus is a subsystem that transfers data between components.
Byte (B)
A basic unit of measurement for file sizes. A byte is made up of 8 bits of data. Abbreviation is upper case B.
Cache
A special type of computer memory that operates at very high speed. It is similar to RAM but is much faster. It is usually used by the CPU as a storage place for processing instructions. When the computer is shut down any information held in the cache memory is lost. An area set aside in RAM or on a disk to save frequently or recently used data.
Caps Lock
A key that toggles the keyboard between upper-case and lower-case modes. When caps lock is off, striking a key will produce a lower case letter, and holding down the ‘shift’ key while striking a key will produce a capital letter.
Cascade
To arrange all the windows so that they are neatly stacked; only the title bars show behind the active window.
Cascading Menu
A submenu that appears (usually to the left or right of the main menu item) when a menu selection is made.
CD-ROM
Compact Disc Read-Only Memory. Optical storage medium that uses the same technology as audio CD formats. CD-ROMs can hold hundreds of megabytes of data, but a CD-ROM drive can typically only read data from a CD, A writeable CD-ROM is needed to save or modify files on a CD-ROM.
Cell
The intersection of a column and a row on a spreadsheet or table that can contain data.
Chat
A feature of the internet that allows users to “talk” to one another in virtual real time. Users communicate by typing messages which are sent instantly to another person or group within the chat room program.
Check Box
A square dialog box item that takes an off or on value. Clicking in a check box adds or removes an X in the box, indicating whether the setting is on (checked) or off (unchecked).
Click
To depress and release a mouse button quickly. (In Windows, the term “click” usually refers to the left mouse button).
Clip Art
A collection of images you can use in various documents. Clip art is often distributed on CD-ROM in large collections (thousands of clip art pieces) organized into categories, or available on the World Wide Web.
Clipboard
A temporary storage area in all versions of Windows used for storing various types of data (for example, text, graphics, sound, and video). The clipboard can hold one piece of information at a time for use in a program or to cut/copy and paste information between programs.
Control Panel
A program that comes with Windows that enables you to make settings for many Windows actions, such as changing network, keyboard, printer, and regional settings. Some programs (including many video card drivers) may add sections to the control panel for you to use to configure that program.
Copy
A command on the Edit menu that adds data (text or pictures) to the clipboard, while leaving the original data unchanged. Used often with the ‘paste’ command.
CPU
CPU stands for Central Processing Unit and is often, simply called, the processor. The CPU is a microchip that is installed on a motherboard and acts as the computer’s brain—performing calculations and coordinating the hardware components.
Crash
The failure of a hardware component, software application, or the computer itself. A crash can affect the program you are using, the operating system, or the entire computer, and often results in the need to restart the computer.
Ctrl
A special key on most computer keyboards that, when used in combination with another key, allows the user to easily access special controls. For example, Ctrl+S saves a file in most Windows programs.
Ctrl+Alt+Del
A common PC hotkey combination. Pressing the Ctrl, Alt, and Del keys simultaneously in a DOS environment would automatically restart (warm boot) the computer. In Windows98, the combination brings up the “close program” dialog box which allows users the choice of shutting down a specific program (usually one that has crashed), or restarting the computer.
Cursor
A blinking character that indicates the location of the next input on the display screen. The cursor indicates where you are working in a document or program.
A pointing element (usually an arrow or hand) in graphical user interfaces that is controlled by a mouse or some other pointing device. Also called a pointer.
Cut
A command on the Edit menu that adds data (text or pictures) to the clipboard by removing it from its original document or position in that document.
Data
The raw material of information. Refers mostly to the information entered into, and stored within a computer or file.
Database
A collection of data organized so that various programs can access and update the information.
Data Processing
Operations performed on data to provide useful information to users.
Debug
The process of testing a program in order to find mistakes and eliminating them, before the program is made available to users.
Default
Settings or options the computer automatically adopts if the user does not specify any.
Default Directory
Found in programs that are required to save information to the hard drive or disk drives such as word processor documents or spreadsheets. This is the location the program will save the files in. Usually the default directory can be chosen by the user in the program options menu.
Delete
A key on the keyboard that erases information on the screen.
Density
Refers to a diskette’s data capacity. Double density (DD) disks hold twice as much information as single density, and high density (HD—today’s standard) hold about twice as much as double density.
Desktop
The main workspace in a graphical user interface such as Windows or Macintosh Systems. Users open and work with files and programs on the desktop, and can store files and shortcuts there as well. The user can also customize the look of the desktop with images or wallpaper and custom icons.
Dialog Box
An interactive message box; a temporary window on the screen that contains a set of choices whenever the executing program needs to collect information from the user.
Dial-Up Networking
A feature of Windows and UNIX based systems that enables the user to connect to other computers or the Internet over a phone line using a modem and a set of communication protocols.
