An applet is a small application or utility that performs a specific task, often running within a larger program. Common examples include tools in Microsoft Windows Accessories and Microsoft Office.
Application software refers to programs designed to perform specific tasks for users usually related to productivity, creativity, or communication purposes.
Processes that are not synchronized, allowing for actions to happen independently at different times. Frequently used in computing and networking to refer to data transmission where operations occur independently.
A backslash (\) is a character primarily used in computing to represent directory paths in Windows environments, escape sequences in programming languages, and also in specialized contexts like LaTeX formatting.
In computing terminology, a 'Black Box' frequently refers to the Central Processing Unit (CPU), or any device that delivers answers to complex problems without revealing the inner working or processes involved.
The term 'BOOT' has distinct meanings in both computing and taxation. In computing, it refers to the process of starting a computer. In taxation, it refers to additional property or money included to balance the values in a tax-deferred exchange.
A bullet is a small graphical element used to set off items in an unnumbered list. The term originates from the • character, but many other shapes can also be utilized as bullets.
A cache is a storage location that holds frequently accessed data to speed up future retrievals. It is commonly used in computing to improve performance by reducing the time to access data.
The central processing unit (CPU) is the primary component of a computer that performs most of the processing inside the computer. It executes instructions from programs by performing basic arithmetic, logic, control, and input/output (I/O) operations.
A configuration in which one computer, designated as a server, sends information to a number of other 'client' computers.
The term 'Code' in various contexts may refer to the Internal Revenue Code governing federal taxation, source code within computer programs, or compilations of laws like the Motor Vehicle Code.
A cold boot, also known as a cold start, refers to the process of starting a computer or any electronic device from a completely powered-off state. This involves turning on the machine's hardware and initiating the boot sequence that loads the operating system.
In the context of technology and computing, the term 'compatible' refers to the ability of two devices or systems to work together without special adaptation. This typically means that hardware or software from different manufacturers can operate in conjunction with one another seamlessly.
A computer is a machine capable of executing instructions to perform operations on data. Its distinguishing feature is its ability to store its own instructions, allowing it to perform numerous operations without needing new instructions each time. Modern computers are composed of high-speed electronic components capable of executing millions of operations per second.
A symbol on a computer terminal that indicates where on the screen the next character to be typed will appear. Cursors often appear as blinking underscores, vertical bars, or rectangles.
Data refers to the information that is processed, stored, or produced by a computer. The distinction between program (instructions) and data is a fundamental concept in computing.
A desktop computer is a personal computer designed for regular use at a single location on or near a desk due to its size and power requirements. Typically includes a central processing unit (CPU), monitor, keyboard, and pointing device such as a mouse.
Downtime refers to the period during which a system, service, or equipment is not operational or is unavailable. This term is often used in various fields including manufacturing, computing, and telecommunications.
A 'file' can refer to the act of organizing material for easy retrieval, a collection of stored information on a computer, or the formal submission of a document.
A fixed-point number in which the decimal point is set at a fixed location, commonly used for representing numbers with a predetermined scale.
A gigabyte (GB) is a unit of digital information storage used in computing and telecommunications. It is equivalent to 1,024 megabytes (MB) or approximately one billion bytes.
A Hard Disk Drive (HDD) is a data storage device used for storing and retrieving digital information using one or more rigid rapidly rotating disks coated with magnetic material.
A host serves as a central device or entity in various contexts, primarily in computing and communications, that aids in networking and data management, or in managing online interactions.
A kilobyte (KB) is a unit of digital information storage equal to 1,024 bytes, typically used to measure the size of small files or storage devices within computers and digital systems.
The term 'load' can refer to different concepts in computing and finance. In computing, it involves moving a program from a disk to a computer's memory. In finance, it typically refers to a sales charge paid by an investor when buying shares in a mutual fund.
A mainframe computer is a large, powerful computer system capable of supporting hundreds of users simultaneously. Mainframes are typically used for critical applications by large organizations.
Memory in computing refers to the electronic device within a computer, where information is stored while being actively worked on. Memory capacity and type play a crucial role in determining the efficiency and performance of computer applications and software.
A microprocessor is an integrated circuit that houses the entire central processing unit (CPU) of a computer on a single chip, requiring only memory and input-output devices to complete the system.
NUKE is a slang term used in computing to describe the act of intentionally deleting the entire contents of a given directory, hard drive, or other storage device.
Parity is a method used in computing and telecommunications to check whether data has been transmitted or stored correctly by ensuring an odd or even number of bits.
PC or P.C. stands for Personal Computer, typically referring to a general-purpose computer for individual use. It also stands for Professional Corporation, a legal business entity formed by certain professionals who provide licensed services in various fields.
A personal computer (PC) is a versatile computer designed for use by an individual. The term PC historically refers to IBM-compatible computers, in contrast to Apple Macintosh computers.
In computing, a platform is a collection of hardware and software standards that dictate the parameters for what a computing system can achieve. This term generally encompasses the microprocessor and operating system. Cross-platform refers to applications, formats, or devices that work on multiple platforms.
A queue is an organized list where elements are processed in a specific order, often used in both real-world scenarios like waiting lines and in computing contexts such as data structures and print jobs.
Random-Access Memory (RAM) is a type of computer memory that can be accessed randomly; any byte of memory can be accessed without touching the preceding bytes. RAM is the most common type of memory used in computers and other electronic devices to store data temporarily that the CPU needs while performing tasks.
Real-time processing involves the immediate processing of data and information requests with minimal delay, while updating the relevant database simultaneously. This requires advanced computational power and sophisticated application software.
Sorting is the process of arranging data in a particular order, either numerically or alphabetically. It is a fundamental operation in various computing tasks, used to organize data efficiently for quick access and analysis. Most modern computer operating systems include built-in sorting algorithms and programs.
In computing, spool refers to a process of placing a sequence of data or tasks into a temporary working area for a device or program to access, usually on a first-come, first-served basis. A common use is for managing print jobs.
A statement can refer to a summary of financial transactions, a document showing the status of assets and liabilities, or an instruction in a computer program.
Time-Sharing is a method employed in both computing and real estate contexts to optimize resource utilization by allowing multiple users or owners to access the same resource within designated intervals. In computing, it refers to the execution of multiple programs simultaneously, while in real estate, it pertains to multiple owners sharing possession of a property during specified time intervals.
A touchpad is a built-in pointing device for laptops and notebooks that serves as a substitute for an external mouse, enabling users to navigate and interact with their devices using finger gestures.
