DICTIONARY OFICT

FOURTH EDITION

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DICTIONARY OFICT

FOURTH EDITION

S.M.H. Collin

A BLOOMSBURY REFERENCE BOOKwww.bloomsbury.com/reference

Originally published by Peter Collin Publishingas Dictionary of Information Technology

First published 1987Second edition published 1996Third edition published 2002Fourth edition published 2004

Bloomsbury Publishing Plc38 Soho Square, London W1D 3HB

Copyright © S.M.H. Collin 1987, 1996, 2002This edition copyright © Bloomsbury Publishing Plc 2004

All rights reserved. No part of this publication maybe reproduced in any form or by any means without the

prior written permission of the publishers.

British Library Cataloguing-in-Publication DataA catalogue record for this book is available from the British Library

ISBN 0 7475 6990 8

EditorSteven Gregory

Lecturer, York College

Text Production and ProofreadingKaty McAdam, Heather Bateman, Emma Harris

All papers used by Bloomsbury Publishing are natural, recyclableproducts made from wood grown in well-managed forests.

The manufacturing processes conform to theenvironmental regulations of the country of origin.

Text processing and computer typesetting by BloomsburyPrinted and bound in Italy by Legoprint

eISBN-13: 978-1-4081-0215-2

PrefaceThis dictionary provides the user with a comprehensive up-to-datevocabulary used in information technology. It covers computers,programming, networks, communications, database design, the Internet,electronic mail, world wide web, electronics, music, graphics,multimedia, desktop publishing, and many other computer applications.In addition, the dictionary covers communications subjects including film,video, TV and radio.

The entries are each explained in clear and strightforward English.Examples are given to show how the words and phrases are used incontext. General comments about particular items of interest, complexideas or hardware or software applications are given in separate boxes.Quotations from a range of magazines and journals are given to show howthe words are used in real text. The supplement at the back of the bookprovides extra information that would be useful for computing andcommunications studies.

AA:A: used in some operating systems to denotethe first disk drive on the systemA1A1 /�e �wɒn/, A2, A3, A4, A5 noun ISOrecommended international standard sizes ofpaper or sizes of screen � a standard 300d.p.i. black and white A4 monitor � You mustphotocopy the spreadsheet on A3 paper. �We must order some more A4 headed notepa-per.abandonabandon /ə|�b�ndən/ verb to clear a docu-ment, file or work from a computer’s memo-ry without saving it � Once you have aban-doned your spreadsheet, you cannot retrieveit again.abbreviationabbreviation /ə|�bri�vi |�eʃ(ə)n/ noun ashort form of a word, command or instruction� Within the text, the abbreviation proc isused instead of processor.ABDABD abbr Apple Desktop Busabendabend /��bend/ noun an unexpected stop-page of a program that is being run, causedby a fault, error or power failure � An inter-rupt from a faulty printer caused an abend.Also called abnormal end, abnormal ter-minationaberrationaberration /��bə|�reʃ(ə)n/ noun 1. distor-tion of a light beam or image caused by de-fects in the optical system 2. distortion of atelevision picture caused by a corrupt signalor incorrect adjustmentablationablation /ə|�bleʃ(ə)n/ noun a method ofwriting data to an optical storage device inwhich a laser burns a hole or pit, representingdigital bits of data, into the thin metal surfaceof the storage device

COMMENT: A laser burns a hole or pit (whichrepresents digital bits of data) into the thinmetal surface of the storage device.

abnormalabnormal /�b |�nɔ�m(ə)l/ adjective notnormal � It’s abnormal for two consecutivedisk drives to break down.abnormal end

abnormal end /�b|�nɔ�m(ə)l �end/ nounsame as abendabnormallyabnormally /�b|�nɔ�məli/ adverb not asnormal or not as usual � The signal is abnor-mally weak.abnormal terminationabnormal termination /�b|�nɔ�m(ə)l�t��m|�neʃ(ə)n/ noun same as abendabort

abort /ə|�bɔ�t/ verb to end a process in theevent of a malfunction occurs by switchingthe computer off manually or by an internal

feature � The program was aborted by press-ing the red button.About…About… /ə|�baυt/ (in the SAA CUA frontend) a menu selection that tells you who de-veloped the program and gives copyright in-formationabove-the-foldabove-the-fold /ə|�b�v ðə �fəυld/ adjec-tive referring to the part of a webpage that isseen by all users who call up the page, be-cause they do not have to scroll down to readit. Compare below-the-foldabove-the-line costsabove-the-line costs /ə|�b�v ðə �lan�kɒsts/ plural noun variable costs involved inmaking TV films (such as scriptwriters, ac-tors, sets, etc.) as opposed to below-the-linecosts (film crew, technicians, etc.). Comparebelow-the-line costsAB rollAB roll /�e �bi� �rəυl/ noun (in a multime-dia application) a sequence of two video ormusic segments that are synchronised so thatone fades as the second startsabsolute addressabsolute address /��bsəlu�t ə |�dres/noun a computer storage address that canonly access one location. Also called actualaddress, machine addressabsolute cell referenceabsolute cell reference /��bsəlu�t sel�ref(ə)rəns/ noun a spreadsheet referencethat always refers to the same cell, even whencopied to another locationabsorbabsorb /əb|�zɔ�b/ verb to take in light, liq-uid or a signalabsorptanceabsorptance /əb|�zɔ�ptəns/ noun a meas-ure of how completely an object or substanceabsorbs radiant energy. Opposite reflect-anceabsorptionabsorption /əb|�zɔ�pʃən/ noun the powerloss of a signal when travelling through a me-dium, due to its absorptanceabstractabstract /��bstr�kt/ noun a short summa-ry of a document � It’s quicker to searchthrough the abstracts than the full text.abstracting and indexingabstracting and indexing/��bstr�ktŋ ən �ndeksŋ/ verb makingsummaries and indexes for articles and booksacac abbr academic organisation (NOTE: usedin email and website addresses)ACAC abbr alternating currentAcademyAcademy The Academy of Motion PictureArts and Sciences � Academy awards theyearly presentation of the Oscar award by theAcademy to artists and technicians for excel-lence in their area of the film world

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ACAP 2ACAPACAP /�e si� e �pi�/ noun an email systemdeveloped to work with the IMAP4 emailprotocol to provide extra features such asmanagement of an address book. Full formapplication configuration access proto-col (NOTE: It was originally termed IMSP(Interactive Mail Support Protocol).)ACCACC /�e si� �si�/ noun the most importantinternal CPU storage register, containing thedata word that is to be processed. Full formaccumulatoraccelerated graphics portaccelerated graphics port /ək|

�seləretd �"r�fks �pɔ�t/ noun full form ofAGPaccelerated motionaccelerated motion /ək|�selə|�retd�məυʃ(ə)n/ noun a special (film) effect inwhich the camera is run at a slower frame ratethan the standard 24 frames per second whichgives the effect of faster-than-average motionaccelerationacceleration /ək|�selə|�reʃ(ə)n/ noun �mouse accelerationacceleration timeacceleration time /ək|�selə |�reʃ(ə)ntam/ noun the time taken for a disk drive tospin a disk at the correct speed, from rest �Allow for acceleration time in the accesstime.acceleratoraccelerator /ək|�seləretə/ noun � accel-erator keyaccelerator boardaccelerator board /ək|�selə|�retə bɔ�d/,accelerator card /ək|�selə|�retə kɑ�d/ nouna circuit board that carries a faster or moreadvanced version of the same processor thatruns a computer. Adding an accelerator boardto a computer makes it run faster.accelerator keyaccelerator key /ək|�selə|�retə ki�/ nouna key that, when pressed together with anoth-er, carries out a function that would other-wise have to be selected from a menu using amouse � Instead of selecting the File menuthen the Save option, use the accelerator keysAlt and S to do the same thing and save thefile.accentaccent /��ksənt/ noun a mark above acharacter to indicate a different pronuncia-tionaccentedaccented /��ksəntd/ adjective (of aletter) with an accent on itacceptaccept /ək|�sept/ verb 1. to agree to dosomething � He accepted the quoted pricefor printing. 2. to take something which isbeing offered 3. to establish a session or con-nection with another computing deviceacceptableacceptable /ək|�septəb(ə)l/ adjectivewhich can be accepted � The error rate wasvery low, and is acceptable.acceptable use policyacceptable use policy /ək|�septəb(ə)lju�z �pɒlsi/ noun a set of rules that describewhat a user can write or do on the Internetwithout offending other users. Abbr AUP

acceptanceacceptance /ək|�septəns/ noun the actionof accepting somethingacceptance testacceptance test /ək|�septəns test/ nouna test to check that a piece of equipment willperform as required or will reach requiredstandardsacceptance testingacceptance testing /ək|�septəns�testŋ/ noun the performing of an accept-ance testaccessaccess /��kses/ noun the fact of being al-lowed to use a computer and read or alterfiles stored in it. This is usually controlled bya security device such as a password. � todeny access to refuse access to a circuit orsystem for reasons of workload or securityaccess authorityaccess authority /��kses ɔ�|�θɒrəti/noun permission to carry out a particular op-eration on dataaccess-barredaccess-barred /��kses �bɑ�d/ adjectiveprevented from accessing particular dataaccess categoryaccess category /��kses �k�tə"(ə)ri/noun a category that defines which files ordata a user can access and which he or shecannotaccess codeaccess code /��kses kəυd/ noun a seriesof characters or symbols that must be enteredto identify a user before access to a computeris permittedaccess controlaccess control /��kses kən|�trəυl/ nouna security device such as a password that onlyallows selected users to use a computer sys-tem or read filesaccess control listaccess control list /��kses kən|�trəυllst/ noun full form of ACLaccess headaccess head /��kses hed/ noun the partof a disk drive that moves to the correct partof the disk’s surface and reads informationstored on the disk � verb to call up (data)which is stored in a computer; to obtain datafrom a storage device � She accessed the em-ployee’s file stored on the computer.accessibleaccessible /ək|�sesb(ə)l/ adjective whichcan be reached or accessed � Details of cus-tomers are easily accessible from the maincomputer files.accession numberaccession number /ək |�seʃ(ə)n �n�mbə/noun 1. a number in a record that shows inwhich order each record was entered 2. a se-rial number used in a library indexing systemaccessionsaccessions /ək|�seʃ(ə)nz/ plural nounnew books which are added to a libraryaccess logaccess log /��kses lɒ"/ noun a file on awebsite server computer that contains arecord of every visitor to the website, show-ing when a person visited and which pages heor she viewed � The access log is invaluable– we produce graphs of the pages that aremost popular using an access log analyserprogram.

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3 achromaticaccess method

access method /��kses �meθəd/ noun 1.a means used for the internal transfer of databetween memory and display or peripheraldevices. Differences in the methods used areoften the cause of compatibility problems. 2.a set of rules that allows a device to send dataonto a network. Token passing and CS-MA/CD are two methods commonly used ina local area network.accessoraccessor /��ksesə/ noun a person who ac-cesses dataaccessory

accessory /ək|�sesəri/ noun an extra, add-on device, e.g. a mouse or printer, that is at-tached to or used with a computer � Theprinter comes with several accessories in-cluding a soundproof hood. (NOTE: The plu-ral is accessories.)access privilegeaccess privilege /��kses �prvld'/noun the status granted to a user that allowshim or her to see, read or alter filesaccess provideraccess provider /��kses prə|�vadə/noun same as ISPaccess rights

access rights /��kses rats/ plural nounthe rights of a particular user to access a par-ticular file or data objectaccess timeaccess time /��kses �tam/ noun 1. thetotal time that a storage device takes betweenthe moment the data is requested and the re-turn of the data � The access time of this dy-namic RAM chip is around 200nS – we havefaster versions if your system clock is run-ning faster. 2. the length of time required tofind a file or program, either in main memoryor a secondary memory sourceaccidentalaccidental /��ks |�dent(ə)l/ adjectivewhich happens by accident � Always keepbackup copies in case of accidental damageto the master file.accordion fold

accordion fold /ə |�kɔ�diən fəυld/, accor-dion fanfold noun method of folding contin-uous paper, one sheet in one direction, thenext sheet in the opposite direction, allowingthe paper to be fed into a printer continuouslywith no action on the part of the user. Alsocalled fanfoldaccount

account /ə|�kaυnt/ noun (in a network oronline system) a record of a user’s name,password and rights to access a network oronline system � If you are a new user, youwill have to ask the supervisor to create anaccount for you. � verb to keep track of howmuch time and resources each user of a net-work or online system usesaccounting package

accounting package /ə|�kaυntŋ�p�kd'/ noun a piece of software that auto-mates a business’s accounting functions �We now type in each transaction into the newaccounting package rather than write it intoa ledger. Also called accounts package

account nameaccount name /ə|�kaυnt nem/ noun theunique name of a user on a network or onlinesystem � John Smith’s account name isJSMITH.accounts packageaccounts package /ə|�kaυnts �p�kd'/noun same as accounting packageaccumulateaccumulate /ə|�kju�mjυlet/ verb to gath-er several things together over a period oftime � We have gradually accumulated alarge databank of names and addresses.(NOTE: accumulates – accumulating – ac-cumulated)accumulatoraccumulator /ə|�kju�mjυletə/, accumu-lator register /�e si� �si�/ noun full form ofACC � Store the two bytes of data in regis-ters A and B and execute the add instruction– the answer will be in the accumulator.accuracyaccuracy /��kjυrəsi/ noun the totalnumber of bits used to define a number in acomputer (NOTE: The more bits allocatedthe greater the accuracy of the definition.)accurateaccurate /��kjυrət/ adjective correct;without any errors � The printed bar codehas to be accurate to within a thousandth ofa micron.accuratelyaccurately /��kjυrətli/ adverb correctlyor with no errors � The OCR had difficulty inreading the new font accurately.

COMMENT: Most high level languages allownumbers to be represented in a more accu-rate form by using two or more words tostore the number.

ACDACD /�e si� �di�/ noun a specialised tele-phone system that can handle lots of incom-ing calls and direct them to a particular oper-ator according to programmed instructions ina database. Full form automatic call distri-butionACEACE noun a 1000 watt spotlight (film)ACESACES noun computer-operated cameramovement system developed by Disney Stu-dios which is designed to film repeatablecamera moves on separate exposures. Fullform automatic camera effects systemacetateacetate /��stet/ noun a sheet of transpar-ent plastic used for making overlaysacetate baseacetate base /��stet bes/ noun plasticmaterial used as the standard base for motionpicture filmacetate tapeacetate tape /��stet tep/ noun audio-tape consisting of acetate backing with mag-netically sensitive oxide coatingacetoneacetone /��sə|�təυn/ noun a clear, flamma-ble liquid which is used to clean film printsurfaces and splices and other editing andfilming apparatus (film)achromaticachromatic /�ekrə|�m�tk/ noun, adjec-tive (an optical device) that has been correct-ed for chromatic aberration

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achromatic colour 4achromatic colourachromatic colour /�ekrəm�tk �k�lə/noun a grey colour within the range betweenblack and white displayed by a graphicsadapterACKACK /�e si� �ke/ noun a signal that is sentfrom a receiver to indicate that a transmittedmessage has been received and that it is readyfor the next one � The printer generates anACK signal when it has received data. Fullform acknowledgeacknowledgeacknowledge /ək|�nɒld'/ noun full formof ACKacknowledged mailacknowledged mail /ək|�nɒld'd �mel/noun a function that signals to the senderwhen an electronic mail message has beenread by the recipientacknowledgementsacknowledgements /ək|�nɒld'mənts/noun text printed at the beginning of a book,where the author or publisher thanks peoplewho have helpedACLACL /�e si� �el/ noun a security system thathas a list of user names and passwords that ischecked by the operating system to find out ifa particular user is allowed to access or use aresource or feature of the shared computer ornetwork. Full form access control listacousticacoustic /ə|�ku�stk/ adjective referring tosoundacoustical feedbackacoustical feedback /ə|�ku�stk(ə)l�fi�db�k/ noun distortion in an audio signal,due to a part of an amplified signal beingpicked up by the microphone and amplifiedagain until the amplifier is overloadedacoustic coupleracoustic coupler /ə|�ku�stk �k�plə/noun a device that connects to a telephonehandset, converting binary computer datainto sound signals to allow it to be transmit-ted down a telephone line

COMMENT: The acoustic coupler also con-verts back from sound signals to digital sig-nals when receiving messages. It is basi-cally the same as a modem but uses ahandset on which a loudspeaker is placedto send the signals rather than a direct con-nection to the phone line. It is portable andclips over both ends of a normal telephonehandset. It can be used even in a publicphone booth. The acoustic coupler hasgenerally been replaced by a direct cablelink from the computer’s modem to thestandard telephone socket.

acoustic hoodacoustic hood /ə |�ku�stk hυd/ noun asoundproof cover put over a line printer to cutdown its noiseacousticsacoustics /ə|�ku�stks/ noun study andscience of sound wavesacquisitionacquisition /��kw|�zʃ(ə)n/ noun the ac-cepting, capturing or collecting of informa-tionACRACR /�e si� �ɑ�/ noun a type of videotaperecorder

Acrobat

Acrobat � Adobe Acrobatacronymacronym /��krənm/ noun an abbrevia-tion, formed from various letters, whichmakes up a word which can be pronounced �The acronym FORTRAN means FormulaTranslator.actintic light

actintic light /��ktntk �lat/ noun lightwhich is able to cause chemical change in amaterial, such as filmactionaction /��kʃən/ noun 1. something whichhas been done 2. (in an SAA CUA front end )a user event 3. movement 4. the command tobegin a performance, said by a director to anactor (film)action bar

action bar /��kʃən bɑ�/ noun a top line ofthe screen that displays the menu namesaction bar pull-down

action bar pull-down /��kʃən bɑ� �pυl�daυn/ noun (in an SAA CUA front end) afeature whereby the full menu is displayedbelow the menu name when a user moves thecursor to a particular menu name on the ac-tion baractivate

activate /��kt|�vet/ verb to start a processor to make a device start working � PressingCR activates the printer.activated

activated /��ktvetd/ adjective button orfield in a screen layout that has a script at-tached to it; the script is executed when theuser clicks on the button (NOTE: If the buttonor field is not activated, it is normally dis-played greyed out and does not respond if auser selects it.)activeactive /��ktv/ adjective busy, working orbeing usedActive DocumentActive Document /��ktv �dɒkjυmənt/noun a standard Windows application that isaccessed from within a web browser and con-trolled by special commands in the webpageactive file

active file /��ktv �fal/ noun a file that iscurrently being worked onactive pixel regionactive pixel region /��ktv �pks(ə)l�ri�d'ən/ noun an area of a computer screenthat can display graphic image informationactive printeractive printer /��ktv �prntə/ noun aprinter that is currently connected to the com-puter’s printer portactive programactive program /��ktv �prəυ"r�m/noun (in a multitasking system) a programthat is currently in control of the processoractive recordactive record /��ktv �rekɔ�d/ noun arecord that is being updated or accessedActive Server PageActive Server Page /��ktv �s��vəped'/ noun a webpage that is created onlywhen accessed by a visitor, allowing the web-site to display up-to-date information or in-formation from a database � The databasesearch results page is implemented as an Ac-tive Server Page. Abbr ASP

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5 added entryactive streaming formatactive streaming format /��ktv�stri�mŋ �fɔ�m�t/ noun full form of ASFactive videoactive video /��ktv �vdiəυ/, active vid-eo signal /��ktv �vdiəυ �s"n(ə)l/ noun apart of a video signal that contains picture in-formationActiveVRMLActiveVRML /��ktv vi� ɑ� em �el/ noun� VRMLactive windowactive window /��ktv �wndəυ/ noun 1.an area of the display screen where the oper-ator is currently working 2. (in a GUI or SAACUA front end ) the window that is currentlythe focus of cursor movements and screendisplays. � windowActiveXActiveX /��ktv �eks/ a trade name for aprogramming language and program defini-tion used to create small applications de-signed to enhance the functionality of a web-page. � applet, Java, VBScript

COMMENT: ActiveX applications, called ap-plets, are often used to add database ormultimedia effects to a website that cannotbe supported with basic HTML commands.When a user visits the web page that usesthe ActiveX applet, the program is auto-matically downloaded by the user’s brows-er and run on the user’s computer.

activityactivity /�k|�tvti/ noun being active orbusyactual addressactual address /��ktʃuəl ə|�dres/ nounsame as absolute addressactual data transfer rateactual data transfer rate /��ktʃuəl�detə �tr�nsf�� �ret/ noun the averagenumber of data bits transferred in a period oftimeactuatoractuator /��ktʃυetə/ noun a mechanicaldevice that can be controlled by an externalsignal, e.g. the read/write head in a disk driveACUACU /�e si� �ju�/ noun a device that allowsa computer to call stations or dial telephonenumbers automatically. Full form automaticcalling unitacuityacuity /ə|�kju�ti/ noun ability of the ear todetect frequency or volume changesacutanceacutance /ə |�kju�təns/ noun the ability ofa lens to produce clear edgesacuteacute /ə|�kju�t/ adjective very sharp or clearADAD noun the person who carries out the di-rector’s instructions, oversees the work andwhereabouts of the actors, technicians andrest of crew and works in close contact withthe production unit (film) Full form assist-ant director, associate directorA/DA/D abbr analog to digitalADAADA /�e di� �e/ noun a high-level program-ming language that is used mainly in military,industrial and scientific fields of computingadaptadapt /ə|�d�pt/ verb to change, adjust ormodify something so that it fits � Can thiscomputer be adapted to take 5.25 inch disks?

adaptationadaptation /��d�p|�teʃ(ə)n/ noun theability of a device to adjust its sensitivityrange according to various situationsadapteradapter /ə|�d�ptə/, adaptor /ə|�d�ptə/noun a device that allows two or more in-compatible devices to be connected together� The cable adapter allows attachment of thescanner to the SCSI interface.adaptive channel allocationadaptive channel allocation /ə|

�d�ptv �tʃ�n(ə)l �lə |�keʃ(ə)n/ noun pro-vision of communications channels accord-ing to demand rather than a fixed allocationadaptive compressionadaptive compression /ə |�d�ptv kəm |

�preʃ(ə)n/ noun a data compression systemthat continuously monitors the data it is com-pressing and adjusts its own algorithm to pro-vide the most efficient compressionadaptive differential pulse code modulationadaptive differential pulse codemodulation /ə|�d�ptv dfə |�renʃ(ə)l�p�ls kəυd mɒdju|�leʃ(ə)n/ noun full formof ADPCMadaptive interframe transform codingadaptive interframe transform cod-ing /ə |�d�ptv �ntəfrem tr�ns|�fɔ�m�kəυdŋ/ noun a class of compression algo-rithms commonly used with video signals toreduce the data transmission rateadaptive packet assemblyadaptive packet assembly /ə|�d�ptv�p�kt ə|�sembli/ noun a method used by theMNP error correcting protocol to adjust thesize of data packets according to the qualityof the telephone line. The better the line, thebigger the packet size.adaptive routingadaptive routing /ə|�d�ptv �ru�tŋ/noun the ability of a system to change itscommunications routes in response to vari-ous events or situations such as line failure(NOTE: The messages are normally sentalong the most cost-effective path unlessthere is a problem with that route, in whichcase they are automatically re-routed.)adaptive systemadaptive system /ə |�d�ptv �sstəm/noun a system that is able to alter its respons-es and processes according to inputs or situa-tionsadaptoradaptor /ə |�d�ptə/ noun another spellingof adapterADB™ADB™ abbr Apple Desktop BusADCADC /�e di� �si�/ noun an electronic devicethat converts an analog input signal to a dig-ital form, which can be processed by a com-puter. Full form analog to digital convert-eraddadd /�d/ verb 1. to put figures together tomake a total � In the spreadsheet each col-umn should be added to make a subtotal. 2.to put things together to form a larger group� The software house has added a new man-agement package to its range of products.added entryadded entry /��dd �entri/ noun a sec-ondary file entry in a library catalogue

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addend 6addend

addend /��dend/ noun the number addedto the augend in an additionadder

adder /��də/ noun a device or routine thatprovides the sum of two or more inputs, ei-ther digital or analog

COMMENT: A parallel adder takes one clockcycle to add two words, a serial addertakes a time equal to the number of bits ina word to add.

add-in

add-in /��d n/ noun, adjective somethingthat is added to something elseadditional

additional /ə|�dʃ(ə)nəl/ adjective added orextra � Can we link three additional work-stations to the network?additional dialogue replacement

additional dialogue replacement /ə|

�dʃ(ə)nəl �daəlɒ" r |�plesmənt/ noun fullform of ADRadditive colour mixing

additive colour mixing /��dtv �k�lə�mksŋ/ verb to mix different colouredlights to produce the colour which is wantedadd-on

add-on /��d ɒn/ adjective added to a com-puter system to improve its performance �The add-on hard disk will boost the compu-ter’s storage capabilities. Opposite built-inaddress

address /ə |�dres/ noun 1. a number allow-ing a central processing unit to reference aphysical location in a storage medium in acomputer system � Each separate memoryword has its own unique address. 2. a uniquenumber that identifies a device on a network� This is the address at which the data starts.� verb to put the location data onto an ad-dress bus to identify which word in memoryor storage device is to be accessed � A largeraddress word increases the amount of memo-ry a computer can address.

‘The world’s largest open data network, the Inter-net, links more than 10,000 local networks and 3million workstations in 50 countries. It has grownso fast that its address space is ‘bust’ and is beingredesigned to allow further expansion.’ [Comput-ing]

addressability

addressability /ə|�dresə|�blti/ noun thecontrol available over pixels on screenaddressable

addressable /ə|�dresəb(ə)l/ adjectivewhich can be addressed � With the new oper-ating system, all of the 5MB of installed RAMis addressable.addressable point

addressable point /ə|�dresəb(ə)l �pɔnt/noun a point or pixel in a graphics systemthat can be directly addressedaddress book

address book /ə|�dres bυk/ noun 1. (in anetwork) a list of node addresses 2. (in elec-tronic mail) a list of the network addresses ofother users to which electronic mail can besentaddressing

addressing /ə|�dresŋ/ noun the process ofaccessing a location in memory

addressing machineaddressing machine /ə|�dresŋ mə|�ʃi�n/noun a machine which puts addresses on en-velopes automaticallyaddress resolution protocoladdress resolution protocol /ə|�dres�rezə|�lu�ʃ(ə)n �prəυtəkɒl/ noun full form ofARPadjacentadjacent /ə|�d'es(ə)nt/ adjective which isnear or next to something � The address isstored adjacent to the customer name field.adjunct registeradjunct register /��d'�ŋkt �red'stə/noun a 32-bit register in which the top 16 bitsare used for control information and only thebottom 16 bits are available for use by a pro-gramadjustadjust /ə|�d'�st/ verb to change somethingto fit new conditions or so that it works better� You can adjust the brightness and contrastby turning a knob.adjustmentadjustment /ə|�d'�stmənt/ noun the mak-ing of a slight change made to something sothat it works better, or a change made � Thebrightness needs adjustment.administratoradministrator /əd|�mnstretə/ noun aperson who is responsible for looking after anetwork, including installing, configuringand maintaining itAdobe AcrobatAdobe Acrobat /ə|�dəυbi ��krəb�t/ atrade name for a piece of software that con-verts documents and formatted pages into afile format that can be viewed on almost anycomputer platform or using a web browser onthe Internet (NOTE: For example if you pub-lish a newsletter, you could lay out the pag-es using a desktop publish system, print thepages for a paper version, and convert thefiles to Acrobat format allowing you to dis-tribute the same formatted pages on CD-ROM or over the Internet.)Adobe SystemsAdobe Systems /ə|�dəυbi �sstəmz/ asoftware company that developed productsincluding Acrobat, ATM, and PostScriptAdobe Type ManagerAdobe Type Manager /ə|�dəυbi tap�m�nd'ə/ a trade name for a standard fordescribing scalable fonts, used with AppleSystem 7 and Microsoft Windows to providefonts that can be scaled to almost any pointsize, and printed on almost any printer. AbbrATMADPADP /�e di� �pi�/ noun data processing doneby a computer. Full form automatic dataprocessingADPCMADPCM /�e di� pi� si� �em/ noun a CCITTstandard that defines a method of convertinga voice or analog signal into a compresseddigital signal. Full form adaptive differen-tial pulse code modulationADRADR noun the process of adding words orphrases to a section of film in post produc-tion; a continuous loop of film is shown to theartists in which the same scene is shown re-

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7 AGPpeatedly to help them synchronise theirspeech with their filmed lip movementsADSLADSL /�e di� es �el/ noun high-speed trans-mission standard that uses the same coppertelephone wires as a normal telephone serv-ice, but is much faster than a standard modemor a digital system such as ISDN. Full formAsymmetric Digital Subscriber Line(NOTE: As well as the speed, ADSL providesa user with an ‘always on’ connection to theInternet – there is no need to dial an accessnumber and no delay. Typically, companiesprovide ADSL for a fixed monthly rental;data is usually transferred from the Internetto the user’s computer at 2Mbps but trans-ferred from the user’s computer to the Inter-net at a slower rate of 256Kbps.)advanceadvance /əd|�vɑ�ns/ verb to move forward;to make something move forward � The pa-per is advanced by turning this knob.advancedadvanced /əd|�vɑ�nst/ adjective morecomplicated or more difficult to learnAdvanced Interactive ExecutiveAdvanced Interactive Executive /əd|

�vɑ�nst �ntər|��ktv "|�zekjυtv/ noun fullform of AIXAdvanced Micro DevicesAdvanced Micro Devices /əd|�vɑ�nst�makrəυ d|�vasz/ full form of AMDadvanced peer-to-peer networkingadvanced peer-to-peer networking/əd|�vɑ�nst �pə tə �pə �netw��kŋ/ nounfull form of APPNadvanced power managementadvanced power management /əd|

�vɑ�nst �paυə �m�nd'mənt/ noun fullform of APMadvanced program to program communicationsadvanced program to program com-munications /əd|�vɑ�nst �prəυ"r�m tə�prəυ"r�m kə|�mju�n|�keʃ(ə)nz/ noun fullform of APPCAdvanced Research Projects Agency NetworkAdvanced Research Projects Agen-cy Network /əd|�vɑ�nst �ri�s��tʃ�prɒd'ekts �ed'(ə)nsi �netw��k/ noun fullform of ARPANETadvanced technology attachmentadvanced technology attachment/əd|�vɑ�nst tek|�nɒləd'i ə|�t�tʃmənt/ nounfull form of ATAAdvanced Television Systems CommitteeAdvanced Television Systems Com-mittee /əd|�vɑ�nst �telv'(ə)n �sstəmzkə|�mti/ noun full form of ATSCadvanced versionadvanced version /əd|�vɑ�nst �v��ʃ(ə)n/noun a program with more complex featuresfor use by an experienced useradvisory lockadvisory lock /əd |�vaz(ə)ri lɒk/ noun (ina multitasking system) a lock placed on a re-gion of a file by one process to prevent anyother process accessing the same dataadvisory systemadvisory system /əd|�vaz(ə)ri �sstəm/noun an expert system that provides adviceto a useraerialaerial /�eəriəl/ noun a device for receivingor sending radio transmissions by converting

electromagnetic impulses into electrical sig-nals and vice-versa � adjective in the airaerial cableaerial cable /�eəriəl �keb(ə)l/ noun a wirestretched between poles which acts as an aer-ialaerial perspectiveaerial perspective /�eəriəl pə|�spektv/noun a view of a three-dimensional land-scape as if the viewer is above the sceneaerial viewaerial view /�eəriəl �vju�/ noun a viewfrom high above a sceneaffectaffect /ə|�fekt/ verb to touch or to influenceor to change something � Changes in voltagewill affect the way the computer functions.affiliateaffiliate /ə|�fliet/ verb to connect or joinwithaffiliatedaffiliated /ə |�flietd/ adjective connectedwith or owned by another company � one ofour affiliated companiesaffiliate marketingaffiliate marketing /ə|�fliət �mɑ�ktŋ/noun a type of marketing that uses a centralwebsite to advertise and sell products andservices from other sitesaffirmativeaffirmative /ə|�f��mətv/ adjective mean-ing ‘yes’AFIPSAFIPS abbr American Federation of Infor-mation Processing SocietiesAFNORAFNOR /��fnɔ�/ noun (in France) theFrench standards organisation. Full form As-sociation Française de NormalisationAFPAFP /�e ef �pi�/ a protocol used to commu-nicate between workstations and servers in anetwork of Apple Macintosh computers. Fullform Appletalk Filing Protocolafterglowafterglow /�ɑ�ftə"ləυ/ noun � persist-enceafter-imageafter-image /�ɑ�ftə �md'/ noun a copyof a block of data that has been modifiedAGCAGC noun an electronic circuit that adjuststhe level of an incoming signal so that it issuitable for the next part of the circuit. Fullform automatic gain controlagendaagenda /ə|�d'endə/ noun a list of tasks orappointments or activities that have to be car-ried out on a particular dayagentagent /�ed'ənt/ noun a series of com-mands or actions that are carried out auto-matically on a particular file or dataaggregateaggregate /��"r"ət/ noun a collection ofdata objectsAGPAGP /�e d'i� �pi�/ noun a dedicated bus be-tween a graphics controller and main memo-ry that allows data to be transferred veryquickly without using the main processor.Full form accelerated graphics port(NOTE: It is used with the Intel Pentium IIprocessor to provide very high-speed three-dimensional graphics and video process-ing. This port does not replace a PCI busbut works with it.)

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AI 8AI

AI /�e �a/ noun the design and developmentof computer programs that attempt to imitatehuman intelligence and decision-makingfunctions, providing basic reasoning and oth-er human characteristics. Full form artificialintelligence. � IKBSaiming symbolaiming symbol /�emŋ �smbəl/, aimingfield /fi�ld/ noun a symbol displayed onscreen which defines the area in which alight-pen can be detectedairbrushairbrush /�eə |�br�ʃ/ noun (in graphics soft-ware) a painting tool that creates a diffusepattern of dots, like an mechanical airbrush �We used the airbrush to create the cloud ef-fects in this image.air gap

air gap /�eə "�p/ noun a narrow gap be-tween a recording or playback head and themagnetic mediumAIXAIX a trade name for a version of UNIX pro-duced by IBM to run on its range of PCs,minicomputers and mainframes. Full formAdvanced Interactive ExecutiveALCALC abbr automatic level control. � AGCalertalert /ə|�l��t/ noun a warning message sentfrom software to warn a person or applicationthat an error or problem has occurredalgebra

algebra /��ld'brə/ noun the use of lettersin certain mathematical operations to repre-sent unknown numbers or a range of possiblenumbersalgebraic language

algebraic language /��ld'brek�l�ŋ"wd'/ noun a context-free languageALGOL

ALGOL /��l"ɒl/ noun a high-level pro-gramming language using algorithmic meth-ods for mathematical and technical applica-tions. Full form algorithmic languagealgorithm

algorithm /��l"ərð(ə)m/ noun a set ofrules used to define or perform a specific taskor to solve a specific problem

‘…image processing algorithms are step by stepprocedures for performing image processing op-erations’ [Byte]‘…the steps are: acquiring a digitized image, de-veloping an algorithm to process it, processingthe image, modifying the algorithm until you aresatisfied with the result’ [Byte]

algorithmicalgorithmic /��l"ə|�rðmk/ adjective ex-pressed using algorithmsalgorithmic languagealgorithmic language /��l"ərðmk�l�ŋ"wd'/ noun full form of ALGOLaliasalias /�eliəs/ noun 1. a representative namegiven to a file, port, device or spreadsheet cellor range of cells � The operating system usesthe alias COM1 to represent the serial portaddress 3FCh. 2. an undesirable value withina digital sample – often because a very highinput signal has exceeded the limits of theconverter and is wrongly represented as avery low value � The operating system uses

the alias COM1 to represent the serial portaddress 3FCh.aliasingaliasing /�eliəsŋ/ noun jagged edges thatappear along diagonal or curved lines dis-played on a computer screen caused by thesize of each pixelalias namealias name /�eliəs nem/ noun anothername that is used on a network instead of theuser namealienalien /�eliən/ adjective not fitting the usualsystemalignalign /ə |�lan/ verb 1. to make sure that thecharacters to be printed are spaced and lev-elled correctly, either vertically or horizontal-ly 2. to arrange numbers into a column withall figured lines up against the right hand side(right-aligned) or the left-hand side (left-aligned) 3. to ensure that a read/write head iscorrectly positioned over the recording medi-um 4. to tune two or more radio circuits to-getheraligneraligner /ə|�lanə/ noun a device used tomake sure that the paper is straight in a print-eraligning edgealigning edge /ə|�lanŋ ed'/ noun anedge of an optical character recognition sys-tem used to position a documentalignmentalignment /ə|�lanmənt/ noun the correctspacing and levelling of printed charactersallocateallocate /��lə|�ket/ verb to divide a periodof time or a piece of work in various waysand share it out between users � The operat-ing system allocated most of main memory tothe spreadsheet program. (NOTE: allocates –allocating – allocated)allocationallocation /��lə|�keʃ(ə)n/ noun the divid-ing of something such as memory, diskspace, printer use, operating system time, ora program or device in various ways � allo-cation of time or capital to a projectallophoneallophone /��ləfəυn/ noun the smallestunit of sound from which speech can beformed. � phonemeall points addressable modeall points addressable mode /�ɔ�l�pɔnts ə|�dresəb(ə)l �məυd/ noun a graph-ics mode in which each pixel can be individ-ually addressed and its colour and attributesdefined. Also called APA modealphaalpha /��lfə/ noun 1. same as alpha test �The new software is still in an alpha productstage. 2. an item of data that defines the prop-erties of a pixel or part of an imageALPHAALPHA /��lfə/ noun a 64-bit RISC proces-sor chip developed by Digital EquipmentCorporationalphabetalphabet /��lfə|�bet/ noun the 26 lettersused to make wordsalpha beta techniquealpha beta technique /��lfə �bi�tə tek|

�ni�k/ noun a free structure technique used in

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9 ambientartificial intelligence for solving game andstrategy problemsalphabeticallyalphabetically /��lfə|�betkli/ adverb inalphabetical order � The files are arrangedalphabetically under the customer’s name.alphabetical orderalphabetical order /��lfəbetk(ə)l�ɔ�də/ noun the arrangement of records (suchas files, index cards) in the order of the lettersof the alphabet (A,B,C,D, etc.)alphabetic character setalphabetic character set /��lfəbetk�k�rktə �set/ noun the set of characters,both capitals and small letters, that make upthe alphabetalphabetisealphabetise /��lfəbetaz/, alphabetizeverb to put items into alphabetical order �Enter the bibliographical information andalphabetise it. (NOTE: alphabetises – al-phabetising – alphabetised)alpha channelalpha channel /��lfə �tʃ�n(ə)l/ noun 1.(in 32-bit graphics systems) the top eightbits that define the properties of a pixel(NOTE: The lower 24 bits define the pixel’scolour.) 2. a video channel, often used to holdmattesalphageometricalphageometric /��lfəd'i�əυ |�metrk/adjective referring to a set of codes that in-struct a teletext terminal to display variousgraphics patterns or charactersalphamosaicalphamosaic /��lfəməυ|�zek/ adjective(character set) used in teletext to provide al-phanumeric and graphics charactersalphanumericalphanumeric /��lfənjυ|�merk/ adjec-tive using the letters of the alphabet, the Ara-bic numerals and punctuation marksalphanumeric dataalphanumeric data /��lfənjυmerk�detə/ noun data that represents the lettersof the alphabet and the Arabic numeralsalpha-particlealpha-particle /��lfə �pɑ�tk(ə)l/ noun anemitted alpha radiation particlealphaphotographicalphaphotographic /��lfəfəυtəυ|

�"r�fk/ adjective which represents picturesusing predefined graphics characters, forteletext servicesalphasortalphasort /��lfə|�sɔ�t/ verb to sort data intoalphabetical orderalpha testalpha test /��lfə test/ noun the first work-ing attempt of a computer product. Alsocalled alpha. � beta testalpha wrapalpha wrap /��lfə r�p/ noun a methodused for feeding tape into a helical scan videorecorder to make sure the alignment is cor-rectaltalt /ɔ�lt/ noun a type of newsgroup on the In-ternet that contains discussions about alterna-tive subjects. � newsgroup (NOTE: Theseare not official newsgroups and are not sup-ported or monitored by any company, andany user can write just about anything thathe or she wants to say. Some online serviceproviders do not allow their subscribers to

view all of the alt newsgroups because theymay contain offensive and pornographicmaterial.)alteralter /�ɔ�ltə/ verb to change � to alter theterms of a contractalterablealterable /�ɔ� tərəb(ə)l/ adjective whichcan be altered. � EAPROM, EAROMalteration

alteration /�ɔ�ltə|�reʃ(ə)n/ noun a changewhich has been made � The agreement wassigned without any alterations.alternate

alternate verb /�ɒltənet/ to change fromone state to another and back, over and overagain (NOTE: alternates – alternating – al-ternated) � adjective /ɒl|�t��nət/ whichchange from one to anotheralternatelyalternately /ɔ�l|�t��nətli/ adverb switchingfrom one to the otheralternating currentalternating current /�ɔ�ltənetŋ�k�rənt/ noun an electrical current whosevalue varies with time in a regular sinusoidalway, changing direction of flow each half cy-cle. Abbr AC

COMMENT: The mains electricity supplyuses alternating current to minimise trans-mission power loss, with a frequency of 50Hz in the UK, 60 Hz in the USA.

alternative

alternative /ɔ�l|�t��nətv/ noun somethingwhich can be done instead of something else� What is the alternative to re-keying all thedata? � adjective other or which can take theplace of somethingalternator

alternator /�ɔ�ltə|�netə/ noun a devicewhich produces an alternating currentAlt keyAlt key /�ɔ�lt ki�/ noun a special key on aPC’s keyboard used to activate special func-tions in an application � Press Alt and P atthe same time to print your document.

COMMENT: The Alt key has become thestandard method of activating a menu barin any software running on a PC. For ex-ample, Alt-F normally displays the Filemenu of a program, Alt-X normally exits theprogram.

ALUALU /�e el �ju�/ noun a section of the CPUthat performs all arithmetic and logical func-tions. Full form arithmetic logic unit. Alsocalled arithmetic unit. � CPUalways on

always on /�ɔ�lwez ɒn/ adjective refer-ring to a feature of high-speed broadbandcommunications devices such as cable mo-dems and ADSL that link your computer tothe Internet whereby your computer appearsto be permanently connected to the net andyou do not need to dial up a special numberAMAM abbr amplitude modulationA-MACA-MAC /�e �em e �si�/ noun a low band-width variation of MACambientambient /��mbiənt/ adjective referring tonormal background conditions

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ambiguous 10ambiguousambiguous /�m |�b"juəs/ adjectivewhich has two or more possible meaningsambisonicsambisonics /��mbi |�sɒnks/ noun theprocess of recording more than one audiosignal to give the effect of being surroundedby soundAMDAMD a company that develops and producesprocessor components including a range ofprocessors that are compatible with Intelprocessors and are used in many PCs. Fullform Advanced Micro DevicesAmerican National Standards InstituteAmerican National Standards Insti-tute /ə|�merkən �n�ʃ(ə)nəl �st�ndədz�nsttju�t/ noun full form of ANSIAmerican Standard Code for Information InterchangeAmerican Standard Code for Infor-mation Interchange /ə |�merkən�st�ndəd kəυd fər �nfəmeʃ(ə)n�ntətʃend'/ noun full form of ASCIIAmerican Standards AssociationAmerican Standards Association /ə|

�merkən �st�ndədz ə|�səυsieʃ(ə)n/ nounan organisation that sets standards for thelight sensitivity of photographic film emul-sion – e.g., 100 ASA. The film is numberedin accordance to it’s sensitivity to light; thehigher the number, the higher the film’s sen-sitivity. Abbr ASAAmerica OnlineAmerica Online /ə|�merkə �ɒnlan/ acompany that is the largest Internet serviceprovider in the world. Abbr AOLAMMAMM noun a multimeter that uses a graduat-ed scale and a moving needle as a readout forvoltage, current and impedance levels. Fullform analog multimeter. Compare DMMamountamount /ə|�maυnt/ noun the quantity ofdata or paper, etc. � What is the largestamount of data which can be processed inone hour?ampamp /�mp/ noun same as ampere (NOTE:used with figures: a 13-amp fuse)ampereampere /��mpeə/ noun the base SI unit ofelectrical current, defined as the current flow-ing through an impedance of one ohm whichhas a voltage of one volt across it. Abbr Aampersandampersand /��mpə|�s�nd/ noun a print-ing sign (&) which means ‘and’amplificationamplification /��mplf |�keʃ(ə)n/ nounthe output-to-input signal strength ratio � In-crease the amplification of the input signal.amplifieramplifier /��mpl|�faə/ noun an electroniccircuit that magnifies the power of a signalamplifyamplify /��mpl|�fa/ verb to magnify a sig-nal power or amplitude � The received signalneeds to be amplified before it can be proc-essed. (NOTE: amplifies – amplifying – am-plified)amplitudeamplitude /��mpl|�tju�d/ noun thestrength or size of a signalamplitude modulationamplitude modulation /��mpltju�dmɒdju|�leʃ(ə)n/ noun a method of carrying

data by varying the size of a carrier signal offixed frequency according to the dataanaloganalog /��nəlɒ"/, analogue /��n(ə)lɒ"/noun the representation and measurement ofnumerical data by continuously variablephysical quantities, as for the size of electri-cal voltages. Compare digitalanalog displayanalog display /��nəlɒ" d|�sple/ noun adisplay or monitor that can display an infiniterange of colours or shades of grey, unlike adigital display that can only display a finiterange of colours. VGA monitors are a formof analog display.analog multimeteranalog multimeter /��nəlɒ"�m�litmi�tə/ noun a piece of testing equip-ment which uses a moving needle to indicatevoltage, current or impedance levels. AbbrAMManalog to digitalanalog to digital /��nəlɒ" tə �dd't(ə)l/adjective referring to changing a signal froman analog form to a digitally coded form.Abbr A/D, A to Danalog to digital converteranalog to digital converter /��nəlɒ"tə �dd't(ə)l kən|�v��tə/ noun full form ofADCanalyseanalyse /��nəlaz/, analyze verb to exam-ine in detail � to analyse a computer printoutanalyseranalyser /��nəlazə/ noun a piece of elec-tronic test equipment that displays variousfeatures of a signal (NOTE: The US spelling isanalyzer.)analysisanalysis /ə|�n�ləss/ noun a detailed ex-amination and report � market analysisanalystanalyst /��nəlst/ noun a person who car-ries out an analysis of a problemanalytical engineanalytical engine /��nəltk(ə)l�end'n/ noun a mechanical calculating ma-chine developed by Charles Babbage in 1833that is generally considered the first general-purpose digital computeranamorphicanamorphic /��nə|�mɔ�fk/ adjective re-ferring to an image that has unequal verticaland horizontal scaling, making it appearsquashed or taller than the originalanamorphic imageanamorphic image /��nə|�mɔ�fk�md'/ noun an image which has been dis-torted in one directionanamorphic lensanamorphic lens /��nə|�mɔ�fk lenz/noun a motion picture camera lens which al-lows a wide picture to be compressed on tostandard film. When in a projector, it lets theimage expand to fill a wide screen. (film)ANAPROPANAPROP /��nəprɒp/ abbr anomalouspropagation � noun distortion of transmittedtelevision signals due to atmospheric condi-tionsanastigmaticanastigmatic /��nəst"|�m�tk/ noun alens or optical device that has been correctedfor astigmatism

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11 anomalistic periodancestral fileancestral file /�n|�sestrəl �fal/ noun asystem of backing up files based on a son tofather to grandfather file, where the son is thecurrent working fileanchoranchor /��ŋkə/ noun the main presenter ofa television programme who sets the styleand tone of the show (film)anchor cellanchor cell /��ŋkə sel/ noun a cell in aspreadsheet program that defines the start ofa range of cellsancillary equipmentancillary equipment /�n|�sləri |

�kwpmənt/ noun equipment which is usedto make a task easier but which is not abso-lutely necessaryANDAND /�nd/ noun an operator, often used insearches, that matches text that contains bothsearch words. Compare OR (NOTE: For ex-ample searching for ‘cat AND dog’ finds allentries that contain both the words ‘cat’ and‘dog’)AND circuitAND circuit /��nd �s��kt/, AND element/��nd �elmənt/ noun same as AND gateAND functionAND function /��nd �f�ŋkʃən/ noun alogical function whose output is true if bothits inputs are true. Also called coincidencefunction

COMMENT: If both inputs are 1, results of theAND will be 1. If one of the input digits is 0,then AND will produce a 0.