Digital
Refers to information processing techniques that convert the actual data into binary (or machine language) code for more efficient transmission and storage. To retrieve the information, the binary code must be converted back to an analog signal.
Directory
In MS-DOS, an area set aside on a disk to organize files into groups. A directory can contain other directories, called subdirectories, which further organize data.
In Windows, a listing of all the files and directories on a drive or in a specified directory. Typing the “DIR” command at the DOS command prompt will give you a list of files in the current directory.
Disk
Refers to the most common form of data storage that uses disks of magnetized materials to save data.
Diskette
The actual term for a floppy disk.
Disk Drive
A device used to read data from and write data to a disk.
Document
A file created using an application. For example, you might create a text document using a word processing application (such as Word) or a picture document using a graphic application (such as Photoshop).
Domain
A name by which a computer connected to the Internet is identified. A typical domain name looks like this: www.ibm.com. The “www.” refers to the fact that this computer is connected to the World Wide Web; the middle portion of a domain name is usually the name of the company that owns the computer—in this case,IMB ; the final portion of a domain name tells you what kind of site is served by this machine—in this case, ‘.com’ means this is a commercial site (other types of sites are: .edu—education, .org—non-profit organization, .net—Internet service provider).
DOS
Acronym for Disk Operating System.
Dot Matrix Printer
A type of printer that prints by striking wires or fine rods, within a matrix or array of dots, on an ink-coated ribbon against a piece of paper to form letters and numbers.
Dot Pitch
An indication of the image quality of a monitor, it is the measurement of the distance between two phosphor dots of the same color on a monitor. The finer the dot pitch, the better the image quality (a dot pitch of .28 or smaller is generally considered good).
Dots Per Inch
A measurement of resolution for printers and monitors. It refers to the number of dots these devices can produce in a linear inch. Also called DPI. More dots per inch means a better-quality output.
Double-click
To depress and release a mouse button twice in quick succession. (In Windows, “double-click” usually refers to the left mouse button).
Download
To copy or move a file from another computer or disk onto another.
Downtime
The period of time a computer, or other piece of equipment is out of order or shut down for maintenance.
Drag
To move an object on the screen from one place to another by clicking it with the mouse, holding the mouse button down, and pulling it to where you want it to be.
Drag and Drop
“Drag and drop” describes a particular action you can make with the mouse. Click an object, such as a folder, then hold down the mouse button as you drag the object to a new location. You drop the object by releasing the mouse button. Drag and drop can be used to easily move, print, delete, or embed an object or file into another.
DRAM
Dynamic Random Access Memory. The type of random access memory used in most PCs.
Drive Bay
A slot inside your computer where a disk drive is mounted.
Driver
A set of software that contains instructions that allows the computer to communicate with its peripheral devices.
Drop Down List
A dialog box item showing only one entry until its drop down arrow is clicked.
Dump
Slang term referring to the transfer of data from one location to another. (e.g., in order to print, a program may ‘dump’ a file to the printer buffer).
DVD
Digital Versatile Disc (also called Digital Video Disc and DVD-ROM). New data technology similar to Compact Discs and CD-ROMs, but with a much higher capacity and the ability to read and write data to discs.
EDO RAM
Extended Data-Out RAM. EDO RAM is about 10 per cent faster than regular RAM.
EIDE
Enhanced Integrated Drive Electronics. The protocol used to connect specific hardware devices, such as disk drives, to the computer. EIDE is newer, faster, and more versatile than its predecessor, IDE. The terms “integrated drive electronics” (IDE), “enhanced IDE” and “EIDE” have come to be used interchangeably with ATA (now Parallel ATA).
E-Mail
Electronic Mail, one of the most popular features of the internet. E-Mail allows users to send messages and files to one another, via modems almost instantly.
Embedded Object
Data stored in a document that originated from another application. Differing from a linked object, this type of object doesn’t have its own file on the disk. However, it runs its source application for editing when you double-click it. For example, a PhotoShop graphic embedded in a Word document.
Emulation
A technique that allows a piece of software or hardware to ‘act’ like another in order to cooperate with otherwise incompatible products. A very common use of emulation is using a printer with certain types of software.
Encryption
A technique of scrambling transmitted data, using special software, so that only a party with the ability to unscramble the message has access to it.
Enter
A key on the keyboard that, when pressed, instructs the computer to do something with the data just typed in. In word processing applications, the Enter key is analogous with the ‘return’ key on a typewriter.
Esc
The escape key. Used to exit or stop a program immediately, or to cancel what is being done at that moment and return to a previous screen. The effects of the escape key are usually controlled by the software and, are different with various programs.
Expansion Card
A circuit board that plugs into a computer and gives it additional specialized functions (e.g. advanced graphics, video, sound, modem).
Expansion Slot
A socket on the main board of a computer where expansion cards are inserted.