AND gateAND gate /��nd "et/ noun electronic gatethat performs a logical AND function onelectrical signals. Also called AND circuit,AND element. Compare coincidence gateAND operationAND operation /��nd �ɒpəreʃ(ə)n/noun the processing of two or more input sig-nals, outputting their AND functionanechoicanechoic /��nek|�əυk/ adjective (room)that produces no echoes, used for testing au-dio equipmentanechoic chamberanechoic chamber /��nekəυk�tʃembə/ noun a perfectly quiet room inwhich sound or radio waves do not reflect offthe wallsANGANG abbr Anglia Television (film)angleangle /��ŋ"əl/ noun a measure of thechange in direction, usually as the distanceturned from a reference lineangled lineangled line /��ŋ"ləd �lan/ noun a linewith three or more points, e.g. a zig-zagAnglia TelevisionAnglia Television /��ŋ"liə �telv'(ə)n/noun an independent commercial TV com-pany based in Norwich and serving the sur-rounding east coast areasangstromangstrom /��ŋstrɒm/ noun a unit ofmeasurement equal to one thousand mil-lionth of a metreANIANI /�e en �a/ noun a telephone systemwhich displays the telephone number of thecaller. Full form automatic number identi-fication

animateanimate /��nmet/ verb to make a seriesof drawings which, when filmed, will createmoving imagesanimated GIFanimated GIF /��n |�metd �d'i� a �ef/noun a simple animation effect created bysaving several small graphic images withinone file so that they can be repeatedly dis-played in sequence giving an impression ofanimation. It is often used to create animatedbuttons or other effects on a webpage. �transparent GIFanimated graphicsanimated graphics /��nmetd�"r�fks/ plural noun images that move onthe screenanimaticanimatic /��n|�m�tk/ noun a successionof drawings describing the story of a film, ad-vertisement, animation or multimedia pro-duction before filming begins (film) � storyboardanimationanimation /��n |�meʃ(ə)n/ noun 1. thecreation of the illusion of movement by dis-playing a series of slightly different imageson screen very rapidly to give the effect ofsmooth movement. Also called computeranimation 2. the process of filming puppetsor still drawings in sequence in order to givethe appearance of movement 3. the processof drawing images on film, especially using acomputer to create moving graphical images,such as cartoonsANNANN noun a voice over or a person on cam-era who gives information during a broadcastor who introduces and closes a radio or TVprogramme (film) Full form announcerannotationannotation /��nə|�teʃ(ə)n/ noun a com-ment or note in a program which explainshow the program is to be usedannounceannounce /ə|�naυns/ verb to publicise anew or updated website by registering the do-main name with the main search engines;(NOTE: announces – announcing – an-nounced)

COMMENT: Each search engine allows aperson to add a new website and enter adescription and category. Because thereare now several hundred search engines,special software utilities are available toautomatically register the website witheach engine.

announcerannouncer /ə|�naυnsə/ noun full form ofANNannunciatorannunciator /ə|�n�nsietə/ noun a signalwhich can be heard or seen in order to attractattentionanodeanode /��nəυd/ noun a positive electricalterminal of a deviceanomalistic periodanomalistic period /ə|�nɒməlstk�pəriəd/ noun the time taken for a satelliteto travel between consecutive maximumpoints in its orbit

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anomalous propagation 12anomalous propagationanomalous propagation /ə |�nɒmələs�prɒpə|�"eʃ(ə)n/ noun distortion of trans-mitted television signals due to atmosphericconditionsanonymiseranonymiser /ə |�nɒnmazə/, anonymizernoun a website that allows a person tobrowse the World Wide Web without leavingany traces of his or her identityanonymous FTPanonymous FTP /ə|�nɒnməs ef ti� �pi�/noun a method commonly used on the Inter-net that allows a user to connect to a remotecomputer using the FTP protocol and log inas a guest to download publicly accessiblefiles. � FTP (NOTE: If you are using the FTPprotocol to connect to a remote computerand you are asked for a login name andpassword, you can normally gain access tothe remote computer’s public areas by en-tering ‘anonymous’ as the login user nameand your full email address as the pass-word.)ANSIANSI /��nsi/ US a US organisation whichspecifies computer and software standards,including those of high-level programminglanguages. Full form American NationalStandards InstituteANSI screen controlANSI screen control /��nsi �skri�n kən|

�trəυl/ noun a set of standard codes devel-oped by ANSI that control how colours andsimple graphics are displayed on a computerscreenansweranswer /�ɑ�nsə/ noun a reply or solution toa question � verb 1. to reply or provide thesolution to a question 2. to reply to a signaland set up a communications link � The firstmodem originates the call and the second an-swers it.answerphoneanswerphone /�ɑ�nsəfəυn/ noun a cas-sette recorder attached to a telephone, whichplays a prerecorded message and recordsmessages from people dialling the numberanswer printanswer print /�ɑ�nsə prnt/ noun the ini-tial composite or graded print (copy) from anedited negative colour film which includessound, music, titles (film)antennaantenna /�n|�tenə/ noun an aerial or de-vice for receiving or sending radio transmis-sions by converting electromagnetic impuls-es into electrical signals and vice-versaantenna arrayantenna array /�n |�tenə ə |�re/ noun a se-ries of small transmitting or receiving ele-ments connected in parallel, that make up acomplex antennaantenna gainantenna gain /�n|�tenə "en/ noun the in-crease in transmitted signal power due to us-ing a certain type of antennaanthropomorphic softwareanthropomorphic software/��nθrəpəmɔ�fk �sɒftweə/ noun artificialintelligence software that appears to react towhat a user says

anti-anti- /�nti/ prefix againstanti-aliasinganti-aliasing /��nti �eliəsŋ/ noun 1. amethod of reducing the effects of jagged edg-es in graphics by using shades of grey toblend in along edges. Also called dejagging2. a method of adding sound signals betweenthe sound samples to create a smoother soundanti-virus programanti-virus program /��nti �varəs�prəυ"r�m/ noun a software program thatlooks for virus software on a computer anddestroys it before it can damage data or filesanti-virus softwareanti-virus software /��nti �varəs�sɒftweə/ noun software that removes a vi-rus from a fileAOLAOL abbr America OnlineAPAAPA abbr all points addressableAPA modeAPA mode /�e pi� �e �məυd/ noun sameas all points addressable modeAPCAPC abbr asynchronous procedure callAPDAPD abbr avalanche photodiodeapertureaperture /��pətʃə/ noun 1. a lens dia-phragm that allows the amount of light thatreaches the film to be regulated according tothe user’s wishes 2. an opening in a devicethat allows a certain amount of light or a sig-nal to pass through itaperture illuminationaperture illumination /��pətʃə |�lu�m|

�neʃ(ə)n/ noun a pattern generated from anaperture antennaAPIAPI /�e pi� �a/ noun a set of standard pro-gram functions and commands that allow anyprogrammer to interface a program with an-other application � If I follow the publishedAPI for this system, my program will workproperly. Full form application program-ming interfaceAPLAPL /�e pi� �el/ noun a high-level program-ming language used in scientific and mathe-matical work. Full form A programminglanguageAPMAPM /�e pi� �em/ noun a specification thatallows an operating system such as olderWindows to control the power managementfeatures of a computer. Full form advancedpower management (NOTE: This standardhas been replaced by the ACPI standard inWindows 98 and Windows NT 5.0.)apochromatic lensapochromatic lens /��pəυkrəm�tk�lenz/ noun an optical lens that has been cor-rected for chromatic aberrationapogeeapogee /��pəd'i/ noun the point in a satel-lite’s orbit where it is at its maximum dis-tance from the earthapostropheapostrophe /ə|�pɒstrəfi/ noun a printingsign (’), which generally indicates that a let-ter is missing or used in (’s), to indicate pos-session (NOTE: computer’s can mean ‘be-longing to a computer’ or ‘the computer is’:The computer’s casing is blue; The compu-

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13 application iconter’s broken and has to be repaired. Notethat this is different from it’s = ‘it is’ as op-posed to its = ‘belonging to it’: It’s easy toprogram; You cannot edit a disk when itswrite protect tag is closed.)APPC

APPC /�e pi� pi� �si�/ noun a set of proto-cols developed by IBM that allows peer-to-peer communication between workstationsconnected to an SNA network. Full form ad-vanced program to program communi-cations. � LUappend

append /ə|�pend/ verb 1. to add data to anexisting file or record � If you enter the DOScommand COPY A+B, the file B will be ap-pended to the end of file A. 2. to add a file ordata to the end of an existing fileappendix

appendix /ə|�pendks/ noun a section atthe back of a book, containing additional in-formation � For further details see the ap-pendices. (NOTE: The plural is appendices.)Apple Computer Corporation

Apple Computer Corporation/��p(ə)l kəm |�pju�tə �kɔ�pəreʃ(ə)n/ a com-pany, formed in 1975, that has developed arange of personal computers including theApple II, Apple Lisa and, more recently, theApple Mac

‘Apple Computer has fleshed out details of a mi-gration path to the PowerPC RISC architecturefor its 7 million Apple Macintosh users. Develop-ments in the pipeline include PowerPC versionsof the AppleTalk Remote Access networkingprotocol.’ [Computing]

Apple Desktop Bus

Apple Desktop Bus /��p(ə)l �desktɒp�b�s/ a trade name for a serial bus built intoApple Macs that allows low-speed devices,e.g. the keyboard and mouse, to communi-cate with the processorApple file exchange

Apple file exchange /��p(ə)l �fal ks |

�tʃend'/ a trade name for a software pro-gram that runs on an Apple Mac allowing itto read disks from a PCApple filing protocol

Apple filing protocol /��p(ə)l �falŋ�prəυtəkɒl/ a trade name for a protocol usedto communicate between workstations andservers in a network of Apple Macintoshcomputers. Abbr AFPApple Key

Apple Key /��p(ə)l ki�/ a trade name for aspecial key on the keyboard of an Apple Macthat, when pressed with another key, providesa short-cut to a menu selectionApple Mac

Apple Mac /��p(ə)l m�k/, Apple Macin-tosh computer /��p(ə)l �m�kntɒʃ kəm |

�pju�tə/ a trade name for any of a range ofpersonal computers developed by AppleComputer Corporation that has a graphicaluser interface and uses the 68000 family ofprocessorsAppleScript

AppleScript /��p(ə)lskrpt/ a trade namefor a script language built into the operation

system of an Apple Mac that allows a user toautomate simple tasksAppleshareAppleshare /��p(ə)lʃeə/ a trade name forsoftware that allows Apple Macs to sharefiles and printers using a file serverappletapplet /��plət/ noun 1. a small utility with-in Microsoft Windows, originally any of theicons in the Control Panel window, but nowany piece of software that is used to config-ure the computer � There are applets to helpformat your disk and configure your key-board. 2. a small applications on the Internetdesigned to enhance the functionality of awebpage. � ActiveX, Java, VBScript (NOTE:For example if you want to add multimediaeffects to your webpage, you cannot carryout these functions with standard HTMLcommands, but you could write a small Ac-tiveX program, called an applet, that is au-tomatically downloaded by the user’sbrowser and run on the user’s computer.)AppleTalk™AppleTalk™ /��p(ə)ltɑ�k/ a trade namefor a communications protocol developed bythe Apple Computer Corporation that carriesdata over network hardware between two ormore Apple Macs and peripherals (NOTE: Ap-pleTalk is similar to the seven-layer OSI pro-tocol model. It can link up to 32 devices,uses a CSMA-CA design, and transmitsdata at 230Kbps.)AppleTalk Filing ProtocolAppleTalk Filing Protocol /��p(ə)ltɑ�k�falŋ �prəυtəkɒl/ full form of AFPapplianceappliance /ə|�plaəns/ noun a machine, es-pecially one used in the home � All electricalappliances should be properly earthed.appliance computerappliance computer /ə|�plaəns kəm |

�pju�tə/ noun a ready-to-run computer sys-tem that can be bought in a shop, taken homeand used immediately for a particular pur-pose. � turnkey systemapplicantapplicant /��plkənt/ noun a person whoapplies for something � applicant for a jobor job applicant � There were thousands ofapplicants for shares in the new company.applicationapplication /��pl|�keʃ(ə)n/ noun 1. ask-ing for something, usually in writing � appli-cation for an account on the system 2. a taskwhich a computer performs or a problemwhich a computer solves

‘How do users interact with a computer system?Via a terminal or PC. So what application layerOSI protocol do we need first? The Virtual Ter-minal. And what do we get? File Transfer Accessand Maintenance.’ [Computing]

application configuration access protocolapplication configuration accessprotocol /��plkeʃ(ə)n kən|

�f"jυreʃ(ə)n ��kses �prəυtəkɒl/ noun fullform of ACAPapplication iconapplication icon /��pl|�keʃ(ə)n �akɒn/noun a small image or graphical symbol that

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application package 14represents an application program in a graph-ical user interfaceapplication packageapplication package /��pl|�keʃ(ə)n�p�kd'/ noun a set of computer programsand manuals that cover all aspects of a partic-ular task, e.g. payroll, stock control or tax.Also called applications packageapplication programapplication program /��pl|�keʃ(ə)n�prəυ"r�m/ noun a piece of applicationsoftware � The multi-window editor is usedto create and edit applications programs.application programming interfaceapplication programming interface/��plkeʃ(ə)n �prəυ"r�mŋ �ntəfes/noun full form of API � If I follow the pub-lished API for this system, my program willwork properly.application service providerapplication service provider/��plkeʃ(ə)n �s��vs prə|�vadə/ noun aspecialist company that installs, configuresand manages software on its own server andthen allows any business to use the softwarevia the Internet or a private network. AbbrASP (NOTE: The user does not realise thatthe software is located on a distant server,and the business does not need to buy orsupport the software, just rent it.)application softwareapplication software /��plkeʃ(ə)n�sɒftweə/ noun software designed to makethe computer do what is required and per-form particular tasks � The multi-window ed-itor is used to create and edit applicationsprograms. Also called applications soft-wareapplications packageapplications package /��pl|�keʃ(ə)nz�p�kd'/ noun same as application pack-ageapplication specific integrated circuitsapplication specific integrated cir-cuits /��plkeʃ(ə)n spə|�sfk �nt"retd�s��kts/ noun full form of ASICapplications softwareapplications software /��pl|�keʃ(ə)nz�sɒftweə/ noun same as application soft-wareapplyapply /ə|�pla/ verb 1. to ask for something,usually in writing 2. to affect or to touch �This formula applies only to data received af-ter the interrupt signal.APPNAPPN /�e pi� pi� �en/ noun an extension tothe IBM SNA protocol that allows worksta-tions to share information on a peer-to-peerbasis without the need for a central main-frame. Full form advanced peer-to-peernetworking (NOTE: It is often used to routeinformation around a network and dynami-cally adjusts the route if part of the networkis damaged.)appointappoint /ə|�pɔnt/ verb to choose someonefor a job � to appoint James Smith (to thepost of) manager � We have appointed a newcomputer services manager. (NOTE: you ap-point a person to a job)

appointeeappointee /əpɔn|�ti�/ noun a person whois appointed to a jobappointmentappointment /ə|�pɔntmənt/ noun 1. anarrangement to meet � appointments bookdesk diary in which appointments are noted2. being appointed to a job � on his appoint-ment as manager when he was made man-ager � letter of appointment letter in whichsomeone is appointed to a job 3. a job � staffappointment job on the staff � computerappointments vacant list (in a newspaper)of jobs which are available in the computerindustryapprovalapproval /ə|�pru�v(ə)l/ noun an agreementthat something can be used � A BABT ap-proval is needed for modems.approveapprove /ə|�pru�v/ verb to agree to some-thing � to approve the terms of a contractapproximateapproximate /ə |�prɒksmət/ adjective notexact, but almost correct � We have made anapproximate calculation of the time neededfor keyboarding.approximatelyapproximately /ə|�prɒksmətli/ adverbalmost correctly � Processing time is ap-proximately 10% lower than during the pre-vious quarter.approximatingapproximating /ə |�prɒksmetŋ/ adjec-tive which is nearly correctapproximationapproximation /ə|�prɒks|�meʃ(ə)n/noun a rough calculation � approximation ofkeyboarding timeA programming languageA programming language /�e�prəυ"r�mŋ �l�ŋ"wd'/ noun full form ofAPLAPTAPT /�e pi� �ti�/ noun a programming lan-guage used to control numerically controlledmachines. Full form automatically pro-grammed toolsarbitratorarbitrator /�ɑ�btretə/ noun software thatis responsible for allocating resources to de-vices, often used to manage the way Plug andPlay adapters use other resources in a compu-terarcade gamearcade game /ɑ�|�ked "em/ noun an ad-venture game played on a machine in a publicplacearchetypearchetype /�ɑ�ktap/ noun a document orbook that illustrates the styles of a particulartime and subjectArchieArchie /�ɑ�tʃi�/ noun a system of servers onthe Internet that catalogue the public filesavailable on the InternetArchimedesArchimedes /�ɑ�k|�mi�di�z/ noun a per-sonal computer developed by Acorn Com-puters; the Archimedes is based around aRISC central processor and is not compatiblewith either the IBM PC or Apple Macintosharchitecturearchitecture /�ɑ�ktektʃə/ noun the lay-out and interconnection of a computer’s in-

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15 ascenderternal hardware and the logical relationshipsbetween CPU, memory and I/O devices

‘Software giant Microsoft is also interested in us-ing Xerox’ Glyph technology as part of its Micro-soft At Work architecture that seeks to unite of-fice computers with fax machines and copiers.’[Computing]

archival qualityarchival quality /�ɑ�kav(ə)l �kwɒləti/noun the length of time that a copy can bestored before it becomes illegiblearchivearchive /�ɑ�kav/ noun storage of data overa long period � verb to put data in storage(NOTE: archives – archiving – archived)archived copyarchived copy /�ɑ�kavd �kɒpi/ noun acopy kept in storagearchive filearchive file /�ɑ�kav fal/ noun a file con-taining data which is out of date but which iskept for future referencearchive storagearchive storage /�ɑ�kav �stɔ�rd'/ nounstorage of data for a long period of timeareaarea /�eəriə/ noun 1. a measurement of thespace taken up by something. calculated bymultiplying the length by the width. � Thearea of this office is 3,400 square feet. 2. asection of memory or code that is reservedfor a certain purposearea fillarea fill /�eəriə fl/ noun (in graphics) aninstruction to fill an area of the screen or anenclosed pattern with a colour or patternarea managerarea manager /�eəriə �m�nd'ə/ noun amanager who deals with a certain part of thecountryargarg /ɑ�"/ noun same as argumentargueargue /�ɑ�"ju�/ verb to discuss somethingabout which you do not agree � They arguedover or about the design of the cover. (NOTE:you argue with someone about or oversomething)argumentargument /�ɑ�"jυmənt/ noun 1. the proc-ess of discussing something without agreeing� They got into an argument with the cus-toms officials over the documents. 2. a varia-ble acted upon by an operator or function �If you enter the words ‘MULTIPLY A, B’, theprocessor will recognise the operator, MUL-TIPLY, and use it with the two arguments, Aand B. � operand. Abbr argarithmeticarithmetic /ə|�rθmətk/ noun a scienceconcerned with mathematical functions suchas addition, subtraction, division and multi-plicationarithmetic logic unitarithmetic logic unit /��rθmetk�lɒd'k �ju�nt/ noun full form of ALUarithmetic unitarithmetic unit /��rθmetk �ju�nt/noun same as ALUARPARP /�e ɑ� �pi�/ noun a protocol within theTCP/IP standard that is used to determinewhether the source and destination address ina packet are in the data-link control or Inter-net protocol format. Full form address res-

olution protocol (NOTE: Once the format ofthe address is known, the packet can becorrectly routed over a network.)ARPANETARPANET /�ɑ�pənet/ noun the originalnetwork of interconnected computers, linkedby leased lines, that formed the first proto-type for the current Internet. It was developedby the US Department of Defense. Full formAdvanced Research Projects AgencyNetworkARQARQ /�e ɑ� �kju�/ noun an error correctionsystem, used in some modems, which asksfor data to be re-transmitted if it contains er-rors. Full form automatic repeat requestarrayarray /ə|�re/ noun an ordered structure con-taining individually accessible elements ref-erenced by numbers, used to store tables orsets of related dataarray processorarray processor /ə|�re �prəυsesə/ nouna computer that can act upon several arrays ofdata simultaneously, for very fast mathemat-ical applications � The array processor al-lows the array that contains the screen imageto be rotated with one simple command.arrow keyarrow key /��rəυ ki�/ noun each of a set offour keys on a keyboard that move the cursoror pointer around the screen, controllingmovement up, down, left and rightarrow pointerarrow pointer /��rəυ �pɔntə/ noun asmall arrow on-screen that you can move us-ing the mouseart fileart file /�ɑ�t fal/ noun a digital picture storewhich has extra graphic and painting facili-ties (film)articlearticle /�ɑ�tk(ə)l/ noun 1. one message ina newsgroup 2. a section of a newspaper ormagazine � He wrote an article about theuser group for the local newspaper. 3. a sec-tion of an agreement � See article 8 of thecontract.artifactsartifacts /�ɑ�tf�kts/ plural noun verysmall errors in a digital version of an analogsignalartificial intelligenceartificial intelligence /�ɑ�tfʃ(ə)l n|

�teld'(ə)ns/ noun full form of AIartificial neural networkartificial neural network /�ɑ�tfʃ(ə)l�njυərəl �netw��k/ noun a system forprocessing information that is made up of in-terconnected elements that behave in a simi-lar way to the neurons in the human nervoussystem and have the ability to learn throughexperienceartworkartwork /�ɑ�t|�w��k/ noun graphical workor imagesASAASA abbr American Standards Association(film)ascendascend /ə|�send/ verb to increaseascenderascender /ə|�sendə/ noun a part of a char-acter that rises above the main line of printedcharacters, e.g. the upward line of a ‘b’ or ‘d’

ICT.fm Page 15 Wednesday, July 14, 2004 2:53 PM

ASCII 16ASCIIASCII /��ski�/ noun a code which repre-sents alphanumeric characters in binarycode. Full form American Standard Codefor Information InterchangeASCII characterASCII character /��ski �k�rktə/ noun acharacter which is in the ASCII list of codesASCII fileASCII file /��ski fal/ noun a stored filecontaining only ASCII coded character data� Use a word processor or other programthat generates a standard ASCII file.ASCII textASCII text /��ski tekst/ noun the set ofletter and number characters with an ASCIIcode between 0 and 127ASFASF /�e es �ef/ noun a multimedia deliveryformat developed by Microsoft for deliveryover the Internet and used in its NetShowproduct. Full form active streaming formatASICASIC /�e es a �si�/ plural noun speciallydesigned ICs for one particular function or tospecial specifications. Full form applicationspecific integrated circuitsASPASP abbr 1. Active Server Page 2. applica-tion service provideraspectaspect /��spekt/ noun the way in whichsomething appearsaspect ratioaspect ratio /��spekt �reʃiəυ/ noun theratio of the width to the height of pixel shapesASRASR /�e es �ɑ�/ noun a device or terminalthat can transmit and receive information.Full form automatic send/receive. Com-pare KSR

COMMENT: An ASR terminal can input infor-mation via a keyboard or via a tape cas-sette or paper tape. It can receive informa-tion and store it in internal memory or ontape.

assembleassemble /ə|�semb(ə)l/ verb 1. to put ahardware or software product together fromvarious smaller parts � The parts for the diskdrive are made in Japan and assembled inFrance. (NOTE: assembles – assembling –assembled) 2. to translate assembly codeinto machine code � There is a short waitduring which time the program is assembledinto object code.assemble editassemble edit /ə |�semb(ə)l �edt/ verbadding new images, sounds, control tracks ortimecodes to previous material on a video-tape when in the process of editing (film)assemblerassembler /ə|�semblə/ noun a programwhich converts a program written in assem-bly language into machine code. Also calledassembler programassembler programassembler program /ə |�semblə�prəυ"r�m/ noun same as assemblerassemblyassembly /ə|�sembli/ noun 1. the processof putting an item together from various parts� There are no assembly instructions to showyou how to put the computer together. 2. the

process of converting a program into ma-chine codeassertionassertion /ə|�s��ʃ(ə)n/ noun a programstatement of a fact or ruleassetsassets /��sets/ plural noun separate dataelements such as video, audio and image thatare used in a multimedia applicationassignassign /ə|�san/ verb 1. to give a computeror person something to do � He was assignedthe job of checking the sales figures. 2. to seta variable equal to a string of characters ornumbers 3. to keep part of a computer systemfor use while a program is runningassigned numbersassigned numbers /ə|�sand �n�mbəz/plural noun unique numbers that are each as-signed to an Internet or network manufactur-er’s device, protocol or other resource (NOTE:Manufacturers apply for a unique IDnumber from the IANA organisation.)assignmentassignment /ə|�sanmənt/ noun 1. a par-ticular job of work 2. the process of setting avariable equal to a value or string or character3. the transfer of a property or of a right � as-signment of a copyrightassignorassignor /��sa |�nɔ�/ noun a person whoassigns something to someoneassistassist /ə|�sst/ verb to help � Can you assistthe stock controller in counting the stock? �He assists me with my income tax returns.(NOTE: you assist someone in doing some-thing or with something)assistant cameramanassistant cameraman /ə|�sst(ə)nt�k�m(ə)rəm�n/ noun the person who car-ries out camera operations under the instruc-tion of the director of photographyassistant directorassistant director /ə|�sst(ə)nt da|

�rektə/ noun the person who carries out thedirector’s instructions, oversees the work andwhereabouts of the actors, technicians andrest of crew and works in close contact withthe production unit. Also called associatedirectorassociateassociate /ə |�səυsiət/ adjective linked �noun a person who works in the same busi-ness as someone � She is a business associ-ate of mine.associated documentassociated document /ə|�səυsietd�dɒkjυmənt/, associated file /fal/ noun adocument or file that is linked to its originat-ing application (NOTE: When you select thefile, the operating system automaticallystarts the originating application.)associate directorassociate director /ə|�səυsiət da |�rektə/noun same as assistant directorassociate producerassociate producer /ə |�səυsiət prə|

�dju�sə/ noun a personal assistant to the pro-ducer who is likely to have a particular un-derstanding of the subject of the film or pro-gramme being made (film)

ICT.fm Page 16 Wednesday, July 14, 2004 2:53 PM

17 A to Dassociational editingassociational editing /ə|�səυsieʃ(ə)nəl�edtŋ/ noun a way of editing a film or videoso as to present together scenes which aresimilar to othersassociative addressingassociative addressing /ə|�səυsiətv ə|

�dresŋ/ noun the identification of a locationby its contents rather than its address. Alsocalled content-addressable addressingassociative processorassociative processor /ə|�səυsiətv�prəυsesə/ noun a processor that uses asso-ciative memoryASTAST noun a system which permits broadcastquality videotape pictures to be broadcast atdifferent speeds or frame rates (film) Fullform automatic scan trackingastable multivibratorastable multivibrator /�esteb(ə)l�m�ltivabretə/ noun an electronic currentthat repeatedly switches an output betweentwo voltage levelsasteriskasterisk /��stərsk/ noun a graphical sym-bol (*) used in programming as a sign formultiplicationastigmatismastigmatism /ə|�st"mətz(ə)m/ noun acamera lens defect which causes focal prob-lems such as out-of-focus or blurred images(film)Asymetrix™Asymetrix™ /�es|�metrks/ noun a soft-ware company that publishes the ToolBookmultimedia authoring software packageasymmetric compressionasymmetric compression /��s |

�metrk kəm |�preʃ(ə)n/ noun a method ofreducing the space taken by dataAsymmetric Digital Subscriber LineAsymmetric Digital Subscriber Line/��s |�metrk �dd't(ə)l səb|�skrabə �lan/noun full form of ADSLasymmetric systemasymmetric system /��s|�metrk�sstəm/ noun a system that requires moreequipment to compress the data than to de-compress itasymmetric transmissionasymmetric transmission /es |

�metrk tr�nz|�mʃ(ə)n/ noun a method ofdata transmission which has two differentspeeds for data received by the computer anddata transmitted by the computerasymmetric video compressionasymmetric video compression /es |

�metrk �vdiəυ kəm|�preʃ(ə)n/ noun theuse of a powerful computer to compress vid-eo, allowing it to be played back on a lesspowerful computerasyncasync /e |�sŋk/ adjective same as asyn-chronous (informal)asynchronousasynchronous /ə|�sŋkrənəs/ adjectivereferring to serial data or equipment whichdoes not depend on being synchronised withanother piece of equipmentasynchronous cacheasynchronous cache /e|�sŋkrənəs�k�ʃ/ noun a type of cache memory that pro-vides the slowest performance and uses atype of SDRAM that is cheap but slow

asynchronous communicationasynchronous communication /e|

�sŋkrənəs kə|�mju�n|�keʃ(ə)n/ noun datatransmission between devices that is not syn-chronised to a clock, but is transmitted whenreadyasynchronous procedure callasynchronous procedure call /e|

�sŋkrənəs prə |�si�d'ə �kɔ�l/ noun a pro-gram function that runs separately from themain program and will execute when a par-ticular set of conditions exist. Abbr APCasynchronous soundasynchronous sound /e|�sŋkrənəs�saυnd/ noun sound which is not synchro-nised to each particular frame but is related tothe general action (film)asynchronous transfer modeasynchronous transfer mode /e|

�sŋkrənəs �tr�nsf�� �məυd/ noun fullform of ATMasynchronous transmissionasynchronous transmission /e|

�sŋkrənəs tr�nz|�mʃ(ə)n/ noun data trans-mission that uses handshaking signals ratherthan clock signals to synchronise data pulsesATAT /�e �ti�/ noun a trade name for a standardof PC originally developed by IBM that usesa 16-bit 80286 processor

COMMENT: AT originally meant IBM’s Ad-vanced Technology personal computer,but is now used to describe any IBM PCcompatible that uses a 16-bit processor.

ATAATA /�e ti� �e/ noun hard disk drive tech-nology in which the controller is part of thedisk drive rather than being part of the maincomputer or located on the motherboard. Fullform advanced technology attachment.Also called AT attachmentATDATD /�e ti� �di�/ noun a standard commandfor compatible modems used to dial a tele-phone number; defined by Hayes Corpora-tion. Full form attention, dialATMATM1 /�e ti� �em/ abbr Adobe Type Manag-erATMATM2 /�e ti� �em/ noun 1. method of trans-ferring data very rapidly, at up to 155 Mbps,across an ISDN link or network 2. a CCITTand ANSI standard defining cell relay trans-mission � full form asynchronous trans-fer modeATMATM3 /�e ti� �em/ noun electronic machinein a bank that dispenses cash when you inserta magnetic card. Full form automated tellermachineatmosphereatmosphere /��tməs|�fə/ noun a gaswhich surrounds the earthatmospheric interferenceatmospheric interference /��tməs|

�ferk �ntə|�fərəns/ noun electrical distur-bances in the earth’s atmosphere which causehissing and crackling sounds on radio or TVchannelsA to DA to D /�e tə �di�/ adjective same as analogto digital

ICT.fm Page 17 Wednesday, July 14, 2004 2:53 PM

atom 18atomatom /��təm/ noun the smallest particle ofan element that has the same properties as theelementatomicatomic /ə|�tɒmk/ adjective referring to at-omsATSCATSC /�e ti� es �si�/ noun a committee thatdefines the SDTV and HDTV standards foruse in the USA. Full form Advanced Televi-sion Systems Committeeattachattach /ə|�t�tʃ/ verb to connect a node orlogin to a server on a networkattachmentattachment /ə|�t�tʃmənt/ noun 1. a de-vice which is attached to a machine for a spe-cial purpose � There is a special single sheetfeed attachment. 2. a named file which istransferred together with an electronic mailmessage � There is an attachment with mylast mail message – it contains the sales re-port.attackattack /ə|�t�k/ noun the shape of the start ofa sound signal over timeattended operationattended operation /ə|�tendd �ɒpə |

�reʃ(ə)n/ noun a process which has an oper-ator standing by in case of problemsattend toattend to /ə |�tend tu�/ verb to give carefulthought to (something) and deal with it � Themanaging director will attend to your com-plaint himself. � We have brought in expertsto attend to the problem of installing the newcomputer.attention, dialattention, dial /ə|�tenʃən �daəl/ noun fullform of ATDattention codeattention code /ə|�tenʃən kəυd/ noun thetwo characters ‘AT’ that are used to preface acommand to a Hayes-compatible modem(NOTE: For example ‘ATD123’ tells the mo-dem to dial the number ‘123’)attenuateattenuate /ə|�tenjuet/ verb to reduce thestrength or size of peaks (of a signal)attenuationattenuation /ə|�tenju|�eʃ(ə)n/ noun thedifference between transmitted and receivedpower measured in decibels � If the cable istoo long, the signal attenuation will start tocause data errors. Opposite gainattributeattribute /��trbju�t/ noun 1. a piece of in-formation concerning the display or presen-tation of information 2. a set of control datastored with and controlling particular func-tions or aspects of the file in some operatingsystems such as DOS and OS/2 3. a single bitthat defines whether the font has a particularcharacteristic, e.g., whether it is displayed innormal, bold or underlinedaudibleaudible /�ɔ�db(ə)l/ adjective which can beheard � The printer makes an audible signalwhen it runs out of paper.audienceaudience /�ɔ�diəns/ noun people whowatch a TV programme or listen to a radioprogramme

audience ratingaudience rating /�ɔ�diəns �retŋ/ nounthe rating of a programme by calculating thenumber of people who have watched itaudioaudio /�ɔ�diəυ/ adjective referring to soundor to things which can be heardaudio fileaudio file /�ɔ�diəυ fal/ noun a digitalsound sample stored on diskaudio rangeaudio range /�ɔ�diəυ rend'/ noun thefrequency range between 50–20,000 Hz thatcan be detected by a human earaudiotapeaudiotape /�ɔ�diəυtep/ noun tape treatedwith magnetisable metallic oxide in order toallow sound to be recorded (film)audiotexaudiotex /�ɔ�diəυteks/ noun an interactivevoice response over the telephone in which acomputer asks the caller questions and thecaller responds by pressing numbers on histelephoneaudio/video interleavedaudio/video interleaved /�ɔ�diəυ�vdiəυ �ntə|�li�vd/ noun full form of AVIaudio-video support systemaudio-video support system /�ɔ�diəυ�vdiəυ sə|�pɔ�t/ noun full form of AVSSaudiovisualaudiovisual /�ɔ�diəυ �v'uəl/ adjectivewhich uses sound and imagesaudiovisual aidsaudiovisual aids /�ɔ�diəυv'uəl �edz/plural noun equipment used in teaching,which includes both sound and picturesaudiovisual scriptsaudiovisual scripts /�ɔ�diəυv'uəl�eskrpts/ plural noun scripts that indicateand separate live and mechanical sourcesauditaudit /�ɔ�dt/ noun the process of notingtasks carried out by a computer � verb to ex-amine the state of a system and check that itis still secure or working properlyaudit trailaudit trail /�ɔ�dt trel/ noun a record ofdetails of the use made of a system by notingtransactions carried out, used for checking onillegal use or malfunctionaugendaugend /�ɔ�"end/ noun the number towhich another number, the addend, is addedto produce the sumaugmentaugment /ɔ�"|�ment/ verb to increaseaugmenteraugmenter /�ɔ�"|�mentə/ noun a valueadded to anotherAUI connectorAUI connector /�e ju� �a kə|�nektə/noun a D-connector used to connect thickEthernet cable to a network adapterauralaural /�ɔ�rəl/ adjective by earauthenticauthentic /ɔ�|�θentk/ adjective which istrueauthenticateauthenticate /ɔ� |�θent |�ket/ verb to saythat something is true or genuineauthenticationauthentication /ɔ�|�θent|�keʃ(ə)n/ nounthe process of making sure that something isauthenticauthenticatorauthenticator /ɔ�|�θentketə/ noun atrustworthy company that provides authenti-cation for digital signatures on the Internet(NOTE: This process is used by secure web-

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19 automatic modesites (shopping or payment sites) to proveto a visitor that the website has been creat-ed by the authorised publisher.)authorauthor /�ɔ�θə/ noun the person who wrote aprogram � verb to create a multimedia appli-cation by combining sound, video and imag-es

‘The authoring system is a software product thatintegrates text and fractally compressed images,using any wordprocessor line editor, to create anelectronic book with hypertext links between dif-ferent pages.’ [Computing]

authoring languageauthoring language /�ɔ�θərŋ�l�ŋ"wd'/ noun a programming languageused to write CAL and training programsauthoring softwareauthoring software /�ɔ�θərŋ �sɒftweə/,authoring system /�ɔ�θərŋ �sstəm/ noun1. a special application that allows you to cre-ate multimedia titles. Authoring software letsyou design the pages of the multimedia bookand place video clips, images, text and soundon a page. (NOTE: Almost all multimedia de-velopers use some type of authoring soft-ware rather than a traditional programminglanguage because it’s a much faster andeasier way to create multimedia programs.)2. same as webpage design softwareauthorisationauthorisation /�ɔ�θəra |�zeʃ(ə)n/, au-thorization noun the process of giving auser permission to access a systemauthorisation codeauthorisation code /�ɔ�θəra|�zeʃ(ə)nkəυd/ noun a code used to restrict access toa computer system to authorised users onlyauthorised userauthorised user /�ɔ�θə|�razd �ju�zə/, au-thorized user noun person who is allowedto access a systemauthorityauthority /ɔ� |�θɒrəti/ noun the power to dosomething � He has no authority to deleteyour account.authorizeauthorize /�ɔ�θə|�raz/ verb 1. to give per-mission for something to be done � to au-thorise the purchase of a new computer sys-tem 2. to give someone the authority to dosomethingauthorizedauthorized /�ɔ�θərazd/ adjective permit-tedauthor levelauthor level /�ɔ�θə �lev(ə)l/ noun themode of an authoring software package thatis used by the author to design the application(NOTE: The user uses the finished applica-tion at user level.)autoauto /�ɔ�təυ/ adjective, prefix automatic orwhich works without the user needing to act

‘…expansion accessories include auto-dial andauto-answer’ [Electronic & Wireless Worlds]

autocueautocue /�ɔ�təυkju�/ noun a method thatenables a person to read out a rolling textwhich is projected on to an angled mirror infront of the camera lens (film) � Autocue en-ables a TV presenter to read a script without

looking down. � An autocue operator con-trols the speed.AUTOEXEC.BATAUTOEXEC.BAT /�ɔ�təυ"|�zek b�t/noun (in an IBM PC running the MS-DOSoperating system) a batch file that containscommands that are executed when the com-puter is first switched on or resetautoflowautoflow /�ɔ�təυfləυ/ noun a feature ofDTP or wordprocessing software that auto-matically flows text around a graphic imageor from one page to the nextautofocusautofocus /�ɔ�təυfəυkəs/ noun an infra-red sensors in cameras or camcorders that ac-tivate the focusing operation (film)automateautomate /�ɔ�tə|�met/ verb to install ma-chines to do work previously done by peopleautomated teller machineautomated teller machine/�ɔ�təmetd �telə mə|�ʃi�n/ noun full formof ATMautomaticautomatic /�ɔ�tə|�m�tk/ adjective whichworks by itself, without being worked by anoperatorautomatically

automatically /�ɔ�tə |�m�tkli/ adverb(machine) working without a person givinginstructions � The compiler automaticallycorrected the syntax errors. � APTautomatically programmed toolsautomatically programmed tools/�ɔ�təm�tkli �prəυ"r�md �tu�lz/ pluralnoun full form of APTautomatic backupautomatic backup /�ɔ�təm�tk �b�k�p/noun same as auto saveautomatic call distributionautomatic call distribution/�ɔ�təm�tk �kɔ�l �dstrbju�ʃ(ə)n/ nounfull form of ACDautomatic calling unitautomatic calling unit /�ɔ�təm�tk�kɔ�lŋ �ju�nt/ noun full form of ACUautomatic camera effects systemautomatic camera effects systemnoun full form of ACESautomatic data processingautomatic data processing/�ɔ�təm�tk �detə �prəυsesŋ/ noun fullform of ADPautomatic frequency switchingautomatic frequency switching/�ɔ�təm�tk �fri�kwənsi �swtʃŋ/ nounsame as automatic modeautomatic gainautomatic gain /�ɔ�təm�tk �"en/ nounan electronic circuit which automatically in-creases the volume when someone is speak-ing quietly and drops it when someone isspeaking loudlyautomatic gain controlautomatic gain control /�ɔ�təm�tk�"en kən|�trəυl/ noun full form of AGCautomatic mailing listautomatic mailing list /�ɔ�təm�tk�melŋ �lst/ noun � listservautomatic modeautomatic mode /�ɔ�tə|�m�tk məυd/noun a feature of a monitor that can adjust itsinternal circuits to the different frequenciesused by different video standards. Also calledautomatic frequency switching

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automatic number identification 20automatic number identification

automatic number identification/�ɔ�təm�tk �n�mbə a |�dentfkeʃ(ə)n/noun full form of ANIautomatic repeat request

automatic repeat request /�ɔ�təm�tkr |�pi�t r|�kwest/ noun full form of ARQautomatic scan tracking

automatic scan tracking noun fullform of ASTautomatic send/receive

automatic send/receive /�ɔ�təm�tk�send r|�si�v/ noun full form of ASRautomatic volume controlautomatic volume control/�ɔ�təm�tk �vɒlju�m kən|�trəυl/ noun fullform of AVCautomationautomation /�ɔ�tə|�meʃ(ə)n/ noun the useof machines to do work with very little super-vision by peopleautopositive

autopositive /�ɔ�təυ|�pɒztv/ noun aphotographic process that produces a posi-tive image without a negative stageauto-reliable mode

auto-reliable mode /�ɔ�təυ r|�laəb(ə)l�məυd/ noun a feature of a modem in whichthe modem will try and establish a reliableconnection with another modem using errorcorrectionauto save

auto save /�ɔ�təυ sev/ noun a feature ofsome application programs, e.g. word-proc-essor or database software, that automatical-ly saves the file being used every few minutesin case of a power failure or system crash.Also called automatic backupauto scan

auto scan /�ɔ�təυ sk�n/ noun the abilityof a monitor to maintain the same rectangularimage size when changing from one resolu-tion to anotherautosizingautosizing /�ɔ�təυ|�sazŋ/ noun the abili-ty of a monitor to maintain the same rectan-gular image size when changing from oneresolution to anotherauto trace

auto trace /�ɔ�təυ tres/ noun a feature ofsome graphics programs that will transform abit-mapped image into a vector image by au-tomatically locating the edges of the shapesin the image and drawing lines around themAUX

AUX /�e ju� �eks/ noun a serial communi-cations port under the DOS operating system.Full form auxiliaryA/UX

A/UX a trade name for a version of the Unixoperating system for the Apple Mac range ofcomputersauxiliary

auxiliary /ɔ�" |�zliəri/ adjective whichhelps � The computer room has an auxiliary

power supply in case there is a mains failure.� noun full form of AUXauxiliary deviceauxiliary device /ɔ�"|�zliəri d |�vas/noun a piece of computer hardware that isnot part of the central processing unit but iscontrolled by it, e.g. a printer or scanner.Same as peripherala/va/v abbr audiovisualavalancheavalanche /��vəlɑ�ntʃ/ noun a sequenceof actions in which each action starts another� There was an avalanche of errors after Ipressed the wrong key.avalanche photodiodeavalanche photodiode noun full formof APDavataravatar /��vətɑ�/ noun 1. the graphical im-age that is used to represent a real person in acyberspace or three-dimensional system, e.g.the image of a person in a three-dimensionaladventure game 2. the name for the superuseraccount on a UNIX system. Also called rootAVCAVC1 /�e vi� �si�/ noun an electronic circuitthat maintains a constant sound level despiteundesired differences in strength of the in-coming signal. Full form automatic volumecontrolAVCAVC2 /�e vi� �si�/ a trade name for multime-dia software developed by IBM that workswith its Audio Capture and Video CaptureboardsAVIAVI /�e vi� �a/ noun a Windows multimediavideo format developed by Microsoft. Fullform audio/video interleavedAVSSAVSS /�e vi� es �es/ noun a digital videosystem, originally for MS-DOS, used to playback video and audio files on a computer.Full form audio-video support systemA windA wind /�e wand/ noun a videotapewound onto a reel so that it winds in a clock-wise direction; the oxide layer being on theinside (film)axisaxis /��kss/ noun 1. a line around whichsomething turns � The CAD package allowsan axis to be placed anywhere. (NOTE: Theplural is axes.) 2. a reference line which isthe basis for coordinates on a graphazerty keyboardazerty keyboard /ə|�z��ti �ki�bɔ�d/ nouna method of arranging the keys on a keyboardwhere the first line begins AZERTY, usedmainly in Continental Europe. CompareQWERTY keyboardazimuthazimuth /��zməθ/ noun the angle of atape head to a reference, e.g. a tape plane

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Bbb abbr bitBB1 abbr byteBB2 symbol the hexadecimal equivalent of thedecimal number 11B:B: used in personal computers to indicate thesecond disk drive, normally a floppy diskdrive � Copy the files from the hard drive, C:,to the floppy drive, B:.B2BB2B /�bi� tə �bi�/ adjective referring to ad-vertising or marketing that is aimed at otherbusinesses rather than at consumers. Fullform business-to-businessB2CB2C /�bi� tə �si�/ adjective referring to ad-vertising or marketing that is aimed at con-sumers rather than at other businesses. Fullform business-to-consumerbabblebabble /�b�b(ə)l/ noun crosstalk or noisefrom other sources which interferes with asignalBABTBABT /�bi� e bi� �ti�/ noun an independentorganisation that tests and certifies telecom-munications equipment � If you design anew modem, you must have BABT approvalbefore you can sell it. Full form British Ap-provals Board for Telecommunicationsbabybaby /�bebi/ noun a spotlight with a 1000watt bulb (film)baby legsbaby legs /�bebi le"z/, tripod /�trapɒd/noun a small tripod which is used whenshooting low angle shots (film)backback /b�k/ noun the opposite side to thefront � There is a wide range of connectorsat the back of the main unit.

‘The V3500 has on-board Ethernet and SCSI in-terfaces, up to 32Mb local DRAM, two program-mable timers, a battery-backed real-time clockwith 32Kb RAM and four serial ports.’ [Comput-ing]

backbonebackbone /�b�k|�bəυn/ noun a high-speed, high-capacity connection path thatlinks smaller sub-networks, usually used toconnect servers on a network � We havelinked the servers in each office using a high-speed backbone. (NOTE: Smaller workgroupsor networks are connected to the backboneas segments or ribs.)back bufferback buffer /�b�k �b�fə/ noun a section ofmemory used as a temporary storage forgraphics before they are displayed on screen(NOTE: The image is built up in the back buff-er memory area then transferred to themain video memory area for display.)

backdatebackdate /b�k|�det/ verb to put an earlierdate on a cheque or a document � Backdateyour cheque to April 1st. � The pay increaseis backdated to January 1st.backdropbackdrop /�b�kdrɒp/ noun a static back-ground image in front of which are displayedactors or scenesback-end networkback-end network /�b�k end �netw��k/noun a connection between a mainframecomputer and a high-speed mass storage de-vice or file serverback-end serverback-end server /�b�k end �s��və/ nouna computer connected to a network that car-ries out tasks requested by client worksta-tionsback focusback focus /�b�k �fəυkəs/ noun the dis-tance between the electronic camera trans-ducer (that converts light into electronic sig-nals) and the rear part of a zoom lens; this gapis adjusted when the lens is set to its widestpoint to produce a sharp image (film)backgroundbackground /�b�k"raυnd/ noun 1. pastwork or experience � His background is inthe computer industry. 2. the part of a picturewhich is behind the main object of interest �The new graphics processor chip can handlebackground, foreground and sprite move-ment independently. 3. a system in a compu-ter where low-priority work can be done inthe intervals when very important work is notbeing donebackground colourbackground colour /�b�k"raυnd �k�lə/noun the colour of a computer screen display,different from that of characters and graphics� White background colour with black char-acters is less stressful for the eyes.background imagebackground image /�b�k"raυnd�md'/ noun an image displayed as a back-drop behind a program or windows of a GUI(NOTE: The background image does notmove and does not interfere with any pro-grams.)background modebackground mode /�b�k"raυnd�məυd/ noun in a computer system in whichtwo modes for program execution are possi-ble, the mode that is for housekeeping andother necessary system programs. Compareforeground modebackground planebackground plane /�b�k"raυnd �plen/noun � backdropbackground processingbackground processing /�b�k"raυnd�prəυsesŋ/ noun 1. the execution of a low-

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background projection 22priority job when there are no higher priorityactivities for the computer to attend to 2. aprocess which does not use the on-line capa-bilities of a system. Opposite foregroundbackground projection

background projection /�b�k|�"raυndprə |�d'ekʃən/ noun a special effect in whichactors seem to be performing in front of anactual moving background when instead,they are acting in front of images being pro-jected onto the back of a screen (film)backing memory

backing memory /�b�kŋ �mem(ə)ri/noun same as backing storebacking storage

backing storage /�b�kŋ �stɔ�rd'/noun same as backing storebacking store

backing store /�b�kŋ stɔ�/, backingstorage /�b�kŋ �stɔ�rd'/, backing mem-ory /�b�kŋ �mem(ə)ri/ noun a permanentstorage medium onto which data can be re-corded before being processed by the compu-ter or after processing for later retrieval � Byadding another disk drive, I will increase thebacking store capabilities.backlash

backlash /�b�kl�ʃ/ noun a fault whenslack film, caused by a fault in mechanics, isbroken or damaged; common when usingtake-up or rewind wheels (film)back-level

back-level /�b�k �lev(ə)l/ noun the earlierrelease of a product which may not support acurrent functionbacklight

backlight /�b�klat/ noun light behind aliquid crystal display unit that improves thecontrast of characters on the screen and al-lows it to be read in dim lightbacklit display

backlit display /�b�klt d |�sple/ noun aliquid crystal display unit that has a backlightfitted to improve the contrast of the displaybacklog

backlog /�b�k|�lɒ"/ noun work or tasksthat have yet to be processed � The program-mers can’t deal with the backlog of program-ming work.back office

back office /�b�k �ɒfs/ noun a securearea of e-commerce software containing de-tails of a company’s store properties andproducts and tax tables � adjective relatingto the internal administration of a business,not to its contacts with the publicbackout

backout /�b�k|�aυt/ verb to restore a file toits original condition before any changeswere madeback pack

back pack /�b�k p�k/ noun lightweighttelevision recording equipment which thecameraman carries on his back when filming(film)back panel

back panel /�b�k �p�n(ə)l/ noun a panelat the rear of a computer which normallyholds the connectors to peripherals such askeyboard, printer, video display unit andmouse

backplanebackplane /�b�kplen/ noun part of thebody of a computer which holds the circuitboards, buses and expansion connectors (thebackplane does not provide any processingfunctions). � motherboard, rack (NOTE:The backplane does not provide anyprocessing functions.)back projectionback projection /�b�k prə|�d'ekʃ(ə)n/noun the projection of an image from behinda screen (NOTE: It is often used in animationwhere the static scene is displayed withback projection, then the foreground char-acters are displayed and the compositescene photographed.)backscatterbackscatter /�b�ksk�tə/ noun a reflect-ed or scattered radio wave travelling in theopposite direction to the original signalbackslashbackslash /�b�ksl�ʃ/ noun ASCII char-acter 92, \, the sign which is used in MS-DOSto represent the root directory of a disk, suchas C: or to separate subdirectories in a path,such as C:backspacebackspace /�b�k|�spes/ noun a move-ment of a cursor or printhead left or back byone characterbackspace keybackspace key /�b�k|�spes ki�/ noun thekey which moves the cursor left on the screenor back by one character � If you make a mis-take entering data, use the backspace key tocorrect it.backstagebackstage /b�k |�sted'/ noun the area be-hind a theatrical stage or film set which is notseen by the audience or camera (film)backtabbacktab /�b�kt�b/ verb (in an SAA CUAfront end ) to move the cursor back to the pre-vious field (NOTE: backtabbing –backtabbed)backtimebacktime /�b�ktam/ noun a method oftiming the length of rewinding from a specif-ic end point in material to establish a specificstart point in order to permit the end point tooccur at a precise time (film)back upback up /�b�k �p/ verb 1. to support some-thing or help someone � He brought along afile of documents to back up his claim. 2. tomake a copy of a file or data or disk � Thecompany accounts were backed up on disk asa protection against fire damage.backupbackup /�b�k�p/ noun 1. the providing ofhelp � We offer a free backup service to cus-tomers. 2. a copy of a file or data or diskmade as a security precaution. Also calledbackup copy, backup version 3. the proc-ess of making a copy of a file or data or diskas a security precaution

‘…the previous version is retained, but its exten-sion is changed to .BAK indicating that it’s aback-up’ [Personal Computer World]

backup copybackup copy /�b�k�p �kɒpi/ noun sameas backup 3

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23 bankbackup diskbackup disk /�b�k�p dsk/ noun a diskwhich contains a copy of the informationfrom other disks, as a security precautionbackup filebackup file /�b�k�p fal/ noun a copy ofa file, made as a security precautionbackup planbackup plan /�b�k�p pl�n/ noun a set ofrules that take effect when normal operationhas gone wrong � The normal UPS has gonewrong, so we will have to use our backupplan to try and restore power.backup procedurebackup procedure /�b�k�p prə|�si�d'ə/noun a method of making backup copies offilesbackup serverbackup server /�b�k�p �s��və/ noun asecond computer on a network that containsduplicate files and up-to-date data in case ofa problem with the main serverbackwardbackward /�b�kwəd/, backwards adjec-tive, /A/ adverb towards the back or in the op-posite direction

COMMENT: Backward recovery is carriedout by passing the semi-processed datafrom the crashed computer through a rou-tine that reverses the effects of the mainprogram to return the original data.

backwards compatiblebackwards compatible /�b�kwədzkəm|�p�təb(ə)l/ adjective 1. able to workwith older versions or systems 2. referring toa new piece of software that provides thesame functions as the previous version andcan read the files created in the previous ver-sionBACSBACS /b�ks/ noun a system to transfermoney between banks using computer linkedvia a secure network. Full form Bankers Au-tomated Clearing Servicesbacteriumbacterium /b�k|�təriəm/ noun � virusbad breakbad break /�b�d �brek/ noun a hypheninserted in the wrong place within a word, aproblem sometimes caused by the automatichyphenation feature of word-processing soft-warebad copybad copy /�b�d �kɒpi/ noun an illegible orbadly edited manuscript which the typesetterwill not acceptbadge readerbadge reader /�b�d' �ri�də/ noun a ma-chine that reads data from an identificationbadge � A badge reader makes sure that onlyauthorised personnel can gain access to acomputer room.bad sectorbad sector /�b�d �sektə/ noun a disk sec-tor that has been wrongly formatted or whichcontains an error or fault and is unable to becorrectly written to or read from � You willprobably receive error messages when youcopy files that are stored on bad sectors on adisk.bafflebaffle /�b�f(ə)l/ noun a sound absorber anddeflector which is a moveable unit used in re-cording studios and film and television sets

BAFTABAFTA /�b�ftə/ abbr British Academy ofFilm and Television Arts (film)BAK file extensionBAK file extension /�b�k fal "|

�stenʃ(ə)n/ noun a standard three-letter fileextension used in MS-DOS systems to signi-fy a backup or copy of another filebalancebalance /�b�ləns/ noun 1. the placing oftext and graphics on a page in an attractiveway � The dtp package allows the user to seeif the overall page balance is correct. 2. thepositioning of musical instruments so thatthey may be recorded to their best advantage3. amplitude control of left and right audiosignals in a stereo system 4. the adjustmentof the blue, green and red TV camera signalsin order to create a neutral chart of tonesranging from black to white. This is done toenable the production of a true colour pictureon television. 5. lighting equal to that in othertakes shot on the same set � verb 1. to plansomething so that two parts are equal 2. tocalculate the amount needed to make the twosides of an account equal � I have finishedbalancing the accounts for March.bandband /b�nd/ noun a range of frequenciesbetween two limitsB and CB and C /�bi� ən �si�/ noun, adjective (vid-eotape) ready for editing; the tape includesthe timecode, control track and colour blacksignals (film) Full form blacked and codedbandlimitedbandlimited /�b�ndlmtd/ adjective(signal) whose frequency range has been lim-ited to one bandbandpass filterbandpass filter /�b�ndpɑ�s �fltə/ nounan electronic filter that allows a range of fre-quencies to pass but attenuates all frequen-cies outside the specified rangebandwidthbandwidth /�b�ndwdθ/ noun 1. a rangeof frequencies 2. a measure of the amount ofdata that can be transmitted along a cable orchannel or other medium � This fibre-opticcable has a greater bandwidth than the oldcopper cable and so it can carry data at high-er speeds.bandwidth on demandbandwidth on demand /�b�nd|�wdθɒn d|�mɑ�nd/ noun a system used with aswitching service, e.g. ISDN, in a wide areanetwork that allows a user to send as muchinformation as he or she wants because thenetwork will adjust to transmit this amount ofinformationbankbank /b�ŋk/ noun a collection of similardevices � A bank of minicomputers processall the raw data.

COMMENT: Memory banks are used to ex-pand the main memory of a CPU (oftenabove the addressing range of the CPU) byhaving a number of memory chips ar-ranged into banks. Each bank operatesover the same address range but is select-ed independently by a special code.

ICT.fm Page 23 Wednesday, July 14, 2004 2:53 PM

banker 24banker

Bankers Automated Clearing Serv-ices /�b�ŋkəz �ɔ�təmetd �klərŋ�s��vsz/ noun full form of BACSbank Internet payment system

bank Internet payment system/�b�ŋk �ntənet �pemənt �sstəm/ noun aprotocol that enables bank payments to bemade over the Internet and gives each finan-cial institution a unique identificationnumber for the purposes of Internet transac-tions. Abbr BIPSbanner

banner /�b�nə/, banner advertisement/�b�nə əd|�v��tsmənt/, banner ad /�b�nə�d/ noun 1. an image that carries an adver-tising slogan, logo or message and is dis-played on a web page 2. a heading or title ex-tending to the width of a page

COMMENT: A long, narrow strip is now theunofficial standard format for advertise-ments that appear on almost every com-mercial website on the Internet. Some ban-ner ads are images, others include anima-tion to attract the viewer’s attention. If youclick on a banner ad, you will usually jumpto the advertiser’s own site. If you wouldrather not see banner advertisementswhen you surf, you can install special soft-ware that blocks them. Websites normallycharge advertisers according either to thenumber of times the banner ad is displayed(called the number of impressions) or thenumber of times that a user clicks on the ad(called the click-through rate).

bar

bar /bɑ�/ noun a thick line or block of colour� verb to stop someone from doing some-thingbar chartbar chart /�bɑ� tʃɑ�t/ noun a graph onwhich values are represented as vertical orhorizontal bars. Also called bar graphbar code

bar code /�bɑ� kəυd/ noun data represent-ed as a series of printed stripes of varyingwidths

COMMENT: Bar codes are found on mostgoods and their packages; the width andposition of the stripes is sensed by a lightpen or optical wand and provides informa-tion about the goods such as price andstock quantities.

bar code reader

bar code reader /�bɑ� kəυd �ri�də/ nounan optical device that reads data from a barcodebar graph

bar graph /�bɑ� "rɑ�f/ noun same as barchartbar graphics

bar graphics /�bɑ� �"r�fks/ noun USsame as bar codebarndoor

barndoor /bɑ�n|�dɔ�/ noun hinged metalshutters at the front of a studio spotlight usedto shield or direct the light (film)barneybarney /�bɑ�ni/ noun a piece of heavy clothwhich is put over a film camera when record-ing sound in order to help prevent the noise ofthe camera being heard (film)

barrelbarrel /�b�rəl/ noun a conducting post in aterminalbarrel distortionbarrel distortion /�b�rəl d|�stɔ�ʃ(ə)n/noun an optical lens distortion causing sidesof objects to appear curvedbarrel printerbarrel printer /�b�rəl �prntə/ noun atype of printer where characters are locatedaround a rotating barrelbarrier boxbarrier box /�b�riə bɒks/ noun a devicethat electrically isolates equipment from atelephone line to prevent damagebaryta paperbaryta paper /bə |�ratə �pepə/ noun acoated matt paper used to produce final highquality proofs before printingbasebase /bes/ noun 1. the lowest or first posi-tion 2. a collection of files used as a refer-ence. � database 3. a place where a compa-ny has its main office or factory or a placewhere a businessman has his office � Thecompany has its base in London and branch-es in all European countries. 4. an initial ororiginal position 5. notation referring to anumber system � verb 1. to start to calculatesomething from a position � We based ourcalculations on the basic keyboarding rate.2. to set up a company or a person in a place� The European manager is based in ourLondon office. (NOTE: bases – basing –based)base 2base 2 /�bes tu�/ noun the binary numbersystem, using the two digits 0 and 1base 8base 8 /�bes et/ noun the octal numbersystem, using the eight digits 0 – 7base 10base 10 /�bes �ten/ noun the decimalnumber system, using the ten digits 0 – 9base 16base 16 /�bes sks |�ti�n/ noun the hexa-decimal number system, using the ten digits0 – 9 and the six letters A – Fbasebandbaseband /�besb�nd/, base band /�besb�nd/ noun 1. the frequency range of a sig-nal before it is processed or transmitted �Voice baseband ranges from 20 Hz to 15KHz. 2. digital signals transmitted withoutmodulation 3. information modulated with asingle carrier frequencybase filmbase film /�bes flm/ noun transparentmaterial which bears the light sensitive emul-sion of a film or the magnetic oxide of mag-netic recording tape (film)base hardwarebase hardware /�bes �hɑ�dweə/ nounthe minimum hardware requirements that aparticular software package needs in order torunbase level synthesizerbase level synthesizer /�bes �lev(ə)l�sŋθesazə/ noun (on a sound card ) a syn-thesiser that supports three melodic instru-ments and can play six notes simultaneouslybasicbasic /�besk/ adjective normal or fromwhich everything starts � The basic architec-ture is the same for all models in this range.

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25 beamBASICBASIC /�besk/ noun a high-level pro-gramming language for developing programsin a conversational way, providing an easy in-troduction to computer programming. Fullform beginner’s all-purpose symbolic in-struction codebasicallybasically /�beskli/ adverb seen from thepoint from which everything starts � Theacoustic coupler is basically the same as amodem.basic control system satellitebasic control system satellite/�besk kən|�trəυl �sstəm �s�təlat/ nouna system that runs dedicated programs ortasks for a central computer. It is controlledby using interrupt signals. Abbr BCSbasic encoding rulesbasic encoding rules /�besk n|

�kəυdŋ �ru�lz/ plural noun full form of BERbasic input/output operating systembasic input/output operating sys-tem /�besk �npυt �aυtpυt �ɒpəretŋ�sstəm/ noun full form of BIOSbasic rate accessbasic rate access /�besk ret ��kses/noun full form of BRAbasisbasis /�bess/ noun the point or numberfrom which calculations are made � We cal-culated keyboarding costs on the basis of5,500 keystrokes per hour.bassbass /bes/ noun, adjective low range ofaudible frequencies that make up a soundbatchbatch /b�tʃ/ noun 1. a group of itemswhich are made at one time � The last batchof disk drives are faulty. 2. a group of docu-ments which are processed at the same time� today’s batch of orders 3. a group of tasksor amount of data to be processed as a singleunit � We deal with the orders in batches offifty. � verb 1. to put data or tasks together ingroups 2. to put items together in groupsbatch modebatch mode /�b�tʃ məυd/ noun a methodof operating in which several tasks are speci-fied in advance and run without user inter-vention. Compare conversational modebatch numberbatch number /�b�tʃ �n�mbə/ noun areference number attached to a batchbatch processingbatch processing /�b�tʃ �prəυsesŋ/noun a system of data processing where in-formation is collected into batches before be-ing processed by the computer in one ma-chine run

COMMENT: Batch processing is the oppositeof interactive processing, where the usergives instructions and receives an immedi-ate response.

BAT file extensionBAT file extension /�b�t fal k|

�stenʃən/ noun a standard three-letter fileextension used in MS-DOS systems to signi-fy a batch filebatterybattery /�b�t(ə)ri/ noun a chemical devicethat produces electrical currentbattery backupbattery backup /�b�t(ə)ri �b�k�p/ nouna battery to provide power to volatile storage

devices to retain data after a computer hasbeen switched offbaud ratebaud rate /�bɔ�d ret/ noun a measure ofthe number of signal changes transmitted persecond � The baud rate of the binary signalwas 300 bits per second.

COMMENT: Baud rate is often consideredthe same as bits per second, but in fact itdepends on the protocol used and the errorchecking (300 baud is roughly equivalentto 30 characters per second using stand-ard error checking).

baybay /be/ noun a space within a computer’scasing where a disk drive is fitted. Alsocalled drive baybazookabazooka /bə |�zu�kə/ noun an adjustablepole used as a camera support in restricted lo-cations where a tripod is too big (film)BBCBBC abbr British Broadcasting Corporation(film)BBSBBS /�bi� bi� �es/ noun an information andmessage database accessible by modem andcomputer link. Full form bulletin boardsystembccbcc noun a feature of many electronic mailprograms that allows a user to send one mes-sage to several users at a time but does notdisplay this list to the recipients. Full formblind carbon copy. Also called blind copyreceiptBCCBCC1 /�bi� si� �si�/ noun an error detectionmethod for blocks of transmitted data. Fullform block character checkBCCBCC2 /�bi� si� �si�/ abbr Broadcasting Com-plaints CommissionBCDBCD /�bi� si� �di�/ noun a representation ofsingle decimal digits as a pattern of four bi-nary digits � The BCD representation of dec-imal 8 is 1000. Full form binary coded dec-imalBCNFBCNF /�bi� si� en �ef/ noun � normal formBCPLBCPL /�bi� si� pi� �el/ noun a high level pro-gramming languageBCSBCS abbr 1. British Computer Society 2.basic control system satelliteBCUBCU noun a camera shot that is so close itonly reveals part of the subject in the pictureframe (film) Full form big close upbeaconbeacon /�bi�kən/ verb a signal transmittedrepeatedly by a device that is malfunctioningon a networkbeacon framebeacon frame /�bi�kən frem/ noun aspecial frame within the FDDI protocol thatis sent after a network break has occurredbeadbead /bi�d/ noun a small section of a pro-gram that is used for a single taskbeambeam /bi�m/ noun a narrow set of light orelectron rays � A beam of laser light is usedin this printer to produce high-resolutiongraphics.

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beam diversity 26beam diversitybeam diversity /�bi�m da|�v��sti/ nounthe process of using a single frequency com-munications band for two different sets ofdatabeam splitterbeam splitter /�bi�m �spltə/ noun an op-tical device to redirect part of a light beambeardbeard /bəd/ noun a blank section betweenbottom of a character and the type face limitbeardingbearding /�bərdŋ/ noun a fault that oc-curs when the electronic limits of a televisionsystem have been exceeded and is visiblewith marks between the horizontally adjacentlight and dark areas of a television picture(film)BeaulieuBeaulieu /�bju�li/ noun a lightweight mo-tion picture camera that is popular with peo-ple making documentaries or news pro-grammes (film)beepbeep /bi�p/ noun an audible warning noise� The printer will make a beep when it runsout of paper. � verb to make a beep � Thecomputer beeped when the wrong key washit. � bleepbeginbegin /b |�"n/ verb to start � The companybegan to lose its market share. � He began tokeyboard the changes to the customer ad-dress file. (NOTE: you begin something orbegin to do something or begin with some-thing. Note also: beginning – began – hasbegun)beginner’s all-purpose symbolic instruction codebeginner’s all-purpose symbolic in-struction code /b|�"nəz ɔ�l �p��pəs sm |

�bɒlk n|�str�kʃən �kəυd/ noun full form ofBASICbeginningbeginning /b|�"nŋ/ noun the first part ofsomethingbeginning of filebeginning of file /b |�"nŋ əv �fal/ nouna character or symbol that shows the start ofa valid section of data. Abbr bofbeginning of information markbeginning of information mark /b |

�"nŋ əv �nfə|�meʃ(ə)n �mɑ�k/ noun fullform of BIMbehind-the-lens filterbehind-the-lens filter /b|�hand ð lenz�fltə/ noun a gelatin filter which is able tocut out chosen colours when placed behindthe camera lens and in front of the film (film)belbel /bel/ noun a unit used when expressingratio of signal power in logarithmic form (Pbels = Log (A/B) where A and B are signalpower)BELBEL noun bell character (equivalent to AS-CII code 7)bell characterbell character /�bel �k�rktə/, BEL nouna control code that causes a machine to pro-duce an audible signal, equivalent to ASCIIcode 7Bell-compatible modemBell-compatible modem /�bel kəm |

�p�tb(ə)l �məυdem/ noun a modem thatoperates according to standards set down byAT&T

bells and whistlesbells and whistles /�belz ənd �ws(ə)lz/plural noun advanced features or added ex-tras to an application or peripheral � Thisword-processor has all the bells and whistlesyou would expect – including page preview.below-the-foldbelow-the-fold /b|�ləυ ðə �fəυld/ adjec-tive referring to the lower part of a webpagethat is seen only by a user who scrolls downthe page and that is therefore less commer-cially valuable. Compare above-the-foldbelow-the-line costsbelow-the-line costs /b |�ləυ ðə lan�kɒsts/ plural noun costs of crew and techni-cians used in making a TV programme (asopposed to scriptwriters, actors, etc., who areabove-the-line costs)benchmarkbenchmark /�bentʃmɑ�k/ noun 1. a pointin an index which is important, and can beused to compare with other figures 2. a pro-gram used to test the performance of soft-ware or hardware or a system � The maga-zine gave the new program’s benchmark testresults.benchmarkingbenchmarking /�bentʃmɑ�kŋ/ noun thetesting of a system or program with a bench-markbendingbending /�bendŋ/ noun distortion in vide-otape playback which is a result of defects inthe tape or in the video machine itself (film)BERBER /�bi� i� �ɑ�/ noun a standard method ofencoding data that is stored in the ASN lan-guage, often used in libraries and other Inter-net data sites. Full form basic encodingrulesBerkeley UNIXBerkeley UNIX /�b��kli �ju�nks/ noun aversion of the UNIX operating system devel-oped by the University of California, Berke-leybespoke softwarebespoke software /b|�spəυk �sɒftweə/noun software that has been written especial-ly for a customer’s particular requirementsbest boybest boy /�best �bɔ/ noun the second incommand on the electrical team on a film setbest fitbest fit /�best �ft/ noun 1. somethingwhich is the nearest match to a requirement2. a function that selects the smallest freespace in main memory for a requested virtualpageBetacam™Betacam™ /�bi�tək�m/ noun a standarddeveloped for video player and camerasBetacam SPBetacam SP /�bi�tək�m es �pi�/ noun amore accurate and sharper version of the Bet-acam system (film) Full form Betacam su-perior performancebeta sitebeta site /�bi�tə sat/ noun a company orperson that tests new software before it is re-leased in a real environment to make sure itworks correctlybeta softwarebeta software /�bi�tə �sɒf(t)weə/ nounsoftware that has not finished all its testingbefore release and so may still contain bugs

ICT.fm Page 26 Wednesday, July 14, 2004 2:53 PM

27 binary treebeta testbeta test /�bi�tə �test/ noun a second stageof tests performed on new software just be-fore it is due to be released � The applicationhas passed the alpha tests and is just enteringthe beta test phase.

‘The client was so eager to get his hands on theproduct that the managing director bypassed in-ternal testing and decided to let it go straight outto beta test.’ [Computing]

beta versionbeta version /�bi�tə �v��'n/ noun a ver-sion of a software application that is almostready to be released � We’ll try out the betaversion on as many different PCs as possibleto try and find all the bugs.bezelbezel /�bez(ə)l/ noun the front cover of acomputer’s casing or disk drive unitBézier curveBézier curve /�bezie k��v/ noun a geo-metric curve with the overall shape definedby two midpoints, called control handles

COMMENT: Bézier curves are a feature ofmany high-end design software packages.They allow a designer to create smoothcurves by defining a number of points. ThePostScript page description language usesBézier curves to define the shapes of char-acters during printing.

BFIBFI abbr British Film InstituteBGPBGP /�bi� d'i� �pi�/ noun a protocol that al-lows routers to share routing information toallow each router to calculate the most effi-cient path for information. Full form bordergateway protocol (NOTE: This protocol ismost often used between routers installedat Internet Service Providers (ISPs).)biasbias /�baəs/ noun 1. an electrical referencelevel 2. the deviation of statistical resultsfrom a reference level 3. a high frequencysignal added to recorded information to min-imise noise and distortion (the high frequen-cy is removed on playback)biasedbiased /�baəst/ adjective which has a biasbibliographicbibliographic /�bbliə |�"r�fk(ə)l/, bibli-ographical adjective referring to books or tobibliographiesbibliographybibliography /�bbli|�ɒ"rəfi/ noun 1. a listof documents and books which are relevantto a certain subject � He printed a bibliogra-phy at the end of each chapter. 2. a catalogueof booksbidbid /bd/ verb (of a computer) to gain con-trol of a network in order to transmit data �The terminal had to bid three times beforethere was a gap in transmissions on the net-work.bi-directionalbi-directional /�ba da|�rekʃ(ə)n(ə)l/ ad-jective (operation or process) that can occurin forward and reverse directions � bi-direc-tional file transferbifurcationbifurcation /�bafə|�keʃ(ə)n/ noun a sys-tem where there are only two possible results

� The result of a binary multiplication is abifurcation: the result is either 1 or 0.big close upbig close up /�b" �kləυs ��p/ noun fullform of BCUbilinear filteringbilinear filtering /ba|�lniə �fltərŋ/noun a method of removing unwanted imagedefects, particularly on a texture-mapped ob-ject, by looking at the four adjacent pixelsthat surround each pixel to check that there isno sudden change in colourbillionbillion /�bljən/ noun a number equal to onethousand million. Abbr bnBIMBIM /�bi� a �em/ noun a symbol indicatingthe start of a data stream stored on a diskdrive. Full form beginning of informationmarkbinbin /bn/ noun a tray used to hold a supplyof paper ready to be fed into a printerbinarybinary /�banəri/ adjective referring to thenumber notation system which uses only thedigits 0 and 1 � noun same as binary digitbinary bitbinary bit /�banəri bt/ noun same as bi-nary digitbinary chopbinary chop /�banəri tʃɒp/ noun same asbinary searchbinary coded decimalbinary coded decimal /�banəri�kəυdd �desm(ə)l/ noun full form of BCDbinary digitbinary digit /�banəri �dd't/ noun small-est single unit in binary notation, either a 0 ora 1. Also called binary, binary bit, binarynumber, bitbinary fieldbinary field /�banəri fi�ld/ noun a field ina database record that contains binary digits,often one capable of holding any informa-tion, including data, text, graphics images,voice and videobinary large objectbinary large object /�banəri lɑ�d'�ɒbd'ekt/ noun a field in a database recordthat can contain a large quantity of binary da-ta, normally a bitmap image. Full form ofblobbinary look-upbinary look-up /�banəri �lυk �p/ nounsame as binary searchbinary numberbinary number /�banəri �n�mbə/ nounsame as binary digitbinary searchbinary search /�banəri s��tʃ/ noun asearch method for use on ordered lists of da-ta. Also called binary chop, binary look-up (NOTE: The search key is compared withthe data in the middle of the list and one halfis discarded. This is repeated with the re-maining half until only the required dataitem is left.)binary systembinary system /�banəri �sstəm/ nounthe use of binary digits, or the data systemthat operates with binary digitsbinary treebinary tree /�banəri tri�/ noun a data sys-tem where each item of data or node has onlytwo branches. Also called btree

ICT.fm Page 27 Wednesday, July 14, 2004 2:53 PM

binaural 28binauralbinaural /ban|�ɔ�rəl/ adjective method ofrecording two audio channelsbinaural soundbinaural sound /ban|�ɔ�rl saυnd/ noun amethod of recording sound so that it gives theimpression of stereophony when playedback. � Dolby Digital™bindbind /band/ verb to glue or attach sheets ofpaper along their spine to form a bookbinderbinder /�bandə/ noun 1. a program thatconverts object code into a form that can beexecuted 2. a company which specialises inbinding books 3. a substance used to join themetallic oxide particles together and to thebase film (film)BinderyBindery /�bandəri/ noun a special data-base used in a Novell NetWare network oper-ating system to store user account, access andsecurity detailsbindingbinding /�bandŋ/ noun 1. the action ofputting a cover on a book 2. the cover of abookbinding offsetbinding offset /�bandŋ �ɒfset/ noun anextra wide margin on the inside of a printedpage to prevent text being hidden duringbinding (NOTE: It is the left margin on a righthand page, the right margin on a left handpage.)BIOSBIOS /�baɒs/ noun a set of system routinesthat interface between high-level program in-structions and the system peripherals to con-trol the input and output to various standarddevices. Full form basic input/output op-erating system (NOTE: This often includescontrolling the screen, keyboard, and diskdrives.)biosensorbiosensor /�baəυ|�sensə/ noun a devicethat allows electrical impulses from an or-ganism to be recorded � The nerve activitycan be measured by attaching a biosensor toyour arm.bipackbipack /�bap�k/ noun (film) 1. two sec-tions of film that are run in contact through amotion picture camera in order to be printedas one 2. the camera which is used for thismethod of filmingbiphasebiphase /�bafez/ noun an electronic sig-nal that gives information about film speedand direction (film)bipolarbipolar /ba |�pəυlə/ adjective with two lev-elsBIPSBIPS abbr bank Internet payment systembirdseyebirdseye /�b��dze/ noun a reflector typeof spotlight (film)bisbis adjective used to describe an extensionof the V-standards that cover the features ofmodems providing error detection and cor-rection. � CCITT, V seriesB-ISDNB-ISDN /�bi� �a es di� �en/ abbr broadbandISDN

bistablebistable /ba|�steb(ə)l/ adjective referringto a device or circuit that has two possiblestates, on and offbitbit /bt/ noun 1. same as binary digit 2. thesmallest unit of data that a system can handlebit blitbit blit /�bt blt/ noun same as blitbit block transferbit block transfer /�bt blɒk �tr�nsf��/noun full form of blitBITCBITC abbr burned-in time codebit imagebit image /�bt �md'/ noun a collectionof bits that represent the pixels that make upan image on screen or on a printerbitmapbitmap /�btm�p/ noun 1. an image whoseindividual pixels can be controlled by chang-ing the value of its stored bit � In Windows,every icon picture is stored as a small bitmapimage. (NOTE: One is on, zero is off. In col-our displays, more than one bit is used toprovide control for the three colours red,green and blue.) 2. a binary representation inwhich each bit or set of bits corresponds tosome object such as an image or font or tosome condition 3. a file format for storingimages in which data in the file represents thevalue of each pixel. Compare vector. Abbrbitmp

‘…microcomputers invariably use raster-scancathode ray tube displays, and frequently use abit-map to store graphic images’ [Soft]

bit-mapbit-map /�bt m�p/, bitmap /�btm�p/verb to define events or data using an array ofsingle bits, which can be, e.g., an image orgraphics or a table of devices in us (NOTE:bitmapping – bitmapped)

‘…the expansion cards fit into the PC’s expan-sion slot and convert bit-mapped screen imagesto video signals’ [Publish]

bit-mapped fontbit-mapped font /�bt m�pt �fɒnt/ nouna font whose characters are made up of pat-terns of pixelsbit-mapped graphicsbit-mapped graphics /�bt m�pt�"r�fks/ plural noun images whose individ-ual pixels can be controlled by changing thevalue of stored bits (NOTE: One is on, zero isoff. In colour displays, more than one bit isused to provide control for the three coloursred, green and blue.)bit-mapped registerbit-mapped register /�bt m�pt�red'stə/ noun a memory location thatholds configuration information in a proces-sor in which each separate bit within the lo-cation has a different use or meaning (NOTE:For example a register that refers to amouse might be one byte (eight bits) wideand each bit could indicate whether amouse button is up or down.)bitmpbitmp /�btm�p/ abbr bit-mapBitNetBitNet /�btnet/ noun a network used toconnect mostly academic sites and comput-ers and allows transfer of electronic mail and

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29 blister packlistserver application (NOTE: BitNet is similarto the Internet and is connected to allow thetransfer of electronic mail to and from aca-demic users to other users on the Internet.)bit ratebit rate /�bt ret/ noun a measure of thenumber of bits transmitted per secondbits per inchbits per inch /�bts p�� �ntʃ/ noun fullform of BPIbits per pixelbits per pixel /�bts p�� �pks(ə)l/ nounfull form of BPPbits per secondbits per second /�bts p�� �sekənd/ nouna measure of the number of binary digitstransmitted every second. Abbr bpsbit streambit stream /�bt stri�m/ noun a binary datasequence that does not consist of separate,distinct character codes or groupsbizbiz /bz/ noun a type of newsgroup that con-tains business discussions and opportunities(NOTE: For example ‘biz.opportunities’ con-tains messages from users that are offeringways of making money. Only the biz seriesof newsgroups are supposed to discusscommercial aspects: the rest of the news-groups are for technical or academic dis-cussion.)black and whiteblack and white /�bl�k ən �wat/ noun 1.the use of shades of grey to represent colourson a monitor or display 2. an image in whicheach pixel is either black or white with noshades of greyblack levelblack level /�bl�k �lev(ə)l/ noun a level ofa video signal that represents absolutely nolight: total blacknessblack listblack list /�bl�k lst/ noun a list of goodsor people or companies which have beenblackedblacklistblacklist /�bl�klst/ verb to put goods orpeople or a company on a black list � Hisfirm was blacklisted by the government.blackoutblackout /�bl�kaυt/, black-out /�bl�kaυt/ noun a complete loss of electrical pow-er. Compare brown-outblack writerblack writer /�bl�k �ratə/ noun a printerin which toner sticks to the points hit by thelaser beam when the image drum is scanned� A black writer produces sharp edges andgraphics, but large areas of black are muddy.blankblank /bl�ŋk/ adjective empty or withnothing written on it � noun a space on aform which has to be completed � Fill in theblanks and insert the form into the OCR.blankingblanking1 /�bl�ŋkŋ/ noun the process ofpreventing a television signal from reachingthe scanning beam on its return traceblankingblanking2 /�bl�ŋkŋ/ noun 1. a state inwhich a screen displays nothing, in betweentwo images or during the picture beam fly-back 2. the short period of time when the pic-ture beam in a television picture either movesfrom right to left after each line (horizontal

blanking) or from bottom to top after eachfield (vertical blanking) (film)blanking intervalblanking interval /�bl�ŋkŋ �ntəvəl/noun the period during which a screen dis-plays nothing, in between two images or dur-ing the picture beam flyback � the time takenfor the scanning beam in a TV to return fromthe end of a picture at the bottom right of thescreen to top leftblanking pulseblanking pulse /�bl�ŋkŋ p�ls/ noun theelectrical signal used to start the blanking ofa TV signalblast-through alphanumericsblast-through alphanumerics /�blɑ�stθru� ��lfənju�|�merks/ plural noun charac-ters that can be displayed on a videotext ter-minal when it is in graphics modebleedbleed /bli�d/ noun 1. a line of printing thatruns off the edge of the paper 2. a badly ad-justed colour monitor in which colours of ad-joining pixels blendbleepbleep /bli�p/ noun an audible warning noise� The printer will make a bleep when it runsout of paper. � verb to make a bleep. � beepbleeperbleeper /�bli�pə/ noun a device whichbleeps (often used to mean radio pager) �The doctor’s bleeper began to ring, and hewent to the telephone. � He is in the factorysomewhere – we’ll try to find him on hisbleeper.blessed folderblessed folder /�blesd �fəυldə/ noun theApple Mac System Folder that contains filesloaded automatically when the Mac isswitched onblimpblimp /blmp/ noun a soundproofed filmcamera case which prevents camera noise be-ing detected by the microphone (film)blind carbon copyblind carbon copy /�bland �kɑ�bən�kɒpi/ noun full form of bccblind certificateblind certificate /�bland sə|�tfkət/noun a means of tracking visitors to websitesthat identifies the user’s system but not his orher nameblind copy receiptblind copy receipt /�bland �kɒp r |�si�t/noun same as bccblind diallingblind dialling /�bland �daəlŋ/ noun theability of a modem to dial out even if the lineappears dead, used on certain private linesblinkblink /blŋk/ noun the way a cursor flasheson and off to show you where you are posi-tioned on the screen or in a documentblinkingblinking /�blŋkŋ/ noun a flashing effectcaused by varying the intensity of a displayedcharacterblipblip /blp/ noun a small mark on a tape orfilm counted to determine the positionblister packblister pack /�blstə p�k/ noun a type ofpacking where the item for sale is coveredwith a thin plastic sheet sealed to a card back-ing

ICT.fm Page 29 Wednesday, July 14, 2004 2:53 PM

blit 30blit

blit /blt/ verb (in computer graphics) theact of moving a block of bits from one mem-ory location to another. Full form bit blocktransfer. Also called bit blitblitter

blitter /�bltə/ noun an electronic compo-nent designed to process or move a bit-mapped image from one area of memory toanother � The new blitter chip speeds up thegraphics display.blob

blob /blɒb/ noun a field in a database recordthat can contain a large quantity of binary da-ta, usually a bitmap image. Full form binarylarge objectblock

block /blɒk/ noun 1. a series of itemsgrouped together 2. a number of storedrecords treated as a single unit 3. a wideprinted bar 4. a piece of metal from which ahalftone or line drawing is printed � verb tostop something taking place � The systemmanager blocked his request for more CPUtime.block capitals

block capitals /�blɒk �k�pt(ə)lz/ pluralnoun capital letters, e.g. A,B,C � Write yourname and address in block letters. Alsocalled block lettersblock character check

block character check /�blɒk �k�rktətʃek/ noun full form of BCC1blocking factor

blocking factor /�blɒkŋ �f�ktə/ nounthe number of records in a blockblock letters

block letters /�blɒk �letəz/ plural nounsame as block capitalsblogging

blogging /�blɒ"ŋ/ noun the act of creatingor maintaining a weblog

‘Over the past year, blogging has grown, in bothimportance and size. The original hardcore blog-ging community is still there, and still vociferous.But every month, thousands of others are tryingtheir hand at this unique publishing form.’[The Guardian]

blond

blond /blɒnd/ noun a film business namefor a 20000 watt variable-beam floodlight(film)blooding

blooding /�blυdŋ/ noun (film) 1. the appli-cation of a particular opaque ink, paint ortape 2. the process of using a triangularopaque patch when dealing with a photo-graphic sound-track to cover up noise causedby a joinbloom

bloom /blu�m/ noun a bright spot on thescreen of a faulty televisionblooming

blooming /�blu�mŋ/ noun distortion of apicture on television due to a too high bright-ness control settingbloop

bloop /blu�p/ verb to pass a magnet over atape to erase signals which are not neededblow

blow /bləυ/ verb to program a PROM de-vice with data. Also called burn (NOTE: blew– blown)

blow-upblow-up /�bləυ �p/ noun the enlargementof a picture from a 16mm to a 35mm film(film)blue packing shotblue packing shot /�blu� �p�kŋ �ʃɒt/noun a foreground action shot in front of ablue background in order to enable the direc-tor to mix the scene with another using a trav-elling matte or chroma key processes; the fi-nal picture appears with the blue backgroundreplaced (film)BluetoothBluetooth /�blu�tu�θ/ a trade name for ashort-range radio communications systemthat is designed to provide a simple way forcomputer, Internet and input devices to com-municate (NOTE: For example a palm-topcomputer could transfer information to amobile phone using a Bluetooth link. Thetechnology was developed by a group ofcomputer and telecommunications compa-nies that included Ericsson, IBM, Intel, No-kia and Toshiba.)blurblur /bl��/ noun an image in which the edg-es or colours are not clear � verb to make theedges or colours of an image fuzzy � The im-age becomes blurred when you turn the focusknob. (NOTE: blurring – blurred)BMPBMP /�bi� em �pi�/ noun a three-letter exten-sion to a filename that indicates that the filecontains a bitmapped graphics image � Thispaint package lets you import BMP files. �GIF, JPEG, TIFFbnbn /�bljən/ abbr billionBNC connectorBNC connector /�bi� en �si� kə|�nektə/noun a cylindrical metal connector with acopper core that is at the end of coaxial cableand is used to connect cables together (NOTE:It attaches by pushing and twisting the outercylinder onto two locking pins.)BNC T-piece connectorBNC T-piece connector /�bi� en �si� �ti�pi�s kə|�nektə/ noun a T-shaped metal con-nector used to connect an adapter card to theends of two sections of RG-58 ‘thin’ coaxialcable, used in many Ethernet network instal-lationsboardboard /bɔ�d/ noun a flat insulation materialon which electronic components are mountedand connectedbodybody /�bɒdi/ noun 1. the main section oftext in a document 2. the main part of a pro-grambofbof, BOF abbr beginning of fileboilerplateboilerplate /�bɔləplet/ noun a final doc-ument that has been put together using stand-ard sections of text held in a word-processorboilerplatingboilerplating /�bɔləpletŋ/ noun theputting together of a final document out ofvarious standard sections of textbold facebold face /�bəυld fes/ noun a thicker anddarker form of a typeface

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31 bottom up methodbombbomb /bɒm/ noun a routine in a programdesigned to crash the system or destroy dataat a particular time � verb (of software) tofail (informal ) � The program bombed, andwe lost all the data.bond paperbond paper /�bɒnd �pepə/ noun a heavygrade writing paperbookbook /bυk/ noun 1. a multimedia title. � eb-ook (NOTE: The name comes from the factthat most multimedia titles are arranged asa series of different pages, which togetherform a book.) 2. a set of sheets of paper at-tached together � They can print books up to96 pages. � The book is available in paper-back and hard cover.bookletbooklet /�bυklət/ noun a small book with apaper coverbookmarkbookmark /�bυkmɑ�k/ noun a code insert-ed at a particular point in a document that al-lows the user to move straight to that point ata later datebook palettebook palette /�bυk �p�lət/ noun a set ofcolours that is used in a particular multimediaapplication (NOTE: Two different applicationscould use different palettes, and each mustload its own palette otherwise the colourswill appear corrupted.)Boolean algebraBoolean algebra /�bu�liən ��ld'brə/noun a set of rules that define, simplify andmanipulate logical functions, based on state-ments which are true or false. � AND, NOTfunction, OR. Also called Boolean logicBoolean logicBoolean logic /�bu�liən �lɒd'k/ nounsame as Boolean algebraboomboom /bu�m/ noun a long metal arm that al-lows the operator to position a microphoneclose to the sound source; also used to posi-tion a video cameraboostboost /bu�st/ verb to make something in-crease � The extra hard disk will boost ourstorage capacity by 25MB.bootboot /bu�t/ verb to execute a set of instruc-tions automatically in order to reach a re-quired stateboot blockboot block /�bu�t blɒk/ noun the firsttrack, track 0, on a boot disk of an IBM-com-patible floppy disk. Also called boot recordboot diskboot disk /�bu�t dsk/ noun a special diskthat contains a bootstrap program and the op-erating system software � After you switchon the computer, insert the boot disk.bootingbooting /�bu�tŋ/ noun same as boot upbootlegbootleg /�bu�t |�le"/ noun an illegal copy ofrecorded materialBOOTPBOOTP /�bi� əυ əυ ti� �pi�/ noun an Inter-net protocol used by a diskless workstation tofind out its IP address, then load its operatingsystem from a central server. Full form boot-strap protocol. � IP (NOTE: This protocol al-lows a workstation to start up and load all its

software over the network: Ordinarily, aworkstation would load its operating systemand software from an internal floppy or harddisk drive.)boot partitionboot partition /�bu�t pɑ� |�tʃ(ə)n/ noun apartition on a hard disk that contains thebootstrap and operating systemboot recordboot record /�bu�t �rekɔ�d/ noun same asboot blockbootstrapbootstrap, bootstrap loader noun a setof instructions that are executed by the com-puter before a program is loaded, usually toload the operating system once the computeris switched on. Compare loaderbootstrap protocolbootstrap protocol /�bu�tstr�p�prəυtəkɒl/ noun full form of BOOTPboot upboot up /�bu�t ��p/ noun automatic execu-tion of a set of instructions usually held inROM when a computer is switched on. Alsocalled bootingborderborder /�bɔ�də/ noun 1. an area aroundprinted or displayed text 2. a thin boundaryline around a button or field or a graphic im-ageborder styleborder style /�bɔ�də �stal/ noun an at-tribute that determines the type of borderaround a button or field, e.g. a single line, ashadow or a double lineBorland™Borland™ a software company which hasdeveloped a wide range of programming lan-guages, database management systems andspreadsheet applications, including TurboC++, Paradox, and QuatroProborrowborrow /�bɒrəυ/ noun an operation in cer-tain arithmetic processes such as subtractionfrom a smaller numberbotbot /bɒt/ noun a robot utility program thathelps a user or another application carry outa particular task – e.g. a search bot will helpa user search the Internet by submitting thequery to several engines at once; a link botwill check that all the hyperlinks on a websiteare correctbottombottom /�bɒtəm/ noun the lowest part orpoint of something � bottom price lowestprice � bottom line last line on a balancesheet indicating profit or loss � the boss isinterested only in the bottom line he is onlyinterested in the final profit � bottom spaceblank lines at the bottom of a page of printedtextbottom spacebottom space /�bɒtəm �spes/ nounblank lines at the bottom of a page of printedtextbottom up methodbottom up method /�bɒtəm �p�meθəd/, bottom up programming/�prəυ"r�mŋ/ noun a method in which low-level instructions are combined to form ahigh-level instruction, which can then be fur-ther combined

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bounce 32bounce

bounce /baυns/ noun 1. a multiple keycontact caused by a faulty switch 2. an elec-tronic mail message that could not be correct-ly delivered and is returned to the sender 3.vertical film image distortion when beingprojectedboundaryboundary /�baυnd(ə)ri/ noun a line ormarker that indicates the limits of somethingbounding box

bounding box /�baυndŋ bɒks/ noun arectangle that determines the shape and posi-tion of an image that has been placed in adocument or on screenbox

box /bɒks/ noun 1. a cardboard or wood orplastic container 2. a square of ruled linesround a text or illustration � The commentsand quotations are printed in boxes.boxed

boxed /bɒkst/ adjective put in a box or soldin a boxbox inbox in /�bɒks �n/ verb to surround a sectionof text with ruled linesBoyce-Codd normal formBoyce-Codd normal form /�bɔs kɒd�nɔ�məl �fɔ�m/ noun � normal form. AbbrBCNFbozo bitbozo bit /�bəυzəυ bt/ noun (in an AppleMacintosh system) an attribute bit that pre-vents a file being copied or movedBPI

BPI, bpi noun the number of bits that can berecorded per inch of recording medium. Fullform bits per inchBPPBPP /�bi� pi� �pi�/ noun the number of bitsassigned to store the colour of each pixel.One bit provides black or white, four bitsgive 16 colour combinations, eight bits give256 colour combinations. Full form bits perpixelbpsbps /�bi� pi� �es/ abbr bits per second �Their transmission rate is 60,000 bits persecond (bps) through a parallel connection.Bps

Bps /�bi� pi� �es/ abbr bytes per secondbps rate

bps rate /�bi� pi� �es ret/ noun the rate atwhich information is sent, equal to thenumber of bits transmitted or received persecondBRA

BRA /�bi� ɑ� �e/ noun a basic ISDN servicethat provides two data channels capable ofcarrying data at a rate of 64Kbps togetherwith a signalling channel used to carry con-trol signals at 16Kbps. Full form basic rateaccessbracesbraces /�bresz/ plural noun curly bracketcharacters ( {} ) used in some programminglanguages to enclose a routinebracketbracket /�br�kt/ noun a printing sign toshow that an instruction or operation is to beprocessed separatelybracketed

bracketed /�br�ktd/ adjective (charac-ters) joined together with small lines betweenserif and main part

bracketing

bracketing /�br�ktŋ/ noun the processof photographing the same scene with differ-ent exposures to make sure there is one goodpictureBraille

Braille /brel/ noun a system of writing us-ing raised dots on the paper to indicate let-ters, which allows a blind person to read bypassing his fingers over the page � Braillemarks raised patterns on equipment or inbooks to permit identification by touchbranch

branch /brɑ�ntʃ/ noun 1. a possible path orjump from one instruction to another 2. a linelinking one or more devices to the main net-work � The faulty station is on this branch.� verb to jump from one section of a pro-gram to another, often using a test or decisionwith two or more possible results that lead totwo different points in the program

COMMENT: In BASIC, the instruction GOTOmakes the system jump to the line indicat-ed; this is an unconditional branch. The in-struction IF…THEN is a conditionalbranch, because the jump will only takeplace if the condition is met.

branching

branching /�brɑ�ntʃŋ/ noun a decisionwith two or more possible results that lead totwo different points in the programbrand

brand /br�nd/ noun a make of product,which can be recognised by a name or by adesign � the number one brand of softwarebrand newbrand new /�br�nd �nju�/ adjective quitenew or very newbreach

breach /bri�tʃ/ noun a failure to carry outthe terms of an agreementbreach of warranty

breach of warranty /�bri�tʃ əv �wɒrənti/noun the act of failing to do something whichis a part of a contractbreadboard

breadboard /�bredbɔ�d/ noun a devicethat allows prototype electronic circuits to beconstructed easily without permanent con-nections or solderingbreak

break /brek/ noun an action performed, ora key pressed, to stop the execution of a pro-gram � verb to decipher a difficult code � Hefinally broke the cipher system.break downbreak down /�brek �daυn/ verb to stopworking because of mechanical failure � Themodem has broken down.breakdown

breakdown /�brek|�daυn/ noun the proc-ess of stopping work because of mechanicalfailure � We cannot communicate with ourNew York office because of the breakdown ofthe telex lines.breakout box

breakout box /�brekaυt bɒks/ noun adevice that displays the status of lines withinan interface, cable or connector � The serialinterface doesn’t seem to be working – usethe breakout box to see which signals arepresent.