Explorer
A program that comes with Windows that helps you view and manage your files (Replaces the “File Manager” in older Windows programs).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions. Usually found on the internet and new software, FAQs are helpful resources that contain the answers to the most frequently asked questions about a topic.
Fax
A method of digitally copying a document then converting the copy to an analog signal to be transmitted to a remote location using standard phone lines. Because faxing isn’t exact, what is received at the other end is rarely a perfect copy, and usually just a “reasonable facsimile thereof” (thus the term facs—er, fax).
File
A computer file is similar to a paper document holding related information. For example, each computer program or document is stored in a separate file, designated by its own filename.
File Extension
The final part of a filename that denotes the file format. The extension is usually three to four letters set apart from the rest of the file name by a period. Examples of file extensions are: .gif, .html, .doc, .txt, .wav, wpd and so on.
File Format
File format refers to files’ type based on a files’ structure, layout or how a particular file handles the information contained within that file. A files’ format is usually indicated by the three or four letter file extension in the Operating system filename. All of these file formats handle different information (sounds, words, images) in different ways.
Filename
A name, specified by either the user, programmer, or software, comprised of alphanumeric characters, to identify a file and its contents. Different programs and operating systems have their own naming rules. A basic MS-DOS filename contains up to eight letters or numbers, followed by the file’s three- or four-letter file extension, in this format: “filename.ext”. Windows allow users to specify a filename of up to 255 characters.
File Transfer Protocol
Also called FTP. FTP is the standard protocol for uploading and downloading files to the internet, for instance for building a webpage.
Floppy
One of several types of magnetic storage media. The term “floppy” refers to any disk that is made of a flexible material, such as Mylar, instead of some type of metal. Almost all floppy disks used now are 3 ½ inch (which hold a maximum of 1.44 megabytes). The smaller, higher capacity disks have become the industry standard, with their older, larger counterparts disappearing into obscurity.
Folder
A collection of files. In graphical user interfaces, such as Windows and MACs, folders are the same as DOS directories. Folders can hold files and other folders for organizational purposes.
Font
A description of how to display a set of characters. The description includes the shape of the characters, spacing between characters, effects (for example, bold, italics, and underline) and the size of the characters.
Format
To magnetically prepare a disk to receive data. A diskette or hard disk must be formatted before it can be used. Formatting a diskette erases all data previously stored on it. Windows formats disks differently than does the Macintosh System, therefore you can rarely use a disk formatted for a Mac in a PC. Most disks can be purchased pre-formatted, so that you do not have to format them.
Freeware
A method of software distribution where a programmer creates a program and makes it available for free.
Function Keys
A set of programmable keys on a keyboard (typically across the top of the keyboard),labeled F1 through F12, that perform different tasks, determined by the various software programs.
Ghz
Gigahertz. A Billion cycles/s. A measurement of the clock speed of faster CPUs.
Giga (G)
A prefix meaning Billion (abbreviation is upper case).
Gigabyte (GB)
A unit of data measurement equal to approximately one billion bytes. Hard drive manufacturers use an even number as a multiplier. In this case 1 GB would be 1,000,000,000 Bytes.
Glitch
A slang term for an unexpected problem, found in either the software or hardware, which usually does not occur in a regular pattern.
Graphical User Interface (GUI)
The name given to an operating system or operating environment that uses pictural representations (icons) and menus, with a pointing device concept to execute commands and other tasks, rather than requiring the user to type commands. The Macintosh operating system and Microsoft Windows are examples.
Hard Copy
Refers to a document printed on paper, rather than saved in “soft” form on a disk or displayed on a screen.
Hard Disk
Commonly refers to a form of magnetic media that uses a hard metal disk to store data. Unlike its “floppy” counterparts, a hard disk can typically hold much more data and is much faster, but is non-removable, or “fixed” to your computer. This is typically where the computer’s operating system and other software is installed. The terms “hard disk” and “hard drive” are often used interchangeably since the disk and the drive are usually contained in the same unit.
Hard Drive or Hard Disk Drive
A device used to read data from a hard disk.
Hardware
The physical devices that comprise a computer system.
Help
A program that gives you information about how to run Windows and its programs, including how to use the Help program. Help programs are also available in most currently released programs.
Hertz
A measurement of timing expressed in cycles per second. It measures electrical current, sound pitch, or the clock speed of a computer’s CPU.
Host
A computer connected to the internet that allows users to connect to it.
Hotkey or Hotkey Combination
Somtimes referred to as keyboard shortcuts, a hotkey is a combination of keyboard strokes used by software programs to save the user some time. The hotkey combination “Ctrl+S” is commonly used to save a file. Hotkeys can also be used to access programs running on your computer, for example, in Windows the hotkey combination “Alt+Tab” will allow the user to switch to another program running in Windows.
HTTP
HyperText Transfer Protocol. The standard for transferring World Wide Web documents and Web-based content over the internet.