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33 broadcast messagebreakpointbreakpoint /�brekpɔnt/ noun a symbolinserted into a program which stops its exe-cution at that point to allow registers, varia-bles and memory locations to be examined(NOTE: Breakpoints are often used when de-bugging a program.)breathingbreathing /�bri�ðŋ/ noun a fault in whichthe image on screen continually comes in andout of focus; caused by buckling of the filmduring exposure or during high intensity pro-jection (film)breezewaybreezeway /�bri�zwe/ noun a signal usedto separate the colour information from thehorizontal synchronising pulse in a televisionsignalbricks-and-mortarbricks-and-mortar /�brks ən �mɔ�tə/adjective referring to businesses that operateusing buildings such as shops and warehous-es, as opposed to operating only or mainlyvia the Internet. Compare clicks-and-mor-tarbridgebridge /brd'/ verb to use bridgeware tohelp transfer programs and data files to an-other system (NOTE: A bridging product isavailable for companies with both genera-tions of machines.) � noun 1. a device thatconnects two networks together and allow in-formation to flow between them. � router,brouter (NOTE: Bridges function at the datalink layer of the OSI network model.) 2. aprocess of ensuring that pieces of computerequipment match, so that power losses be-tween them are kept to a minimum 3. hard-ware or software that allows parts of an oldsystem to be used on a new system � Abridging product is available for companieswith both generations of machines.

‘Lotus Development and IMRS are jointly devel-oping a bridge linking their respective spread-sheet and client server reporting tools. It will al-low users of IMRS’ Hyperion reporting tool tomanipulate live data from Lotus Improv.’ [Com-puting]

bridgewarebridgeware /�brd'weə/ noun hardwareor software used to make the transfer fromone computer system to another easier, bychanging e.g. file format and translationBriefcase utilityBriefcase utility /�bri�fkes ju� |�tlti/noun (in Windows) a special utility that al-lows you to keep files stored on a laptop anda desktop PC up to datebrightnessbrightness /�bratnəs/ noun the intensityof the light emitted by an image on a screen� A control knob allows you to adjust bright-ness and contrast.brightness rangebrightness range /�bratnəs rend'/noun the variation in the intensity of the lightemitted by somethingbrightness settingbrightness setting /�bratnəs �setŋ/noun TV brightness control position

brilliance

brilliance /�brljəns/ noun the luminanceof an object as seen in a picturebrilliant

brilliant /�brljənt/ adjective (of light orcolour) very bright and shiningbring up

bring up /�brŋ ��p/ verb to start a compu-ter systemBritish Approvals Board for Telecommunications

British Approvals Board for Tele-communications /�brtʃ ə |�pru�vəlzbɔ�d fɔ� �telikəmkju�n|�keʃ(ə)nz/ nounfull form of BABTBritish Standards Institute

British Standards Institute /�brtʃ�st�ndədz �nsttju�t/ noun full form ofBSI (UK)broad

broad /brɔ�d/ noun a wide-angled flood-light (film)broadband

broadband /�brɔ�db�nd/ noun (in localarea networks or communications) a trans-mission method that combines several chan-nels of data onto a carrier signal and can car-ry the data over long distances. Comparebaseband. Also called wideband

COMMENT: The three most popular broad-band communication devices are ISDN,cable modems and ADSL, which is part ofthe wider DSL standard. Each country hasdifferent prevalent standards and pricingmodels. For example, ISDN provides a dig-ital link that can transfer data at the rate of64Kbps; it dials an access number and pro-vides a link when required. ADSL, in con-trast, provides a direct connection that ap-pears to be ‘always on’ using a networkadapter to link the computer to the Internetprovider. ADSL normally supports a trans-fer speed of up to 2Mbps.

broadband communication device

broadband communication device/�brɔ�db�nd kə|�mju�n |�keʃ(ə)n d |�vas/noun a communication channel and devicethat allow a computer to connect to the Inter-net at a very high speed, often several thou-sand times faster than a dial-up modem con-nected to a telephone linebroadband ISDN

broadband ISDN /�brɔ�db�nd �a es di��en/ noun a high-speed data transfer servicethat allows data and voice to be transmittedover a wide area network. Abbr B-ISDNbroadcast

broadcast /�brɔ�dkɑ�st/ noun 1. (in radiocommunications) a data transmission tomany receivers 2. (in a network) a messageor data sent to a group of users � verb to dis-tribute information over a wide area or to alarge audience � He broadcast the latestnews over the WAN. (NOTE: broadcasts –broadcasting – broadcast)broadcast message

broadcast message /�brɔ�dkɑ�st�mesd'/ noun a message sent to everyoneon a network � Five minutes before we shutdown the LAN, we send a broadcast messageto all users.

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broadcast network 34broadcast network

broadcast network /�brɔ�dkɑ�st�netw��k/ noun a network for sending datato a number of receiversbroadcast quality

broadcast quality /�brɔ�dkɑ�st�kwɒlti/ noun a quality of video image orsignal that is the same as that used by profes-sional television stations � We can use yourmultimedia presentation as the advert on TVif it’s of broadcast quality.broadsheet

broadsheet /�brɔ�dʃi�t/ noun an uncutsheet of paper or paper which has printing onone side onlybroadside

broadside /�brɔ�dsad/ noun US a public-ity leafletbrochure

brochure /�brəυʃə/ noun a publicity book-let � We sent off for a brochure about holi-days in Greece or about maintenance servic-es.brochure site

brochure site /�brəυʃə sat/ noun a sim-ple, often one-page, website that advertises acompany’s products and gives its contact de-tailsbromide

bromide /�brəυmad/, bromide print/�brəυmad prnt/ noun 1. a positive photo-graphic print from a negative or the finishedproduct from a phototypesetting machine �In 24 hours we had bromides ready to film. 2.a lithographic plate used for proofingbrouter

brouter /�bru�tə/ noun a device that com-bines the functions of a router and bridge toconnect networks together � The brouterprovides dynamic routing and can bridge twolocal area networks. � bridge, routerbrown-out

brown-out /�braυn aυt/ noun a power fail-ure caused by a low voltage level rather thanno voltage levelbrowse

browse /braυz/ verb 1. to view data in a da-tabase or online system 2. to search throughand access database material without permis-sionbrowse mode

browse mode /�braυz məυd/ noun amode of operation in multimedia softwarethat allows a user to move between pages inno fixed orderbrowser

browser /�braυzə/ noun a software pro-gram that is used to navigate through web-pages stored on the Internet. A browser pro-gram asks the Internet server to send it a pageof information, stores, decodes and displaysthe page, and will jump to other pages if youclick on hyperlinks. � HTML, Netscape, IE

COMMENT: A browser program asks the In-ternet server (called the HTTP server) tosend it a page of information; this page isstored in the HTML layout language that isdecoded by the browser and displayed onscreen. The browser displays any hotspotsand will jump to another page if the userclicks on a hyperlink.

brushbrush /br�ʃ/ noun a tool in paint packagesoftware that draws pixels on screen � Thepaint package lets you vary the width of thebrush (in pixels) and the colour it produces.brush stylebrush style /�br�ʃ stal/ noun the widthand shape of the brush tool in a paint package� To fill in a big area, I select a wide, squarebrush style.brutebrute /bru�t/ noun a large 10,000 watt spot-light, generally an arc lamp (film)brute force methodbrute force method /�bru�t fɔ�s�meθəd/ noun a problem-solving methodwhich depends on computer power ratherthan elegant programming techniquesBSBS abbr backspaceBSIBSI /�bi� es �a/ noun an organisation thatmonitors design and safety standards in theUK. Full form British Standards InstituteBTL filterBTL filter /�bi� ti� �el �fltə/ noun same asbehind-the-lens filter (film)btreebtree /�bi� tri�/ noun same as binary treebubble jet printerbubble jet printer /�b�b(ə)l d'et�prntə/ noun � ink-jet printerbubble memorybubble memory /�b�b(ə)l �mem(ə)ri/noun a method of storing binary data usingthe magnetic properties of certain materials,allowing very large amounts of data to bestored in primary memorybubble packbubble pack /�b�b(ə)l p�k/ noun same asblister packbubble sortbubble sort /�b�b(ə)l sɔ�t/ noun a sortingmethod which repeatedly exchanges variouspairs of data items until they are in orderbucketbucket /�b�kt/ noun a storage area con-taining data for an applicationbuckle switchbuckle switch /�b�k(ə)l swtʃ/ noun anautomatic circuit breaker in a film camerawhich is activated by a film jam and shuts offthe motor to prevent the film tearing or buck-ling (film)bucklingbuckling /�b�klŋ/ noun the distortion andbending of a film due to heat or drynessbufferbuffer /�b�fə/ noun 1. a circuit that isolatesand protects a system from damaging inputsfrom driven circuits or peripherals. � driver2. a temporary storage area for data waitingto be processed � verb to use a temporarystorage area to hold data until the processoror device is ready to deal with it

COMMENT: Buffers allow two parts of a com-puter system to work at different speeds,e.g. a high-speed central processing unitand a slower line printer.

bugbug /b�"/ noun an error in a computer pro-gram which makes it run incorrectly(informal)buggybuggy /�b�"i/ noun a small computer-con-trolled vehicle (NOTE: The plural is bug-gies.)

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35 business-to-consumerbuild

build /bld/ noun a particular version of aprogram � This is the latest build of the newsoftware.building block

building block /�bldŋ blɒk/ noun a self-contained unit that can be joined to others toform a systembuildupbuildup /�bld�p/ noun a blank tape insert-ed into a videotape or film sequence in orderto leave spaces for scenes that have not yetbeen filmed (film)built-in

built-in /�blt �n/ adjective already includ-ed in a system � The built-in adapter cardmakes it fully IBM compatible. Oppositeadd-onbuilt into

built into /�blt �ntə/ adjective (feature)that is already a physical part of a system �There are communications ports built into allmodems.bulkbulk /b�lk/ noun a large quantity of some-thingbulk eraser

bulk eraser /�b�lk |�rezə/ noun the re-moval of recorded material on a magnetictape or film by the repositioning of all iron di-oxide molecules (film)bulk update terminal

bulk update terminal /�b�lk ��pdet�t��mn(ə)l/ noun a device used by an infor-mation provider to prepare videotext pagesoff-line, then transmit them rapidly to themain computerbulletbullet /�bυlt/ noun a symbol, often a filledcircle � or square �, placed in front of a lineof text and used to draw attention to a partic-ular line in a list

‘For a bullet chart use four to six bullet points andno more than six to eight words each’ [Comput-ing]

bulletedbulleted /�bυltd/ adjective marked with abullet in front of the line of text � a bulletedlistbulletin board systembulletin board system /�boltn bɔ�d�sstəm/ noun full form of BBS

‘The Council of European Professional Informat-ics Societies has instituted an experimental Bul-letin Board System based at the University ofWageningen.’ [Computing]

bullets

bullets /�bυlts/ noun 1. a solid area oftypeset tone indicating the required image in-tensity 2. a method of indicating an importantsection of text by the use of large dots on thepagebundlebundle /�b�nd(ə)l/ noun 1. a number of op-tic fibres gathered together 2. a package con-taining a computer together with software oraccessories offered at a special price � Thebundle now includes a PC with CD-rewriter,digital camera and scanner for just £599. �verb to market at a special price a packagethat contains a computer together with arange of software or accessories

bundled softwarebundled software /�b�nd(ə)ld�sɒftweə/ noun software included in theprice of a computer systembureaubureau /�bjυərəυ/ noun 1. an office thatspecialises in keyboarding data or processingbatches of data for other small companies �The company offers a number of bureau serv-ices, such as printing and data collection. 2.a company that specialises in typesettingfrom disks or outputting DTP or graphicsfiles to bromide or film

‘IMC has a colour output bureau that puts imagesonto the uncommon CD-ROM XA format.’[Computing]

burnburn /b��n/ verb same as blowburned-in time codeburned-in time code /�b��nd n �tam�kəυd/ noun time code information includedin the video signal as an image that is visibleon any TV or monitor. Abbr BITCburnerburner /�b��nə/ noun a device which burnsin programs onto PROM chips or CDburn inburn in /�b��n �n/ verb 1. to mark a televi-sion or monitor screen after displaying ahigh-brightness image for too long 2. to writedata into a PROM chip 3. to increase the ex-posure for a part of a photographic imageburn-inburn-in /�b��n n/ noun 1. a heat test forelectronic components 2. the addition of animage or title over the projected action (film)burn outburn out /�b��n �aυt/ noun excess heat orincorrect use that causes an electronic circuitor device to failburstburst /b��st/ noun a short isolated sequenceof transmitted signalsbursterburster /�b��stə/ noun a machine used toseparate the sheets of continuous fanfold pa-perbusbus /b�s/ noun 1. a communication linkconsisting of a set of leads or wires whichconnects different parts of a computer hard-ware system, and over which data is transmit-ted and received by various circuits in thesystem. Also called highway 2. a centralsource of information that supplies severaldevicesbusiness computerbusiness computer /�bzns kəm |

�pju�tə/ noun a powerful small computerwhich is programmed for special businesstasksbusiness packagebusiness package /�bzns �p�kd'/noun same as business systembusiness systembusiness system /�bzns �sstəm/ nouna set of programs adapted for business use,comprising e.g. payroll, invoicing and cus-tomers filebusiness-to-businessbusiness-to-business /�bzns tə�bzns/ adjective full form of B2Bbusiness-to-consumerbusiness-to-consumer /�bzns tə kən|

�sju�mə/ adjective full form of B2C

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bus network 36bus networkbus network /�b�s �netw��k/ noun a net-work of computers where the machines areconnected to a central bus unit which trans-mits the messages it receivesbusybusy /�bzi/ adjective 1. occupied in doingsomething or in working � When the busyline goes low, the printer will accept moredata. 2. (of a signal) indicating that a deviceis not ready to receive data 3. distracting ordetailed (background to a film shot)buttonbutton /�b�t(ə)n/ noun 1. a switch on amouse or joystick that carries out an action �Use the mouse to move the cursor to the iconand start the application by pressing themouse button. 2. a square shape displayedthat will carry out a particular action if select-ed with a pointer or keyboard � There aretwo buttons at the bottom of the status win-dow, select the left button to cancel the oper-ation or the right to continue.button barbutton bar /�b�t(ə)n bɑ�/ noun a line ofsmall buttons along the top of the screen, justbelow the menu bar, in many applicationssuch as Microsoft Word, Works and Excel.Each button on the bar contains an icon thathelps describe its function and is equippedwith bubble-help.butt splicebutt splice /�b�t splas/ noun a join infilm or tape which has been taped together

with the edges touching in order to preventoverlapping (film)buzz

buzz /b�z/ noun a sound like a loud hum �verb to make a loud humbuzzer

buzzer /�b�zə/ noun an electrical devicewhich makes a loud humbuzz track

buzz track /�b�z tr�k/ noun the soundtrack of a test film which is used to positioncorrectly the visual film in an optical soundreproduction system (film)buzzword

buzzword /�b�zw��d/ noun a word whichis popular among a certain group of people(informal)BVA

BVA abbr British Videogram Association(film)B/W

B/W, B and W abbr black-and-whitebypass

bypass /�ba |�pɑ�s/ noun an alternativeroute around a component or device, usuallya faulty one, so that it is not used � There isan automatic bypass around any faultyequipment.byte

byte /bat/ noun a group of usually eightbits or binary digits that a computer operateson as a single unitbytes per second

bytes per second /�bats p�� �sekənd/noun the number of bytes that can be trans-mitted per second. Abbr Bps

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CCC1 symbol the hexadecimal number equiva-lent to decimal 12CC2 noun a high level programming languagedeveloped mainly for writing structured sys-tems programs (NOTE: The C language wasoriginally developed for and with the UNIXoperating system.)C++C++ /�si� pl�s �pl�s/ noun a high-level pro-gramming language based on its predecessor,C, but providing object-oriented program-ming functionscablecable /�keb(ə)l/ noun a flexible conductingelectrical or optical link � The cable has thewrong connector for this printer.cable modemcable modem /�keb(ə)l �məυdem/ nouna device that links a computer to the Internetvia an existing cable television line. This sys-tem provides high speed access to the Inter-net by sharing the coaxial cable that is used todistribute cable television signals.cablingcabling /�keblŋ/ noun cable as a material� Using high-quality cabling will allow theuser to achieve very high data transfer rates.

‘It has won a £500,000 contract to supply a struc-tured voice and data cabling system to the bankand its stockbrocking subsidiary.’ [Computing]

cachecache /k�ʃ/ noun a section of memoryused to store a temporary copy of selecteddata for faster access. Also called cachememory � verb to file or store in a cache �This CPU caches instructions so improvesperformance by 15 percent.cache memorycache memory /�k�ʃ �mem(ə)ri/ nounsame as cacheCADCAD /k�d/ noun the use of a computer andgraphics terminal to help a designer in hiswork � All our engineers design on CADworkstations. Full form computer-aideddesign, computer-assisted design

‘John Smith of CAD supplier CAD/CAM Limit-ed has moved into sales with responsibilities forthe North of England. He was previously a tech-nical support specialist.’ [Computing]

CAD/CAMCAD/CAM noun interaction between com-puters used for designing and those for man-ufacturing a productcaddycaddy /�k�di/ noun � CD caddyCAECAE /�si� e �i�/ noun the use of a computerto help an engineer solve problems or calcu-late design or product specifications. Fullform computer-aided engineering, com-puter-assisted engineering

CAICAI /�si� e �a/ noun the use of a computerto assist in teaching a subject. Full formcomputer-aided instruction, computer-assisted instructionCALCAL /�si� e �el/ noun the use of a computerto assist pupils to learn a subject. Full formcomputer-aided learning, computer-as-sisted learningcalculatecalculate /�k�lkjυ|�let/ verb 1. to find theanswer to a problem using numbers � TheDP manager calculated the rate for key-boarding. 2. to estimate � I calculate that wehave six months’ stock left.calculating machinecalculating machine /�k�lkjυletŋ mə|

�ʃi�n/ noun a machine which calculatescalculationcalculation /�k�lkjυ|�leʃ(ə)n/ noun theanswer to a problem in mathematicscalculatorcalculator /�k�lkjυ|�letə/ noun an elec-tronic machine which works out the answersto numerical problems � My pocket calcula-tor needs a new battery.CalculatorCalculator /�k�lkjυ|�letə/ a software util-ity that is supplied with Windows, works justlike a normal calculator and is started by dou-ble-clicking on the Calculator icon in the Ac-cessories groupcalibratecalibrate /�k�lbret/ verb to adjust a mon-itor or joystick so that it is responding cor-rectly and accurately to the signals or move-mentscallcall /kɔ�l/ noun a conversation (betweenpeople or machines) on the telephone � verbto transfer control from a main program to aseparate program or routinecallbackcallback /�kɔ�lb�k/ noun a security sys-tem that is used to reduce the risk of any un-authorised user connecting to a computer ifdial-in networking is installed. With call-back, the communications software and mo-dem are used to dial the remote computer andenter a name and password. The remote com-puter then hangs up the telephone line andcalls back on a preset telephone number.Abbr CBcall discriminationcall discrimination /�kɔ�l d|�skrm|

�neʃ(ə)n/ noun a feature of a modem that al-lows it to check if an incoming telephone callis from a fax machine, another computer witha modem or from a personcall divertercall diverter /�kɔ� da |�v��tə/ noun a de-vice which, on receiving a telephone call,contacts another point and re-routes the call

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caller 38caller

caller /�kɔ�lə/ noun a person who tele-phones or requests a callcall handler

call handler /�kɔ�l �h�ndlə/ noun � han-dlercallier effect

callier effect /�k�liə |�fekt/ noun the scat-tering of light as it passes through one ormore lensescalligraphy

calligraphy /kə|�l"rəfi/ noun the art ofhandwritingcall in

call in /�kɔ�l �n/ verb to telephone to makecontact � We ask the representatives to callin every Friday to report the weeks’ sales.call logger

call logger /�kɔ�l �lɒ"ə/ noun a devicewhich keeps a record of telephone callscall scheduling

call scheduling /�kɔ�l �ʃedju�lŋ/ noun(in a fax server ) the process of arrangingcalls so that long-distance calls are made atoff-peak timescall up

call up /�kɔ�l ��p/ verb to ask for informa-tion from a backing store to be displayed �All the customers addresses were called up.CAM

CAM /�si� e �em/ noun the use of a compu-ter to control machinery or assist in a manu-facturing process. Full form computer-aid-ed manufacture, computer-assistedmanufacturingCambridge ring

Cambridge ring /�kembrid' �rŋ/ nouna local area networking standard used forconnecting several devices and computers to-gether in a ring with simple cable linkscamcorder

camcorder /�k�mkɔ�də/ noun a compact,portable video camera with built-in videocassette recorder and microphone; recordsonto VHS, S-VHS or Hi-8 format cassettes(film)cameo

cameo /�k�miəυ/ noun 1. reverse charac-ters, that is, white on a black background 2. afront-lit subject filmed in front of a darkbackgroundcamera

camera /�k�m(ə)rə/ noun 1. a photograph-ic device that transfers a scene onto a piece offilm, usually via a lens 2. a device that trans-forms a scene into electronic signals that canbe displayed on a televisioncamera chain

camera chain /�k�m(ə)rə tʃen/ nounthe pieces of equipment necessary to operatea television cameracamera crew

camera crew /�k�m(ə)rə kru�/ noun agroup of people who man a TV cameracamera exposure sheets

camera exposure sheets /�k�m(ə)rək|�spəυ'ə �ʃi�ts/ plural noun in animationphotography, the frame by frame instructionsheet for the camera operatorcamera operator

camera operator /�k�m(ə)rə �ɒpəretə/noun the main camera technician who is incharge of the lighting and photography of ashot

camera originalcamera original /�k�m(ə)rə ə|�rd'nəl/noun the original film in the camera whichwas used to photograph a scenecamera ready copycamera ready copy /�k�m(ə)rə �redi�kɒpi/ noun the final text or graphics ready tobe photographed before printing. Abbr CRCcamera scriptcamera script /�k�m(ə)rə skrpt/ nounthe script on which information of shots,lighting and sound are listedcamera speedcamera speed /�k�m(ə)rə spi�d/ nounthe speed with which film moves throughcamera; rate is measured by frames per sec-ond, in feet, or metres per minutecampus environmentcampus environment /�k�mpəs n|

�varənmənt/ noun a large area or locationthat has lots of users connected by severalnetworks, such as a university or hospitalcampus networkcampus network /�k�mpəs �netw��k/noun a network that connects together thesmaller local area networks in each depart-ment within a building or university sitecancelcancel /�k�nsəl/ verb to stop a process orinstruction before it has been fully executedcancellationcancellation /�k�nsə|�leʃ(ə)n/ noun theaction of stopping a process which has beenstartedcandelacandela /k�n|�di�lə/ noun the SI unit ofmeasurement of light intensitycanonical schemacanonical schema /kə |�nɒnkl �ski�mə/noun a model of a database that is independ-ent of hardware or software availablecanscans /k�nz/ plural noun headphones (film)capabilitycapability /�kepə|�bləti/ noun being ableto do something � resolution capabilitiescapablecapable /�kepəb(ə)l/ adjective able to dosomething � That is the highest speed thatthis printer is capable of. (NOTE: a device iscapable of something)capacitancecapacitance /k�|�p�stəns/ noun theability of a component to store electricalchargecapacitorcapacitor /kə|�p�stə/ noun an electroniccomponent that can store chargecapacitycapacity /kə|�p�sti/ noun 1. the amountwhich can be produced or amount of workwhich can be done � industrial or manufac-turing or production capacity 2. the amountof storage space available in a system or on adiskcapitalisationcapitalisation /�k�pt(ə)la |�zeʃ(ə)n/,capitalization noun function of a word-processor to convert a line or block of textinto capitalscapitalscapitals /�k�pt(ə)lz/, caps plural nounletters in their large form, A,B,C,D, etc., asopposed to lower-case letters, a,b,c,d, etc. �The word BASIC is always written in caps.caps lockcaps lock /�k�ps lɒk/ noun a key on a key-board that allows all characters to be entered

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39 carrier waveas capitals � The LED lights up when capslock is pressed.capstancapstan /�k�pstən/ noun a spindle of atape player or tape backup unit that keeps thetape pressed against the magnetic read/writehead or pinch rollercaptioncaption /�k�pʃən/ noun a descriptive textthat appears at the top of a window, in whitetext on a blue backgroundcaption generatorcaption generator /�k�pʃən�d'enəretə/ noun a computer or electronicdevice that allows a user to add titles or cap-tions to a video sequencecapturecapture /�k�ptʃə/ verb 1. to take data intoa computer system 2. (in a Token-Ring net-work) to remove a token from the network inorder to transmit data across the network. �Token Ring network 3. to store the imagecurrently displayed on screen in a file; usefulwhen creating manuals about a softwareproduct � The software allows captured im-ages to be edited. � Scanners usually captureimages at a resolution of 300 dots per inch(dpi).carboncarbon /�kɑ�bən/ noun 1. carbon paper �You forgot to put a carbon in the typewriter.2. a carbon copy, a copy made with carbonpaper � Give me the original, and file thecarbon copy. � NCR papercarbon copycarbon copy /�kɑ�bən �kɒpi/ noun fullform of cccarbonlesscarbonless /�kɑ�bənləs/ adjective whichmakes a copy without using carbon paper �carbonless paper paper that transfers writ-ing without carbon papercarbon microphonecarbon microphone /�kɑ�bən�makrəfəυn/ noun a microphone that useschanges of resistance in carbon granules dueto sound pressure to produce a signalcarbon papercarbon paper /�kɑ�bən �pepə/ noun thinpaper with a coating of ink on one side, usedto make copies in a typewriter or printercarbon ribboncarbon ribbon /�kɑ�bən �rbən/ noun athin plastic ribbon, coated with black ink,used in printers. Compare fibre ribboncarbon setcarbon set /�kɑ�bən set/ noun forms withcarbon paper attachedcarbon tissuecarbon tissue /�kɑ�bən �tʃu�/ noun lightsensitive material used to transfer an image tothe printing plate of a photogravure processcardcard /kɑ�d/ noun 1. a small piece of stiff pa-per or plastic 2. a punched card 3. a sheet ofinsulating material on which electronic com-ponents can be mounted 4. a single pagewithin a HyperCard program; each card canhave text, images, sound, video and buttonson it

‘A smart card carries an encryption chip, whichcodifies your ID and password prior to their beingtransmitted across a network.’ [Computing]

CardBusCardBus /�kɑ�db�s/ a high-speed, up to33MHz, version of the original PCMCIA PCCard standard that allows 32-bits of data tobe transferred in one operation compared tothe 16-bit capability of the original PC Cardstandardcardinal numbercardinal number /�kɑ�dn(ə)l �n�mbə/noun a positive whole number � 13, 19 and27 are cardinal numbers, –2.3 and 7.45 arenot.cardioid responsecardioid response /�kɑ�diɔd r |�spɒns/noun the heart-shaped response curve of anantenna or microphone when a signal sourceis moved around itcardoid microphonecardoid microphone /�kɑ�dɔd�makrəfəυn/ noun a highly sensitive micro-phone which is used to pick up sound in aspecific area. It is not used for general noiserecording. (film)card readercard reader /�kɑ�d �ri�də/ noun a devicewhich reads data from the magnetic strip onthe back of a identity or credit cardcaretcaret /�k�rət/ noun symbol ‘^’ that is oftenused to mean the Control keycaret markcaret mark /�k�rət mɑ�k/, caret sign/�k�rt �san/ noun a proofreading symbol toindicate that something has to be inserted inthe textcarpal tunnel syndromecarpal tunnel syndrome /�kɑ�p(ə)l�t�n(ə)l �sndrəυm/ noun same as repeti-tive strain injurycarriagecarriage /�k�rd'/ noun the mechanicalsection of a printer that correctly feeds ormoves the paper that is being printedcarriage returncarriage return /�k�rd' r|�t��n/ noun acode or key to indicate the end of an inputline and to move the cursor to the start of thenext line. Abbr CRcarriage return keycarriage return key /�k�rd' r|�t��n�ki�/ noun a key that moves a cursor or print-head to the beginning of the next line onscreen or in printingcarriercarrier /�k�riə/ noun 1. a device that holdsa section of microfilm 2. a continuous high-frequency waveform that can be modulatedby a signal 3. a substance that holds the inkfor photocopying or printing processescarrier sense multiple access-collision avoidancecarrier sense multiple access-colli-sion avoidance /�k�riə sens �m�ltip(ə)l��kses kə|�l'(ə)n ə|�vɔdəns/ noun fullform of CSMA-CAcarrier sense multiple access-collision detectioncarrier sense multiple access-colli-sion detection /�k�riə sens �m�ltip(ə)l��kses kə|�l'(ə)n d|�tekʃ(ə)n/ noun fullform of CSMA-CDcarrier telegraphycarrier telegraphy /�k�riə tə|�le"rəfi/noun a system of transmitting telegraph sig-nals via a carrier signalcarrier wavecarrier wave /�k�riə wev/ noun a wave-form used as a carrier

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carry 40carrycarry /�k�ri/ verb to move (something)from one place to another � The fibre opticlink carried all the data.cartridgecartridge /�kɑ�trd'/ noun a removablecassette, containing a disk or tape or programor data, usually stored in ROMcartridge papercartridge paper /�kɑ�trd' �pepə/ noungood quality white paper for drawing orprintingCASCAS /�si� e �es/ noun a standard developedby Intel and DCA to allow communicationsoftware to control a fax modems. Full formcommunicating applications specifica-tioncascading menucascading menu /k�|�skedŋ �menju�/noun a secondary menu that is displayed tothe side of the main pull-down menucascading style sheetcascading style sheet /k� |�skedŋ�stal �ʃi�t/ noun a method of describing thefont, spacing and colour of text within a web-page and storing this information in a stylesheet that can be applied to any text withinthe page. Abbr CSScascading windowscascading windows /k� |�skedŋ�wndəυz/ plural noun (in a GUI) multiplewindows that are displayed overlapping sothat only the title bar at the top of each win-dow is showingcasecase /kes/ noun 1. a protective containerfor a device or circuit 2. a programming com-mand that jumps to various points in a pro-gram depending on the result of a testcase sensitivecase sensitive /�kes �sensətv/ adjec-tive referring to a command or operation thatwill only work when the characters are en-tered in a particular case � The password iscase sensitive.case sensitive searchcase sensitive search /�kes �sensətv�s��tʃ/ noun a search function that succeedsonly if both the search word and the case ofthe characters in the search word matchcasingcasing /�kesŋ/ noun a solid protectivebox in which a computer or delicate equip-ment is housedcassettecassette /kə|�set/ noun a hard containerused to store and protect magnetic tapecassette recordercassette recorder /kə|�set r |�kɔ�də/noun a machine to transfer audio signals ontomagnetic tapecassette tapecassette tape /kə|�set tep/ noun narrowreel of magnetic tape housed in a solid casefor protection (NOTE: Using cassette tape al-lows data to be stored for future retrieval. Itis used instead of a disk system on smallcomputers or as a slow, serial access, high-capacity back-up medium for large sys-tems.)castcast /kɑ�st/ noun 1. (in a programming lan-guage) an instruction that converts data fromone type to another � To convert the variable

from an integer to a character type, use thecast command. 2. (in a multimedia presenta-tion or animation) each individual part of amultimedia presentation or animation. Themembers of a cast can be individual images,sound clips or text.cast-based animationcast-based animation /�kɑ�st bes��n|�meʃ(ə)n/ noun a type of animation inwhich everything is an object and has its de-fined movement, colour and shape, and theactions of each object are controlled by ascriptcaster machinecaster machine /�kɑ�stə mə|�ʃi�n/ noun amachine that produces metal typecasting agentcasting agent /�kɑ�stŋ �ed'ənt/ noun aperson who chooses the performers for a filmor television production (film)casting offcasting off /�kɑ�stŋ ɒf/ noun the processof calculating the amount of space requiredto print text in a certain fontcast membercast member /�kɑ�st �membə/ noun asingle object, e.g. text, an image or an ani-mated object, within a cast used in a presen-tationcast offcast off /�kɑ�st �ɒf/ noun the amount ofspace required to print a text in a certain font� verb to calculate the amount of space need-ed to print a text in a certain fontCATCAT /k�t/ noun 1. the use of a computer todemonstrate to and assist pupils in learning askill. Full form computer-aided training,computer-assisted training 2. the use of acomputer to test equipment or programs tofind any faults. Full form computer-aidedtesting, computer-assisted testingcatadiatropic lenscatadiatropic lens /�k�təaətrɒpk�lenz/ noun a telephoto lens incorporatingmirrors which are used to diminish the lenssize (film)cataloguecatalogue /�k�t(ə)lɒ"/ noun a list of con-tents or items in order � verb to make a cat-alogue of items stored � All the terminalswere catalogued, with their location, callsign and attribute table.cataloguercataloguer /�k�təlɒ"ə/ noun a personwho makes a cataloguecatastrophecatastrophe /kə|�t�strəfi/ noun a seriousfault, error or breakdown of equipment, usu-ally leading to serious damage and shutdownof a systemcatastrophic errorcatastrophic error /�k�təstrɒfk �erə/noun an error that causes a program to crashor files to be accidentally erasedcatastrophic failurecatastrophic failure /�k�təstrɒfk�feljə/ noun a complete system failure orcrashcathodecathode /�k�θəυd/ noun the negative elec-trical terminal of a device or battery. Oppo-site anode

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41 CD-i digital imagingcathode ray tubecathode ray tube /�k�θəυd �re tju�b/noun full form of CRT

COMMENT: Cathode ray tubes are used intraditional-style television sets, computermonitors and VDUs. A CRT consists of avacuum tube, one end of which is flat andcoated with phosphor, while the other endcontains an electron beam source. Charac-ters or graphics are visible when the con-trollable electron beam strikes the phos-phor, causing it to glow.

cathode-ray tube storagecathode-ray tube storage /�k�θəυdre �tju�b �stɔ�rd'/ noun a cathode ray tubewith a long-persistence phosphor screencoating that retains an image for a long timeCATVCATV noun a cable television system usinga single aerial to pick up television signalsand then distribute them over a wide area viacable. Full form community antenna tele-visionCAVCAV /�si� e �vi�/ noun a CD-ROM that spinsat a constant speed. The size of each dataframe on the disc varies so as to maintain aregular data throughput of one frame per sec-ond. Full form constant angular velocityCBCB1 noun a cheap popular system of radiocommunications, usually between vehicles.Full form citizens band radioCBCB2 abbr callbackC bandC band /�si� b�nd/ noun a microwave com-munications frequency range of 3.9 –6.2GHzCBICBI /)/ abbr computer-based instructionCBLCBL /�si� bi� �el/ noun education or learningusing special programs running on a compu-ter. Full form computer-based learningCBMSCBMS /�si� bi� em �es/ noun the use of acomputer system to allow users to send andreceive messages from other users, usuallyin-house. Full form computer-based mes-sage system. � BBSCBTCBT /�si� bi� �ti�/ noun the use of a computersystem to train students. Full form compu-ter-based trainingCBXCBX abbr computerised branch exchangecccc /�si� �si�/ noun a feature of electronic mailsoftware that allows you to send a copy of amessage to another user. Full form carboncopy. � bccCCDCCD abbr charge-coupled deviceCCIR 601CCIR 601 /�si� si� a ɑ� �sks əυ �w�n/noun a recommended standard for definingdigital videoCCITTCCITT /�si� si� a ti� �ti�/ noun an interna-tional committee that defines communica-tions protocols and standards. Full formComité Consultatif International Télé-phonique et TélégraphiqueCCRCCR abbr camera cassette recorder. � cam-corder

CCTV

CCTV /�si� si� ti� �vi�/ abbr closed circuittelevisionCCUCCU abbr communications control unitCD

CD1 /�si� |�di�/ noun a system instruction inMS-DOS and UNIX that moves you arounda directory structure � Type in CD DOCS tomove into the DOCS subdirectory. Alsocalled CHDIR. Full form change directoryCDCD2 /�si�|�di�/ abbr compact discCD32

CD32 /�si� di� ��ti �tu�/ noun a unit with aprocessor and CD-ROM drive developed byCommodore that uses its Amiga computerCD-audio

CD-audio /�si� �di� �ɔ�diəυ/ noun a stand-ard that defines how music can be stored indigital form, i.e. as a series of numbers, on acompact discCD-bridge

CD-bridge /�si� �di� brd'/ noun an exten-sion to the CD-ROM XA standard that allowsextra data to be added so that the disc can beread on a CD-i playerCD caddy

CD caddy /�si� �di� �k�di/ noun a flat plas-tic container that is used to hold a compactdiscCD-DA

CD-DA /�si� �di� �di� �e/ abbr compact disc-digital audio (NOTE: also called Red Bookaudio)CD-E

CD-E /�si� �di� i�/ noun a format that allowsdata to be saved to and erased from a compactdiscCD+G

CD+G /�si� di� pl�s �d'i�/, CD+Graphics/�si� di� pl�s �"r�fks/ noun a CD formatthat adds a text track to an audio disc – usedto store song title informationCD-i

CD-i /�si� di� �a/ noun hardware and soft-ware standards that combine sound, data,video and text onto a compact disc and allowa user to interact with the software stored ona CD-ROM. The standard defines encoding,compression and display functions.CD-I

CD-I /�si� �di� a/ noun set of enhancementsto the normal CD-ROM standard, developedby Philips, and aimed for home use. The sys-tem uses its own special hardware consolewith speakers, joystick and a connection to atelevision screen to display the images. Thespecial feature of CD-I is that it allows you tointeract with what you see on the televisionscreen and choose options or respond toquestions or a game.CD-i digital audio

CD-i digital audio /�si� di� a �dd't(ə)l�ɔ�diəυ/ noun a format that enables a CD-idisc to record audio in digital format in oneof four ways, either mono or stereo and attwo different sample ratesCD-i digital imagingCD-i digital imaging /�si� di� a�dd't(ə)l �md'ŋ/ plural noun the com-pression method used to store images andvideo frames on a CD-i disc

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CD-i sector 42CD-i sector

CD-i sector /�si� di� �a �sektə/ noun a unitof storage on a CD-i disc that can store 2352bytesCD Player

CD Player /�si� �di� �pleə/ noun a utilitysupplied with Windows that allows a user toplay back audio CDs in the PC’s CD-ROMdriveCD quality

CD quality /�si� �di� �kwɒlti/ adjectiveable to provide recording quality similar to acompact disc. The term normally refers toequipment that can store 16-bit samples at asample rate of over 44,000 samples per sec-ond. � A sound card in a computer mighthave several modes of operation: low-qualityfor general use that does not use up too muchmemory and CD quality recording mode forfinal recordings.CD-R

CD-R /�si� di� �ɑ�/ noun technology that al-lows a user to write data to and read from aCD-R disc. Full form compact disc re-cordableCD real time operating systemCD real time operating system/�si�di� �rəl tam �ɒpəretŋ �sstəm/ nounfull form of CDRTOSC: drive

C: drive /�si� drav/ noun the main harddisk drive, denoted by the letter C in manyoperating systems, including DOS, Windowsand OS/2. � floppy disk, hard disk

COMMENT: Usually, a PC has two or threedisk drives within its casing. The conven-tion is to provide one floppy disk, called ‘A’:and one hard disk called ‘C’:. If you have asecond floppy disk, this is called ‘B’: and aCD-ROM drive is usually ‘D’:. When talkingabout the different disk drives, you say‘Drive A’ for the floppy drive, but usuallywrite ‘A’:. If you are using DOS, when yourPC starts up it will usually show what’scalled the C-prompt (which looks like ‘C:\>your screen); this means you are currentlylooking at the hard disk. If you want tochange to drive A to read data from a flop-py disk, enter ’A’: and press return.

CD-ROM

CD-ROM /�si� di� �rɒm/ noun a small plas-tic disc that is used as a high capacity ROMstorage device that can store 650Mb of data;data is stored in binary form as holes etchedon the surface which are then read by a laser

‘’Customers’ images will be captured, digitised,and stored on optical disk or CD-ROM, and pro-duced if queries arise about responsibility forATM transactions.’’ [Computing]

CD-ROM drive

CD-ROM drive /�si� �di� rɒm/ noun a me-chanical device that spins a compact disc andreads data stored on the surface of the discusing a tiny laser beamCD-ROM Extended Architecture

CD-ROM Extended Architecture /�si��di� rɒm k|�stendd �ɑ�ktektʃə/ noun anextended CD-ROM format that defines howaudio, images and data are stored on a CD-ROM disc. Abbr CD-ROM/XA

CD-ROM Extensions

CD-ROM Extensions /�si� �di� rɒm/ plu-ral noun the software required to allow an op-erating system to access a CD-ROM driveCD-ROM mode 1

CD-ROM mode 1 /�si� �di� rɒm məυd/noun the standard, original method of storingdata in the High Sierra file formatCD-ROM mode 2

CD-ROM mode 2 /�si� �di� rɒm məυd/noun the higher-capacity storage format thatstores data in the space used in mode 1 for er-ror correctionCD-ROM playerCD-ROM player /�si� �di� rɒm/ noun adisc drive that allows a computer to read datastored on a CD-ROM; the player uses a laserbeam to read etched patterns on the surface ofthe CD-ROM that represent data bitsCD-ROM Re-WritableCD-ROM Re-Writable /�si� �di� rɒm re/noun a disc technology that can read a stand-ard CD-ROM, write to a CD-R or write datamany times to the same CD-RCD-ROM/XA

CD-ROM/XA abbr CD-ROM Extended Ar-chitectureCDRTOSCDRTOS /�si� di� ɑ� ti� əυ �es/ noun an op-erating system used to run a CD-i hardwareplatformCD-RWCD-RW /�si� di� ɑ� �d�b(ə)lju�/ noun acompact disc that can have its contents erasedand something else recorded onto it manytimesCDS

CDS noun digital sound recorded on a filmtrack (film) Full form cinema digital soundCDTV

CDTV /�si� di� ti� �vi�/ noun a CD-ROMstandard developed by Commodore thatcombines audio, graphics and text. Thisstandard is mainly intended as an interactivesystem for home use, with the player con-nected to a television and also able to playmusic CDs.CD-VCD-V /�si� �di� vi�/ noun a format, now nolonger used, for storing 5 minutes of videodata on a 3-inch disc in analog formCD-videoCD-video /�si� di� �vdiəυ/ noun a compactdisc used to store and play back video imagesCD-WO

CD-WO /�si� �d�b(ə)l ju� �əυ/ noun a CD-ROM disc and drive technology that allows auser to write data to the disc once only. It isuseful for storing archived documents or fortesting a CD-ROM before it is duplicated.cel

cel /sel/ noun a single frame in an animationsequencecellcell /sel/ noun 1. a single function ornumber in a spreadsheet program 2. a singlememory location, capable of storing a dataword, accessed by an individual addresscell address

cell address /�sel ə|�dres/ noun (in aspreadsheet) a code that identifies the posi-tion of a cell by row and column. The rowsare normally numbered and the columns usethe letters of the alphabet.

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43 chainingcell phone

cell phone /�məυbal �fəυn/ noun US asmall, portable device that lets someonemake and receive telephone calls. Same asmobile phone

COMMENT: Older cell phone standardstransmitted the user’s voice as an analogradio signal; current phones convert thevoice to digital data and transmit this via aradio signal. New cell phones provide dataand messaging services as well as basictelephone functions: some include built-inmodems to provide dial-up access to theInternet, many allow text messages to betransmitted to other phone users and someincorporate an electronic diary, organiserand address book. Current cell phonestransmit information using the GSM, PCSor GPRS standard and can provide basicInternet access using WAP and GPRS.

cellular

cellular /�seljυlə/ adjective clear plasticsheet used for animation and for overheadprojectorscellular phone

cellular phone /�seljυlə �fəυn/ nounsame as mobile phonecelluloid

celluloid /�seljυlɔd/ noun cellulose ni-trate which was used as a film base in the past(film) � acetatecentering

centering /�sentərŋ/ noun the action ofputting text in the centre of the screen �Centering of headings is easily done, usingthis function key.centi-

centi- /senti/ prefix meaning one hundredor one hundredthcentimetre

centimetre /�sentmi�tə/ noun one hun-dredth of a metrecentral

central /�sentrəl/ adjective in the middlecentralized

centralized /�sentrəlazd/ adjectivewhich is located in a central positioncentral memory

central memory /�sentrəl �mem(ə)ri/noun full form of CMcentral processing unit

central processing unit /�sentrəl�prəυsesŋ �ju�nt/, central processor/�sentrəl �prəυ|�sesə/ noun full form of CPUcentre

centre /�sentə/ noun the point in the middleof something � verb 1. to align the read/writehead correctly on a magnetic disk or tape 2.to place a piece of text in the centre of the pa-per or display screen � Which key do youpress to centre the heading?centre text

centre text /�sentə �tekst/ noun an optionin a word-processing or DTP package thatchanges the formatting of a line of text so thatis in the centre of the page or frameCentronics interface

Centronics interface /sen|�trɒnks�ntəfes/ noun a parallel printer interfacedevised by Centronics IncCentronics port

Centronics port /sen|�trɒnks �pɔ�t/noun a standard that defines the way in whicha parallel printer port on a PC operates

CEPT standard

CEPT standard noun a videotex charac-ter standard defined by the Conference of Eu-ropean Post Telephone and Telegraphceramic

ceramic /sə|�r�mk/ adjective made frombaked clay. � capacitorCERN

CERN /s��n/ noun the research laboratoryin Switzerland where the world wide webwas originally invented. Full form ConseilEuropéen pour la Recherche Nucléairecertificate

certificate /sə|�tfkət/ noun a unique setof numbers that identifies a person or compa-ny and is used to prove the person’s identityduring network transmissions

COMMENT: A certificate is normally used toprovide security over the Internet for se-cure e-mail or secure website transactions.A trusted company, such as VeriSign(www.verisign.com) or Thawte (www.thaw-te.com) issues the certificate once it is sat-isfied that the person or company is legiti-mate, authentic, and who they claim to be.The company can now use this certificateto prove its identity, create secure messag-es, or setup a secure website to acceptpayments online.

certificate authoritycertificate authority /sə|�tfkət ɔ�|

�θɒrti/ noun an independent server or com-pany on the Internet that supplies or validatesa special digital certificate to prove that an-other company is genuine (NOTE: The certifi-cate authority issues a special encryptednumber that complies with the X.509 stand-ard and is encrypted with a public-key en-cryption system.)certificate of approval

certificate of approval /sə|�tfkət əv ə|

�pru�v(ə)l/ noun a document showing that anitem has been approved officiallyC-format

C-format /�si� �fɔ�m�t/ noun a popular,broadcast-quality videotape format that uses1-inch magnetic tape to store analog videorecordings; often used before conversion todigital format (film)CGICGI /�si� d'i� �a/ noun a standard that de-fines how a webpage can call programs orscripts stored on an Internet server to carryout functions and exchange information withthe program, e.g., to provide a search func-tion. Full form common gateway inter-face. � PerlCGM

CGM /�si� d'i� �em/ noun a device-inde-pendent file format that provides one methodof storing an image as objects. Full formcomputer graphics metafilechadchad /tʃ�d/ noun a waste material pro-duced from holes punched in tape or cardchain

chain /tʃen/ noun 1. a series of files or dataitems linked sequentially 2. a series of in-structions to be executed sequentiallychainingchaining /�tʃenŋ/ noun the execution of avery large program by executing small seg-

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change 44ments of it at a time. This allows programslarger than memory capacity to be run.changechange /tʃend'/ verb to make somethingdifferent; to use one thing instead of anotherchange directorychange directory /�tʃend' da|

�rekt(ə)ri/ noun full form of CD, CHDIRchangeover cuechangeover cue /�tʃend'|�əυvə kju�/noun visual warnings, usually circles or dots,towards the end of a reel of film to warn theoperator to change from one projector to theother (film)changerchanger /�tʃend'ə/ noun a device whichchanges one thing for anotherchannelchannel /�tʃ�n(ə)l/ noun 1. a physicalconnection between two points that allowsdata to be transmitted, e.g. a link between aCPU and a peripheral 2. a way in which in-formation or goods are passed from one placeto another 3. a signal path for transporting in-formation between two points (communica-tions) 4. a term used to refer to an individualplane within an image that can store a matteor special effect or one part of the final pic-ture 5. a method of identifying individualtracks or instruments in a MIDI setup. Thereare 16 channel numbers and an instrumentcan be set to respond to the instructions onone particular channel; each channel also hasa patch associated with it that defines thesound that is played. 6. a method of organis-ing cast members in a presentation. Eachchannel can hold a cast member, backgroundor a special effect according to time – theseare played back together to create the finalpresentation. � verb to send signals or datavia a particular pathchannellingchannelling /�tʃ�nəlŋ/ noun a protectivepipe containing cables or wireschapterchapter /�tʃ�ptə/ noun 1. a sequence offrames on a videodisc 2. a section of a bookor documentcharchar /tʃɑ�/ noun (in programming) a datatype which defines a variable as containingdata that represents a character using the AS-CII codecharactercharacter /�k�rktə/ noun a graphicalsymbol which appears as a printed or dis-played mark such as one of the letters of thealphabet, a number or a punctuation markcharacteristiccharacteristic /�k�rktə |�rstk/ noun 1.the value of exponent in a floating pointnumber � The floating point number 1.345 x103, has a characteristic of 3. 2. a measure-ment or property of a component � adjectivewhich is typical or special � This fault ischaracteristic of this make and model of per-sonal computer.character setcharacter set /�k�rktə set/ noun a list ofall the characters that can be displayed orprinted

characters per inchcharacters per inch /�k�rktəz p��r�ntʃ/ plural noun the number of printedcharacters that fit within the space of oneinch � You can select 10 or 12 cpi with thegreen button. Abbr cpicharacters per secondcharacters per second /�k�rktəz pə�sekənd/ noun the number of characters thatare transmitted or printed per secondchargecharge /tʃɑ�d'/ noun 1. a quantity of elec-tricity 2. the number of, excess of or lack ofelectrons in a material or component � verbto supply a device with an electric chargechargeablechargeable /�tʃɑ�d'əb(ə)l/ adjectivewhich can be charged

‘Compaq Computer and Duracell are developinga new type of standard-size re-chargeable batteryfor portable computers that lasts 40% longer thanthose now available.’ [Computing]

charge-coupled devicecharge-coupled device /�tʃɑ�d'�k�p(ə)ld d |�vas/ noun an electronic deviceoperated by charge. Abbr CCDchartchart /tʃɑ�t/ noun a diagram showing infor-mation as a series of lines or blockschassischassis /�ʃ�si/ noun a metal frame thathouses the circuit boards together with thewiring and sockets required in a computersystem or other equipment. � rackchatchat /tʃ�t/ verb to send and receive mes-sages, in real time, with other users on the In-ternetchat groupchat group /�tʃ�t "ru�p/ noun a group ofpeople, often with a common interest, whoexchange messages onlinechat roomchat room /�tʃ�t ru�m/ noun an area of awebsite where visitors can exchange messag-es with other visitors in real time. Specialsoftware displays the name of the visitor ashe or she types in a message to all the othervisitors, allowing them to ‘talk’ to each other.CHCPCHCP /�si� atʃ si� �pi�/ noun (in MS-DOSand OS/2 operating systems) a system com-mand that selects which code page to useCHDIRCHDIR /�si� atʃ di� a �ɑ�/ abbr change di-rectory. � CD1cheapernetcheapernet /�tʃi�pənet/ noun same asthin-Ethernet (informal )checkcheck /tʃek/ noun 1. the act of making surethat something is correct 2. examination � aroutine check of the fire equipment � The au-ditors carried out checks on the company ac-counts. 3. US a mark on paper to show thatsomething is correct � Make a check in thebox marked ‘R’. � verb 1. to examine or tomake sure that something is in good workingorder � The separate parts of the system wereall checked for faults before being packaged.2. US to mark with a sign to show that some-thing is correct � Check the box marked ‘R’.(NOTE: The UK term is tick.)

ICT.fm Page 44 Wednesday, July 14, 2004 2:53 PM

45 CIF videophone‘Four bits control three multiplexers within thefunction unit. The last bit is a check bit to read theblock’s output.’ [Computing]

check boxcheck box /�tʃek bɒks/ noun a small boxdisplayed with a cross inside it if the optionhas been selected, or empty if the option isnot selected � Select the option by movingthe cursor to the check box and pressing themouse button.check charactercheck character /�tʃek �k�rktə/ nounan additional character inserted into transmit-ted data to serve as an error detection check,its value being dependent on the textcheck digitcheck digit /�tʃek �dd't/ noun an addi-tional digit inserted into transmitted text tomonitor and correct errorscheckingchecking /�tʃekŋ/ noun examination �The maintenance engineer found some de-fects whilst checking the equipment.checkoutcheckout /�tʃekaυt/ noun a place whereyou pay for the goods you have boughtchecksumchecksum /�tʃek �təυt(ə)l/, check totalnoun a program that checks that data re-trieved from memory is correct, summing itand comparing the sum with a stored value �The data must be corrupted if the checksum isdifferent.chemicalchemical /�kemk(ə)l/ adjective referringto the interaction of substances � chemicalreaction interaction between two substancesor elements � noun a product resulting fromthe interaction of other substances or ele-mentschild processchild process /�tʃald �prəυses/, childprogram /�tʃald �prəυ"r�m/ noun a rou-tine or program called by another programwhich remains active while the second pro-gram runschild windowchild window /�tʃald �wndəυ/ noun awindow within a main window. The smallerwindow cannot be moved outside the bound-ary of the main window and is closed whenthe main window is closed.chinesechinese /tʃa|�ni�z/ noun a camera move-ment which consists of a zoom out travelwith a pan left or right (film)chipchip /tʃp/ noun a device consisting of asmall piece of a crystal of a semiconductoronto which are etched or manufactured anumber of components such as transistors,resistors and capacitors, which together per-form a functionchip setchip set /�tʃp �set/ noun a set of chips thattogether will carry out a functionCHKDSKCHKDSK /�tʃekdsk/ noun (in MS-DOS) asystem command that runs a check on the sta-tus of a disk drive and installed RAMchokechoke /tʃəυk/ noun � inductorChooser™Chooser™ /�tʃu�zə/ an operating systemutility supplied with the Apple Macintosh

that allows a user to select the type of printer,network and other peripherals that are con-nectedchopchop /tʃɒp/ � binary searchchord keyingchord keying /�kɔ�d ki�ŋ/ noun the ac-tion of pressing two or more keys at the sametime to perform a function

COMMENT: As an example, to access a sec-ond window, you may need to press controland F2; pressing shift and character deletekeys at the same time will delete a line oftext.

chow’s foot

chow’s foot /�tʃaυz fυt/ noun a metalstand for a camera tripod (film)chromachroma /�krəυmə/ noun a measure of col-our hue and saturation. Also called chromi-nancechroma key

chroma key /�krəυmə ki�/ noun (in video)a special effect in which an object is photo-graphed against a normally blue background,which is then replaced with another image togive the impression that the object appearsagainst the image. To give the appearance offlying, e.g., record a video sequence of a per-son against a blue background, then electron-ically replace this blue colour, the chromakey with footage of sky. � colour keychromaticchromatic /krə|�m�tk/ adjective referringto colourschromaticitychromaticity /�krəυmə|�tsti/ noun thequality of light according to its most promi-nent colour and puritychrominancechrominance /�krəυmnəns/ noun sameas chromachrominance signalchrominance signal /�krəυmnəns�s"n(ə)l/ noun the section of a colour moni-tor signal containing colour hue and satura-tion informationCIDRCIDR /�si� a di� �ɑ�/ noun a system of or-ganising IP addresses that is more compactand efficient than the older system, adding aslash and a new IP Prefix number that repre-sents a number of individual addresses. Forexample, the old system used an IP addresssuch as ‘194.124.0.0’ whereas CIDR wouldreplace this with ‘194.124.0.0/12’. The IPPrefix number 12 represents 4,096 uniqueaddresses, and the lower the number the moreaddresses are represented.CIECIE /�si� a �i�/ noun the international groupthat defines colour and illumination stand-ards. Full form Commission Internationalde l’EclairageCIFCIF /�si� a �ef/ abbr common intermediateformatCIF videophoneCIF videophone /�si� a ef �vdiəυfəυn/noun an ISDN standard for video imagetransmission over a telephone link which dis-plays colour images at a resolution of

ICT.fm Page 45 Wednesday, July 14, 2004 2:53 PM

CIM 46352x288 pixels. This standard uses twoISDN B channels.CIMCIM /�si� a �em/ noun 1. the coordinateduse of microfilm for computer data storageand the method of reading the data. Full formcomputer input microfilm 2. the coordinat-ed use of computers in every aspect of designand manufacturing. Full form computer-in-tegrated manufacturingcine-cine- /sni/ prefix meaning moving picturesor filmcine cameracine camera /�sni �k�m(ə)rə/ noun acamera that records motion pictures onto aroll of filmcine filmcine film /�sni flm/ noun normally refersto 8mm or 16mm photographic film used torecord motion pictures with an optionalsound trackcinemacinema /�snmə/ noun a building wherefilms are shown to the publiccinema digital soundcinema digital sound /�snmə�dd't(ə)l saυnd/ noun full form of CDSCinemascope™Cinemascope™ /�snməskəυp/ nounthe first wide-screen filming system to be ex-tensively used (film)cinematographercinematographer /�snmə|�tɒ"rəfə/noun the person responsible for lighting andphotography on a film set (film)cinematographycinematography /�snmə|�tɒ"rəfi/ noun(film) 1. motion picture photography 2. spe-cial effects giving impression of motioncine-orientated imagecine-orientated image /�sni �ɔ�rientd�md'/ noun data or graphics on a microfilmwhere the image is at right angles to the longedge of the roll of filmcine-orientedcine-oriented /�sni �ɔ�rientd/ adjective(in a film or video clip) referring to an imagethat is oriented parallel to the outside edge ofthe mediumcine spoolcine spool /�sni spu�l/ noun a magnetictape spool usually made of plastic and notmore than 7 inches in widthciphercipher /�safə/ noun a system that trans-forms a message into an unreadable formwith a secret key � Always use a secure ci-pher when sending data over a telephoneline. (NOTE: The message can be read nor-mally after it has passed through the ciphera second time to decrypt it.)ciphertextciphertext /�safətekst/ noun data outputfrom a cipher. Opposite plaintextcircuitcircuit /�s��kt/ noun a connection betweenthe electronic components that perform afunctioncircuit boardcircuit board /�s��kt bɔ�d/ noun an insu-lating board used to hold components whichare then connected together electrically toform a circuit

‘The biggest shock was to open up the PC andfind the motherboard smothered in patch wires

(usually a sign that a design fault in the printedcircuit board was rectified at the last minute).’[Computing]

circuit diagramcircuit diagram /�s��kt �daə"r�m/noun a graphical description of a circuit �The CAD program will plot the circuit dia-gram rapidly.circuitrycircuitry /�s��ktri/ noun a collection ofcircuits � The circuitry is still too complex.circularcircular /�s��kjυlə/ adjective 1. which goesround in a circle 2. sent to many peoplecircularizecircularize /�s��kjυləraz/ verb to send acircular to � The committee has agreed tocircularise the members. � They circularisedall their customers with a new list of prices.circular referencecircular reference /�s��kjυlə�ref(ə)rəns/ noun (in a spreadsheet) an er-ror condition that occurs when two equationsin two cells reference each othercirculatecirculate /�s��kjυ|�let/ verb 1. to go roundin a circle, and return to the first point 2. tosend information to � They circulated a newlist of prices to all their customers.circulatingcirculating /�s��kjυletŋ/ adjectivewhich is moving about freely

COMMENT: Circulating storage devices arenot often used now, being slow (serial ac-cess) and bulky: typical devices are acous-tic or mercury delay lines.

circulationcirculation /�s��kjυ|�leʃ(ə)n/ noun 1.movement � The company is trying to im-prove the circulation of information betweendepartments. 2. the number of copies sold �a specialised paper with a circulation of over10,000 � What is the circulation of this com-puter magazine?circumflexcircumflex /�s��kəmfleks/ noun a printedaccent (like a small ‘v’ printed upside down)placed above a letter, which may change thepronunciation or distinguish the letter fromothersCISCIS /�si� a �es/ noun a scanner in which thedetectors, a flat bar of light-sensitive diodes,touch the original, without any lens thatmight distort the image. Full form contactimage sensorCISCCISC /�si� a es �si�/ noun a type of CPU de-sign whose instruction set contains a numberof long, complex instructions that make pro-gram writing easier, but reduce executionspeed. Full form complex instruction setcomputer. Compare RISCcitizens band radiocitizens band radio /�stz(ə)ns b�nd�rediəυ/ noun a cheap popular system of ra-dio communications, usually between vehi-cles. Also called CB radiocladdingcladding /�kl�dŋ/ noun protective materi-al surrounding a conducting core � If thecladding is chipped, the fibre-optic cable willnot function well.

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47 clip-artclaim frame

claim frame /�klem frem/ noun (in anFDDI protocol network) a special frame thatis used to determine which station will ini-tialise the networkclampclamp /kl�mp/ verb to find the voltage of asignalclamper

clamper /�kl�mpə/ noun a circuit whichlimits the level of a signal from a scanninghead or other input device to a maximum be-fore this is converted to a digital value. Clam-pers are used to cut out noise and spikes.clapper

clapper /�kl�pə/ noun the mechanical partof a dot matrix printer that drives the printingneedles onto the ribbon to print a character onthe paperclapperboardclapperboard /�kl�pəbɔ�d/ noun a boardon which is written all relevant informationto a shot in a film (film)clarityclarity /�kl�rti/ noun being clear � The at-mospheric conditions affect the clarity of thesignal.classificationclassification /�kl�sf|�keʃ(ə)n/ noun away of putting into classesclassifyclassify /�kl�sfa/ verb to put into classesor under various headings � The diagnosticprintouts have been classified under T fortest results.class interval

class interval /�klɑ�s �ntəv(ə)l/ noun therange of values that can be contained in aclassclaw

claw /klɔ�/ noun a mechanism in a cameraor projector which moves the film throughcontact with the holes in the edge of the film(film)cleanclean /kli�n/ adjective containing no errors� I’ll have to start again – I just erased theonly clean copy. � verb to make somethingcleanclean copyclean copy /�kli�n �kɒpi/ noun a copywhich is ready for keyboarding and does nothave many changes to itclear

clear /klə/ adjective easily understood �The program manual is not clear on how tocopy files. � verb 1. to wipe out or erase orset to zero a computer file or variable or sec-tion of memory � Type CLS to clear thescreen. 2. to release a communications linkwhen transmissions have finishedclearanceclearance /�klərəns/ noun authority to ac-cess a file � You do not have the requiredclearance for this processor.clear to sendclear to send /�klə tə �send/ noun fullform of CTSclick

click /klk/ noun 1. a short duration sound,often used to indicate that a key has beenpressed 2. the act of pressing a mouse buttonor a key on a keyboard � You move throughtext and graphics with a click of the button.

click rate

click rate /�klk ret/ noun a figure repre-senting the number of times that a particularsite in an Internet advertisement is visited,and calculated as a percentage of the numberof times that the advertisement is viewedclicks-and-mortarclicks-and-mortar /�klks ən �mɔ�tə/noun referring to businesses that use both theInternet and physical shops to sell their prod-ucts. Compare bricks-and-mortarclick through

click through /�klk θru�/ noun the act ofclicking on a banner advertisement andjumping to the advertiser’s websiteclick through rateclick through rate /�klk θru� �ret/ nounfull form of CTRclientclient /�klaənt/ noun (in a network) aworkstation or PC or terminal connected to anetwork that can send instructions to a serverand display resultsclient applicationclient application /�klaənt ��pl|

�keʃ(ə)n/ noun an application that can ac-cept linked or embedded objects from a serv-er application or an application that is used ina client-server systemclient areaclient area /�klaənt �eəriə/ noun (in aGUI) an area inside a window that can beused to display graphics or textclient-server architectureclient-server architecture /�klaənt�s��və �ɑ�ktektʃə/ noun a distribution ofprocessing power in which a central servercomputer carries out the main tasks in re-sponse to instructions from terminals orworkstations, the results being sent backacross the network to be displayed on the ter-minal that sent the instruction. The client, i.e.the terminal or workstation, does not need tobe able to directly access the data stored onthe server. nor does it need to carry out a lotof processing.client-server networkclient-server network /�klaənt �s��və�netw��k/ noun a method of organising anetwork in which one central dedicated com-puter, the server, looks after tasks such as se-curity, user accounts, printing and file shar-ing, while clients, the terminals or worksta-tions connected to the server, run standardapplicationsclient-sideclient-side /�klaənt sad/ adjective refer-ring to data or a program that runs on the cli-ent’s computer rather than on the server, e.g.a JavaScript program runs on the user’s webbrowser and is a client side applicationclipclip /klp/ verb 1. to select an area of an im-age that is smaller than the original 2. to re-move the peaks of a waveform � The voltagesignal was clipped to prevent excess signallevel.clip-art

clip-art /�klp ɑ�t/ noun a set of pre-drawnimages or drawings that a user can incorpo-rate into a presentation or graphic � We have

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clipboard 48used some clip-art to enhance our presenta-tion.clipboardclipboard /�klp|�bɔ�d/ noun a temporarystorage area for data � Copy the text to theclipboard, then paste it back into a new doc-ument.Clipper chipClipper chip /�klpə tʃp/ noun an elec-tronic component, e.g. an integrated circuit,or chip, that was designed in accordance withthe instructions of the US Government toprovide a data encryption feature for comput-ers, Internet traffic, telephones, and televi-sion programmes. In the original scheme theUS Government held the master key to thechip and so could decrypt and read any en-crypted messages. This angered many groupsconcerned with freedom of speech and theUS Government has since redesigned theoriginal scheme and suggested an alternative.clippingclipping /�klpŋ/ noun the process of cut-ting off the outer edges of an image or thehighest and lowest parts of a signalclockclock /klɒk/ noun 1. a machine whichshows the time � The micro has a built-inclock. 2. a circuit that generates pulses usedto synchronise equipmentclock rateclock rate /�klɒk ret/ noun the number ofpulses that a clock generates every secondclock speedclock speed /�klɒk spi�d/ noun same asclock ratecloggingclogging /�klɒ"ŋ/ noun the build up of ox-ide and binder on a playback head or tape re-cording which results in drop-outs (film)cloneclone /kləυn/ noun a computer or circuitthat behaves in the same way as the originalit was copied from � They have copied ournew personal computer and brought out acheaper clone.

‘On the desktop, the IBM/Motorola/Apple trium-virate is planning to energise a worldwide cloneindustry based on the PowerPC chip.’ [Comput-ing]

closeclose /kləυz/ verb to shut down access to afile or disk driveCLOSECLOSE /kləυz/ noun (in a programminglanguage) a command that means the pro-gram has finished accessing a particular fileor deviceclosed captioningclosed captioning /�kləυzd �k�pʃənŋ/noun a system that transfers text informationwith a video signal, so that the text data canbe decoded and displayed at the bottom of thetelevision screenclosed user groupclosed user group /�kləυzd �ju�zə�"ru�p/ noun full form of CUGclose fileclose file /�kləυs fal/ noun to execute acomputer instruction to shut down access to astored fileclose menu optionclose menu option /�kləυz �menju��ɒpʃ(ə)n/ noun a menu option, normally un-

der the File menu, that will shut the docu-ment that is currently open, but will not exitthe application. If you have not saved thedocument, the application will warn you be-fore it closes the document and give you thechance to save any changes.close upclose up /�kləυz ��p/ verb to move piecesof type or typeset words closer together � Ifwe close up the lines, we should save a page.close-upclose-up /�kləυs �p/ noun a photographtaken very close to the subjectclose-up lensclose-up lens /�kləυs �p �lenz/ noun anextra lens that permits the ordinary lens to fo-cus closer to the subject than normalclose-up shotclose-up shot /�kləυs �p �ʃɒt/ noun acamera shot very close to the subjectCLSCLS /�si� el �es/ noun (in MS-DOS) a sys-tem command to clear the screen, leaving thesystem prompt and cursor at the top, left-hand corner of the screenclustercluster /�kl�stə/ noun 1. one or more sec-tors on a hard disk that are used to store a fileor part of a file 2. a number of terminals, sta-tions, devices or memory locations, groupedtogether in one place and controlled by acluster controllerCLUTCLUT /�si� el ju� �ti�/ noun a table of num-bers used in Windows and graphics programsto store the range of colours used in an image.Full form colour look-up table. � paletteCLVCLV /�si� el �vi�/ noun a disk technology inwhich the disk spins at different speeds ac-cording to the track that is being accessed.Full form constant linear velocityCMCM /�si� �em/ noun an area of memorywhose locations can be directly and immedi-ately addressed by the CPU. Full form cen-tral memoryC-MACC-MAC /�si� em e �si�/ noun a new direct-broadcast TV standard using time divisionmultiplexing for signalsCMICMI abbr computer-managed instructionCMIPCMIP /�si� em a �pi�/ noun a protocol offi-cially adopted by the ISO that is used to carrynetwork management information across anetwork. Full form common managementinformation protocolCMIP over TCPCMIP over TCP /�si� em a �pi� əυvə �ti�si� �pi�/, CMIS over TCP full form of CMOTCMISCMIS /�si� em a �es/ noun a powerful net-work management system. Full form com-mon management information specifica-tionCMLCML abbr computer-managed learningCMOSCMOS /�si� em əυ �pi�/ noun an integratedcircuit design and construction method thatuses a pair of complementary p- and n-typetransistors. Full form complementary met-al oxide semiconductor

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49 collaboration‘Similarly, customers who do not rush to acquireCMOS companion processors for their main-frames will be rewarded with lower prices whenthey finally do migrate.’ [Computergram]COMMENT: The CMOS package uses verylow power but is relatively slow and sensi-tive to static electricity as compared to TTLintegrated circuits. Its main use is in porta-ble computers where battery power is be-ing used.

CMOTCMOT /�si� em əυ �ti�/ noun the use ofCMIP and CMIS network management pro-tocols to manage gateways in a TCP/IP net-work. Full form CMIP over TCP, CMIS overTCPCMYKCMYK /�si� em wa �ke/ noun (in graphicsor DTP) a method of describing a colour byits four component colours. Full form cyan-magenta-yellow-blackCNCCNC /�si� en �si�/ noun automatic operationof a machine by computer. Full form com-puter numeric control. � numerical con-trolcoatcoat /kəυt/ verb to cover with a layer of liq-uid � coated papers papers which have beencovered with a layer of clay to make themshinycoatingcoating /�kəυtŋ/ noun a material coveringsomething � paper which has a coating ofclayco-axial cableco-axial cable /kəυks/, coax noun a ca-ble made up of a central core, surrounded byan insulating layer then a second shieldingconductor. Compare twisted-pair cable(NOTE: Co-axial cable is used for high fre-quency, low loss applications including thinEthernet network cabling and Arcnet net-work cabling.)COBOLCOBOL /�kəυbɒl/ noun a programminglanguage mainly used in business applica-tions. Full form common ordinary busi-ness-oriented languagecobweb sitecobweb site /�kɒbweb sat/ noun a web-site that has not been updated for a long timecodecode /kəυd/ noun 1. rules used to convertinstructions or data from one form to another2. a sequence of computer instructions 3. asystem of signs or numbers or letters whichmean something � verb 1. to convert instruc-tions or data into another form 2. to write aprogram in a programming languageCODECCODEC /�kəυdek/ noun a device which en-codes a signal being sent or decodes a signalreceived. Full form coder/decodercodepagecodepage /�kəυdped'/ noun the defini-tion of the character that is produced by eachkey on the keyboard; in order to use yourcomputer when typing in a different languageyou need to change the keyboard layout andthe font that is used for the characters – bothare defined by the codepage

codercoder /�kəυdə/ noun a device which en-codes a signalcoder/decodercoder/decoder /�kəυdə di� |�kəυdə/ nounfull form of CODECcodingcoding /�kəυdŋ/ noun the act of putting acode on somethingcoercivitycoercivity /�kəυ�� |�svti/ noun a magneticfield required to remove any flux saturationeffects from a materialcoherentcoherent /kəυ |�hərənt/ adjective referringto waveforms which are all in phasecoherent bundlecoherent bundle /kəυ|�hərənt�b�nd(ə)l/ noun a number of optical fibres,grouped together so that they are all the samelength and produce coherent signals from ei-ther endcoilcoil /kɔl/ noun a number of turns of wire �An inductor is made from a coil of wire.coincidence circuitcoincidence circuit /kəυ|�nsd(ə)ns�s��kt/, coincidence element /�elmənt/noun same as coincidence gatecoincidence functioncoincidence function /kəυ|�nsd(ə)ns�f�ŋkʃən/ noun same as AND functioncoincidence gatecoincidence gate /kəυ|�nsd(ə)ns "et/,coincidence circuit /kəυ|�nsd(ə)ns�s��kt/, coincidence element /kəυ|

�nsd(ə)ns �elmənt/ noun a gate that pro-duces a logical output depending on variousinput coincidences. An AND gate requiresthe coincidence in time of all logically trueinputs. � ANDcoincidence operationcoincidence operation /kəυ|

�nsd(ə)ns �ɒpəreʃ(ə)n/ noun same asAND operationcoldcold /kəυld/ adjective 1. not hot � The ma-chines work badly in cold weather. 2. withoutbeing preparedcold bootcold boot /�kəυld �bu�t/ noun the act ofswitching on a computer, or the act of restart-ing a computer by switching it off and thenon again. Compare warm bootcoldbootcoldboot /�kəυldbu�t/ verb to switch on acomputer, or to restart a computer by switch-ing it off and then on again. Compare warm-bootcold faultcold fault /�kəυld fɔ�lt/ noun a computerfault or error that occurs as soon as it isswitched oncold standbycold standby /kəυld �st�ndba/ noun abackup system that will allow the equipmentto continue running but with the loss of anyvolatile data. Compare hot standby, warmstandbycold startcold start /�kəυld �stɑ�t/ noun the act ofswitching on a computer or to run a programfrom its original start pointcollaborationcollaboration /kə|�l�bə|�reʃ(ə)n/ nountwo or more people working together to pro-duce or use a multimedia application

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collate 50collate

collate /kə|�let/ verb 1. to compare and putitems in order 2. to put signatures in order forsewing and bindingcollator

collator /kə |�letə/ noun a machine whichtakes sheets or printed signatures and putsthem in order for stapling or bindingcollision

collision /kə |�l'(ə)n/ noun an event thatoccurs when two electrical signals meet andinterfere with each other over a network, nor-mally causing an errorco-location

co-location /�kəυ ləυ|�keʃ(ə)n/ noun anarrangement whereby a computer used as anInternet server is located at a specialist sitethat is designed to support and maintain serv-ers on behalf of their customers

COMMENT: If you want to set up a website,you might start by renting web space fromyour ISP or web hosting provider. If yourwebsite grows in popularity or requirescomplex or secure e-commerce facilities,you might find it effective to rent or pur-chase a server computer dedicated toserving your website – you could locatethis server computer anywhere, for exam-ple in your office, but you would need to in-stall a high-speed link to the Internet andmaintain the computer and its software. Amore cost-effective solution is co-location:moving the server to a specialist site, oftenprovided by an ISP, who takes on the job ofsupporting the high-speed link and thecomputer.

colon

colon /�kəυlɒn/ noun a printing sign (:)which shows a break in a string of wordscolophon

colophon /�kɒləfɒn/ noun a design orsymbol or company name, used on a printeditem to show who are the publisher and theprintercolorisation

colorisation /�k�ləra|�zeʃ(ə)n/ noun anelectronic process of adding colour to a vide-otape transfer of a black and white film to betransmitted on television (film)colour

colour /�k�lə/ noun a sensation sensed bythe eye, due to its response to various fre-quencies of light

‘…as a minimum, a colour graphics adapter(CGA) is necessary, but for best quality of graph-ic presentation an enhanced graphics adapter(EGA) should be considered’ [Micro Decision]

colour balance

colour balance /�k�lə �b�ləns/ noun theadjustment of the red, green and blue primarycolours to produce a pure white colour. Whena colour monitor is configured, a colour sen-sor is placed on the screen and the red, greenand blue electron gun settings are adjusted toproduce a pure white colour.colour depth

colour depth /�k�lə depθ/ noun thenumber of different colours that can be dis-played by any single pixel in a display, whichis determined by the number of colour bits ineach pixel

colour displaycolour display /�k�lə d|�sple/ noun adisplay device able to represent characters orgraphics in colourcolour keycolour key /�k�lə ki�/ noun an image ma-nipulation technique used to superimposeone image on another. It is often used withtwo video sources to create special effects.One image is photographed against a col-oured background, the matte, when then hasanother image superimposed on it to producea combined picture. � chroma keycolour look-up tablecolour look-up table /�k�lə �lυk �p�teb(ə)l/ noun full form of CLUTcolour monitorcolour monitor /�k�lə �mɒntə/ noun ascreen that has a demodulator that shows in-formation in colour � The colour monitor isgreat for games.colour palettecolour palette /�k�lə �p�lət/ noun the se-lection of colours that are currently beingused in an imagecolour printercolour printer /�k�lə �prntə/ noun aprinter that can produce hard copy in colourcolour saturationcolour saturation /�k�lə �s�tʃə|

�reʃ(ə)n/ noun the purity of a colour signalcolour separationcolour separation /�k�lə �sepə|�reʃ(ə)n/noun the process of separating a colour im-age into its constituent colours in order toproduce printing plates for colour printing.Full colour printing needs four-colour sepa-ration to produce four printing plates for thecyan, magenta, yellow and black inks that to-gether create a colour image.colour standardcolour standard /�k�lə �st�ndəd/ nounone of three international standards, NTSC,PAL and SECAM, used to describe how col-our TV and video images are displayed andtransmittedcolour temperaturecolour temperature /�k�lə �temprtʃə/noun the hue or shade of the colour whiteseen if pure carbon is heated to a particulartemperature measured in Kelvin. The stand-ard for many TV and video systems is a col-our temperature of 6500K, known as Illumi-nant D65.colour toolcolour tool /�k�lə tu�l/ noun a utility oricon in a graphics or DTP application that al-lows the user to create custom colours byspecifying the CMYK or RGB values andthen draw or fill an area with this colourcolumncolumn /�kɒləm/ noun 1. a series of char-acters, numbers or lines of text printed oneunder the other � to add up a column of fig-ures 2. a section of printed words in a news-paper or magazinecolumnarcolumnar /kə|�l�mnə/ adjective in col-umnscomcom /kɒm/ suffix a suffix that means that theInternet domain name is a company, usuallyone based in the USA � www.amazon.com is

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51 common intermediate formatthe website address of the US version of theAmazon Internet bookshop.COMCOM /�si� əυ �em/ noun 1. a standard de-fined by Microsoft to standardise the way anapplication can access an object. Full formComponent Object Model (NOTE: This is arival standard to CORBA.) 2. the process ofrecording the output from a computer direct-ly onto microfilm. Full form computer out-put on microfilmCOM1COM1 /�kɒm �w�n/ noun a name used inPCs to represent the first serial port on thecomputer. There are normally two serialports, COM1 and COM2, in a PC, although itcan support four. Some PCs have a mouseplugged into the first serial port and the mo-dem plugged into the second port. � AUXcomacoma /�kəυmə/ noun a lens aberrationCOMALCOMAL /�kəυb�l/ noun a structured pro-gramming language similar to BASIC. Fullform common algorithmic languagecomb filtercomb filter /kəυm �fltə/ noun an elec-tronic device used to separate the luma, Y,and chroma, C, signals from a composite vid-eo signal. � S-Video, Y/Ccombinationcombination /�kɒmb |�neʃ(ə)n/ nounseveral things which are joined together; se-ries of numbers which open a lockcombinationalcombinational /�kɒmb|�neʃ(ə)nəl/ ad-jective which combines a number of separateelementscombinecombine /kəm|�ban/ verb to join togethercombi playercombi player /�kɒmbi �pleə/ noun ahardware drive that can read two or more dif-ferent CD-ROM formatscombo boxcombo box /�kɒmbəυ bɒks/ noun a boxthat displays a number of different input andoutput objectsCOM fileCOM file /�kɒm fal/ noun (in operatingsystems for the PC) a file with the three-let-ter extension .com to its name that indicatesthat the file contains a machine code in bina-ry format and so can be executed by the oper-ating system.comic-strip orientedcomic-strip oriented /�kɒmk strp�ɔ�rientd/ adjective referring to a film im-age that is oriented at right angles to the outeredge of the film. Compare cine-orientedComité Consultatif International Téléphonique et TélégraphiqueComité Consultatif InternationalTéléphonique et Télégraphique nounfull form of CCITTcommacomma /�kɒmə/ noun a symbol (,) that isoften used to separate data or variables or ar-gumentscommandcommand /kə|�mɑ�nd/ noun 1. an electri-cal pulse or signal that will start or stop aprocess 2. a word or phrase which is recog-nised by a computer system and starts or ter-minates an action � interrupt command

COMMAND.COMCOMMAND.COM /kə|�mɑ�nd kɒm/ noun(in MS-DOS) a program file that contains thecommand interpreter for the operating sys-tem. This program is always resident inmemory and recognises and translates sys-tem commands into actions. � MS-DOS willnot work because you deleted the COM-MAND.COM file by mistake.command line interfacecommand line interface /kə|�mɑ�ndlan �ntəfes/ noun a user interface in whichthe user controls the operating system or pro-gram by typing in commands; e.g., DOS is acommand line interfacecommand line operating systemcommand line operating system /kə|

�mɑ�nd lan �ɒpəretŋ �sstəm/ noun acomputer system software that is controlledby a user typing in commands, as in MS-DOS, rather than allowing a user to controlthe system through imagescommand promptcommand prompt /kə|�mɑ�nd prɒmpt/noun a symbol displayed by the operatingsystem to indicate that a command is expect-edcommentcomment /�kɒment/ noun a helpful notein a program to guide the user � The lack ofcomments is annoying.commentarycommentary /�kɒmənt(ə)ri/ noun spokeninformation which describes a filmcomment fieldcomment field /�kɒment fi�ld/ noun asection of a command line in an assemblylanguage program that is not executed, butprovides notes and commentscommercecommerce /�kɒm��s/ � e-commercecommercialcommercial /kə|�m��ʃ(ə)l/ noun an adver-tising film on TVcommercial Internet exchangecommercial Internet exchange /kə|

�m��ʃ(ə)l �ntənet ks|�tʃend'/ noun a con-nection point for commercial Internet serviceprovidersCommission International de l’EclairageCommission International del’Eclairage full form of CIECommodore Dynamic Total VisionCommodore Dynamic Total Vision/�kɒmə|�dɔ� da |�n�mk �təυt(ə)l �v'(ə)n/noun a CD-ROM standard developed byCommodore that combines audio, graphicsand text; this standard is mainly intended asan interactive system for home use; the play-er connects to a television and can also playmusic CDs. Abbr CDTVcommoncommon /�kɒmən/ adjective 1. which hap-pens very often � This is a common fault withthis printer model. 2. belonging to severaldifferent people or programs or to everyonecommon algorithmic languagecommon algorithmic language/�kɒmən ��l"ərðmk �l�ŋ"wd'/ nounfull form of COMALcommon gateway interfacecommon gateway interface /�kɒmən�"etwe �ntəfes/ noun full form of CGIcommon intermediate formatcommon intermediate format/�kɒmən �ntəmi�diət �fɔ�m�t/ noun a

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common management 52standard for video images that displays animage 352 pixels wide and 288 pixels high.Abbr CIFcommon managementcommon management informationprotocol /�kɒmən �m�nd'mənt �nfə|

�meʃ(ə)n �prəυtəkɒl/ noun full form ofCMIPcommon management information specificationcommon management informationspecification /�kɒmən �m�nd'mənt�nfə |�meʃ(ə)n �spesfkeʃ(ə)n/ noun fullform of CMIScommon ordinary business-oriented languagecommon ordinary business-orient-ed language /�kɒmən �ɔ�d(ə)n(ə)ri�bzns �ɔ�riəntd �l�n"wd'/ noun fullform of COBOLcommon real-time applications languagecommon real-time applications lan-guage /�kɒmən �rəl tam ��pl|�keʃ(ə)nz�l�n"wd'/ noun full form of CORALcommon user accesscommon user access /�kɒmən �ju�zə��kses/ noun full form of CUAcommunicatecommunicate /kə|�mju�n|�ket/ verb topass information to someone � He finds itimpossible to communicate with his staff.communicating applications specificationcommunicating applications speci-fication /kə |�mju�nketŋ ��plkeʃ(ə)nz�spesf�keʃ(ə)n/ noun full form of CAScommunicating word processorcommunicating word processor /kə|

�mju�nketŋ �w��d �prəυsesə/ noun aword processor workstation which is able totransmit and receive datacommunicationcommunication /kə |�mju�n|�keʃ(ə)n/noun the passing of information � Commu-nication with the head office has been madeeasier by the telex.communications channelcommunications channel /kə|�mju�n |

�keʃ(ə)nz �tʃ�n(ə)l/ noun a physical linkover which data can be transmittedcommunications control unitcommunications control unit /kə|

�mju�nkeʃ(ə)nz kən |�trəυl �ju�nt/ nounan electronic device that controls data trans-mission and routes in a networkcommunications linkcommunications link /kə|�mju�n |

�keʃ(ə)nz lŋk/ noun the physical path thatjoins a transmitter to a receivercommunications networkcommunications network /kə|�mju�n |

�keʃ(ə)nz �netw��k/ noun a group of devic-es such as terminals and printers that are in-terconnected with a central computer, allow-ing the rapid and simple transfer of datacommunications packagecommunications package /kə|�mju�n |

�keʃ(ə)nz �p�kd'/ noun a package of soft-ware that allows a user to control a modemand use an online servicecommunications protocolcommunications protocol /kə|�mju�n |

�keʃ(ə)nz �prəυtəυkɒl/ noun the parame-ters that define how the transfer of informa-tion will be controlled � The communica-tions protocol for most dial-up online servic-es is eight-bit words, no stop bit and evenparity.

communications servercommunications server /kə |�mju�n|

�keʃ(ə)nz �s��və/ noun a computer with amodem or fax card attached that allows userson a network to share the use of the modemcommunications softwarecommunications software /kə |�mju�n|

�keʃ(ə)nz �sɒftweə/, communicationspackage /kə|�mju�n|�keʃ(ə)nz �p�kd'/noun software that allows a user to control amodem and use an online servicecommunitycommunity /kə|�mju�nti/ noun a group ofpeople living or working in the same place �the local business community the businesspeople living and working in the areacommunity antenna televisioncommunity antenna television /kə|

�mju�nti �n|�tenə �tel|�v'(ə)n/ noun a ca-ble television system using a single aerial topick up television signals and then distributethem over a wide area via cable. Abbr CATVcompactcompact /kəm|�p�kt/ adjective (thing)which does not take up much spacecompact disccompact disc /�kɒmp�kt �dsk/ noun asmall plastic disc that contains informationsuch as audio signals or data in digital formthat can be read by a laser beam. Abbr CD-Icompact disc-digital audiocompact disc-digital audio/�kɒmp�kt �dsk �dd't(ə)l �ɔ�diəυ/ nouna standard that defines how music can bestored in digital form, i.e. as a series of num-bers, on a compact disc. Abbr CD-DA. Alsocalled CD-audiocompact disc erasablecompact disc erasable /�kɒmp�kt�dsk |�rezəb(ə)l/ noun a format that allowsdata to be saved to and erased from a compactdisc. Abbr CD-Ecompact disc playercompact disc player /�kɒmp�kt �dsk�pleə/ noun a machine that reads the digitaldata from a CD and converts it back to itsoriginal formcompact disc ROMcompact disc ROM /�kɒmp�kt �dsk�rɒm/ noun same as CD-ROM � The com-pact disc ROM can store as much data as adozen hard disks.compact disc write oncecompact disc write once /�kɒmp�ktdsk �rat �w�ns/ noun CD-ROM disc anddrive technology that allows a user to writedata to the disc once only. Full form CD-WOcompandingcompanding /kɒm|�p�ndŋ/ noun twoprocesses which reduce or compact data be-fore transmission or storage then restorepacked data to its original form. Full formcompressing and expandingcompandorcompandor /kɒm |�p�ndə/ noun a deviceused for companding signals. Full formcompressor/expanderCOMPAQCOMPAQ /�kɒmp�k/ a US personal com-puter company, founded in 1983, that was thefirst manufacturer to produce a clone to theIBM PCcomparabilitycomparability /�kɒmp(ə)rə|�blti/ nounbeing able to be compared (NOTE: no plural)

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53 compose� pay comparability similar pay system intwo different companiescomparablecomparable /�kɒmp(ə)rəb(ə)l/ adjectivewhich can be compared � The two sets of fig-ures are not comparable.comparatorcomparator /kəm |�p�rətə/ noun a logicaldevice whose output is true if there is a differ-ence between two inputscomparecompare /kəm |�peə/ verb to check the dif-ferences between two pieces of informationcompare withcompare with /kəm|�peə wð/ verb to puttwo things together to see how they differcomparisoncomparison /kəm|�p�rs(ə)n/ noun a wayof comparingcompatibilitycompatibility /kəm|�p�t |�blti/ noun theability of two hardware or software devicesto function together (NOTE: Compatibility ofhardware and software, which means thatthose of one manufacturer or organisationconform to the standards of another, allowsprograms and hardware to be interchangedwithout modification.)

‘The manufacturer claims that this card does notrequire special drivers on the host machine… andtherefore has fewer compatibility problems.’[Computing]

compatiblecompatible /kəm|�p�tb(ə)l/ adjectiveused to describe two hardware or softwaredevices that function correctly together �noun a hardware or software device thatfunctions correctly with other equipment �Buy an IBM PC or a compatible.