Hyper Link
A command embedded in the contents of a HyperText document that, when accessed by a user, automatically opens a designated resource.
HTML (HyperText Markup Language)
Also called Hypertext. Hyper Text Markup Language is a document creation language used to author pages for the World Wide Web. It’s greatest asset is the ability to create hyper links between documents.
Icon
A pictorial representation of a program or software function or feature.
IDE
Integrated Drive Electronics. IDE is the protocol that most PC disk drives use to communicate with the processor. The terms “integrated drive electronics” (IDE), “enhanced IDE” and “EIDE” have come to be used interchangeably with ATA (now Parallel ATA).
Ink Jet Printer
A type of printer that sprays ink, in very tiny droplets, from jet nozzles onto the paper. Ink jet printers can print in much higher resolutions than dot matrix printers, but not as high as laser printers.
Input
Data entered into the computer via some sort of input device such as the drive, lightpen, keyboard, microphone, mouse, modem, or scanner.
Insertion Point
A flashing vertical line showing where text will be inserted (cursor).
Install
Loading and copying a program’s files to a computer’s disk drive and configuring it to run. Common when installing new software.
Intel Corporation
A leading manufacturer of microprocessors, including the current standard, the Pentium I, II, III and IV Processors. Computers with Intel processors are usually identified by a “Intel Inside” logo.
Interface
The program or device that controls the way two pieces of equipment or programs work together. The term interface can also be used to describe the look and layout of a program on the screen for interaction with the user.
Internet
Originally a military project in the 1960’s to connect the few relatively spread-out large computers more economically, the Internet is a network of computers connected to each other on a global scale,to share information. The Internet has expanded to become a common application, especially due to the appeal of the World Wide Web and E-Mail. Other features of the internet include newsgroups, mailing lists, chat, online audio and video files, coursework and games.
Intranet
Similar to the Internet, an intranet is a smaller network of computers, usually within a single organization or building.
IRC
Internet Relay Chat.
ISP
Internet Service Provider. Also known as internet access providers, Internet service providers are local networks connected to the internet. When a user sets up an account with an ISP they are being connected to the ISP’s local network which is then connected to the internet network, allowing the user access to the internet.
Justification
To align text so that all the lines begin and/or end at the same place on a page. Justifications can be along the right side of the page, the left side, down the middle (center justification), or set to evenly distribute text across the page (full justification).
Keyboard
An input device based on the standard QWERTY typewriter configuration. Computer keyboards typically have more keys and features than typewriters, but work in much the same way.
Kilo (k)
A prefix meaning Thousand (abbreviation is lower case).
Kilobyte (kB or KB)
A kilobyte is approximately 1000 bytes. Hard drive manufacturers use an even number as a multiplier. In this case 1 KB would be 1,000 bytes.
LAN
Local Area Network. A small network of computers usually within the same building or organization.
Laser Printer
A printer that uses a light beam to transfer images to paper. Laser printers print a full page at a time. A laser is used to ‘paint’ the dots of light onto a photographic drum or belt. The toner is applied to the drum or belt and then transferred onto the paper.
Load
To transfer programs or data from secondary to primary storage. For example, when a program is started, the information contained in its files are copied from the hard drive to the RAM.
Macintosh
A highly successful line of personal computers designed by Apple Computers. Called a “Mac” for short, Macintosh computers, with their operating system called “System”, practically pioneered the graphical user interface. Using a system of a desktop work area and icons to represent files, Macs were a long-time favorite for people wanting ease-of-use and a visual interface.
Macro
A mini-program which will execute a series of commands in series, saving the user having to repeat typing or data input. Macros are typically created to perform frequently used tasks.
Maximize Button
In Windows, a button in the upper right corner of a Window that, when clicked, enlarges the window to its maximum size. When the window is already at its maximum size,the maximize button switches to the restore button, which returns the window to its previous size.
Mega (M)
A prefix meaning Million (abbreviation is upper case).
Megabyte (MB)
A unit of data measurement equal to approximately one million bytes. Hard drive manufacturers use an even number as a multiplier. In this case 1 MB would be 1,000,000 bytes.
Menu
A list of operations or tasks available to a user in a given program, usually organized in some logical fashion. Users access a function or command by selecting it from the menu.
Mhz
Megahertz. A Million cycles/s. This is a measurement of the clock speed of a PC’s CPU.
Microcomputer
The smallest and least expensive class of computers. Also called a personal computer.
Microsoft Corporation
An incredibly successful supplier of computer software founded in 1975 by Bill Gates and his partner Paul Allen. Microsoft has grown to become the world leader in the software industry by supplying software to the world’s largest computer base (IBM-compatibles). A large portion of Microsoft’s success is due to its popular Windows operating environment.
Microsoft Internet Explorer
Microsoft’s World Wide Web browser.