‘…this was the only piece of software I foundthat wouldn’t work, but it does show that there isno such thing as a totally compatible PC clone’[Personal Computer World]

compilationcompilation /�kɒmp|�leʃ(ə)n/ noun thetranslation of an encoded source programinto machine readable code

‘This utility divides the compilation of softwareinto pieces and performs the compile in parallelacross available machines on the network.’[Computergram]

compilecompile /kəm |�pal/ verb to convert a high-level language program into a machine codeprogram that can be executed by itself �compiling takes a long time with this old ver-sioncompilercompiler /kəm |�palə �prəυ"r�m/, com-piler program noun a piece of software thatconverts an encoded program into a machinecode program � The new compiler has an in-built editor. Compare interpretercomplementcomplement /�kɒmplment/ noun an in-version of a binary digit � The complement isfound by changing the 1s to 0s and 0s to 1s.� verb to invert a binary digitcomplementarycomplementary /�kɒmpl|�ment(ə)ri/adjective (two things) that complete eachother or go well together

complementary colourscomplementary colours/�kɒplment(ə)ri �k�ləz/ plural noun col-ours resulting from subtracting a specific col-our from white light, therefore the comple-mentary colour to red is ‘minus red’, which iscyan (blue-green)complementary metal oxide semiconductorcomplementary metal oxide semi-conductor /�kɒmplment(ə)ri �met(ə)l�ɒksad �semikən|�d�ktə/ noun full form ofCMOScomplementationcomplementation /�kɒmplmən|

�teʃ(ə)n/ noun a number system used to rep-resent positive and negative numberscompletecomplete /kəm|�pli�t/ verb to finish a task� When you have completed the keyboard-ing, pass the text through the spelling check-er.completioncompletion /kəm |�pli�ʃ(ə)n/ noun thepoint at which something is complete �Completion date for the new software pack-age is November 15th.complexcomplex /�kɒmpleks/ adjective very com-plicated or difficult to understand � The com-plex mathematical formula was difficult tosolve.complex instruction set computercomplex instruction set computer/�kɒmpleks n|�str�kʃən �set kəm |�pju�tə/noun full form of CISCcomplexitycomplexity /kəm |�pleksti/ noun beingcomplicatedcompliantcompliant /kəm |�plaənt/ adjective thatconforms to a particular set of standards � Ifyou want to read PhotoCD compact discs inyour computer you must be sure that the CD-ROM drive is PhotoCD or CD-ROM XA com-pliant.complicatedcomplicated /�kɒmplketd/ adjectivewith many different parts or difficult to un-derstand � This program is very complicat-ed.componentcomponent /kəm|�pəυnənt/ noun 1. apiece of machinery or section which will beput into a final product 2. an electronic de-vice that produces an electrical signalComponent Object ModelComponent Object Model /kəm |

�pəυnənt �ɒbd'ekt �mɒd(ə)l/ noun fullform of COMcomponent videocomponent video /kəm |�pəυnənt�vdiəυ/ noun a method of transmitting videoinformation, used in professional video sys-tems, that has separate signals for the lumi-nance and two chrominance channels toavoid interferenceCOM portCOM port /�kɒm pɔ�t/ noun same asCOM1composecompose /kəm|�pəυz/ verb to arrange therequired type, in the correct order, prior toprinting � composing room room in a type-setters or in a newspaper, where the text iscomposed by compositors

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composite circuit 54composite circuitcomposite circuit /�kɒmpəzt �s��kt/noun an electronic circuit made up of anumber of smaller circuits and componentscomposite displaycomposite display /�kɒmpəzt d|�sple/noun a video display unit that accepts a sin-gle composite video signal and can displayan infinite number of colours or shades ofgreycomposite monitorcomposite monitor /�kɒmpəzt�mɒntə/ noun a colour monitor that receivesone video signal from a graphics displayadapter, which must then be electronicallyseparated inside the monitor into the red,green and blue colour signalscomposite printcomposite print /�kɒmpəzt prnt/ nouna copy of a film (called the print) that in-cludes both audio and visual effects (film)composite videocomposite video /�kɒmpəzt �vdiəυ/noun a video signal that combines the coloursignals and the monochrome signal into onesingle signal � Most TV set and video playersexpect a composite video feed.composite video signalcomposite video signal /�kɒmpəzt�vdiəυ �s"n(ə)l/ noun a single televisionsignal containing synchronising pulse andvideo signal in a modulated formcompositioncomposition /�kɒmpə|�zʃ(ə)n/ noun theprocess of creating typeset text, either usingmetal type or by keyboarding on a computertypesetter � composition size printing typesizecompositorcompositor /kəm |�pɒztə/ noun a personwho sets up the required type prior to printingcompound devicecompound device /�kɒmpaυnd d |�vas/noun a Windows MCI multimedia devicethat requires a data filecompound documentcompound document /�kɒmpaυnd�dɒkjυmənt/ noun a document that containsinformation created by several other applica-tionscompound filecompound file /�kɒmpaυnd fal/ noun anumber of individual files grouped togetherin one filecompound statementcompound statement /�kɒmpaυnd�stetmənt/ noun a number of program in-structions in one line of program � The de-bugger cannot handle compound statements.compresscompress /kəm|�pres/ verb to squeezesomething to fit into a smaller space � Usethe archiving program to compress the file.compressed videocompressed video /�kɒmprest �vdiəυ/noun video signals that have been com-pressed to reduce the data rate required totransmit the information. Whereas a normaltelevision picture is transmitted at around5090Mbits/second, a compressed video sig-nal can be transmitted at around one tenth ofthe data rate.compressioncompression /kəm |�preʃ(ə)n/ noun theprocess of reducing the size of a file by en-

coding the data in a more efficient form. Forexample, if the file contains five letter ’A’s inline, which take up five bytes of space, thecompression software could encode this to5A which takes two byes of space.compression ratiocompression ratio /kəm |�preʃ(ə)n�reʃiəυ/ noun a ratio of the size of an origi-nal, uncompressed file to the final, com-pressed file that has been more efficiently en-codedcompressorcompressor /kəm |�presə/ noun 1. a pro-gram or device that provides data compres-sion 2. an electronic circuit which compress-es a signalcomptometercomptometer /kɒmp|�tɒmtə/ noun a ma-chine which counts automaticallyCompuServeCompuServe /�kɒmpju�s��v/ an onlineservice provider and information servicecomputablecomputable /kəm |�pju�təb(ə)l/ adjectivewhich can be calculatedcomputationcomputation /�kɒmpjυ|�teʃ(ə)n/ noun acalculationcomputationalcomputational /�kɒmpjυ|�teʃ(ə)nəl/ ad-jective referring to computationcomputecompute /kəm |�pju�t/ verb to calculate orto do calculations (especially when using acomputer) � Connect charges were comput-ed on an hourly rate.computercomputer /kəm|�pju�tə/ noun a machinethat receives or stores or processes data veryquickly using a program kept in its memorycomputer-computer- /kəmpju�tə/ prefix referring toa computercomputer-aidedcomputer-aided /kəm |�pju�tə �edd/ ad-jective that uses a computer to make the workeasier. Also called computer-assistedcomputer-aided designcomputer-aided design /kəm |�pju�tər�edd d|�zan/ noun full form of CADcomputer-aided engineeringcomputer-aided engineering /kəm|

�pju�tər �edd �end' |�nərŋ/ noun use of acomputer to help an engineer solve problemsor calculate design or product specifications.Full form of CAEcomputer-aided instructioncomputer-aided instruction /kəm|

�pju�tər �edd n|�str�kʃən/ noun full formof CAIcomputer-aided learningcomputer-aided learning /kəm|

�pju�tər �edd �l��nŋ/ noun full form ofCALcomputer-aided manufacturecomputer-aided manufacture /kəm|

�pju�tər �edd �m�njυ|�f�ktʃə/ noun fullform of CAMcomputer-aided testingcomputer-aided testing /kəm |�pju�tər�edd �testŋ/ noun full form of CATcomputer-aided trainingcomputer-aided training /kəm |�pju�tər�edd �trenŋ/ noun full form of CATcomputer animationcomputer animation /kəm |�pju�tə ��n|

�meʃ(ə)n/ noun same as animation

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55 computer-literatecomputer applicationscomputer applications /kəm |�pju�tə��pl|�keʃ(ə)nz/ plural noun the tasks anduses that a computer can carry out in a partic-ular field or jobcomputer-assistedcomputer-assisted /kəm|�pju�tər ə|

�sstd/ adjective same as computer-aidedcomputer-assisted designcomputer-assisted design /kəm |

�pju�tər ə|�sstd d |�zan/ noun full form ofCADcomputer-assisted engineeringcomputer-assisted engineering/kəm|�pju�tər ə|�sstd �end' |�nərŋ/ nounfull form of CAEcomputer-assisted instructioncomputer-assisted instruction /kəm |

�pju�tər ə|�sstd n|�str�kʃən/ noun fullform of CAIcomputer-assisted learningcomputer-assisted learning /kəm |

�pju�tər ə|�sstd �l��nŋ/ noun full form ofCALcomputer-assisted manufacturecomputer-assisted manufacture/kəm|�pju�tər ə|�sstd �m�njυ|�f�ktʃə/noun full form of CAMcomputer-assisted testingcomputer-assisted testing /kəm |

�pju�tər ə|�sstd �testŋ/ noun full form ofCATcomputer-assisted trainingcomputer-assisted training /kəm |

�pju�tər ə|�sstd �trenŋ/ noun full form ofCATcomputer-based instructioncomputer-based instruction /kəm |

�pju�tə best n|�str�kʃ(ə)n/ noun full formof CBIcomputer-based learningcomputer-based learning /kəm |

�pju�tə best n|�str�kʃ(ə)n/ noun full formof CBLcomputer-based message systemcomputer-based message system/kəm|�pju�tə best �mesd' �sstəm/ nounfull form of CBMScomputer-based trainingcomputer-based training /kəm |�pju�təbest �trenŋ/ noun full form of CBTcomputer codecomputer code /kəm |�pju�tə kəυd/ nouna programming language that consists ofcommands in binary code that can be directlyunderstood by the central processing unit,without the need for translationcomputer conferencingcomputer conferencing /kəm |�pju�tə�kɒnf(ə)rənsŋ/ noun the use of a number ofcomputers or terminals connected together toallow a group of users to communicatecomputer crimecomputer crime /kəm |�pju�tə kram/noun theft, fraud or other crimes involvingcomputerscomputer datingcomputer dating /kəm|�pju�tə �detŋ/noun the use of a computer to match singlepeople who may want to get marriedcomputer departmentcomputer department /kəm|�pju�tə d |

�pɑ�tmənt/ noun a department in a companythat manages the company’s computerscomputer filecomputer file /kəm|�pju�tə fal/ noun asection of information on a computer, e.g. the

payroll, list of addresses or customer ac-countscomputer fraudcomputer fraud /kəm|�pju�tə frɔ�d/noun the theft of data, dishonest use of dataor other crimes involving computerscomputer generation

computer generation /kəm |�pju�tə�d'enə|�reʃ(ə)n/ noun any one in a series ofclassifications used to define the advances inthe field of computing

COMMENT: The development of computershas been divided into a series of ‘genera-tions’. The first generation consisted ofcomputers constructed using valves andhaving limited storage. The second gener-ation of computers were constricted usingtransistors. The third generation used inte-grated circuits. The fourth generation,which includes the computers most oftenused at present, uses low-cost memoryand IC packages. The fifth generation com-prises future computers using very fastprocessors, large memory, and allowinghuman input/output.

computer graphics

computer graphics /kəm |�pju�tə�"r�fks/ plural noun information represent-ed graphically on a computer displaycomputer graphics metafile

computer graphics metafile /kəm |

�pju�tə �"r�fks �metəfal/ noun full formof CGMcomputer illiterate

computer illiterate /kəm|�pju�tə |

�ltərət/ adjective unable to understand com-puter-related expressions or operationscomputer image processingcomputer image processing /kəm |

�pju�tə �md' �prəυsesŋ/ noun the analy-sis of information in an image, usually byelectronic means or using a computer, alsoused for recognition of objects in an imagecomputer input microfilm

computer input microfilm /kəm |

�pju�tə �npυt �makrəυflm/ noun fullform of CIMcomputer-integrated manufacturing

computer-integrated manufacturing/kəm |�pju�tə �nt"retd �m�njυ|

�f�ktʃərŋ/ noun full form of CIMcomputerisationcomputerisation /kəm |�pju�təra|

�zeʃ(ə)n/, computerization noun the proc-ess of introducing a computer system or ofchanging from a manual to a computer sys-tem � Computerisation of the financial sec-tor is proceeding very fast.computerise

computerise /kəm |�pju�təraz/, compu-terize verb to change from a manual systemto one using computers � Our stock controlhas been completely computerised.computer literacy

computer literacy /kəm |�pju�tə�lt(ə)rəsi/ noun understanding of the basicprinciples of computers, related expressionsand concepts, and the ability to use comput-ers for programming or applicationscomputer-literate

computer-literate /kəm |�pju�tə�lt(ə)rət/ adjective able to understand ex-

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computer-managed instruction 56pressions relating to computers and how touse a computercomputer-managed instruction

computer-managed instruction /kəm |

�pju�tə �m�nd'd n|�str�kʃən/ noun theuse of a computer to assist students in learn-ing a subject. Abbr CMIcomputer-managed learning

computer-managed learning /kəm |

�pju�tə �m�nd'd �l��nŋ/ noun the use of acomputer to teach students and assess theirprogress. Abbr CMLcomputer network

computer network /kəm |�pju�tə�netw��k/ noun the shared use of a series ofinterconnected computers, peripherals andterminalscomputer numerical control

computer numerical control /kəm |

�pju�tə nju� |�merk(ə)l kən|�trəυl/ nounsame as numerical control. full form ofCNCcomputer operator

computer operator /kəm |�pju�tər�ɒpəretə/ noun a person who operates acomputercomputer output on microfilm

computer output on microfilm /kəm |

�pju�tər �aυtpυt ɒn �makrəυflm/ nounfull form of COMcomputer program

computer program /kəm |�pju�tə�prəυ"r�m/ noun a series of instructions toa computer, telling it to do a particular pieceof work � The user cannot write a computerprogram with this system.computer programmer

computer programmer /kəm |�pju�tə�prəυ"r�mə/ noun a person who writescomputer programscomputer-readable

computer-readable /kəm |�pju�tə�ri�dəb(ə)l/ adjective which can be read andunderstood by a computer � computer-read-able codescomputer science

computer science /kəm |�pju�tə �saəns/noun the scientific study of computers, theorganisation of hardware and the develop-ment of softwarecomputer setting

computer setting /kə|�mpju�tə �setŋ/noun the process of typesetting using a com-puterised typesetting machinecomputer virus

computer virus /kəm |�pju�tə �varəs/noun a program which adds itself to an exe-cutable file and copies or spreads itself toother executable files each time an infectedfile is run. A virus can corrupt data, display amessage or do nothing.computing

computing /kəm |�pju�tŋ/ adjective, nounreferring to computerscomputing power

computing power /kəm|�pju�tŋ �paυə/noun a measure of the speed of a computerand its ability to perform calculationscomputing speed

computing speed /kəm|�pju�tŋ spi�d/noun the speed at which a computer calcu-lates

CON

CON /kɒn/ noun (in IBM-PC compatiblesystems) a name used to identify the con-sole, i.e. the keyboard and monitorconcatenate

concatenate /kən|�k�tənet/ verb to jointogether two or more sets of dataconcatenation

concatenation /kən|�k�tə|�neʃ(ə)n/noun the joining together of two or more setsof dataconcatenation operator

concatenation operator /kən|�k�tə|

�neʃ(ə)n �ɒpəretə/ noun an instruction thatjoins two pieces of data or variables togetherconcave lens

concave lens /�kɒnkev �lenz/ noun alens that is thinner in the centre than at theedges, bending light outconcealconceal /kən|�si�l/ verb to hide informationor graphics from a user, or not to displaythem � The hidden lines are concealed fromview with this algorithm.concentrate

concentrate /�kɒnsəntret/ verb 1. tocombine a number of lines or circuits or datato take up less space � The concentrated datawas transmitted cheaply. 2. to focus a beamonto a narrow pointconcentratorconcentrator /�kɒnsəntretə/ noun 1. (ina Token-Ring network) a device at the centreof a Token-Ring network, which provides alogical star topology in which nodes are con-nected to the concentrator, but which con-nects each arm of the star as a physical ringwithin the device 2. (in an FDDI network) anode which provides access for one or morestations to the network 3. (in an 10Base-TEthernet network) the device at the centre ofa star-topology 10Base-T Ethernet networkthat receives signals from one port and regen-erates them before sending them out to theother ports 4. (in general networking) a de-vice in which all the cables from nodes areinterconnectedconceptual modelconceptual model /kən |�septʃuəl�mɒd(ə)l/ noun a description of a database orprogram in terms of the data it contains andits relationshipsconcertina fold

concertina fold /�kɒnsə|�ti�nə fəυld/noun a method of folding continuous paper,one sheet in one direction, the next sheet inthe opposite direction, allowing the paper tobe fed into a printer continuously with no ac-tion on the part of the user. Same as accordi-on foldconcurrency

concurrency /kən |�k�rənsi/ noun data ora resource that is accessed by more than oneuser or application at a timeconcurrent

concurrent /kən|�k�rənt/ adjective almostsimultaneous (actions or sets) � Each con-current process has its own window.

‘The system uses parallel-processing technologyto allow support for large numbers of concurrentusers.’ [Computing]

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57 consecutivelyconcurrentlyconcurrently /kən|�k�rəntli/ adverb run-ning at almost the same time. � SISD, SIMDcondenser lenscondenser lens /kən|�densə lenz/ nounan optical device, usually made of glass, thatconcentrates a beam of light onto a certainareaconditioncondition /kən|�dʃ(ə)n/ verb to modifydata that is to be transmitted so as to meet setparameters � Condition the raw data to astandard format.conditionalconditional /kən|�dʃ(ə)n(ə)l/ adjective 1.provided that certain things take place 2. re-ferring to a process that is dependent on theresult of anotherconditional jumpconditional jump /kən|�dʃ(ə)nəld'�mp/ noun a programming instructionthat provides a jump to a section of a programif a certain condition is met � The condition-al branch will select routine one if the re-sponse is yes and routine two if no.conductconduct /kən|�d�kt/ verb to allow an elec-trical current to flow through a material � toconduct electricityconductionconduction /kən|�d�kʃən/ noun the abili-ty of a material to conduct � The conductionof electricity by gold contacts.conductiveconductive /kən|�d�ktv/ adjective refer-ring to the ability of a material to conductconductorconductor /kən|�d�ktə/ noun a substancesuch as a metal that conducts electricity �Copper is a good conductor of electricity. �semiconductorconduitconduit /�kɒndjut/ noun a protective pipeor channel for wires or cables � The cablesfrom each terminal are channelled to thecomputer centre by metal conduit.conecone /kəυn/ noun the moving section inmost loudspeakersconferenceconference /�kɒnf(ə)rəns/ noun a meet-ing of people to discuss problemsconferencingconferencing /�kɒnf(ə)rənsŋ/ noun dis-cussion between remote users using comput-ers linked by a modem or a network

‘Small organisations and individuals find it con-venient to use online services, offering email,conferencing and information services.’ [Com-puting]

confidenceconfidence /�kɒnfd(ə)ns/ noun feelingsure or being certain � The sales teams donot have much confidence in their manager.� The board has total confidence in the newsystem.confidence levelconfidence level /�kɒnfd(ə)ns �lev(ə)l/noun the likelihood that a particular numberwill lie within a range of valuesconfidentconfident /�kɒnfd(ə)nt/ adjective certainor sure � I am confident the sales will in-crease rapidly. � Are you confident the salesteam is capable of handling this product?

confidentialconfidential /�kɒnf|�denʃəl/ adjective se-cret � a confidential report on the new prod-uctCONFIG.SYSCONFIG.SYS /kən |�f" ss/ noun (in MS-DOS) a configuration text file that containscommands to set parameters and load driversoftware. This file is read automatically oncethe PC is switched on and the operating sys-tem has loaded. � If you add a new adaptercard to your PC, you will have to add a newcommand to the CONFIG.SYS file.configurationconfiguration /kən|�f"jə|�reʃ(ə)n/ nounthe way in which the hardware and softwareof a computer system are planned and set up

‘He said only Banyan Vines had the network con-figuration and administration capabilities re-quired for implementing an international busi-ness plan based on client-server computing.’[Computing]

configureconfigure /kən|�f"ə/ verb to select hard-ware, software and interconnections to makeup a special system � This terminal has beenconfigured to display graphics.configured-inconfigured-in /kən|�f"əd �n/ adjectivereferring to a device whose configurationstate indicates that it is ready and availablefor useconfirmconfirm /kən|�f��m/ verb action to indicatethat you agree with a particular action �Click on the OK button to confirm that youwant to delete all your files.conformconform /kən|�fɔ�m/ verb to work accord-ing to set rules � The software will not run ifit does not conform to the operating systemstandards.congestioncongestion /kən|�d'estʃən/ noun a statethat occurs when communication or process-ing demands are greater than the capacity ofa systemconnectconnect /kə |�nekt/ verb to link togethertwo points in a circuit or communicationsnetworkconnectionconnection /kə|�nekʃən/ noun a link orsomething which joinsconnectivityconnectivity /�kɒnek|�tvti/ noun theability of a device to connect with other de-vices and transfer informationconnectorconnector /kə|�nektə/ noun a physical de-vice with a number of metal contacts that al-low devices to be easily linked together �The connector at the end of the cable will fitany standard serial port.consecutiveconsecutive /kən|�sekjυtv/ adjectivefollowing one after another � The computerran three consecutive files.consecutivelyconsecutively /kə|�sekjυtvli/ adverbone after the other � The sections of the pro-gram run consecutively.consecutivelyConseil Européen pour la Recher-che Nucléaire noun full form of CERN

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consistency check 58consistency checkconsistency check /kən|�sstənsi tʃek/noun a check to make sure that objects, dataor items conform to their expected formatsconsoleconsole /�kɒnsəυl/ noun a unit consistingof a keyboard, VDU, and usually a printer,which allows an operator to communicatewith a computer system � The console con-sists of input device such as a keyboard, andan output device such as a printer or CRT. �CONconstantconstant /�kɒnstənt/ noun an item of datawhose value does not change. Opposite vari-able � adjective which does not change �The disk drive motor spins at a constant ve-locity.constant linear velocityconstant linear velocity /�kɒnstənt�lniə və|�lɒsti/ noun full form of CLVconstrainconstrain /kən|�stren/ verb to set limitsthat define the maximum movement of an ob-ject on screenconstructconstruct /kən|�str�kt/ verb to build or tomake (a device or a system)constructionconstruction /kən|�str�kʃən/ noun thebuilding or making of a system � Construc-tion of the prototype is advancing rapidly.consultconsult /kən|�s�lt/ verb to ask an expert foradvice � He consulted the maintenance man-ager about the disk fault.consultancyconsultancy /kən|�s�ltənsi/ noun the actof giving specialist advice � a consultancyfirm � He offers a consultancy service.consultantconsultant /kən|�s�ltənt/ noun a special-ist who gives advice � They called in a com-puter consultant to advise them on the systemdesign.consumablesconsumables /kən|�sju�məb(ə)lz/ pluralnoun small cheap extra items required in theday-to-day running of a computer system,e.g. paper and printer ribbons � Put all theprinter leads and paper with the other con-sumables.consumer marketconsumer market /kən|�sju�mə�mɑ�kt/ noun the potential market for aproduct that is based on the general publicbuying advertised products from a shop rath-er than a specialist or academic marketconsumptionconsumption /kən|�s�mpʃən/ noun theact of buying or using goods or services(NOTE: no plural)contactcontact /�kɒnt�kt/ noun the section of aswitch or connector that provides an electri-cal path when it touches another conductor �The circuit is not working because the con-tact is dirty. � verb to try to call a user or de-vice in a networkcontact image sensorcontact image sensor /�kɒnt�kt�md' �sensə/ noun full form of CIScontaincontain /kən|�ten/ verb to hold somethinginside � Each carton contains two computersand their peripherals.

container

container /kən|�tenə/ noun 1. a box orbottle or can, etc. which can hold goods �The ink is sold in strong metal containers. �The container burst while it was being load-ed. 2. a very large metal case of a standardsize for loading and carrying goods ontrucks, trains and ships � container ship �container port � container terminal � toship goods in containers 3. something thatcan be set to a value; e.g., a variable is a con-tainer, as is an object’s colour or position orother propertiescontainerisationcontainerisation /kən|�tenəra|

�zeʃ(ə)n/, containerization noun the proc-ess of putting into containers, or carryinggoods in containerscontainerize

containerize /kən |�tenəraz/ verb to putgoods into containers; to ship goods in con-tainerscontentcontent /�kɒntent/ noun information, ide-as, text, images or data that form a letter, doc-ument, web page, database or bookcontent-addressable addressing

content-addressable addressing/�kɒntent ə|�dresəb(ə)l ə|�dresŋ/ nounsame as associative addressingcontention

contention /kən|�tenʃən/ noun a situationthat occurs when two or more devices are try-ing to communicate with the same piece ofequipmentcontent provider

content provider /�kɒntent prə|�vadə/noun a company that supplies information,e.g. text, news stories, images, video, soft-ware, for a publication in a website or othermediumcontents

contents /�kɒntents/ plural noun thingscontained or what is inside something � Thecontents of the bottle poured out onto thecomputer keyboard.context

context /�kɒntekst/ noun words andphrases among which a word is used � Theexample shows how the word is used in con-text.context-sensitive

context-sensitive /�kɒntekst �senstv/adjective that relates to the particular contextcontext-sensitive help

context-sensitive help /�kɒntekst�senstv �help/ noun a help message thatgives useful information about the particularfunction or part of the program you are inrather than general information about thewhole programcontext-switching

context-switching /�kɒntekst �swtʃŋ/noun a process in which several programs areloaded in memory, but only one at a time canbe executed

COMMENT: Unlike a true multitasking sys-tem which can load several programs intomemory and run several programs at once,context-switching only allows one programto be run at a time.

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59 conversioncontiguous

contiguous /kən|�t"jυəs/ adjectivewhich touches

‘If you later edit the file again, some of the newdata clusters will not be contiguous with the orig-inal clusters but spread around the disk.’ [Com-puting]

contiguous graphics

contiguous graphics /kən|�t"jυəs�"r�fks/ plural noun graphic cells or char-acters which touch each other � Most displayunits do not provide contiguous graphics:their characters have a small space on eachside to improve legibility.contingency plan

contingency plan /kən|�tnd'ənsi pl�n/noun a secondary plan that will be used if thefirst fails to workcontinual

continual /kən|�tnjuəl/ adjective whichhappens again and again � The continualsystem breakdowns have slowed down theprocessing.continually

continually /kən|�tnjuəli/ adverb againand againcontinuation

continuation /kən|�tnju |�eʃ(ə)n/ nounthe act of continuingcontinue

continue /kən|�tnju�/ verb to go on doingsomething or to do something which youwere doing earliercontinuity

continuity /�kɒnt |�nju�ti/ noun 1. a clearconduction path between two points 2. theprocess of checking that the details of onescene in a film continue into the next scene tobe shown, even if the two have been shot atdifferent timescontinuous

continuous /kən|�tnjυəs/ adjective withno end or with no breaks; which goes onwithout stoppingcontinuously

continuously /kən|�tnjυəsli/ adverbwithout stopping � The printer overheatedafter working continuously for five hours.continuous tone

continuous tone /kən|�tnjυəs təυn/noun an image such as a photograph that usesall possible values of grey or colours,contouring

contouring /�kɒntυərŋ/ noun 1. (in agraphics application) a process that convertsa wire-frame drawing into a solid-lookingobject by adding shadows and texture 2. (in agraphics application) a function that createsrealistic-looking ground, e.g. in a virtual-re-ality system, or a surfacecontrast

contrast noun /�kɒntrɑ�st/ 1. the differ-ence between black and white or betweencolours � The control allows you to adjustbrightness and contrast. 2. a control knob ona display that alters the difference betweenblack and white tones or between colours �verb /kən|�trɑ�st/ to examine the differencesbetween two sets of information � The olddata was contrasted with the latest informa-tion.

contrastingcontrasting /kən|�trɑ�stŋ/ adjectivewhich show a sharp difference � a cover de-sign in contrasting colourscontrast settingcontrast setting /�kɒntrɑ�st �setŋ/noun TV contrast control positioncontrolcontrol /kən|�trəυl/ verb to be in charge ofsomething or to make sure that something iskept in check � noun 1. the process of re-stricting or checking something or makingsure that something is kept in check 2. condi-tional program statements 3. a key on a com-puter keyboard which sends a control charac-ter 4. power or being able to direct something� The company is under the control of threedirectors. � The family lost control of itsbusiness.controllablecontrollable /kən|�trəυləb(ə)l/ adjectivewhich can be controlledcontrollercontroller /kən|�trəυlə/ noun a hardwareor software device that controls a peripheralsuch as a printer, or that monitors and directsthe data transmission over a local area net-work

‘…a printer’s controller is the brains of the ma-chine. It translates the signals coming from yourcomputer into printing instructions that result in ahard copy of your electronic document’ [Publish]

control panelcontrol panel /kən|�trəυl �p�n(ə)l/ noun1. a panel with indicators and switches thatallows an operator to monitor and control theactions of a computer or peripheral 2. a utili-ty that displays the user-definable optionssuch as keyboard, country-code and type ofmousecontrol unitcontrol unit /kən|�trəυl �ju�nt/ noun thesection of the CPU which selects and exe-cutes instructionsconventional memoryconventional memory /kən|

�venʃ(ə)n(ə)l �mem(ə)ri/ noun (in an IBM-PC compatible system) the random accessmemory region installed in a PC from 0 up to640Kb. This area of memory can be directlycontrolled by MS-DOS. Compare highmemory, expanded memoryconvergenceconvergence /kən|�v��d'əns/ noun 1. thecombination of two or more different tech-nologies producing a new technology. Forexample, fax machines are the product of theconvergence of telephone, scanning andprinting technologies. 2. (in a colourmonitor) the accuracy with which the picturebeam strikes the three colour dots that formeach colour pixel � � picture beam, pixelconversational modeconversational mode /�kɒnvə|

�seʃ(ə)n(ə)l məυd/ noun a method of oper-ating that provides immediate responses to auser’s input. � interactive mode. Comparebatch modeconversionconversion /kən |�v��ʃ(ə)n/ noun a changefrom one system to another

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conversion tables 60conversion tablesconversion tables /kən|�v��ʃ(ə)n�teb(ə)lz/ plural noun a list of source codesor statements and their equivalent in anotherlanguage or form � Conversion tables maybe created and used in conjunction with thecustomer’s data to convert it to our systemcodes. Also called translation tablesconvertconvert /kən|�v��t/ verb to change onething into anotherconverterconverter /kən|�v��tə/ noun a device orprogram that translates data from one form toanother � The converter allowed the old datato be used on the new system.convertibilityconvertibility /kən|�v��tə|�bləti/ nounability to be changedconvertibleconvertible /kən|�v��təb(ə)l/ adjectivethat can be convertedconvertorconvertor /kən|�v��tə/ noun another spell-ing of converterconvex lensconvex lens /�kɒnveks �lenz/ noun a lensthat is thicker in the centre than the edges,bending light inconveyconvey /kən|�ve/ verb to carry or importinformation � The chart conveyed the salesproblem graphically.conveyorconveyor /kən|�veə/ noun a method ofcarrying paper using a moving beltcookiecookie /�kυki/ noun a tiny file that is storedon your computer when you connect to a re-mote Internet site using a browser. The cook-ie is used by the remote site to store informa-tion about your options which can then beread when you next visit the site.cookie filecookie file /�kυki fal/ noun a file that con-tains the cookie data supplied by the remoteInternet sitecooperative processingcooperative processing /kəυ|

�ɒp(ə)rətv �prəυsesŋ/ noun a system inwhich two or more computers in a distributednetwork can each execute a part of a programor work on a particular set of datacoordinatecoordinate /kəυ|�ɔ�dnət/ verb to organisecomplex tasks, so that they fit together effi-ciently � She has to coordinate the keyboard-ing of several parts of a file in six different lo-cations.coordinationcoordination /kəυ|�ɔ�d|�neʃ(ə)n/ nounthe process of organising complex taskscopperplate printingcopperplate printing /�kɒpə|�plet�prntŋ/ noun a printing method that uses acopper plate on which the image is etchedcoprocessorcoprocessor /kəυ|�prəυsesə/ noun an ex-tra, specialised processor, e.g. an array or nu-merical processor, that can work with a mainCPU to increase execution speed

‘Inmos is hiring designers to create highly inte-grated transputers and co-processors for diversecomputer and telecoms systems.’ [Computing]

copycopy /�kɒp/ noun 1. a document whichlooks the same as another; duplicate of an

original 2. a document � verb to make a sec-ond document which is like the first, or to du-plicate original data � He copied all the per-sonnel files at night and took them home.copy protectcopy protect /�kɒpi prə|�tekt/ noun aswitch that prevents copies of a disk beingmadecopy protectioncopy protection /�kɒpi prə|�tekʃən/noun the act of preventing copies from beingmade � A hard disk may crash because ofcopy protection.copyrightcopyright /�kɒpirat/ verb to state the cop-yright of a written work by printing a copy-right notice and publishing the work � adjec-tive covered by the laws of copyright � It isillegal to take copies of a copyright work.copyrightedcopyrighted /�kɒpiratd/ adjective incopyrightcopy typingcopy typing /�kɒpi �tapŋ/ noun theprocess of typing documents from handwrit-ten originals, not from dictation (NOTE: noplural)CORALCORAL /�kɒpi/ noun a computer program-ming language used in a real-time system.Full form common real-time applicationslanguagecordcord /kɔ�d/ noun a wire used to connect adevice to a socketcordless telephonecordless telephone /�kɔ�dləs �telfəυn/noun a telephone which is not connected to aline by a cord, but which uses a radio linkcorecore /kɔ�/ noun the central conducting sec-tion of a cablecoresidentcoresident /kəυ|�rezd(ə)nt/ adjective re-ferring to two or more programs that arestored in the main memory at the same timecoronacorona /kə|�rəυnə/ noun an electric dis-charge that is used to charge the toner withina laser printercorporate videocorporate video /�kɔ�p(ə)rət �vdiəυ/noun a video produced for internal trainingor as a publicity tool for a company and notintended to be broadcastcorrectcorrect /kə|�rekt/ adjective accurate orright � verb to remove mistakes from some-thingcorrectioncorrection /kə|�rekʃ(ə)n/ noun the processof making something correct; a changewhich makes something correctcorrective maintenancecorrective maintenance /kə|�rektv�mentənəns/ noun actions to trace, find andrepair a fault after it has occurredcorrespondcorrespond /�kɒr|�spɒnd/ verb 1. � tocorrespond with someone to write letters tosomeone 2. � to correspond with some-thing to fit or to match somethingcorrespondencecorrespondence /�kɒr|�spɒndəns/ noun1. letters and messages sent from one personto another (NOTE: no plural) � business cor-

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61 crispenerrespondence letters concerned with a busi-ness � to be in correspondence with some-one to write letters to someone and receiveletters back 2. the way in which somethingfits in with somethingcorrespondentcorrespondent /�kɒr|�spɒndənt/ noun1. a person who writes letters 2. a journalistwho writes articles for a newspaper on spe-cialist subjects � the computer correspond-ent � the ‘Times’ business correspondent �He is the Paris correspondent of the ‘Tele-graph’.corruptcorrupt /kə|�r�pt/ adjective that containserrors � verb to introduce errors into data ora program � Power loss during disk accesscan corrupt the data.cost per actioncost per action /�kɒst p�� ��kʃən/ fullform of CPAco.ukco.uk a domain name suffix that indicates abusiness based in the UK � The Peter CollinPublishing domain name is ‘pcp.co.uk’ � do-maincoulombcoulomb /�ku�lɒm/ noun the SI unit ofelectrical chargecountcount /kaυnt/ verb 1. to add figures togeth-er to make a total � He counted up the salesfor the six months to December. 2. to include� Did you count the sales of software as partof the home sales figures?countercounter /�kaυntə/ noun 1. a device whichcounts � The loop will repeat itself until thecounter reaches 100. 2. a register or variablewhose contents are increased or decreased bya set amount every time an action occurs �The number of items changed are recordedwith the counter.counting perforatorcounting perforator /�kaυntŋ�p��fəretə/ noun a paper tape punch, usedin typesetting, that keeps a record of the char-acters, their widths, etc., to allow justificationoperationscountry filecountry file /�k�ntri fal/ noun a file with-in an operating system that defines the pa-rameters, e.g. character set and keyboard lay-out, for different countriescouplecouple /�k�p(ə)l/ verb to join together �The two systems are coupled together.couplercoupler /�k�plə/ noun 1. a mechanical de-vice that is used to connect three or moreconductors 2. a chemical that forms a dyewhen it reacts with another substance in acopying machineCourierCourier /�kυriə/ noun a fixed-space ormonospace typefacecoursewarecourseware /�kɔ�sweə/ noun the soft-ware, manuals and video that make up atraining package or CAL productcoveragecoverage /�k�v(ə)rd'/ noun the size ofthe potential audience capable of receiving abroadcast � the company had good media

coverage for the launch of its new model �press coverage, media coverage reportsabout something in the newspapers or on TV,etc. � the company had good media coveragefor the launch of its new modelcpcp noun a UNIX command to make a copyof a fileCPACPA noun the cost of displaying a banneradvertisement once to one visitor to a web-site. Full form cost per action. � bannercpicpi /�si� pi� �a/ abbr characters per inchCPMCPM abbr critical path methodcpscps /�si� pi� �es/ abbr characters per secondCPUCPU /�si� pi� �ju�/ noun a group of circuitsthat performs the basic functions of a compu-ter. The CPU is made up of three parts, thecontrol unit, the arithmetic and logic unit andthe input/output unit. Full form centralprocessing unitCRCR abbr 1. card reader 2. carriage returncrabcrab /kr�b/ verb move a camera or micro-phone sideways (film)cranecrane /kren/ noun a large camera standwhich holds the camera operator and camera(film) � dollycrashcrash /kr�ʃ/ noun a failure of a componentor a bug in a program during a run, whichhalts and prevents further use of the system �verb to come to an sudden stop (of a compu-ter or program) � The disk head has crashedand the data may have been lost.

COMMENT: It is sometimes possible to re-cover data from a crashed hard disk beforereformatting, if the crash was caused by abad sector on the disk rather than contactbetween the r/w head and disk surface.

crash-protectedcrash-protected /�kr�ʃ prə|�tektd/ ad-jective that uses a head protection or data cor-ruption protection system � If the disk iscrash-protected, you will never lose your da-ta.crawlcrawl /krɔ�l/ noun a mechanical device thatmoves television or film titles down in frontof a camera, to give the impression that theyare moving up the screencrawling titlecrawling title /�krɔ�lŋ �tat(ə)l/ noun aline of titles moving across the screen (film)CRCCRC abbr 1. cyclic redundancy check 2.camera ready copycreatecreate /kri |�et/ verb to make � A new filewas created on disk to store the document.crewcrew /kru�/ noun a group of technical staffwho work together (as on filming a TV pro-gramme, recording an outside broadcast,etc.) � the camera crew had to film all day inthe snowcrispenercrispener /�krsp(ə)nə/ noun an electronicdevice used to sharpen the edges of objects inan image (film)

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critical error 62critical errorcritical error /�krtk(ə)l �erə/ noun an er-ror that stops processing or crashes the com-putercritical fusion frequency

critical fusion frequency /�krtk(ə)l�fju�'(ə)n �fri�kwənsi/ noun (on a video,computer or film screen) the rate of displayof frames of graphics or text that makes themappear flicker-freecritical path analysiscritical path analysis /�krtk(ə)l �pɑ�θə|�n�ləss/ noun the definition of tasks orjobs and the time each requires arranged inorder to achieve certain goals. Also calledPERT – Program Evaluation and ReviewTechniques.

‘Surprisingly, critical path analysis and projectmanagement, frequently the next career step forengineers, did not seem to warrant a mention.’[Computing]

critical path methodcritical path method /�krtk(ə)l �pɑ�θ�meθəd/ noun the use of analysis and theprojection of each critical step in a largeproject to help a management team. AbbrCPMCR/LFCR/LF abbr carriage return/line feedcropcrop /krɒp/ verb 1. to reduce the size ormargins of an image 2. to cut out a rectangu-lar section of an imagecrop markcrop mark /�krɒp mɑ�k/ noun (in DTPsoftware) one of the printed marks that showthe edge of a page or image and allow it to becut accuratelycroppingcropping /�krɒpŋ/ noun the removal ofareas of artwork or of a photograph which arenot needed � The photographs can be editedby cropping, sizing, touching up, etc.cross-cross- /krɒs/ prefix running from one sideto anothercross-platformcross-platform /�krɒs �pl�tfɔ�m/ adjec-tive available for more than one type of com-puter or operating systemcross-referencecross-reference /�krɒs �ref(ə)rəns/noun a reference in a document to anotherpart of the document � verb to make a refer-ence to another part of the document � TheSI units are cross-referenced to the appendix.crosstalkcrosstalk /�krɒstɑ�k/ noun interferencebetween two communication cables or chan-nelsCRTCRT /�si� ɑ� �ti�/ noun a device used for dis-playing characters, figures or graphical infor-mation, similar to a TV set. Full form cath-ode ray tube

COMMENT: CRTs are used in televisionsets, computer monitors, and VDUs. ACRT consists of a vacuum tube, one end ofwhich is flat and coated with phosphor, theother end containing an electron beamsource. Characters or graphics are visiblewhen the controllable electron beamstrikes the phosphor, causing it to glow.

crunchercruncher, crunching noun � numbercruncher, number crunchingcryogenic memorycryogenic memory /�kraəυd'enk�mem(ə)ri/ noun a storage medium operat-ing at very low temperatures of around 4ºK touse the superconductive properties of a mate-rialcryptanalysiscryptanalysis /�krptə|�n�ləss/ noun thestudy and methods of breaking cipherscryptographiccryptographic /�krptə|�"r�fk/ adjec-tive referring to cryptographycryptographycryptography /�krp|�tɒ"rəfi/ noun thestudy of encryption and decryption methodsand techniquescrystalcrystal /�krstəl/ noun a small slice ofquartz crystal which vibrates at a certain fre-quency, used as a very accurate clock signalfor computer or other high precision timingapplicationscrystal shutter printercrystal shutter printer /�krst(ə)l �ʃ�tə�prntə/ noun a page printer that uses a pow-erful light controlled by a liquid crystal dis-play to produce an image on a photo-sensi-tive drumCSMA-CACSMA-CA /�si� es em si� �e/ noun a meth-od of controlling access to a network not cov-ered by OSI standards, but used in AppleTalknetworks. Full form carrier sense multipleaccess-collision avoidanceCSMA-CDCSMA-CD /�si� es em si� �di�/ noun a net-work communications protocol that preventstwo sources transmitting at the same time bywaiting for a quiet moment, then attemptingto transmit. It is used to control data trans-mission over an Ethernet network. Full formcarrier sense multiple access-collisiondetectionCSSCSS abbr cascading style sheetCTMCTM /�si� ti� �em/ noun a method of charg-ing an advertiser for the display of a banneradvertisement, where the price covers onethousand visitors clicking on the advertise-ment and jumping to the advertiser’s ownwebsite. Full form click through per thou-sandCTRCTR1 /kən|�trəυl/ noun the number of visi-tors who click on a banner advertisement ona website and jump to the advertiser’s ownwebsite. Full form click through rate. �CTM (NOTE: A click through rate of just a fewpercent is common, and most advertisershave to pay per thousand impressions oftheir banner ad.)CTRCTR2 /kən|�trəυl/, CTRL, Ctrl noun thecontrol key, or a key on a computer terminalthat sends a control character to the computerwhen pressedCTSCTS /�si� ti� �es/ noun an RS232C signal in-dicating that a line or device is ready for datatransmission. Full form clear to send

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63 cybercaféCUCU abbr control unitCUACUA noun a standard for a user interface,originally developed by IBM, now followedby most software developers. Full form com-mon user accesscuecue /kju�/ noun 1. a prompt or message dis-played on a screen to remind the user that aninput is expected 2. a command or signal fora pre-planned event to commence (film)CUGCUG /�si� ju� �d'i�/ noun entry to a databaseor bulletin board system that is restricted tocertain known and registered users, usuallyby means of a password. Full form closeduser groupcumulative indexcumulative index /�kju�mjυlətv�ndeks/ noun an index made up from sever-al different indexescumulative trauma disordercumulative trauma disorder/�kju�mjυlətv �trɔ�mə ds|�ɔ�də/ nounsame as repetitive strain injurycurrentcurrent /�k�rənt/ adjective referring to thepresent time � noun the movement ofcharge-carrying particles in a conductor

COMMENT: Mains electricity provides a240v AC supply at 50Hz in the UK and120v at 60Hz in the USA.

cursorcursor /�k��sə/ noun a marker on a displaydevice which shows where the next characterwill appear

‘Probably the most exciting technology demon-strated was ScreenCam, which allows users tocombine voice, cursor movement and on-screenactivities into a movie which can be replayed.’[Computing]‘…further quick cursor movements are availablefor editing by combining one of the arrow keyswith the control function’ [PersonalComputer World]COMMENT: Cursors can take several forms,including a square of bright light, a brightunderline, or a flashing light.

cursor resourcecursor resource /�k��sə r|�zɔ�s/ noun animage that is displayed as a cursor (NOTE:Programming languages and authoringtools normally provide a range of differentcursor images that a developer can use, forexample an egg-timer cursor when waitingor an arrow when pointing.)custom-builtcustom-built /�k�stəm blt/ adjectivemade specially for one customercustom colourscustom colours /�k�stəm �k�ləz/ pluralnoun a range of colours in a palette that areused by an image or application. � systempalettecustomercustomer /�k�stəmə/ noun a person whobuys or uses a computer system or any pe-ripheralscustomisecustomise /�k�stəmaz/, customizeverb to modify a system to the customer’s re-quirements � We used customised computer

terminals. (NOTE: customises – customis-ing – customised)cut

cut /k�t/ noun 1. the process of removing apiece from a file 2. a piece removed from afile � verb to remove sections of text from afile to make it shorter (NOTE: cutting – cut)cut and paste

cut and paste /�k�t ən �pest/ noun theaction of taking a section of text or data fromone point and inserting it at another, oftenused in word-processors and DTP packagesfor easy page editingcutaway shot

cutaway shot /�k�tə|�we ʃɒt/ noun (film)1. an action shot that is not part of the mainaction but is connected to it and occurs at thesame time 2. a camera movement away fromthe principal interest in a television interview,the interviewee, to the interviewercut off

cut off /�k�t �ɒf/ verb to remove part ofsomething � Six metres of paper were cut offthe reel.cutoff

cutoff /�k�tɒf/ adjective point at which(something) stopscutoff frequency

cutoff frequency /�k�tɒf �fri�kwənsi/noun the frequency at which the response ofa device drops offcutter

cutter /�k�tə/ noun a film editor who de-cides which scenes are to be kept and inwhich order, and which are to be discarded(film)cutting

cutting /�k�tŋ/ noun the action of cuttingcutting room

cutting room /�k�tŋ ru�m/ noun a roomin a film studio where the unedited film is cutand joined togetherCWP

CWP abbr communicating word processorcXML

cXML /�si� eks em �el/ noun a feature of theXML webpage markup language that pro-vides a standard way of producing pagesabout products for sale on an online shop(NOTE: The new features allow designers toinclude information about the product beingdisplayed and how it can be purchased bythe viewer.)cyan

cyan /�saən/ noun the complimentary col-our to red, which is blue-green (film)cyan-magenta-yellow-black

cyan-magenta-yellow-black /�saənmə|�d'entə �jeləυ/ noun full form of CMYKcyber-

cyber- /sabə/ prefix computers and infor-mation systemscyber age

cyber age /�sabə ed'/ noun the presentage, considered as a period in which compu-ter technology and electronic communica-tions have become more important and morewidely usedcybercafé

cybercafé /�sabə |�k�fe/ noun a placethat provides a shop with terminals connect-ed to the Internet as well as coffee and pas-tries

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cyberlaw 64cyberlawcyberlaw /�sabəlɔ�/ noun the set of lawsthat relate to computers, information systemsand networks, considered as a bodycyberneticscybernetics /�sabə|�netks/ noun thestudy of the mechanics of human or electron-ic machine movements, and the way in whichelectronic devices can be made to work andimitate human actionscyberspacecyberspace /�sabəspes/ noun the worldin which computers and people interact, nor-mally via the Internetcybersquattingcybersquatting /�sabə|�skwɒtŋ/ nounact by which someone registers a website ad-dress, normally a trademark or brand name,then tries to sell the name to the rightful own-er (NOTE: Although not yet illegal in mostcountries, court cases almost always find infavour of the company trying to recover itsname. For example if you registered the do-main name ‘windows.com’ then tried to sellthis back to Microsoft Corp. you would beguilty of cybersquatting.)cyberterrorismcyberterrorism /�sabə|�terərz(ə)m/noun terrorist activities that use the Internetto damage complex electronic systems or thedata they contain

‘There were some instances of war-related hack-ing over the past few weeks, but nothing thatwould be considered cyberterrorism.’[The Guardian]

cyberwoozling

cyberwoozling /�sabə|�wu�z(ə)lŋ/ nounthe practice of gathering data from the com-puter of a visitor to a website without his orher knowledge or authorisationcycle

cycle /�sak(ə)l/ noun 1. the period of timewhen something leaves its original positionand then returns to it 2. one completed oper-ation in a repeated processcyclic

cyclic /�sklk, �saklk/ adjective that isrepeated regularlycyclic redundancy check

cyclic redundancy check /�sklk r|

�d�ndənsi �tʃek/ noun an error detectioncheck used in modem communications andmany file transfer protocols that looks at onebit in every n bits and compares this with theoriginal to see if an error has occurred in thelast n bits. Abbr CRCcyclorama

cyclorama /�sakləυ |�rɑ�mə/ noun a large,curved, white backdrop positioned at theback of a stage or set (film)cylinder

cylinder /�slndə/ noun 1. a group oftracks on a disk 2. the tracks in a multi-diskdevice that can be accessed without movingthe read/write headcylindrical

cylindrical /s|�lndrk(ə)l/ adjectiveshaped like a cylindercypher

cypher /�safə/ noun another spelling of ci-pher

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DD1 videotapeD1 videotape noun a 19mm videotapeformat used for professional, digital record-ingsDADA abbr desk accessoryDACDAC /�di� e �si�/ noun a circuit that outputsan analog signal that is proportional to the in-put digital number, and so converts a digitalinput to an analog form � Speech is outputfrom the computer via a D/A converter. Fullform digital to analog converter. Alsocalled D to A converter, d/a converterd/a converterd/a converter /�di� tυ e kən|�v��tə/ nounsame as DACDADDAD noun a method of recording sound byconverting and storing signals in a digitalform on magnetic disk. Full form digital au-dio diskdaemondaemon /�di�mən/ noun (in a UNIX sys-tem) a utility program that performs its jobautomatically without the knowledge of theuserdaisy chaindaisy chain /�dezi tʃen/ noun a methodof connecting equipment with a single cablepassing from one machine or device to thenext, rather than separate cables to each de-vicedamagedamage /�d�md'/ verb to harm � Thefaulty read/write head appears to have dam-aged the disks.DAODAO /�di� e �əυ/ noun a programming inter-face provided with many of Microsoft’s data-base applications that allow the developer toaccess Jet or ODBC compatible data sources.Full form data access objectsdarkroomdarkroom /�dɑ�kru�m/ noun a specialroom with no light, where photographic filmcan be developeddark trace tubedark trace tube /�dɑ�k �tres �tju�b/noun a CRT with a dark image on a brightbackgrounddashdash /d�ʃ/ noun a short line in printingDASHDASH noun a sound tape recording system(film) Full form digital audio stationaryheadDATDAT /�di� e �ti�/ noun a compact cassette,smaller than an audio cassette, that providesa system of recording sound as digital infor-mation onto magnetic tape with very high-quality reproduction. Full form digital au-dio tape (NOTE: It is also used as a high-ca-pacity tape backup system that can store1.3 GB of data; sound is recorded at a sam-

ple rate of either 32, 44.1 or 48 KHz to pro-vide up to two hours of CD-quality sound.)datadata /�detə/ noun a collection of factsmade up of numbers, characters and sym-bols, stored on a computer in such a way thatit can be processed by the computer

COMMENT: Data is different from informa-tion in that it is facts stored in machine-readable form. When the facts are proc-essed by the computer into a form that canbe understood by people, the data be-comes information.

data access objectsdata access objects /�detə ��kses�ɒbjekts/ plural noun full form of DAOdata analysisdata analysis /�detə ə|�n�ləss/ noun theprocess of extracting information and resultsfrom datadatabankdatabank /�detəb�ŋk/ noun 1. a largeamount of data stored in a structured form 2.a store of personal records in a computerdatabasedatabase /�detəbes/ noun an integratedcollection of files of data stored in a struc-tured form in a large memory, which can beaccessed by one or more users at differentterminals

‘This information could include hypertext refer-ences to information held within a computer da-tabase, or spreadsheet formulae.’ [Computing]

database administratordatabase administrator /�detəbes əd |

�mnstretə/ noun full form of DBAdatabase management systemdatabase management system/�detəbes �m�nd'mənt �sstəm/, data-base manager /�detəbes �m�nd'ə/noun full form of DBMSdatabase serverdatabase server /�detəbes �s��və/noun a piece of database management soft-ware that runs on a server computer on a net-work and is used in a client-server system(NOTE: The user works with client softwarethat formats and displays data that is re-trieved by the server software.)database systemdatabase system /�detəbes �sstəm/noun a series of programs that allows theuser to create, modify, manage and use a da-tabase and that often includes features suchas a report writer or graphical output of datadata bus connectordata bus connector /�detə �b�s kə|

�nektə/ noun full form of DB connectordata capturedata capture /�detə �k�ptʃə/ noun theact of obtaining data, either by keyboardingor scanning, or often automatically from a re-cording device or peripheral � In July thisyear it signed a two-year outsourcing and

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data carrier detect 66disaster-recovery deal … for the operationand management of its Birmingham-baseddata-capture facility. [Computing]data carrier detectdata carrier detect /�detə �k�riə d|

�tekt/ noun full form of DCDdata cleaningdata cleaning /�detə �kli�nŋ/ noun theprocess of removing errors from datadata communicationsdata communications /�detə kə|

�mju�n |�keʃ(ə)nz/ noun the transmissionand reception of data rather than speech orimagesdata communications equipmentdata communications equipment/�detə kə|�mju�n|�keʃ(ə)nz |�kwpmənt/noun equipment, e.g. a modem, that receivesor transmits data. Abbr DCEdata compressiondata compression /�detə kəm |

�preʃ(ə)n/ noun a means of reducing the sizeof blocks of data by removing spaces, emptysections and unused materialdata corruptiondata corruption /�detə kə|�r�pʃ(ə)n/noun the introduction of errors into datathrough noise or faulty equipment � Datacorruption occurs each time the motor isswitched on.data delimiterdata delimiter /�detə di�|�lmtə/ noun aspecial symbol or character that marks theend of a file or data itemdata description languagedata description language /�detə d|

�skrpʃən �l�ŋ"wd'/ noun full form ofDDLdata dictionary/directorydata dictionary/directory /�detə�dkʃən(ə)ri da|�rekt(ə)ri/ noun full form ofDD/Ddata elementdata element /�detə �elmənt/ nounsame as data itemdata encryptiondata encryption /�detə n|�krpʃ(ə)n/noun the process of encrypting data using acipher systemdata encryption standarddata encryption standard /�detə n|

�krpʃən �st�ndəd/ noun full form of DESdata entrydata entry /�detə �entri/ noun a methodof entering data into a system, usually usinga keyboard but also direct from disks afterdata preparationdata errordata error /�detə �erə/ noun an error dueto incorrect or illegal datadata flow diagramdata flow diagram /�detə fləυ�daə"r�m/ noun full form of DFDdata formatdata format /�detə �fɔ�m�t/ noun the setof rules defining the way in which data isstored or transmitteddatagramdatagram /�detə"r�m/ noun a packet ofinformation in a packet switching system thatcontains its destination address and routedata independencedata independence /�detə �nd|

�pendəns/ noun a structure of a databasewhich can be changed without affecting whatthe user sees

data inputdata input /�detə �npυt/ noun data trans-ferred into a computer, from an I/O port orperipheraldata input busdata input bus /�detə �npυt �b�s/ nounfull form of DIB 1data integritydata integrity /�detə n|�te"rti/ noun thestate of data which has not been corrupted bydamage or errorsdata itemdata item /�detə �atəm/ noun one unit ofdata, e.g. the quantity of items in stock, a per-son’s name, age or occupation. Also calleddata elementdata linkdata link /�detə lŋk/ noun a connectionbetween two devices to allow the transmis-sion of datadata link layerdata link layer /�detə lŋk �leə/ noun thesecond layer in the ISO/OSI defined networkthat sends packets of data to the next link anddeals with error correction (NOTE: This layeris normally split into two further sub-layers,medium access control and logical link con-trol (LLC).)data managementdata management /�detə�m�nd'mənt/ noun maintenance and up-keep of a databasedata migrationdata migration /�detə ma|�"reʃ(ə)n/noun the process of moving data between ahigh priority or on-line device to a low-prior-ity or off-line devicedata miningdata mining /�detə �manŋ/ noun thetask of searching a database in order to findpreviously unknown patterns and relation-ships within the data it contains, e.g. search-ing a retailer’s database to find customerswho share an interest in a particular activity

‘Both companies specialise in decision support,statistical analysis and data mining.’[The Guardian]

data processingdata processing /�detə �prəυsesŋ/noun the process of selecting and examiningdata in a computer to produce information ina special form. Abbr dp, DPdata processing managerdata processing manager /�detə�prəυsesŋ �m�nd'ə/ noun a person whoruns a computer departmentdata projectordata projector /�detə prə|�d'ektə/ nouna device that uses three large coloured lights,red, green and blue, to project a colour imageoutput from a computer onto a large screendata protectiondata protection /�detə prə|�tekʃən/noun the procedure of making sure that datais not copied by an unauthorised userData Protection ActData Protection Act /�detə prə|�tekʃən��kt/ noun a piece of legislation passed in1984 in the UK that requires any owner of adatabase that contains personal details to reg-isterdata ratedata rate /�detə ret/ noun the maximumrate at which data is processed or transmitted

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67 deadlinein a synchronous system, usually equal to thesystem clock ratedata securitydata security /�detə s|�kjυərti/ nounprotection of data against corruption or unau-thorised usersdatasetdataset /�detəset/ noun US same as mo-demdata storagedata storage /�detə �stɔ�rd'/ noun amedium able to store data, especially in largequantitiesdata streamdata stream /�detə stri�m/ noun a set ofdata transmitted serially one bit or characterat a timedata structuredata structure /�detə �str�ktʃə/ noun anumber of related items that are treated asone by the computer (NOTE: For example inan address book record, the name, ad-dress, and telephone number form sepa-rate entries that would be processed as oneby the computer.)data tabletdata tablet /�detə �t�blət/ noun � graph-ics tabletdata terminal equipmentdata terminal equipment /�detə�t��mn(ə)l |�kwpmənt/ noun full form ofDTEdata transfer ratedata transfer rate /�detə �tr�nsf���ret/ noun the rate at which data is movedfrom one point to anotherdata transmissiondata transmission /�detə tr�nz |

�mʃ(ə)n/ noun the process of sending datafrom one location to another over a data linkdata typedata type /�detə tap/ noun a category ofdata which can be stored in a register, e.g. astring or numberdata validationdata validation /�detə �v�ldeʃ(ə)n/noun the process of checking data for errorsand relevance in a situationdata warehousedata warehouse /�detə �weəhaυs/ nouna database used for analysing the overallstrategy of a business rather than its routineoperationsdatedate /det/ verb to put a date on a documentdayday /de/ noun the period of work frommorning to night � to work an eight-hourday to spend eight hours at work each day �day shift shift which works during the day-light hours such as from 8 a.m. to 5.30 p.m.dBdB abbr decibelDBA

DBA /�di� bi� �e/ noun a person in charge ofrunning and maintaining a database system.Full form database administratorDB connectorDB connector /�di� bi� kə|�nektə/ noun aD-shape connector normally with two rowsof pins used to connect devices that transferdata � The most common DB connectors areDB-9, DB-25 and DB-50 with 9, 25 and 50connections respectively. Full form data busconnector

DBMSDBMS /�di� bi� em �es/ noun a series of pro-grams that allow the user to create and modi-fy databases easily. Full form databasemanagement system. Also called data-base managerDBSDBS abbr direct broadcast satelliteDCDC abbr direct currentDCADCA /�di� si� �e/ noun a document formatdefined by IBM that allows documents to beexchanged between computer systems. Fullform document content architectureDCCDCC /�di� si� �si�/ noun a magnetic tape in acompact cassette box that is used to storecomputer data or audio signals in a digitalformat. Full form digital compact cassetteDCDDCD /�di� si� �di�/ noun an RS232C signalfrom a modem to a computer indicating a car-rier is being received � The call is stopped ifthe software does not receive a DCD signalfrom the modem. Full form data carrier de-tectDCEDCE abbr data communications equipmentDCOMDCOM /�di� kɒm/ noun an enhanced ver-sion of the COM specification that allows ap-plications to access objects over a network orover the Internet. Full form distributedcomponent object modelDCTDCT abbr discrete cosine transformDDDD abbr double densityDD/DDD/D /�di� di� �di�/ noun a piece of softwarewhich gives a list of types and forms of datacontained in a database. Full form data dic-tionary/directoryDDEDDE /�di� di� �i�/ noun 1. the keying in ofdata directly onto disk. Full form direct dataentry 2. a method in which two active pro-grams can exchange data, one program ask-ing the operating system to create a link be-tween the two programs. Full form dynamicdata exchangeDDLDDL /�di� di� �el/ noun a part of databasesystem software which describes the struc-ture of the system and data � Many of DDL’sadvantages come from the fact that it is a sec-ond generation language. Full form data de-scription languageDDPDDP /�di� di� �pi�/ noun the process of deriv-ing information from data which is kept indifferent places. Full form distributed dataprocessingDDRDDR noun television transmission by satel-lite (film) Full form direct domestic recep-tiondeaddead /ded/ adjective 1. referring to a com-puter or piece of equipment that does notfunction 2. (room or space) that has noacoustical reverberationdeadlinedeadline /�dedlan/ noun date by whichsomething has to be done � we’ve missed our

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dealer 68October 1st deadline � to meet a deadline tofinish something in time � we’ve missed ourOctober 1st deadlinedealerdealer /�di�lə/ noun a person who buys andsells � Always buy hardware from a recog-nised dealer.de-bouncede-bounce /di� �baυns/ noun the processof preventing a single touch on a key fromgiving multiple key contactdebugdebug /di�|�b�"/ verb to test a program andlocate and correct any faults or errors � Theyspent weeks debugging the system. (NOTE:debugging – debugged)

‘Further questions, such as how you debug an ap-plication built from multi- sourced software torun on multisourced hardware, must be resolvedat this stage.’ [Computing]

DEBUGDEBUG /di� |�b�"/ noun an MS-DOS soft-ware utility that allows a user to view thecontents of binary files and assemble smallassembly-language programsdebuggerdebugger /di� |�b�"ə/ noun a piece of soft-ware that helps a programmer find faults orerrors in a programdecadedecade /�deked/ noun a set of ten items oreventsdecaydecay /d|�ke/ noun the process of a soundsignal fading away � With a short decay, itsounds very sharp.decentralised computer networkdecentralised computer network /di�|

�sentrə|�lazd kəm |�pju�tə/, decentralizedcomputer network noun a network wherethe control is shared between several com-putersdeci-deci- /desi/ prefix one tenth of a numberdecibeldecibel /�desbel/ noun a unit for measur-ing the power of a sound or the strength of asignal. Abbr dB (NOTE: The decibel scale islogarithmic.)decimaldecimal /�desm(ə)l/ noun � correct tothree places of decimals correct to three fig-ures after the decimal point (e.g. 3.485)decimalisationdecimalisation /�desm(ə)la|�zeʃ(ə)n/,decimalization noun the process of chang-ing to a decimal systemdecimalisedecimalise /�desm(ə)laz/ verb to changeto a decimal systemdecimal pointdecimal point /�desm(ə)l �pɔnt/ noun adot which indicates the division between thewhole unit digits and the smaller (fractional)parts of a decimal number (such as 4.75)decimal systemdecimal system /�desm(ə)l �sstəm/noun a number system using the digits 0 – 9decimal tabbingdecimal tabbing /�desm(ə)l �t�bŋ/noun the process of adjusting a column ofnumbers so that the decimal points are verti-cally aligneddecimal tab keydecimal tab key /�desm(ə)l �t�b �ki�/noun a key for entering decimal numbers, us-

ing a word-processor, so that the decimalpoints are automatically vertically aligneddecipherdecipher /d |�safə/ verb to convert an en-crypted or encoded message (ciphertext)into the original message (plaintext). Oppo-site encipherdecodedecode /di�|�kəυd/ verb to translate encod-ed data back to its original form (NOTE: de-codes – decoding – decoded)decoderdecoder /di� |�kəυdə/ noun a program ordevice used to convert data into another formdecodingdecoding /di|�kəυdŋ/ noun the process ofconverting encoded data back into its originalformdecompressiondecompression /�di�kəm |�preʃ(ə)n/noun the process of expanding a compressedimage or data file so that it can be vieweddecryptdecrypt /di�|�krpt/ verb to convert encrypt-ed data back into its original form � Decryp-tion is done using hardware to increasespeed.decryptiondecryption /di�|�krpʃ(ə)n/ noun the con-verting of encrypted data back into its origi-nal form � Decryption is done using hard-ware to increase speed.dedicateddedicated /�dedketd/ adjective refer-ring to a program, procedure or system that isreserved for a particular use � There’s onlyone dedicated graphics workstation in thisnetwork.

‘The PBX is changing from a dedicated proprie-tary hardware product into an open applicationsoftware development platform.’ [Computing]

deep fielddeep field /�di�p �fi�ld/ noun a lens or cam-era that has very close and very distant ob-jects in focus at the same time (film) � deepfocusdeep focusdeep focus /�di�p �fəυkəs/ noun a type ofcinematography where objects at a great dis-tance and objects very close to the camera areall in focus (film) � deep fieldde facto standardde facto standard /�de �f�ktəυ�st�ndəd/ noun a design, method or systemwhich is so widely used that it has become astandard but has not been officially recog-nised by any committeedefaultdefault /d |�fɔ�lt/ adjective a predefinedcourse of action or value that is assumed un-less the operator alters it � noun a value thatis used by a program if the user does notmake any changes to the settings � An appli-cation may ask the user if he wants to installthe application to the default, i.e. the C:\APPdirectory – the user can accept or changethis.default palettedefault palette /d|�fɔ�lt �p�lət/ noun therange of colours used on a particular systemif no other is specified (NOTE: A user or ap-plication can often change the default pal-

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69 demandette to create an individual range of col-ours.)default ratedefault rate /d|�fɔ�lt �ret/ noun the baudrate in a modem that is used if no other is se-lecteddefault responsedefault response /d|�fɔ�lt r|�spɒns/noun a value that is used if the user does notenter new datadefault valuedefault value /d|�fɔ�lt �v�lju�/ noun avalue which is automatically used by thecomputer if no other value has been specified� Screen width has a default value of 80.

‘The default values of columns cannot be set inthe database schema, so different applicationscan trash the database.’ [Computing]

defectdefect /�di�fekt/ noun something which iswrong or which stops a machine from work-ing properly � a computer defect or a defectin the computerdefectivedefective /d |�fektv/ adjective faulty ornot working properly � The machine brokedown because of a defective cooling system.definedefine /d|�fan/ verb 1. to assign a value toa variable � All the variables were definedduring initialisation. 2. to assign the charac-teristics of processes or data to something(NOTE: defines – defining – defined)definitiondefinition /�def |�nʃ(ə)n/ noun the abilityof a screen to display fine detaildeflectdeflect /d|�flekt/ verb to change the direc-tion of an object or beamdeflection yokesdeflection yokes /d|�flekʃ(ə)n jəυkz/plural noun magnetic coils around a cathoderay tube used to control the position of thepicture beam on the screendefocusdefocus /di|�fəυkəs/ verb to deliberatelyfocus the lens at a point very close to thecamera, leaving the background action out-offocus; usually used for special effectsDEFRAGDEFRAG /�di�fr�"/ noun a defragmenta-tion utility supplied with MS-DOSdefragmentationdefragmentation /�di�fr�"men|

�teʃ(ə)n/ noun the reorganisation of filesscattered across non-contiguous sectors on ahard disk

COMMENT: When a file is saved to disk, it isnot always saved in adjacent sectors, in-creasing retrieval time. Defragmentationmoves files back into adjacent sectors sothat the read head does not have to movefar across the disk, decreasing retrievaltime and thus increasing performance.

degradationdegradation /�de"rə|�deʃ(ə)n/ noun 1.the loss of picture or signal quality 2. the lossof processing capacity because of a malfunc-tiondejaggingdejagging /di�|�d'�"ŋ/ noun same asanti-aliasingDELDEL /del/ noun an MS-DOS command todelete a file � To delete all files with the ex-

tension BAK, use the command DEL *.BAK.Full form deletedelay

delay /d |�le/ noun time when something islater than planned � There was a delay ofthirty seconds before the printer startedprinting. � verb to cause something to have adelaydelete

delete /d |�li�t/ verb 1. to cut out words in adocument 2. to remove text, data or a filefrom a storage device � The word-processorallows us to delete the whole file by pressingthis key. Full form of DEL (NOTE: deletes –deleting – deleted)

COMMENT: When you delete a file, you arenot actually erasing it but making its spaceon disk available for another file by instruct-ing the operating system to ignore the fileby inserting a special code in the file head-er and deleting the entry from the directory.

deletion

deletion /d |�li�ʃ(ə)n/ noun 1. the makingof a cut in a document � The editors askedthe author to make several deletions in thelast chapter. 2. a piece of text removed froma documentdelimited-field file

delimited-field file /di�|�lmtd fi�ld �fal/noun a data file in which each field is sepa-rated by a special character, often a tab char-acter or comma, and each record is separatedby a carriage return or a second special char-acterdelimiter

delimiter /di� |�lmtə/ noun 1. a characteror symbol used to indicate to a language orprogram the start or end of data or a record orinformation 2. the boundary between an in-struction and its argumentdelivery system

delivery system /d|�lv(ə)ri �sstəm/noun the combination of hardware and soft-ware required to play a particular multimediatitledelta frame

delta frame /�deltə �frem/ noun a videoframe that contains only the pixel informa-tion that has changed since the last frame ofthe sequence, used to save space when stor-ing video on diskdelta YUV

delta YUV /�deltə �wa ju� �vi�/ noun fullform of DYUVdemagnetise

demagnetise, demagnetize verb to re-move stray or unwanted magnetic fields froma disk, tape or recording head (NOTE: de-magnetises – demagnetising – demag-netised)demagnetiser

demagnetiser, demagnetizer noun a de-vice which demagnetises a disk, tape or re-cording head � He used the demagnetiser todegauss the tape heads.demand

demand /d |�mɑ�nd/ noun asking for some-thing to be done � verb to ask for somethingand expect to get it � She demanded hermoney back.

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demand protocol architecture 70demand protocol architecturedemand protocol architecture /d |

�mɑ�nd �prəυtəkɒl �ɑ�ktektʃə/ noun fullform of DPAdemarcationdemarcation /�di�mɑ�|�keʃ(ə)n/ noun theprocess of showing the difference betweentwo areasdemodemo /�deməυ/ noun same as demonstra-tiondemocratic networkdemocratic network /�deməkr�tk�netw��k/ noun a synchronised network inwhich each station has equal prioritydemodulationdemodulation /di�|�mɒdju|�leʃ(ə)n/ nounthe recovery of the original signal from a re-ceived modulated carrier wavedemodulatordemodulator /di |�mɒdjυletə/ noun a cir-cuit that recovers a signal from a modulatedcarrier wavedemonstratedemonstrate /�demən|�stret/ verb toshow how something works � He demon-strated the file management program.demonstrationdemonstration /�demən|�streʃ(ə)n/noun the act of showing how somethingworks. Also called demodemultiplexdemultiplex /di�|�m�ltpleks/ verb to splitone channel into the original signals thatwere combined at sourcedemultiplexordemultiplexor /di�|�m�ltpleksə/ noun adevice that separates out the original multi-plexed signals from one channeldenary notationdenary notation /�di�nəri nəυ|�teʃ(ə)n/noun the number system in base ten, usingthe digits 0 to 9denial-of-service attackdenial-of-service attack /d|�naəl əv�s��vs ə|�t�k/ noun an illegal action inwhich a great deal of data is sent to a compu-ter system from many sources at the same inan attempt to overload the system and put itout of actiondense indexdense index /�dens �ndeks/ noun a data-base index containing an address or entry forevery item or entry in the databasedensiometerdensiometer /�densi |�ɒmtə/ noun a pho-tographic device used to measure the densityof a photographdensitydensity /�densti/ noun 1. the amount ofdata that can be packed into a space 2. theamount of light that a photographic negativeblocks 3. the darkness of a printed image ortext

‘…diode lasers with shorter wavelengths willmake doubling of the bit and track densities pos-sible’ [Byte]COMMENT: Scanner software produces var-ious shades of grey by using different den-sities or arrangements of black and whitedots and/or different size dots.

dependentdependent /d|�pendənt/ adjective whichis variable because of a particular factor � Aprocess that is dependent on the result of an-other process.

deposit

deposit /d |�pɒzt/ noun 1. a thin layer of asubstance which is put on a surface 2. a print-out of the contents of all or a selected area ofmemory � verb to coat a surface with a thinlayer of a substancedepositiondeposition /�depə|�zʃ(ə)n/ noun a processby which a surface of a semiconductor iscoated with a thin layer of a substancedepth cueing

depth cueing /�depθ �kju�ŋ/ noun (ingraphics) a method of changing the hue andcolour of an object to reflect its depth in athree-dimensional scenedepth of field

depth of field /�depθ əv �fi�ld/ noun theamount of a scene that will be in focus whenphotographed with a certain aperture settingdepth of focusdepth of focus /�depθ əv �fəυkəs/ nounthe position of film behind a camera lens thatwill result in a sharp imagederivederive /d|�rav/ verb to come from a source� The results are derived from the raw data.(NOTE: derives – deriving – derived)DES

DES /�di� i� �es/ noun a standard developedby the US Government for a high-securityblock data cipher system. Full form data en-cryption standard. Compare public keyencryptiondescenderdescender /d|�sendə/ noun a part of aprinted letter that is below the linede-scramblede-scramble /di� �skr�mb(ə)l/ verb to re-assemble an original message or signal fromits scrambled formde-scramblerde-scrambler /di� �skr�mblə/ noun a de-vice which changes a scrambled messageback to its original, clear formdescribe

describe /d|�skrab/ verb to say whatsomeone or something is like � The leafletdescribes the services the company can offer.descriptiondescription /d|�skrpʃən/ noun wordswhich show what something is likedescriptor

descriptor /d|�skrptə/ noun a code usedto identify a filename or program name or topass code to a filedesigndesign /d |�zan/ noun the planning ordrawing of a product before it is built or man-ufactured � verb to plan or to draw some-thing before it is built or manufactured � Hedesigned a new chip factory.designer

designer /d |�zanə/ noun a person who de-signs � She is the designer of the new compu-ter.desk accessorydesk accessory /�desk ək|�sesəri/ nounan add-in Apple Mac utility that enhances thesystem � We have installed several desk ac-cessories that help us manage our fonts.Abbr DAdesktop

desktop /�desktɒp/ adjective able to beplaced on a desk � noun a GUI workspacethat is a graphical representation of a real-life

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71 DHCPdesktop, with icons for telephone, diary, cal-culator, filing cabinet

COMMENT: A desktop makes it easier for anew user to operate a computer, since heor she does not have to type in commandsbut instead can point at icons on the desk-top using a mouse.

desktop backgrounddesktop background /�desktɒp�b�k"raυnd/ noun a pattern or image that isdisplayed by Windows as a backdropdesktop iconsdesktop icons /�desktɒp �akɒnz/ pluralnoun icons that are displayed on the desktopdesktop mediadesktop media /�desktɒp �mi�diə/ pluralnoun a combination of presentation graphics,desktop publishing and multimedia (NOTE:The term was originally used by Apple.)desktop publishingdesktop publishing /�desktɒp�p�blʃŋ/ noun full form of DTP

‘…desktop publishing or the ability to producehigh-quality publications using a minicomputer,essentially boils down to combining words andimages on pages’ [Byte]

Desktop taskbarDesktop taskbar /�desktɒp �tɑ�skbɑ�/noun a status bar that is normally displayedalong the bottom of the screen in Windows95desktop videodesktop video /�desktɒp �vdiəυ/ nounfull form of DTVdespatchdespatch /d|�sp�tʃ/ noun another spell-ing of dispatchde-spun antennade-spun antenna /�di sp�n �n|�tenə/noun a satellite aerial that always points tothe same place on the earthDESQview™DESQview™ noun software which pro-vides multitasking functionality for an MS-DOS system and allows more than one pro-gram to run at the same timedestinationdestination /�dest |�neʃ(ə)n/ noun aplace to which something is sent or to whichsomething is going; location to which a datais sentdestructive cursordestructive cursor /d |�str�ktv �k��sə/noun a cursor that erases the text as it movesover it � Reading the screen becomes diffi-cult without a destructive cursor.destructive readdestructive read /d|�str�ktv ri�d/ nouna read operation in which the stored data iserased as it is retrieveddetaildetail /�di�tel/ noun a small part of a de-scription � verb to list in detail � The cata-logue details the shipping arrangements forcustomers.detaileddetailed /�di�teld/ adjective in detaildetectdetect /d |�tekt/ verb to sense something(usually something very slight) � The equip-ment can detect faint signals from the trans-ducer.detectiondetection /d |�tekʃən/ noun the process ofdetecting something � The detection of thecause of the fault is proving difficult.

detectordetector /d |�tektə/ noun a device whichcan detectdeterminedetermine /d|�t��mn/ verb to fix or to ar-range or to decide � to determine prices orquantities � conditions still to be determinedDeutsche IndustrienormDeutsche Industrienorm /�dɔtʃə�ndυstri�|�nɔ�m/ noun full form of DINdevelopdevelop /d |�veləp/ verb 1. to plan and pro-duce � to develop a new product 2. to applya chemical process to photographic film andpaper to produce an imagedevelopingdeveloping /d|�veləpŋ/ noun a methodby which an invisible image in an exposedphotographic film is made permanently visi-ble (film)developmentdevelopment /d|�veləpmənt/ noun theprocess of planning the production of a newproductdevelopment softwaredevelopment software /d|�veləpmənt�sɒftweə/ noun a suite of programs thathelps a programmer write, edit, compile anddebug new softwaredevicedevice /d|�vas/ noun a small useful ma-chine or piece of equipment

‘Users in remote locations can share ideas on theLiveboard through the use of a wireless pen-inputdevice and network connections.’ [Computing]

device driverdevice driver /d |�vas �dravə/ nounsame as driverdevice handlerdevice handler /d|�vas �h�ndlə/ nounsame as driverdevice independent bitmapdevice independent bitmap /d|�vas�ndpendənt �btm�p/ noun full form ofDIB 2devisedevise /d|�vaz/ verb to plan or build a sys-tem � They devised a cheap method to avoidthe problem. (NOTE: devises – devising –devised)Dewey decimal classificationDewey decimal classification /�dju�i��desm(ə)l �kl�sf|�keʃ(ə)n/ noun a librarycataloguing system using classes and sub-classes that are arranged in groups of tenDFDDFD /�di� ef �di�/ noun a diagram used to de-scribe the movement of data through a sys-tem. Full form data flow diagramDGISDGIS /�di� d'i� a �es/ noun a standardgraphics interface for video adapters, prima-rily used with the 340x0 range of graphicschips. Full form direct graphics interfacestandardDHCPDHCP /�di� si� etʃ �pi�/ noun an TCP/IPprotocol that is used to assign an Internet ad-dress to workstations and servers that arenodes in a network. Full form dynamic hostconfiguration protocol (NOTE: A specialserver running DHCP software managesthe process of assigning addresses. A cli-ent computer can then ask this server forthe address of another node on the net-work.)

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Dhrystone benchmark 72Dhrystone benchmarkDhrystone benchmark /�drastəυn�bentʃmɑ�k/ noun a benchmarking systemdeveloped to try and measure and comparethe performance of computersDIA/DCADIA/DCA /�di� a e �di� si� �e/ noun astandard method for the transmission andstorage of documents, text and video overnetworks. It is part of the IBM SNA range ofstandards. Full form document inter-change architecture/document contentarchitecturediagnosisdiagnosis /�daə"|�nəυss/ noun the proc-ess of finding of a fault or discovering thecause of a faultdiagnostic aiddiagnostic aid /�daə"nɒstk �ed/ nouna hardware or software device that helps tofind faultsdiagnosticsdiagnostics /�daə" |�nɒstks/ plural nounfunctions or tests that help a user find faultsin hardware or softwarediagonal cutdiagonal cut /da |��"ən(ə)l k�t/ noun amethod of joining two pieces of film or mag-netic tape together by cutting the ends at anangle so making the join less obviousdiagramdiagram /�daə|�"r�m/ noun a drawingwhich shows something as a plan or a mapdiagrammaticallydiagrammatically /�daə"rə|�m�tkli/adverb using a diagram � The chart showsthe sales pattern diagrammatically.dialdial /�daəl/ verb to call a telephone numberon a telephone � to dial a number

‘Customers will be able to choose a wide varietyof telephony products, from basic auto-dial pro-grams to call-centre applications.’ [Computing]

dialectdialect /�daəlekt/ noun a slight variant ofa standard language � This manufacturer’sdialect of BASIC is a little different to the oneI’m used to.diallingdialling /�daəlŋ/ noun the act of calling atelephone number. Abbr IDD (NOTE: no plu-ral)

‘Customers will be able to choose a wide varietyof telephony products, from basic auto-dial pro-grams to call-centre applications’ [Computing]

dialling codedialling code /�daəlŋ kəυd/ noun a spe-cial series of numbers which you use to makea call to another town or countrydialling tonedialling tone /�daəlŋ təυn/ noun asound made by a telephone that indicates thatthe telephone system is ready for a number tobe dialleddialoguedialogue /�daəlɒ"/, dialog noun conver-sation between people, or an instance of thisdialupdialup noun an online information servicethat is accessed by dialling into the centralcomputer. Also called dial-up servicedial-up servicedial-up service /�daəl �p �s��vs/ nounsame as dialupDIANEDIANE /da |��n/ abbr direct information ac-cess network for Europe

diaphragmdiaphragm /�daəfr�m/ noun 1. a thinflexible sheet that vibrates in response tosound waves to create an electrical signal, asin a microphone, or in response to electricalsignals to create sound waves, as in a speaker2. a mechanical device in a camera that variesthe aperture sizediapositivediapositive /�daə|�pɒztv/ noun a posi-tive transparencydiarydiary /�daəri/ noun a book in which youcan write notes or appointments for each dayof the weekdiary managementdiary management /�daəri�m�nd'mənt/ noun a part of an office com-puter program, which records schedules andappointmentsdiascopediascope /�daəskəυp/ noun a slide pro-jector or device that projects slide imagesonto a screenDIBDIB /�di� a �bi�/ noun 1. a bus used whentransferring data from one section of a com-puter to another, as between memory andCPU. Full form data input bus 2. a file for-mat for a Windows graphics image that con-sists of a header, colour table and bitmap da-ta. Full form device independent bitmap(NOTE: It can be in 1–, 4–, 8– or 24-bit colourresolution.)dibitdibit /�dbt/ noun a digit made up of two bi-nary bitsdichotomising searchdichotomising search /da|

�kɒtəmazŋ �s��tʃ/, dichotomizingsearch noun same as binary searchdichroicdichroic /da|�krəυk/ adjective referringto a chemical coating on the surface of a lensthat reflects selectively different colours oflightdichroic filterdichroic filter /da|�krəυk �fltə/ noun afilter that allows certain wavelengths of lightto pass and reflects back those that are nottransmitteddichroic headdichroic head /da |�krəυk �hed/ noun acoloured light source that is based on adjust-able dichroic filters, generally used with ros-trum cameras and enlargersdictatedictate /dk|�tet/ verb to say something tosomeone who then writes down your words �dictating machine small tape recorder that isused to record notes or letters dictated bysomeone, which a secretary can play backand type out the textdictationdictation /dk|�teʃ(ə)n/ noun the act ofdictating � to take dictation to write downwhat someone is saying � dictation speednumber of words per minute which a secre-tary can write down in shorthanddictionarydictionary /�dkʃən(ə)ri/ noun 1. a bookwhich lists words and meanings. � spell-checker 2. a data management structure thatallows files to be referenced and sorted. �

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73 digital multimeterspellchecker 3. a part of a spelling checkerprogram consisting of a list of correctly speltwords against which the program checks atext (NOTE: The plural is dictionaries.)dielectricdielectric /�da|�lektrk/ noun insulatingmaterial that allows an electric field to pass,but not an electric currentdifferdiffer /�dfə/ verb not to be the same assomething else � The two products differconsiderably.differencedifference /�df(ə)rəns/ noun the way inwhich two things are not the same � differ-ences in price or price differences � What isthe difference between these two products?differentdifferent /�df(ə)rənt/ adjective not thesame � Our product range is quite differentin design from the Japanese models.differentialdifferential /�dfə |�renʃəl/ adjective whichshows a differenceDIF fileDIF file /�df fal/ noun a file in a de factostandard that defines the way a spreadsheet,its formula and data are stored in a filediffractiondiffraction /d |�fr�kʃ(ə)n/ noun the bend-ing or spreading of sound waves, radio orlight which is caused by contact with objects(film)diffraction lensdiffraction lens /�dfr�kʃ(ə)n �lenz/noun a lens which is used for special effectsdiffusediffuse /d |�fju�z/ verb to move or insertsomething over an area or through a sub-stance � The smoke from the faulty machinerapidly diffused through the building.diffuserdiffuser /d|�fju�zə/ noun transparent frost-ed gel or glass which is attached to lamps inorder to soften lighting (film)diffusiondiffusion /d |�fju�'(ə)n/ noun 1. a meansof transferring doping materials into an inte-grated circuit substrate 2. light dispersiondigipulse telephonedigipulse telephone /�dd'ip�ls�telfəυn/ noun a push button telephone dial-ling method using coded pulsesdigitdigit /�dd't/ noun a symbol or characterthat represents an integer that is smaller thanthe radix of the number base used � a phonenumber with eight digits or an eight-digitphone numberdigitaldigital /�dd't(ə)l/ adjective which repre-sents data or physical quantities in numericalform, especially using a binary system incomputer related devices

‘Xerox Parc’s LCD breakthrough promises thedigital equivalent of paper, by producing thin,low-cost flat displays with a 600dpi resolution.’[Computing]

digital audio tapedigital audio tape /�dd't(ə)l �ɔ�diəυ�tep/ noun full form of DATdigital cameradigital camera /�dd't(ə)l �k�m(ə)rə/noun a camera that uses a bank of CCD unitsto capture an image and store it digitally onto

a miniature disk or in RAM in the camera’sbodydigital cashdigital cash /�dd't(ə)l �k�ʃ/ noun amethod of paying for goods over the Internet(NOTE: There are several payment systemsthat use different models including a newbank account for each customer and anelectronic purse that carries electronic to-kens paid for by a customer.)digital cassettedigital cassette /�dd't(ə)l kə|�set/ nouna high quality magnetic tape housed in astandard size cassette with write protect tabsand a standard format leaderdigital certificatedigital certificate /�dd't(ə)l sə|�tfkət/noun � certificatedigital channeldigital channel /�dd't(ə)l �tʃ�n(ə)l/noun a communications path that can onlytransmit data as digital signals. � ADC (NOTE:Voice, image, or video signals have to beconverted from analog to digital form beforethey can be transmitted over a digital chan-nel.)digital compact cassettedigital compact cassette /�dd't(ə)l�kɒmp�kt kə|�set/ noun full form of DCCdigital computerdigital computer /�dd't(ə)l kəm |

�pju�tə/ noun a computer that processes datarepresented in discrete digital formdigital datadigital data /�dd't(ə)l �detə/ noun datarepresented in numerical, especially binary,formdigital displaydigital display /�dd't(ə)l d|�sple/ nouna video display unit that can only show afixed number of colours or shades of greydigital dividedigital divide /�dd't(ə)l d |�vad/ nounthe state of inequality that exists betweenpeople who have access to modern informa-tion technology and those who do not, sincethe former have many more opportunitiesopen to them than the latterdigital encryption standarddigital encryption standard/�dd't(ə)l n|�krpʃən �st�ndəd/ noun thestandard for encrypting private key data,which uses 56-bit encryptiondigital light processingdigital light processing /�dd't(ə)l�lat �prəυsesŋ/ noun full form of DLPdigital logicdigital logic /�dd't(ə)l �lɒd'k/ noun theprocess of applying Boolean algebra to hard-ware circuitsdigitallydigitally /�dd't(ə)li/ adverb (quantityrepresented) in digital form � The machinetakes digitally recorded data and generatesan image.digital monitordigital monitor /�dd't(ə)l �mɒntə/noun a monitor that can only show a fixednumber of colours or shades of greydigital multimeterdigital multimeter /�dd't(ə)l�m�ltimi�tə/ noun a multimeter that uses adigital readout to indicate voltage, current orimpedance levels. Abbr DMM

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digital nonlinear editing 74digital nonlinear editingdigital nonlinear editing /�dd't(ə)lnɒn|�lniə �edtŋ/ noun same as nonlinearvideo editingdigital optical recordingdigital optical recording /�dd't(ə)l�ɒptk(ə)l r|�kɔ�dŋ/ noun full form of DORdigital outputdigital output /�dd't(ə)l �aυtpυt/ nouncomputer output in digital formdigital plotterdigital plotter /�dd't(ə)l �plɒtə/ noun aplotter whose pen position is controllable indiscrete steps, so that drawings in the compu-ter can be output graphicallydigital read-outdigital read-out /�dd't(ə)l �ri�daυt/noun data displayed in numerical form, e.g.numbers on an LCD in a calculatordigital representationdigital representation /�dd't(ə)l�reprzen|�teʃ(ə)n/ noun data or quantitiesrepresented using digitsdigital resolutiondigital resolution /�dd't(ə)l �rezə|

�lu�ʃ(ə)n/ noun 1. the smallest number thatcan be represented with one digit 2. the valueassigned to the least significant bit of a wordor numberdigital signaldigital signal /�dd't(ə)l �s"n(ə)l/ nounan electrical signal that has only a number ofpossible states, as opposed to an analog sig-nal, which is continuously variabledigital signal level onedigital signal level one /�dd't(ə)l�s"n(ə)l �lev(ə)l �w�n/ noun full form ofDS-1digital signal level zerodigital signal level zero /�dd't(ə)l�s"n(ə)l �lev(ə)l �zərəυ/ noun full form ofDS-0digital signallingdigital signalling /�dd't(ə)l �s"nəlŋ/noun control and dialling codes sent down atelephone line in digital formdigital signal processingdigital signal processing /�dd't(ə)l�s"n(ə)l �prəυsesŋ/ noun full form of DSPdigital signaturedigital signature /�dd't(ə)l �s"nətʃə/noun a unique identification code sent by aterminal or device in digital formdigital speechdigital speech /�dd't(ə)l �spi�tʃ/ noun� speech synthesisdigital subscriber linedigital subscriber line /�dd't(ə)l səb|

�skrabə �lan/ noun full form of DSLdigital switchingdigital switching /�dd't(ə)l �swtʃŋ/noun the process of operating communica-tions connections and switches only by use ofdigital signalsdigital systemdigital system /�dd't(ə)l �sstəm/ nouna system that deals with digital signalsdigital theatre systemdigital theatre system /�dd't(ə)l�θətə �sstəm/ noun full form of DTSdigital to analog converterdigital to analog converter /�dd't(ə)ltə ��nəlɒ" kən|�v��tə/ noun full form ofDACdigital transmission systemdigital transmission system/�dd't(ə)l tr�nz|�mʃ(ə)n �sstəm/ nouncommunication achieved by converting ana-log signals to a digital form then modulating

and transmitting this and finally convertingthe signal back to analog form at the receiverdigital TVdigital TV /�dd't(ə)l ti� |�vi�/ noun a tele-vision that can receive and decode televisionimages and audio sent as digital data, thendisplayed on a standard screendigital versatile discdigital versatile disc /�dd't(ə)l�v��sətal �dsk/ noun full form of DVDdigital videodigital video /�dd't(ə)l �vdiəυ/ noun avideo recorded in digital form (NOTE: Theoutput from a video camera is converted todigital form using either a digital camera ora frame grabber. The digital output is thenusually compressed before being proc-essed or transmitted or stored on video-tape.)digital videodiscdigital videodisc /�dd't(ə)l�vdiəυdsk/ noun full form of DVDdigital video effectsdigital video effects /�dd't(ə)l �vdiəυ |�fekts/ plural noun full form of DVEdigital video interactivedigital video interactive /�dd't(ə)l�vdiəυ �ntər|��ktv/ noun full form of DV-Idigital walletdigital wallet /�dd't(ə)l �wɒlt/ noun afeature of web browsers that contains aunique personal digital signature and allowsthe user to pay for goods at online shops inmany different ways, including credit card ordigital cash (NOTE: A digital wallet makes itsimpler and more secure to buy goods fromonline shops.)digitisedigitise /�dd' |�taz/, digitize verb tochange analog movement or signals into adigital form that can be processed by com-puters � We can digitise your signature to al-low it to be printed with any laser printer.(NOTE: digitises – digitising – digitised)

‘The contract covers fibre optic cable and Syn-chronous Digital Hierarchy transmission equip-ment to be used to digitize the telecommunica-tions network.’ [Computergram]

digitised photographdigitised photograph /�dd'|�tazd�fəυtə|�"rɑ�f/, digitized photograph nounan image or photograph that has beenscanned to produce an analog signal which isthen converted to digital form and stored ordisplayed on a computerdigitiserdigitiser, digitizer noun same as ADCdigitising paddigitising pad /�dd'tazŋ �p�d/, digi-tising tablet, digitizing pad, digitizingtablet noun a sensitive surface that translatesthe position of a pen into numerical form, sothat drawings can be entered into a computerdigit placedigit place /�dd't ples/, digit position/�dd't pə|�zʃ(ə)n/ noun the position of adigit within a numberDILDIL /�di� a �el/ noun full form dual-in-linepackage. same as DIPDIMDIM /�di� a �em/ noun software that allowsa user to capture, store and index printed textin a digital form. Full form document im-

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75 disassemblerage management (NOTE: It usually works inconjunction with a scanner and a storagemedium such as a recordable CD-ROM.)dimensiondimension /da|�menʃən/ noun a measure-ment of size � The dimensions of the compu-ter are small enough for it to fit into a case.dimensioningdimensioning /da |�menʃənŋ/ noun thedefinition of the size of something, especiallyan array or matrix � Array dimensioning oc-curs at this line.dimmerdimmer /�dmə/ noun an electronic or elec-trical device which reduces the brightness oflights (film)DINDIN /�di� a �en/ noun a German industrystandards organisation known particularlyfor specifications for plugs and sockets. Fullform Deutsche IndustrienormDingbat™Dingbat™ /�dŋb�t/ noun a font that con-tains stars, bullets, symbols, images anddrawings in place of characters � To insert acopyright symbol, use the Dingbat font.diodediode /�daəυd/ noun an electronic compo-nent that allows an electrical current to passin one direction and not the otherdiopterdiopter /da |�ɒptə/, dioptre noun a unit ofmeasurement of the refractive power of a lensDIPDIP /�di� a �pi�/ noun 1. a standard layoutfor integrated circuit packages using two par-allel rows of connecting pins along each side.Full form dual-in-line package 2. softwarethat allows a user to capture, store and indexprinted text in a digital formdiplexdiplex /�dpleks/ noun the simultaneoustransmission of two signals over the samelineDIRDIR /�di� a �ɑ�/ noun a MS-DOS systemcommand that displays a list of files stored ona disk. Full form directorydirectdirect /da |�rekt/ verb to manage or to or-ganise � adverb straight or with no third par-ty involveddirect change-overdirect change-over /da|�rekt �tʃend'�əυvə/ noun the process of switching fromone computer to another in one godirect currentdirect current /d |�rekt �k�rənt/ noun aconstant value electric current that flows inone direction. Abbr DCdirect data entrydirect data entry /da |�rekt �detə �entri/noun full form of DDE 1direct graphics interface standarddirect graphics interface standard/da|�rekt �"r�fks �ntəfes �st�ndəd/noun full form of DGISdirect imagedirect image /�darekt �md'/ noun animage that is composed directly onto thescreen rather than being composed off screenin memory before it is displayeddirect information access network for Europedirect information access networkfor Europe /da |�rekt �nfəmeʃ(ə)n��kses �netw��k fə �jυərəp/ noun a pack-

age of services offered over the Euronet net-work. Abbr DIANEdirectiondirection /da|�rekʃən/ noun the process oforganising or managing � He took over thedirection of a software distribution group.(NOTE: no plural in this meaning)directionaldirectional /da |�rekʃən(ə)l/ adjectivewhich points in a certain directiondirectional antennadirectional antenna /da |�rekʃ(ə)n(ə)l�n|�tenə/ noun an aerial that transmits or re-ceives signals from a single directiondirectional patterndirectional pattern /da |�rekʃ(ə)n(ə)l�p�tən/ noun a chart of the response of anaerial or microphone to signals from variousdirectionsdirectivedirective /da|�rektv/ noun a program-ming instruction used to control the languagetranslator or compiler

‘…directives are very useful for selecting parts ofthe code for particular purposes’ [PersonalComputer World]

directlydirectly /da|�rektli/ adverb 1. immediately2. straight or with no third party involved �We deal directly with the manufacturer, with-out using a wholesaler.direct memory accessdirect memory access /da|�rekt�mem(ə)ri ��kses/ noun full form of DMA� direct memory access transfer between themain memory and the second processordirectorydirectory /da|�rekt(ə)ri/ noun 1. a methodof organising the files stored on a disk, intogroups of files or further sub-directories �The disk directory shows file name, date andtime of creation. 2. full form of DIR (NOTE:The plural is directories.)