Microsoft Windows
Windows was introduced as a graphical operating environment that simplified DOS commands and tasks by converting programs and commands to icons that were “clicked” (selected with a mouse or other pointing device) to initiate. Windows also introduced the feature multi-tasking to the IBM-based computer.
Minimize Button
In a Windows environments, the button is in the upper right corner of the window. When clicked it reduces the window to an icon or a taskbar button in order to display the desktop.
Mini-Tower
A configuration of PCs similar to a tower case (taller than it is wide), but typically houses fewer drives and expansion cards than its larger counterpart.
Modem
Acronym for modulator/demodulator, a device that translates digital impulses from a computer into analog signals for telephone transmission, and analog signals from the telephone into digital pulses the computer can understand. Provides communication capabilities between computer equipment over common telephone facilities.
Monitor
A screen which allows the user to watch and interact with the computer. A monitor is different from a television because it does not have a tuner for pulling in TV signals, is of a much higher resolution than TVs are.
Motherboard
The main circuit board in a computer. The motherboard houses a variety of microchips, sockets, and plugs, and plays an integral part in connecting all of a computer’s parts together.
Mouse
A common pointing device that senses its movement across a flat surface and transmits that information to the computer, typically to control the position of a cursor or pointer. A mouse is usually equipped with 1-3 buttons that also send signals to the computer.
Multimedia
A combination of various types of media, including sound, animation, video and graphics. Due to the generally large size of “multimedia” files, a CD-ROM is usually necessary to store files. As well, appropriate sound and video cards and speakers are also necessary.
Multitasking
The ability of an operating system to run more than one program simultaneously, allowing the user to easily switch and share information between applications.
My Computer
An icon present on the Windows desktop that enables users to view drives, folders, and files.
Network
Two or more computers connected together to share files and resources.
Network Computer
Also called NC. A computer designed specifically for use on the internet or some other type of network. NCs typically have no drives of their own and rely heavily on a remote internet server to download and run applications.
Newsgroup
A popular feature of the Internet. Sort of an electronic bulletin board, newsgroups are organized by subjects, and members can post messages for other members to read, as well as reply to any posted messages.
Number Pad
An extra set of numeric keys on the right side of the keyboard, used in the same manner as a calculator’s 10-key pad. The number pad can also double as a set of arrow keys if the Num Lock toggle switch is set to off.
Num Lock
A key on the keyboard that toggles the Number Pad between arrow keys and number keys.
Office Suite
A collection of powerful programs for business and other uses. Suites make it easy for users to create and share information in databases, spreadsheets, and word processors, as well as other applications. Microsoft Office is a leading office suite, as are Corel’s WordPerfect Suite and Lotus SmartSuite. Open Office is an equally versatile open source Office Suite
Off-line
Describes the state of a computer when it is turned off. Also refers to work that is done on your local computer, rather than on a network.
OLE
Object Linking and Embedding. A feature of Windows and other graphical user interfaces that allows the user to share information and documents created in one program with another. For instance, you can easily insert a spreadsheet created in Microsoft Excel into a report created in Microsoft Word using OLE.
Online
Describes the state of a computer when it is turned on and connected to the Internet via an ISP.
Open Source Software
A method of software distribution where a programmer creates a program and makes it available for others to use without cost, as well as modify the source code and redistribute the modifications to the software user/developer community.
Operating Environment
Also called a shell. A software program designed to simplify an operating system. Earlier versions of Microsoft Windows were operating environments for MS-DOS, and several computer manufacturers are now providing their own “companions” to Windows, which are also operating environments.
Operating System
A group of computer programs that help manage the computer’s resources. It acts as an interface between the computer and its application programs. The operating system’s job is to control the computer on the most fundamental level: it manages memory, controls access to peripheral devices and serves as a translator between the user and the hardware, providing the means for the user and application programs to tell the hardware what to do.
Optical Character Recognition
Also called OCR; A method of recognizing text that has been photographically scanned into a computer. OCR analyzes the shapes of scanned characters and determines which letters in the ASCII character set they resemble most and creates a text file with this information.
Parallel Port
A port through which many units of data can move simultaneously, usually over several different wires. Printers are typically connected to the computer via a parallel port.
Paste
A command on the Edit menu that inserts data copied to the clipboard into a document.
Path
The location of a file in the directory tree.
PC
Acronym for Personal Computer. Is also a line of microcomputers manufactured by IBM Corporation. Often used to refer to any PC-Compatible computer.
PC-Compatible
A computer that can run the same programs as an IBM PC.
PCI Express
(PCI-e) Peripheral Component Interconnect Express. PCI-e is a high speed standard designed to replace PCI and AGP.
Pentium
Name given to Intel’s successor to the 486 processor (the “pent-” in Pentium refers to the fact that this chip is, in essence, a 586 processor). Pentium technology is currently the standard, with processor speeds ranging from 120 mHz to 600 mHz and more
Personal Computer
Another name for a microcomputer designed for use by a single user.
Pixel
Abbreviation for Picture Element, a pixel is the smallest element on a display screen. Images on a computer screen are made up of hundreds to thousands of pixels, and the screen’s resolution is determined by the size, number, and closeness of these pixels.
Platform
A generic term used to refer to a computer’s operating system.
Plotter
A printing device that draws images on paper using ink pens or pencils. A plotter draws images as a series of point-to-point lines.
Plug ‘n Play
Also called PnP, Plug n’ Play refers to technology that allows you to simply install a new peripheral device on your computer, then start the computer and the operating system will automatically identify the device and load the necessary drivers. PnP was a reaction to the widespread difficulty of having to manually configure each add-on device and driver.
Pop-Up Menu
In Windows and other programs, a pop-up menu is a menu that contains commands for a specific object. You access Pop-Up menus by right clicking an object.
Port
The portion of a computer through which a peripheral device may communicate; a plug-in/socket on the back of the computer for connecting cables for peripherals.
Prompt
A character or message provided by the computer to indicate that it is ready to accept keyboard input. Usually an on-screen question or instruction that tells the user which data to enter or what action to take; for example, “Enter name:”.
Protocol
A software method that allows different programs or hardware components to communicate with one another.
Queue
Documents lined up and waiting to be printed, or commands lined up and waiting to be serviced. Use the Printer window to view the print queue for a printer.
QWERTY
Refers to the standard English language keyboard configuration. The name QWERTY is formed by combining the first six letters on the top row of keys
Random Access Memory (RAM)
This is the memory used by your computer to perform tasks, like running programs, doing calculations etc and it’s analogous to short-term memory in humans. When you run a software program, your computer copies it to the RAM and does all the work there. This allows the computer to run the software faster. RAM needs power (electricity) to work, however, so when your computer’s power is turned off, the RAM is erased. The software program is still on your system because your computer copied the working parts of it to RAM but any new information that you created whether text, spreadsheets, graphics is kept in RAM until you save it. That is why you need to continuously save your information to your hard drive or disk.
Read Only Memory
A solid-state microchip programmed at the time of its manufacture, that cannot be reprogrammed by a user. Any type of storage media that is manufactured with data in storage that cannot be reprogrammed.
Recycle Bin
A special folder in Windows where deleted files are sent when the user gives the command to delete them. They reside in the recycle bin until the user gives the command to permanently erase them (‘Empty Recycle Bin’), giving the user the chance to recover any information accidentally deleted.
Registry
A database of configuration information central to Windows or other Operating Systems operations. This file contains program settings, associations between file types and the applications that created them, as well as information about the types of OLE objects a program can create plus hardware detail information.
Resolution
A term used to describe the amount of information a computer screen can display. The resolution is expressed in pixels. A common resolution is 800×600 pixel which means the screen is 800 pixels wide by 600 pixels tall. The higher the resolution, the better the graphic image since pixels will be smaller and closer together.
Restore
To return data on a disk to its previous state, typically by using a backup copy of the files. You can restore files that have been damaged or corrupted back to the state they were in when you backed them up.
Restore Button
In Windows environments, a button usually in the upper right corner of a Window that, when clicked, returns the window to its previous size. When the window is at its previous size, the restore button switches to the maximize button, which resizes the window to its maximum size
Right-click
(On a mouse that has more than one button) To quickly depress and release the right mouse button.
ROM BIOS
Read Only Memory Basic Input Output System. A special chip used to send instructions to the computer when it is turned on and before the operating system is loaded.
Safe Mode
A special mode for starting Windows that uses simple, default settings so that you can at least get into Windows and fix a problem that makes it impossible to work with Windows otherwise. The default settings use a generic VGA monitor driver, no network settings, the standard Microsoft mouse driver, and the minimum device drivers necessary to start Windows.
SATA
Serial ATA. SATA is an interface technology used to connect bus adapters to storage devices. It was designed to replace the older PATA standard.
Scanner
An optical input device that creates a photographic copy of text, drawings, and images for storage and manipulation by graphic and wordprocessor programs in the computer.
Screen Saver
A varying pattern or graphic that appears on the screen when the mouse and keyboard have been idle for a user-definable period of time. Originally used to prevent a static background from being “burned into” the screen phosphorus, this is rarely a problem with modern monitors.
Scroll Arrow
Located at either end of a scroll bar, it can be clicked to scroll up or down (vertical scroll bar) or left or right (horizontal scroll bar). Clicking the scroll arrow will move your window in that direction.
Scroll Bar
Scroll bars allow you to select a value within a range, such as what part of a document to see, or what value to set the Red, Green, and Blue components of a color to.
Scroll Box
A small box located in the scroll bar that shows where the visible window is located in relation to the entire document, menu, or list. You can click and drag the scroll box to make other portions of the document, menu, or list visible.
SCSI
Small Computer Systems Interface. SCSI is a standard for connecting peripherals and other computers to a computer. SCSI, used extensively in Macintosh computers, and growing in use among PCs, is very fast and can support several devices on a single card. (Contrast with IDE)
Select
To specify a section of text or graphics for initiating an action. To select also can be to choose an option in a dialog box.
Serial Port
A port through which only one unit of data can pass at a time on a single wire. Contrast with Parallel Port.
Setup
Most common in Windows, the practice of copying a program’s files to a computer’s disk drive and setting the operating system to run it.
Shareware
Refers to a method of software distribution. Shareware are programs that are written and distributed for free for users to install and try out. If a user likes the program and decides to use it, they are expected to “register” the program with its creator for a small fee. If the user decides not to register, they are expected to remove it from their system, and pass it on to another user—thus the “share” in shareware.
Shortcut
Another name for a Hotkey Combination (also called a keyboard shortcut). In Windows, a file used to “point” to a file or object in another location. When you open the shortcut, you are, in effect, opening the file the shortcut points to the Target.
SIMM
Single Inline Memory Module. A SIMM is a piece of computer hardware that holds pre-assembled RAM chips. The SIMM is plugged into your computer’s motherboard to give you more RAM.
Software
Generic term for any computer program or file. Instructions that make the computer work.
Sound Card
A hardware device that makes it possible for the computer to play digitally recorded or created sounds, and CD audio. Creative Labs’ Soundblaster sound card is the standard in PC audio, therefore, most manufacturers will label their sound cards as “Soundblaster compatible”.
Source Code
The original copy of a software program as it is written by programmers in a language they understand. The source code is then compiled (converted) into machine language, a language that computers understand. Now the program is able to work on a users computer in a language the user understands.
Spreadsheet
A program that uses a grid of rows and columns to perform calculations on numerical data. Spreadsheets are widely used in most businesses to perform both simple and complex financial computations, to organize data in tables and graphs, and perform statistics.
Start Menu
A feature of Windows located the task bar. Clicking the button marked “Start” opens a popup menu that makes Help, the Run command, settings, find, shutdown, a list of programs (actually, program shortcuts) and a list of recently accessed documents available for you to run with a single click. For some items (such as the Documents item), a submenu opens to the side of the main item to display the list of choices. You can configure the Start menu to specify which programs are available to run from it.
Startup Folder
A folder that contains shortcuts to any programs that you want Windows to automatically run whenever you start your computer.
Swap File
A file that gives Windows the ability to use a portion of hard drive as memory. With the use of a swap file, you can load and run more programs in Windows than you actually have RAM memory for. A swap file allows Windows to “swap” chunks of memory containing currently unused information to disk, making room in RAM memory for information you need to run the currently selected program. Using a swap file is slower than holding everything in RAM memory, however.
Syntax
A set of formal rules governing the ways words are put together to make phrases and sentences, and the use of punctuation. On the computer, syntax refers to the rules that must be followed in writing and executing software programs. A syntax error indicates either a programming error or an incorrect response to some software inquiries.
Target
In Windows, any object pointed to by a shortcut.
Taskbar
An area that runs across the bottom of the Windows desktop. The Start button is at the left end of the task bar, and the clock can be displayed at the right end of the task bar. Running applications are represented as buttons on the task bar, the current window is shown as a depressed button, all other applications are displayed as raised buttons. Clicking the button for an inactive application activates that application and displays its window as the current window.
Terabyte (TB)
A unit of data measurement equal to approximately one trillion bytes. Hard drive manufacturers use an even number as a multiplier. In this case 1 TB would be 1,000,000,000 bytes.
Telecommunications
The transfer of information from one place to another over large distances using phone lines, microwaves and/or satellites.
Telephony
Term used to describe the combined use of a computer and telephone to transmit voice, data, video, or image signals over long distances.
Tera (T)
A prefix meaning Trillion (abbreviation is upper case).
Text Box
A space in the dialog box where text or numbers can be entered so that a command can be carried out.
Text File
A file containing only text characters.
Thumbnail
A miniature rendition of a graphic file. A thumbnail gives a idea of what the full-size graphic looks like, and is usually used as a gateway to view the full-size graphic.
Tile
To reduce and move windows so that they can all be seen at once.
Title Bar
The bar at the top of a program or document window that shows you what its title is. The control menu, maximize, minimize, restore, and task bar buttons can be accessed in the title bar.
Toggle
To switch an option to one of two positions (either on or off). The “caps lock”, “scroll lock”, and “num lock” keys are examples of toggle switches.
Tool Bar
A collection of buttons that typically make the more common tools for an application easily accessible. Although often grouped in a line under the menus, a toolbar can be located on the left or right side of the working area–or even be relocatable to any area of the screen the user wishes. In some applications (for example, MS Office applications such as Word), the toolbar is user-configurable–the user can display different toolbars, and add or remove tool buttons from the bar.
Tower
Refers to a physical configuration of PC cases. The tower case is taller than it is wide and is usually designed to sit on the floor, rather than on a desk. Towers usually feature more bays for disk drives and slots for peripheral devices than other configurations.
Trash Can
A special folder in the Macintosh operating system where deleted files are sent when the user sends the command to delete them. They reside in the trash can until the user gives the command to permanently erase them, thus giving the user the chance to recover any information accidentally deleted.
True Type Fonts
A type of font, pioneered by Microsoft that can be used across platforms and on the internet. True type fonts appear on the display screen exactly how they will be printed or transmitted.
TWAIN
A communication standard used with most scanners.
Uninstall
To completely remove a program from your system. When a program is installed, it’s files are copied to the system disk, and changes are made to certain system files and folders to allow the program to work properly. Properly uninstalling a program means deleting all of the files and undoing any changes made to system files fully.
UNIX
UNIX is an operating system that supports multiusers (more than one person can use the computer at the same time) and multitasking (more the one program can be run on the computer at one time). Originally created by programmers to be used by programmers, it is VERY powerful.
Update
To install the latest version of a program, or to record the latest information in a file or other document.
Upgrade
A newer version of a program intended to seamlessly add new features to an existing piece of software without having to purchase and install an entirely new edition. Upgrades typically cost less than buying an all new copy of the software (most are nominal, or even free). Also refers to reconfiguring a computer system to increase its computing power— by installing new hardware components.
Upload
To copy or move a file from one computer or drive to another computer or drive. It also means to transfer a file from your computer by attaching it to an email or moving it to a web based upload area.
URL
Uniform Resource Locator, a string of text used to identify and locate a file on a computer network, like the internet. An URL looks like this … http://www.kwantlen.ca
User
A person who operates and uses a computer.
User-friendly
Programs that have been thoughtfully designed to be intuitive and self-explanatory to the average user, with a minimal chance of mistakes.
Version
A specific release of a software product. Version numbers are typically assigned in ascending order, thus the higher the number, the newer the software. Sometimes, to add a small feature or fix a small error, rather than release another version of a program, a manufacturer will release a revision of the software, which is represented in the version number as a decimal (e.g. Photoshop CS).
VGA
Video Graphics Array. The standard analog system used for computer monitors.
Virus
A computer virus is a program written and then hidden in another program, “program x”. When “program x” is executed (run) the virus program is unleashed and is able to do it’s damage. The damage can range from a “friendly” joke to a complete destruction of other programs and data.
Wallpaper
A graphic used to cover the “desktop” or background of a graphical user interface such as Windows and Firefox. The wallpaper usually serves no purpose other than to improve the appearance of your workspace.
WAN
Wide Area Network. A network of computers at many different and distant locations.
Web 2.0
Software applications and networking processes that shape the world wide web into a platform for social connection, sharing, dialogue, and multimedia enhanced interaction. Examples of relevant software include blogs, wikis, folksonomies, video-sharing, community software, and mobile access.
What’s This?
A feature of Windows help program. In a dialog box, click the small button with a question mark (?) on it. Then, click where you want help. A small description will pop up to explain what the item is and how to use it.
Window
A work area in a graphical user interface. Programs run in a window within the operating system. Similarly, documents are often opened in another window inside a program window. Windowing programs makes it easy to switch between different programs and tasks by working in “layers”.
Win.ini
Microsoft Windows’ main configuration file. Win.ini is the file that contains all possible options and sets up Windows to your specifications to default to your selections every time you start your computer. Wallpaper, fonts, printers and other devices are all set up by the Win.ini file.
Wizard
Microsoft’s name for a step-by-step set of instructions that guide you through a particular task. For example, there are many wizards included with Windows for installing new hardware, configuring the Start menu, establishing dial-up networking for modem use, and changing other aspects of the computer environment.
Word Processing
A technique for electronically storing, editing, and manipulating text by using an electronic keyboard, computer, and printer. Word processing differs from typing since a user can type, edit, and reformat text before it is printed, as well as save it on magnetic media so that it can easily be modified. Popular examples are Word, WordPerfect, and Open Office.
Word Wrap
In word processing, when text that is entered into a paragraph reaches the end of a line, it automatically breaks and continues on the line immediately below.
World Wide Web (WWW)
The most popular feature on the Internet that uses HyperText Markup Language to create and link together graphics, documents and files across the Internet. Usually accessed using common web browser software such as Firefox, Opera, Safara, and Internet Explorer.
WYSIWYG
Acronym for “what you see is what you get”. Referring to a process of designing a document on a computer screen that is a virtual preview of what the printed page will look like.
ZIP files
Refers to a the most common file compression format. A zip file is made by compacting the information in a file or set of files to generally make the file smaller. Zip files are easier to store and transport since they require less disk space. A special file-compression and/or decompression utility is typically required, such as WinZip, to work with zip files.