COMMENT: A directory is best imagined as afolder within a drawer of a filing cabinet: thefolder can contain files or other folders.

directory servicesdirectory services /da|�rekt(ə)ri�s��vsz/ noun a method of listing all the us-ers and resources linked to a network in asimple and easy-to-access way so that a usercan locate another user by name rather thanby a complex network address � With direc-tory services installed, it’s much easier forour users to find and connect to the sharedprinters.directory websitedirectory website /də|�rekt(ə)ri�websat/ noun a website that contains a listof other websites, usually organised into sec-tions and often with a search feature (NOTE:Yahoo! (www.yahoo.com) is one of the best-known directories and lists over half a mil-lion websites.)disabledisable /ds |�eb(ə)l/ verb to prevent a de-vice or function from operating � He disa-bled the keyboard to prevent anyone chang-ing the data.disassemblerdisassembler /�dsə|�semblə/ noun apiece of software that translates a machine

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disc 76code program back into an assembly lan-guage formdiscdisc /dsk/ noun another spelling of disk(NOTE: a spelling used only in the context ofthe compact disc, videodisc, and digitalvideodisc)discarddiscard /ds|�kɑ�d/ verb to throw out some-thing which is not neededdisclosedisclose /ds |�kləυz/ verb to reveal detailsof something which were supposed to be se-cretdisclosuredisclosure /ds|�kləυ'ə/ noun the act oftelling details about somethingdisconnectdisconnect /�dskə|�nekt/ verb to unplugor break a connection between two devices �Do not forget to disconnect the cable beforemoving the printer.discretediscrete /d |�skri�t/ adjective referring tovalues, events, energy or data which occur insmall individual units � The data word ismade up of discrete bits.discrete cosine transformdiscrete cosine transform /d|�skri�t�kəυsan tr�ns|�fɔ�m/ noun an algorithmused to encode and compress images. AbbrDCTdiscrete multi-tonediscrete multi-tone /d|�skri�t �m�lti�təυn/ noun full form of DMTdiscretionarydiscretionary /d|�skreʃ(ə)n(ə)ri/ adjec-tive which can be used if wanted or not usedif not wanteddiscretionary hyphendiscretionary hyphen /d |

�skreʃ(ə)n(ə)ri �haf(ə)n/ noun a markerwithin a word indicating a position where anend of line hyphen may be inserted if part ofthe word needs to be carried down to the nextlinediscussion groupdiscussion group /d|�sk�ʃ(ə)n "ru�p/noun a feature of a website that lets any visi-tor write and post a message on a particularsubject, which is displayed to any other visi-tors, who can then add their comments in re-ply to the messagedish aerialdish aerial /�dʃ �eəriəl/ noun a circularconcave directional aerial used to pick uplong distance transmissions � We use a dishaerial to receive signals from the satellite.disjointeddisjointed /ds|�d'ɔntd/ adjective (set ofinformation or data) that has no commonsubjectdiskdisk /dsk/ noun a flat circular plate coatedwith a substance that is capable of beingmagnetised. Data is stored on this by magnet-ising selective sections to represent binarydigits. (NOTE: The alternative spelling discis used only in the context of the compactdisc, videodisc, and digital videodisc)

COMMENT: The disk surface is divided intotracks that can be accessed individually;magnetic tapes cannot be accessed in thisway.

disk drivedisk drive /�dsk drav/ noun a device thatspins a magnetic disk and controls the posi-tion of the read/write head. Also called diskunitdiskettediskette /d |�sket/ noun a light, flexibledisk that can store data in a magnetic form,used in most personal computersdisklessdiskless /�dskləs/ adjective which doesnot use disks for data storage � diskless sys-tem � They want to create a diskless worksta-tion.disk operating systemdisk operating system /�dsk�ɒpəretŋ �sstəm/ noun full form of DOSdisk unitdisk unit /dsk �ju�nt/ noun same as diskdrivedisorderly close-downdisorderly close-down /ds|�ɔ�dəli�kləυz �daυn/ noun a system crash that didnot provide enough warning to carry out anorderly close-downdispatchdispatch /d |�sp�tʃ/, despatch /d |�sp�tʃ/noun the action of sending material, informa-tion or messages to a locationdispenserdispenser /d |�spensə/ noun a devicewhich gives out something � cash dispenserdevice which gives money when a card is in-serted and special instructions keyed indispersiondispersion /d|�sp��ʃ(ə)n/ noun a logicalfunction whose output is false if all inputs aretrue, and true if any input is falsedisplacementdisplacement /ds|�plesmənt/ noun anoffset used in an indexed addressdisplaydisplay /d |�sple/ noun a device on whichinformation or images can be presented visu-allydisplay attributedisplay attribute /d|�sple ��trbju�t/noun a variable which defines the shape, sizeor colour of text or graphics displayeddisplay colourdisplay colour /d|�sple �k�lə/ noun thecolour of characters in a videotext displaysystemdisplay cycledisplay cycle /d |�sple �sak(ə)l/ nounthe set of operations required to display animage on screendisplay formatdisplay format /d|�sple �fɔ�m�t/ nounthe number of characters that can be dis-played on a screen, given as row and columnlengthsdisplay modedisplay mode /d |�sple məυd/ noun away of referring to the character set to beused, usually graphics or alphanumericsdisplay resolutiondisplay resolution /d|�sple �rezə|

�lu�ʃ(ə)n/ noun the number of pixels per unitarea that a display can clearly showdisplay screendisplay screen /d |�sple skri�n/ noun thephysical part of a VDU, terminal or monitor,which allows the user to see characters orgraphics (NOTE: It is usually a cathode raytube, but sometimes LCD or LED displaysare used.)

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77 documentdisplay spacedisplay space /d|�sple spes/ nounmemory or the amount of screen available toshow graphics or textdissolve

dissolve /d|�zɒlv/ noun a special effectthat is used in presentation graphics softwareor multimedia to fade out one image and fadein the nextdistortdistort /d |�stɔ�t/ verb to introduce unwant-ed differences between a signal input andoutput from a devicedistortiondistortion /d |�stɔ�ʃ(ə)n/ noun unwanteddifferences in a signal before and after it haspassed through a piece of equipmentdistributedistribute /d |�strbju�t/ verb to send outdata or information to users in a network orsystem (NOTE: distributes – distributing –distributed)distributed component object modeldistributed component object mod-el /d |�strbjυtd kəm |�pəυnənt �ɒbd'ekt�mɒd(ə)l/ noun full form of DCOMdistributed data processingdistributed data processing /d |

�strbjυtd �detə �prəυsesŋ/ noun fullform of DDPdistributed processingdistributed processing /d|�strbjυtd�prəυsesŋ/ noun a technique to enable proc-essors or computers to share tasks amongstthemselves most effectively, in which eachprocessor completes allocated sub-tasks in-dependently and the results are then recom-bineddistributed systemdistributed system /d|�strbjυtd�sstəm/ noun a computer system which usesmore than one processor in different loca-tions, all connected to a central computerdistributiondistribution /�dstr|�bju�ʃ(ə)n/ noun theact of sending information out, especially viaa networkdistributordistributor /d|�strbjυtə/ noun a companywhich sells goods for another companywhich manufactures them � He is the UKdistributor for a Japanese software house.

‘CORBA sets out a standard for how objects inapplications, repositories or class libraries shouldmake requests and receive responses across a dis-tributed computing network’ [Computing]

dither

dither /�dðə/ verb 1. to create a curve orline that looks smoother by adding shadedpixels beside the pixels that make up the im-age 2. to create the appearance of a new col-our by a pattern of coloured pixels that ap-pear, to the eye, to combine and form a new,composite colour (e.g., a pattern of black andwhite dots will appear like grey)DIV

DIV noun digital satellite data transmissionin place of a voice channel. Full form data invoicedivergencedivergence /da |�v��d'əns/ noun the fail-ure of light or particle beams to meet at a cer-tain point

diversitydiversity /da |�v��sti/ noun coming frommore than one source; being aimed at morethan one usediverterdiverter /dai |�v��tə/ noun a circuit or de-vice that redirects a message or signal fromone path or route to anotherdividedivide /d |�vad/ verb to cut or to split intoparts � In the hyphenation program, longwords are automatically divided at the end oflines.divisiondivision /d|�v'(ə)n/ noun the act of divid-ing numbersDLLDLL /�di� el �el/ noun a library of utility pro-grams that can be called from a main pro-gram. Full form dynamic link libraryDLPDLP /�di� el �pi�/ noun a method of project-ing an image using an electronic chip thatcontains thousands of tiny mirrors. Full formdigital light processingDMADMA /�di� em �e/ noun a direct rapid linkbetween a peripheral and a computer’s mainmemory, which avoids accessing routines foreach item of data read. Full form directmemory access

‘A 32-bit DMA controller, 16-bit video I/O portsand I/O filters complete the chip.’ [Computing]

DMMDMM abbr digital multimeterDMTDMT /�di� em �ti�/ noun technology thatuses digital signal processors to create soundsignals that carry digital video, sound, imageand data over cable at high speed. Full formdiscrete multi-toneDNSDNS /�di� en �es/ noun a distributed data-base used in an Internet system to map namesto addresses. Full form domain name sys-tem (NOTE: For example you can use thename ‘www.bloomsbury.com’ to locate theBloomsbury Publishing website rather thana complex network address (called the IPaddress).)DOCDOC noun equipment which provides a sig-nal that reinstates lost information on a vide-otape when it has been temporarily mis-placed (film) Full form drop-out compen-satordockdock /dɒk/ verb to connect a laptop compu-ter to a special docking station on a desk togive it the same resources as a normal desk-topdocking stationdocking station /�dɒkŋ �steʃ(ə)n/,docking unit /�dɒkŋ �ju�nt/ noun a spe-cial base unit that allows a laptop computer tobe inserted into it and provide the same re-sources as a normal desktop, e.g. mains pow-er, a network adapter, connection to a full-size monitor and extra expansion portsdocumentdocument /�dɒkjυmənt/ noun a piece ofpaper with writing on it � verb /�dɒkjυ|

�ment/ to write a description of a process

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documentation 78documentationdocumentation /�dɒkjυmen |�teʃ(ə)n/noun 1. all documents referring to something� Please send all documentation concerningthe product. 2. the set of information, notesand diagrams that describe the function, useand operation of a piece of hardware or soft-waredocument content architecturedocument content architecture/�dɒkjυmənt �kɒntent �ɑ�ktektʃə/ nounfull form of DCAdocument image managementdocument image management/�dɒkjυmənt �md' �m�nd'mənt/ nounfull form of DIMdocument interchange architecture/document content architecturedocument interchange architec-ture/document content architecture/�dɒkjυmənt �ntətʃend' �ɑ�ktektʃə�dɒkjυmənt �kɒntent �ɑ�ktektʃə/ nounfull form of DIA/DCAdocument object modeldocument object model /�dɒkjυmənt�ɒbd'ekt �mɒd(ə)l/ noun full form of DOMDolby Digital™Dolby Digital™ /�dɒlbi �dd't(ə)l/ atrade name for a multichannel audio com-pression and transmission system that uses5.1 channelsDolby system™Dolby system™ /�dɒlbi �sstəm/ a tradename for a system for reducing backgroundnoise for recordingsdollar signdollar sign /�dɒlə san/ noun a printed orwritten character ($) used in some program-ming languages to identify a variable as astring typedollydolly /�dɒli/ noun a moveable stand onwhich the camera is mounted in order to beable to follow the action (film)dolly pusherdolly pusher /�dɒli �pυʃə/ noun a gripwho moves the dolly during filmingdolly shotdolly shot /�dɒli ʃɒt/ noun a shot filmedwhile the camera is moving away from theactionDOMDOM /�di� əυ �em/ noun a scheme that de-scribes how the different parts of a webpage,the text, images and hyperlinks, are repre-sented. Full form document object model

COMMENT: Each item is an object and has aset of attributes that defines how it is dis-played and managed by a web browser.Dynamic HTML (DHTML) uses DOM tochange how a webpage is displayed by auser’s web browser – currently, the Micro-soft and Netscape web browsers use dif-ferent DOM specifications.

domaindomain /dəυ|�men/ noun 1. an area orgroup of nodes in a network 2. part of theway of naming users on the Internet in whichthe domain name is the name of the serviceprovider or company the user works for; in anelectronic mail address, the domain namefollows the ‘&’ symbol � The BloomsburyPublishing email address is ‘gener-al&bloomsbury.com’ where ‘general’ is the

user, ‘bloomsbury’ is the domain and ‘com’is the domain type.domain name

domain name /dəυ|�men nem/ noun aunique name that identifies the location of anInternet server or computer on the Internet

COMMENT: The domain name‘bloomsbury.com’ is registered to theBloomsbury Publishing website. The do-main name is in a convenient text format,but refers to a physical address that lo-cates the computer that stores the websitefor the domain name. This physical ad-dress is called the IP address and is in theformat ‘194.33.322.22’ – the domain namesystem (DNS) is used to translate the do-main name into its correct IP address. Thedomain name is made up of two or threeparts, separated by a ‘dot’. There are someglobal thematic suffixes such as .com(company) and .net (network) which arenot restricted by country. For example,‘bloomsbury.com’ has the company name‘bloomsbury’ followed by the domain type‘com’ (for company). There are also coun-try suffixes such as ‘.au’ for Australia, ‘.cn’for China, ‘.uk’ for the UK and ‘.de’ for Ger-many, within which each country can haveits own private system of domain names.Some of these might look the same as theglobal thematic suffixes (.net.uk, .org.uk,etc.), but are restricted to the UK, e.g.co.uk, .nhs.uk, .plc.uk and .ltd.uk.

domain name registration

domain name registration /dəυ|�mennem �red'|�streʃ(ə)n/ noun the registra-tion of a domain name with the relevant localregistration office. � DNS

COMMENT: Before you can use a domainname, you must check that it is availableand then fill in an application form with yourcountry’s local registration office (your ISPwill also be able to help). Domain namemanagement is centred in the USA at theInterNIC organisation; you can also regis-ter a domain name directly with the Inter-NIC using its online order form (www.inter-nic.net). Once the domain name has beenapproved, it will be assigned a unique IPaddress that will be used by your ISP tomodify the DNS to allow your website to belocated by other users.

domain name server

domain name server /dəυ|�men nem�s��və/ noun a computer on the Internet thatstores part or all of the domain name systemdatabasedomain name system

domain name system /dəυ|�men nem�sstəm/ noun full form of DNSdomestic

domestic /də |�mestk/ adjective referringto the home market or the market of the coun-try where the business is based � they pro-duce goods for the domestic marketdomestic satellite

domestic satellite /də|�mestk�s�təlat/ noun a satellite used for televisionor radio transmission, rather than research ormilitary applications

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79 drag and dropdongledongle /�dɒŋ"l/ noun a coded circuit orchip that has to be present in a system beforea piece of copyright software will runDORDOR /�di� əυ �ɑ�/ noun the recording of sig-nals in binary form as small holes in the sur-face of an optical or compact disk which canthen be read by laser. Full form digital opti-cal recordingDOSDOS /dɒs/ noun a section of the operatingsystem software, that controls the disk andfile access. Full form disk operating sys-temdotdot /dɒt/ noun a small round spotdot-matrix printerdot-matrix printer /�dɒt �metrks�prntə/ noun a printer in which the charac-ters are made up by a series of closely spaceddots (NOTE: The printer produces a pageline by line. Dot-matrix printers can be usedeither for printing using a ribbon or for ther-mal or electrostatic printing.)dots per inchdots per inch /�dɒtz p��r �ntʃ/ pluralnoun a standard method used to describe theresolution capabilities of a page printer orscanner � Some laser printers offer high res-olution printing: 400 dots per inch. Abbrdpi., d.p.i.dotted-decimal-notationdotted-decimal-notation /�dɒtd�desm(ə)l/ noun a method of writing a do-main name, email address or other IP net-work address using a decimal point, or fullstop, to separate the numeric parts of the ad-dress (NOTE: For example‘www.bloomsbury.com’ is the domain namethat can be written in dotted-decimal-nota-tion as ‘133.223.33.22’)doubledouble /�d�b(ə)l/ adjective twice; twice aslarge; twice the sizedouble densitydouble density /�d�b(ə)l �densəti/ nouna system to double the storage capacity of adisk drive by doubling the number of bitswhich can be put on the disk surface. AbbrDDdouble sidebanddouble sideband /�d�b(ə)l �sadb�nd/noun a modulation technique whose frequen-cy spectrum contains two modulated signalsabove and below the unmodulated carrier fre-quencydouble sideband suppressed carrier double sideband suppressed carri-er (DSBSC) /�d�b(ə)l �sadb�nd sə |

�presd �k�riə/ noun a modulation techniquethat uses two modulated signal sidebands,but no carrier signaldoubletdoublet /�d�blət/ noun a word made up oftwo bits. Also called dyaddowndown /daυn/ adjective, adverb referring tocomputers or programs that are temporarilynot working � The computer system wentdown twice during the afternoon. Oppositeup

downloaddownload /�daυn|�ləυd/ verb 1. to load aprogram or section of data from a remotecomputer via a telephone line � There is nocharge for downloading public domain soft-ware from the BBS. Opposite upload 2. tosend printer font data stored on a disk to aprinter, where it will be stored in temporarymemory or RAM 3. to retrieve a file from aremote computer or online system onto yourlocal computer

‘The cards will also download the latest versionof the network drivers from the server.’ [Comput-ing]

downloadabledownloadable /daυn|�ləυdəb(ə)l/ adjec-tive which can be downloadeddownsizedownsize /�daυnsaz/ verb to move acompany from a computer system basedaround a central mainframe computer to anetworked environment, usually using PCsas workstations, in which the workstationsare intelligent � Downsizing is more cost ef-fective and gives more processing power tothe end-user. (NOTE: downsizes – downsiz-ing – downsized)downtimedowntime /�daυn tam/, down time nouna period of time during which a computersystem is not working or usable. Oppositeuptimedownwarddownward /�daυnwəd/ adjective towardsa lower positiondpdp, DP abbr data processingDPADPA /�di� pi� �e/ noun a technique of load-ing protocol stacks in memory only if theyare required for a particular session. Fullform demand protocol architecturedpi.dpi. /�di� pi� �a/, d.p.i abbr dots per inch �a 300 d.p.i. black and white A4 monitor � a300 dpi image scanner.

COMMENT: 300 d.p.i. is the normal industrystandard for a laser printer.

DPMDPM /�di� pi� �em/ abbr data processingmanagerdraftdraft /drɑ�ft/ noun a rough copy of a docu-ment before errors have been corrected �verb to make a rough copy or drawing � Hedrafted out the details of the program on apiece of paper.dragdrag /dr�"/ verb to move a mouse whileholding the button down, so moving an im-age or icon on screen � You can enlarge aframe by clicking inside its border and drag-ging to the position wanted. (NOTE: drag-ging – dragged)

‘…press the mouse button and drag the mouse:this produces a dotted rectangle on the screen;you can easily enlarge the frame by draggingfrom any of the eight black rectangles round theborder, showing that it is selected’ [Desktop Pub-lishing]

drag and dropdrag and drop /�dr�" ən �drɒp/ verb todrag a section of text or icon or object onto

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drag image 80another program icon which starts this pro-gram and inserts the data � Drag and dropthe document icon onto the word-processoricon and the system will start the programand load the document.drag imagedrag image /�dr�" �md'/ noun the cur-sor, icon or outline image that is displayedwhen you drag an object across the screendraindrain /dren/ noun an electrical current pro-vided by a battery or power supply; connec-tion to a FET � verb to remove or decreasepower or energy from a device such as a bat-teryDRAMDRAM /�di� r�m/ abbr dynamic random ac-cess memorydraw directdraw direct /�drɔ� da|�rekt/ noun theprocess of drawing an object directly to thescreen rather than to an off-screen memorybufferdrawing programdrawing program /�drɔ�ŋ �prəυ"r�m/noun a piece of software that allows the userto draw and design on screendrawing tooldrawing tool /�drɔ�ŋ tu�l/ noun any oneof a range of functions in a paint program thatallows the user to draw (NOTE: Usually dis-played as icons in a toolbar, the drawingtools might include a circle-draw, line-drawand freehand drawing tool.)D-regionD-region /di� �ri�d'ən/ noun a section ofthe ionosphere 50–90km above the earth’ssurface � The D-region is the main cause ofattenuation in transmitted radio signals.drill-downdrill-down /�drl �daυn/ verb to work back-wards and look at the individual items andformulae that produced the final resultdrivedrive /drav/ noun a part of a computerwhich operates a disk � verb to make some-thing such as a disk work � The disk is drivenby a motor.drive baydrive bay /�drav be/ noun same as baydrive lettersdrive letters /�drav �letəz/ noun a systemof letters to identify the different drives thatare fitted to the PCdriverdriver /�dravə/ noun a piece of softwarethat sits between Windows and a peripheraland translates the instructions from Windowsinto a form that the peripheral can under-stand. Also called device driver, devicehandlerDRODRO /�di� ɑ�r �əυ/ noun a form of storagemedium that loses its data after it has beenread. Full form destructive readoutdrop-down list boxdrop-down list box /�drɒp daυn �lst/noun a list of options for an entry that ap-pears when you move the cursor to the entryfielddrop-down menudrop-down menu /�drɒp daυn �menju�/noun a menu that appears below a menu titlewhen it is selected

drop in

drop in /�drɒp �n/ noun a small piece ofdirt on a disk or tape surface, which does notallow data to be recorded on that sectiondrop out

drop out /�drɒp �aυt/ noun 1. the failure ofa small piece of tape or disk to be correctlymagnetised for the accurate storage of data 2.a short signal loss in a magnetic recordingsystem caused by faults in the magnetic me-dium or failure in head-to-tape contactdrum

drum /dr�m/ noun 1. an early type of mag-netic computer storage 2. helical scan videotape head assembly 3. a rotatable cylinderaround which film passes in order to ensuresteady movement in a photographic sound re-producerDS-0

DS-0 /�di� es �zərəυ/ noun one single cir-cuit in a high-speed T-1 data transmissionline, capable of transmitting information in8-bit frames at a rate of 8,000 frames per sec-ond, equal to 64 Kbits/second. Full form dig-ital signal level zeroDS-1

DS-1 /�di� es �w�n/ noun a standard that de-fines the way data is formatted and transmit-ted over a T-1 line. Full form digital signallevel oneDSE

DSE abbr data switching exchangeDSL

DSL /�di� es �el/ noun a system of transmit-ting data at high speed over standard tele-phone copper wire. Full form digital sub-scriber line

COMMENT: One of the most popular DSLimplementations is the ADSL (asymmetricdigital subscriber line) scheme that pro-vides a permanent, high-speed connectionto the Internet over standard telephonelines.

DSP

DSP /�di� es �pi�/ noun a special integratedcircuit used to manipulate digital signals.Full form digital signal processingD-SUB connector

D-SUB connector /�di� s�b kə |�nektə/noun a video connector commonly used onPC monitors to carry all the video signals inone cableDTC

DTC noun a videotape recording systemwhich provides two sets of time code infor-mation used when editing (film) Full formdual time code. � time codeDTE

DTE /�di� ti� �i�/ noun a device at which acommunications path starts or finishes. Fullform data terminal equipmentDTMF

DTMF /�di� ti� em �ef/ noun a method of di-alling in a telephone system in which eachnumber on the telephone handset generatestwo tones. Each row and column of the tele-phone number grid generates a different tone,so each number will send one tone for thecorresponding column and another for therow. Full form dual tone multi-frequency.Compare pulse-dialling (NOTE: If you press

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81 DVD-videonumber ‘5’ it will send the tone for row twoand for column two.)D to A converterD to A converter /�di� tυ �e kən|�v��tə/noun full form digital to analog converter.� DACDTPDTP /�di� ti� �pi�/ noun the design, layoutand printing of documents using special soft-ware, a desktop computer and a printer. Fullform desktop publishingDTSDTS /�di� ti� �es/ noun a multichannel audiosystem. Full form digital theatre systemDTVDTV /�di� ti� �vi�/ noun a combination ofspecial software and extra hardware that al-lows a user to edit video on a PC. Full formdesktop video (NOTE: The hardware con-nects the PC to a video recorder or cameraand captures the video frames. The soft-ware can then be used to cut individualframes and rearrange the sequence.)D-type connectorD-type connector /�di� tap kə|�nektə/noun a connector that is shaped like an elon-gated letter D, which prevents the connectorfrom being plugged in upside down � The se-rial port on a PC uses a 9-pin D-type connec-tor.dualdual /�dju�əl/ adjective using two or a pairdual-in-line packagedual-in-line package /�dju�əl n lan�p�kd'/ noun full form of DIL, DIPdual-scan displaydual-scan display /�dju�əl sk�n d |

�sple/ noun a colour LCD screen that up-dates the image on screen in two passesdual tone multi-frequencydual tone multi-frequency /�dju�əltəυn �m�lti �fri�kwənsi/ noun full form ofDTMFdubdub /d�b/ verb to add sound effects to ananimation, multimedia presentation, film orvideo (NOTE: dubbing – dubbed)dubbingdubbing /�d�bŋ/ noun 1. the process ofputting together two or more sound recordsinto one combined recording 2. the processof moving a sound recording from one inter-mediary to another; e.g. from photographicfilm to magnetic tape 3. the process of mak-ing a copy, e.g., making a showreel from agroup of videotapes 4. the method of record-ing new dialogue which is used instead of theoriginal versionductduct /d�kt/ noun a pipe containing cables,providing a tidy and protective surroundingfor a group of cablesdumb terminaldumb terminal /�d�m �t��mn(ə)l/ nouna peripheral that can only transmit and re-ceive data from a computer, but is not capableof processing data. Compare smart terminaldummydummy /�d�mi/ noun an imitation productused to test the reaction of potential custom-ers to its designdumpdump /d�mp/ noun 1. data which has beencopied from one device to another for storage2. the transferring of data to a disk for storage

3. US a printout of the contents of all or se-lected data in memoryduotoneduotone /�dju�əυtəυn/ noun two-colourreproduction of an image or photograph us-ing only black and either sepia or yellow(film)duplexduplex /�dju�pleks/ noun 1. the simultane-ous transmission of two signals on one line.Also called simultaneous transmission 2.a photographic paper that is light sensitive onboth sidesduplicateduplicate noun /�dju�plkət/ a copy �verb /�dju�plket/ to copyduplicatingduplicating /�dju�plketŋ/ noun copy-ingduplicationduplication /�dju�pl |�keʃ(ə)n/ noun thecopying of documentsduplicatorduplicator /�dju�plketə/ noun a ma-chine which produces multiple copies from amasterdurabledurable /�djυərəb(ə)l/ adjective whichwill not be destroyed easily � durable car-tridgedurationduration /djυ|�reʃ(ə)n/ noun the length oftime for which something lastsdustcoverdustcover /�d�stk�və/ noun a protectivecover for a machineduty-ratedduty-rated /�dju�ti �retd/ adjective re-ferring to the maximum number of opera-tions that a device can perform in a set timeto a certain specificationDUVDUV noun data transmission in a frequencyrange or channel lower than that of a humanvoice. Full form data under voiceDVDDVD /�di� vi� �di�/ noun a way of storingover 17Gb of data on a CD-ROM type disc.Full form digital versatile disc, digital vid-eodiscDVD-RAMDVD-RAM /�di� vi� �di� r�m/ noun a DVDdisc drive that allows a user to write, eraseand rewrite data onto a DVD discDVD-ROMDVD-ROM /�di� vi� �di� rɒm/ noun a DVDdisc drive that can read a DVD disc and pro-vides data transfer rates equal to a standardnine-times CD-ROMDVD+RWDVD+RW /�di� vi� di� pl�s ɑ� �d�b(ə)l ju�/noun a type of rewritable DVD disc that al-lows a user to store data on the disc (NOTE:The DVD disc offers much greater storagecapacity than a standard compact disc ofsimilar size. This standard was developedby Hewlett-Packard, Philips and Sony andhas a capacity of 3GB per side.)DVD-videoDVD-video /�di� vi� �di� �vdiəυ/ noun astandard that defines how full-length filmscan be compressed and stored on a DVD discand played back on a dedicated player at-tached to a television set or viewed on a com-puter fitted with a DVD drive

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DVE 82DVEDVE /�di� vi� �i�/ noun special effects carriedout by a PC on a video sequence; e.g., a fadebetween two sequences or a dissolve. Fullform digital video effectsDV-IDV-I /�di� vi� �a/ noun a system that defineshow video and audio signals should be com-pressed and displayed on a computer. Fullform digital video interactiveDVI connectorDVI connector /�di� vi� �a kə|�nektə/noun a connector on a monitor or graphicsequipment for video signals (NOTE: DVI-Dsupports digital video signals, DVI-I sup-ports both analog and digital signals.)Dvorak keyboardDvorak keyboard /�dvɔ�r�k �ki�bɔ�d/noun a keyboard layout that is more efficientto use than a normal QWERTY keyboardlayoutdyaddyad /�da�d/ noun same as doubletdye-polymer recordingdye-polymer recording /�da �pɒlmər |�kɔ�dŋ/ noun (in optical disks) recordingmethod which creates minute changes in athin layer of dye embedded in the plastic op-tical disk (NOTE: Dye-polymer recording hasone big advantage – that the data stored onthe optical disk using this method can beerased.)dye-sublimation printerdye-sublimation printer /da s�bl|

�meʃ(ə)n �prntə/ noun a high-quality col-our printer that produces images by squirtingtiny drops of coloured ink onto paper � The

new dye-sublimation printer can producecolour images at a resolution of 300 dpi.dynamicdynamic /da|�n�mk/ adjective referringto data which can change with timedynamically redefinable character set

dynamically redefinable characterset /da |�n�mkli ri�d|�fanəb(ə)l �k�rktə�set/ noun a computer or videotext characterset that can be changed when requireddynamic data exchangedynamic data exchange /da |�n�mk�detə ks|�tʃend'/ noun full form of DDEdynamic host configuration protocoldynamic host configuration proto-col /da |�n�mk həυst kən |�f"jυ|�reʃ(ə)n�prəυtəkɒl/ noun full form of DHCPdynamic link librarydynamic link library /da |�n�mk �lŋk�labrəri/ noun full form of DLLdynamic multiplexingdynamic multiplexing /da |�n�mk�m�ltpleksŋ/ noun a multiplexing methodwhich allocates time segments to signals ac-cording to demanddynamic random access memorydynamic random access memory/da|�n�mk �r�ndəm ��kses �mem(ə)ri/noun abbr DRAMDYUVDYUV /�di� wa ju� �vi�/ noun a digital vid-eo encoding technique in which luminance ofa pixel is calculated by the RGB input signal,Y0.6G + 0.3R + O.1Babbr of. Full form del-ta YUV (NOTE: From the value of Y it is pos-sible to calculate the values of U and V asUR – Y; VB – Y.)

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EEANEAN noun a numbering system for barcodes, the European version of UPC. Fullform European Article NumberEAPROMEAPROM /�i� e �pi� �rɒm/ noun a versionof EAROM which can be programmed. Fullform electrically alterable programmableread-only memoryearly token releaseearly token release /���li �təυkən r|�li�s/noun (in a Token-Ring or FDDI network)system that allows two tokens to be presenton a ring network, useful when traffic is verybusyEAROMEAROM /�i� �e �rɒm/ noun a read-onlymemory chip whose contents can be pro-grammed by applying a certain voltage to awrite pin, and can be erased by light or a re-verse voltage. Full form electrically altera-ble read-only memoryearthearth /��θ/ noun a connection in a circuitrepresenting zero potential � All loose wiresshould be tied to earth. � verb to connect anelectrical device to the earth � All appliancesmust be earthed. (NOTE: US English isground)EAXEAX abbr electronic automatic exchangeEBCDICEBCDIC /�i� bi� si� di� a �si�/ noun an 8-bitbinary character coding system used mainlyon IBM computers, in which each numberrepresents a different character or symbol. Itis similar to the ASCII system. Full form ex-tended binary coded decimal inter-change codeebookebook /�i�bυk/ noun an electronic versionof a book, in which the text and any picturesare stored in a file format that can then be dis-played using special software on a PC or lap-top screen or on a dedicated portable or hand-held device or PDA. Also called electronicbookEBREBR1 /�i� bi� �ɑ�/ noun the process of re-cording the output from a computer directlyonto microfilm using an electron beam. Fullform electron beam recordingEBREBR2 /�i� bi� �ɑ�/ noun a transfer system ofhigh quality videotape to filme-businesse-business /�i� �bznəs/ noun 1. a compa-ny that does business on the Internet 2. busi-ness activity that is carried out using the In-ternetechoecho /�ekəυ/ noun the return of a signalback to the source from which it was trans-mitted (NOTE: The plural is echoes.) � verb

to return a received signal along the sametransmission path (NOTE: echoes -echoing– echoed)ECLECL /�i� si� �el/ noun a high-speed logic cir-cuit design using the emitters of the transis-tors as output connections to other stages.Full form emitter-coupled logicECMAECMA abbr European Computer Manufac-turers Associatione-commercee-commerce /�i� �kɒm��s/ noun the proc-ess of buying and selling products on the In-ternet. Also called electronic commerceEDACEDAC /�i� di� e �si�/ noun a forward errorcorrection system for data communications.Full form error detection and correctionedge detectionedge detection /�ed' d|�tekʃ(ə)n/ nounan algorithm and routines used in image rec-ognition to define the edges of an objectEDIEDI /�i� di� �a/ noun a system of sending or-ders, paying invoices or transferring compa-ny information over a network or telephoneline using an email system. Full form elec-tronic data interchange (NOTE: EDI is of-ten used to send instructions to pay moneydirectly from one company to another, orfrom one bank to a company.)editedit /�edt/ verb to change, correct and mod-ify text or programsedit decision listedit decision list /�edt d |�s'(ə)n �lst/noun a method of editing video in which theoperator defines the points where he or shewould like the video to be edited and then thislist of actions is used in an on-line edit suiteto carry out the edits automatically. AbbrEDLeditionedition /|�dʃ(ə)n/ noun all the copies of abook or newspaper printed at one time � Thesecond edition has had some changes to thetext. � Did you see the late edition of theevening paper?editorialeditorial /�ed |�tɔ�riəl/ adjective referringto an editor or to editing � noun a main arti-cle in a newspaper, written by the editor

‘The Smartbook authoring system is a softwareproduct that integrates text and fractally com-pressed images, using any word-processor lineeditor’ [Computing]

editorial processing centreeditorial processing centre/�edtɔ�riəl �prəυsesŋ �sentə/ noun anumber of small publishers that share a sin-gle computer to provide cheaper computingpower

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edit window 84edit window

edit window /�edt �wndəυ/ noun thearea of the screen in which the user can dis-play and edit text or graphicsEDL

EDL abbr edit decision listEDLIN

EDLIN /�i� di� el a �en/ noun an MS-DOSsystem utility that allows a user to makechanges to a file on a line-by-line basisEDO memory

EDO memory /�i� di� əυ �mem(ə)ri/ nounmemory technology that provides better per-formance by being able to find and read datafrom a memory location in one operation.Full form extended data output memory(NOTE: It can also store the last piece of datathat was saved to memory in a cache readyto be read back from memory.)EDP

EDP /�i� di� �pi�/ noun data processing usingcomputers and electronic devices. Full formelectronic data processingEDS

EDS /�i� di� �es/ noun a disk drive using a re-movable disk pack as opposed to a fixed disk.Full form exchangeable disk storageEDTV

EDTV /�i� di� ti� �vi�/ noun an enhancementto the NTSC standard for television transmis-sion that offers higher definition and a wideaspect ratio. Full form extended-definitiontelevision (NOTE: EDTV normally has anaspect ratio of 4:3; if greater than this it iscalled EDTV-wide.)educational

educational /�edjυ|�keʃ(ə)nəl/ adjectivereferring to education; which is used to teacheducational TV

educational TV /�edju�keʃənʃ(ə)l ti��vi�/ noun a television programme that is insome way educationaledutainment

edutainment /�edjυ|�tenmənt/ nounsoftware that is a cross between entertain-ment or games software and educationalproductsEEMS

EEMS /�i� i� em �es/ noun a development ofEMS that is a standard method of expandingthe main memory fitted into an IBM PC. Fullform enhanced expanded memory spec-ification. � EMSEEPROM

EEPROM abbr electrically erasable pro-grammable read-only memoryEEROM

EEROM abbr electrically erasable read-only memoryeffective

effective / |�fektv/ adjective which can beused to produce a certain resulteffective aperture

effective aperture / |�fektv ��pətʃə/noun 1. the received signal power at the out-put of an aerial 2. the amount of light allowedthrough a lens’ aperture after taking into ac-count camera faults and lens defects. � diffu-sioneffects track

effects track / |�fekts tr�k/ noun a soundtrack which only contains the audio effects(film)

efficiencyefficiency /|�fʃ(ə)nsi/ noun working well� He is doubtful about the efficiency of thenew networking system.efficientefficient / |�fʃ(ə)nt/ adjective which workswell � The program is highly efficient at sort-ing files.efficientlyefficiently /|�fʃ(ə)ntli/ adverb in an effi-cient way � The word-processing packagehas produced a series of labelled letters veryefficiently.EFTEFT /�i� ef �ti�/ noun a system in which com-puters are used to transmit money to andfrom banks. Full form electronic fundstransferEFTPOSEFTPOS /�i� ef �ti� pi� əυ �es/ noun a ter-minal at a POS that is linked to a central com-puter which automatically transfers moneyfrom the customer’s account to the shop’s.Full form electronic funds transfer point-of-sale

‘Alphameric has extended its range specificallyfor the hospitality market and has developed aneftpos package which allows most credit and deb-it cards to be processed.’ [Computing]

EHFEHF noun radio frequencies between30GHz and 300GHz. Full form extremelyhigh frequencyEIEI noun the sensitivity of a photographicemulsion (film) Full form exposure index. �ASAEIAEIA abbr Electronics Industry Association8-bit sample8-bit sample /�et bt �st�ndəd/ noun asingle sample of an analogue signal which isstored as an 8-bit number, meaning that it candetect 256 possible levels. � 16-bit sample,24-bit sampleeight-inch diskeight-inch disk /�et ntʃ �dsk/, 8-inchdisk noun a high-capacity floppy disk whichis eight inches in diametereighty-column screeneighty-column screen /�eti �kɒləmskri�n/, 80-column screen noun a screenthat can display eighty characters horizontal-lyeighty-track diskeighty-track disk /�eti tr�k �dsk/, 80-track disk noun a disk formatted to containeighty tracksEISEIS /�i� a �es/ noun easy-to-use softwareproviding information to a manager or exec-utive about his or her company � The EISsoftware is very easy to use. Full form exec-utive information systemEISAEISA /�i� a es �e/ noun a group of PC man-ufacturers who formed an association to pro-mote a 32-bit expansion bus standard as a ri-val to the MCA bus standard from IBM. Fullform Electronics Industry Standards As-sociation

COMMENT: The EISA expansion bus stand-ard is backwards compatible with the olderISA standard of expansion cards, but also

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85 electron gunfeatures 32-bit data path and allows busmastering.

either-or operationeither-or operation /�aðə �ɔ��ɒpəreʃ(ə)n/ noun a logical function thatproduces a true output if any input is trueelapsed timeelapsed time /|�l�pst �tam/ noun thetime taken by the user to carry out a task on acomputerelastic bandingelastic banding /|�l�stk b�ndŋ/ nouna method of defining the limits of an imageon a computer screen by stretching a bound-ary around itelastic bufferelastic buffer /|�l�stk �b�fə/ noun abuffer size that changes according to demandelectret microphoneelectret microphone /|�lektrət�makrəfəυn/ noun a reliable, cheap, smalland low noise microphone (film)electricelectric / |�lektrk/ adjective worked byelectricityelectricalelectrical / |�lektrk(ə)l/ adjective refer-ring to electricity � The engineers are tryingto repair an electrical fault.electricallyelectrically /|�lektrk(ə)li/ adverb refer-ring to electricity � an electrically-poweredmotorelectrically alterable programmable read-only memoryelectrically alterable programmableread-only memory /|�lektrkli�ɔ�ltərə(ə)l �prəυ"r�məb(ə)l �ri�d �əυnli�mem(ə)ri/ noun full form of EAPROMelectrically alterable read-only memoryelectrically alterable read-onlymemory /|�lektrkli �ɔ�ltərə(ə)l �ri�d�əυnli �mem(ə)ri/ noun full form of EAROMelectrically erasable programmable read-only memoryelectrically erasable programmableread-only memory /|�lektrkli |

�rezəb(ə)l �prəυ"r�məb(ə)l �ri�d �əυnli�mem(ə)ri/ noun a ROM storage chip whichcan be programmed and erased using an elec-trical signal. Abbr EEPROMelectrically erasable read-only memoryelectrically erasable read-onlymemory /|�lektrkli |�rezəb(ə)l �ri�d�əυnli �mem(ə)ri/ noun an EAROM memorychip whose contents can be programmed byapplying a certain voltage to a write pin, andcan be erased by light or a reverse voltage.Abbr EEROMelectricianelectrician /|�lek|�trʃ(ə)n/ noun the per-son on a set who is responsible for the light-ing equipment (film)electricityelectricity / |�lek|�trsti/ noun an electriccurrent used to provide light or heat or power� The electricity was cut off, and the comput-ers crashed.electrodeelectrode / |�lektrəυd/ noun part of anelectric circuit or device that collects, con-trols or emits electronselectrographic printerelectrographic printer / |

�lektrəυ"r�fk �prntə/ noun same as elec-trostatic printerelectroluminescenceelectroluminescence /�elektrəυ|�lu�m |

�nes(ə)ns/ noun light emitted from a phos-

phor dot when it is struck by an electron orcharged particleelectroluminescentelectroluminescent /�elektrəυ|�lu�m|

�nes(ə)nt/ adjective capable of emitting lightdue to electroluminescence � The screencoating is electroluminescent.electroluminescingelectroluminescing /�elektrəυ|�lu�m|

�nesŋ/ adjective emitting light due to elec-troluminescenceelectromagnetelectromagnet / |�lektrəυ |�m�"nət/ nouna device that consists of a core and a coil ofwire that produces a magnetic field whencurrent is passed through the coilelectromagneticelectromagnetic /|�lektrəυm�" |�netk/adjective generating a magnetic field or mag-netic effect when supplied with electricalpowerelectromagneticallyelectromagnetically / |�lektrəυm�"|

�netk(ə)li/ adverb working due to electro-magnetic effectselectromagnetic interferenceelectromagnetic interference / |

�lektrəυm�"netk �ntə|�fərəns/ noun fullform of EMIelectromagnetic radiationelectromagnetic radiation / |

�lektrəυm�"netk �redi|�eʃ(ə)n/ noun anenergy wave consisting of electric and/ormagnetic fieldselectromechanical switchingelectromechanical switching / |

�lektrəυmek�nk(ə)l �swtʃŋ/ noun theconnection of two paths by an electrically op-erated switch or relayelectromotive flowelectromotive flow / |�lektrəυməυtv�fləυ/ noun the force of a circuit or systemwhich makes the current flow. The unit ofelectromotive flow is the volt. (film)electromotive forceelectromotive force / |�lektrəυməυtv�fɔ�s/ noun the difference in electrical poten-tial across a source of electric current. AbbrEMFelectronelectron / |�lek|�trɒn/ noun an elementaryparticle with an elementary negative charge� the electron beam draws the image on theinside of a CRT screenelectron beamelectron beam /|�lek|�trɒn bi�m/ noun anarrow, focused stream of electrons movingat high speed in the same direction, often in avacuum � The electron beam draws the im-age on the inside of a CRT screen.electron beam recordingelectron beam recording / |�lektrɒn�bi�m r|�kɔ�dŋ/ noun full form of EBRelectron flowelectron flow / |�lektrɒn fləυ/ noun themovement of electrons from one point to an-other, causing an electrical currentelectron gunelectron gun / |�lek|�trɒn "�n/ noun a partof a CRT that produces a beam of electrons.Also called gun

COMMENT: Black and white monitors have asingle beam electron gun, while colourmonitors contain three, one for each prima-ry colour (red, green and blue) used.

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electronic 86electronicelectronic /�elek|�trɒnk/ adjective refer-ring to something which is controlled by orcontrols electron flow

‘…electronic mail is a system which allows com-puter users to send information to each other viaa central computer’ [Which PC?]‘…electronic publishing will be used for printingon paper, but it can be applied equally to datastorage on a database, transmission via telecom-munications or for use with visual presentationmedia such as AV slides or television’[Electronic Publishing & Print Show]

electronicallyelectronically /�elek|�trɒnkli/ adverb re-ferring to operations using electronic meth-ods � The text is electronically transmitted toan outside typesetter.Electronic Arts™Electronic Arts™ /�elektrɒnk �ɑ�ts/ thelargest publisher of interactive software in-cluding console games, PC and Macintosh ti-tleselectronic blackboardelectronic blackboard /�elektrɒnk�bl�kbɔ�d/ noun a means of transmittinghandwritten text and diagrams over a tele-phone lineelectronic bookelectronic book /�elektrɒnk �bυk/ nounsame as ebookelectronic commerceelectronic commerce /�elektrɒnk�kɒm��s/ noun same as e-commerceelectronic compositorelectronic compositor /�elektrɒnkkəm |�pɒztə/ noun a computer that allows auser to easily arrange text on screen before itis electronically typesetelectronic data interchangeelectronic data interchange/�elektrɒnk �detə �ntətʃend'/ noun fullform of EDIelectronic data processingelectronic data processing/�elektrɒnk �detə �prəυsesŋ/ noun fullform of EDPelectronic filingelectronic filing /�elektrɒnk �falŋ/noun a system of storage of documentswhich can be easily retrievedelectronic funds transferelectronic funds transfer /�elektrɒnk�f�ndz �tr�nsf��/ noun full form of EFTelectronic funds transfer point-of-saleelectronic funds transfer point-of-sale /�elektrɒnk �f�ndz �tr�nsf�� �pɔntəv �sel/ noun full form of EFTPOSelectronic mailelectronic mail /�elktrɒnk �mel/ nounsame as emailelectronic penelectronic pen /�elektrɒnk �pen/ noun1. a light pen or wand 2. a stylus used to drawon a graphics tablet � also called electronicstyluselectronic point-of-saleelectronic point-of-sale /�elektrɒnk�pɔnt əv �sel/ noun full form of EPOSelectronic publishingelectronic publishing /�elektrɒnk�p�blʃŋ/ noun 1. the use of desktop pub-lishing packages and laser printers to pro-duce printed matter 2. the process of usingcomputers to write and display information,as in viewdata

electronicselectronics /�elek|�trɒnks/ noun the ap-plication of knowledge of electrons and theirproperties to manufactured products such ascomputers and telephones � the electronicsindustryElectronics Industry Standards AssociationElectronics Industry Standards As-sociation /�elektrɒnks �ndəstri�st�ndədz ə|�səυsieʃ(ə)n/ noun full formof EISAelectronic styluselectronic stylus /�elektrɒnk �staləs/noun same as electronic penelectronic trafficelectronic traffic /�elektrɒnk �tr�fk/noun data transmitted in the form of elec-tronic pulseselectronic viewfinderelectronic viewfinder /�elektrɒnk�vju�fandə/ noun a miniature cathode raytube in a television or video camera, that al-lows the camera operator to see the imagesbeing recordedelectrophotographicelectrophotographic /�elektrəυ|�fəυtə|

�"r�fk/ adjective referring to a printingtechnique used in many laser printers inwhich a laser beam creates an image on acharged drum (NOTE: The drum then attractsparticles of fine black toner to the chargedareas and transfers the image to paperwhich is then passed near a heater to meltthe toner onto the paper.)electro printingelectro printing / |�lektrəυ �prntŋ/noun transferring sound from an originalmagnetic track directly to the final copy ofthe film; this avoids the use of an opticalsound track (film)electrostaticelectrostatic /|�lektrəυ|�st�tk/ adjectivereferring to devices using the properties ofstatic electrical chargeelectrostaticallyelectrostatically / |�lektrəυ |�st�tkli/ ad-verb using properties of static chargeelectrostatic printerelectrostatic printer / |�lektrəυst�tk�prntə/ noun a type of printer which formsan image on the paper by charging certain re-gions to provide character shapes and otherimages and using ink with an opposite chargewhich sticks to the paper where required.Also called electrographic printerelegant programmingelegant programming /�el"ənt �prəυ |

�"r�mŋ/ noun the writing of well-struc-tured programs using the minimum numberof instructionselementelement /�elmənt/ noun 1. a small part ofan object which is made up of many similarparts 2. one number or cell of a matrix or ar-ray 3. a coil of resistive wire to which anelectric current is applied to generate heat 4.a substance in which all the atoms have thesame number of electrons and chargeelementaryelementary /�el|�ment(ə)ri/ adjectivemade of many similar small sections or ob-jects

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87 emulatorelevatorelevator /�elvetə/ noun a small, squareindicator displayed within a scroll bar that in-dicates where you are within a long docu-ment or image � The user can scroll throughthe image or text by dragging the elevator upor down the scroll bar.ELFELF noun communications frequencies ofless than 100Hz. Full form extremely lowfrequencyeliminateeliminate /|�lm|�net/ verb to removesomething completely � Using a computershould eliminate all possibility of error in theaddress system.eliminationelimination /|�lm |�neʃ(ə)n/ noun the re-moving of something completely

‘…pointing with the cursor and pressing the joy-stick button eliminates use of the keyboard al-most entirely’ [Soft]

eliteelite / |�li�t/ noun a typewriter typefaceellipseellipse / |�lps/ noun something ovalshaped, like an elongated circleellipsoidal spotlightellipsoidal spotlight /|�lpsɔd(ə)l�spɒtlat/ noun a spotlight with a sharpbeam produced by a spherical lens (film)elliptical cuttingelliptical cutting /|�lptk(ə)l �k�tŋ/, el-liptical editing /|�lptk(ə)l �edtŋ/ noun afilm editing process which eliminates muchof the action (film)elliptical orbitelliptical orbit / |�lptk(ə)l �ɔ�bt/ nounthe path of a satellite around the earth that isin the shape of an ellipseELTELT abbr electronic typewriteremem /em/ noun a measure equal to the widthof the letter ‘m’ in a particular fontemailemail /�i� mel/, e-mail noun a system ofsending messages to and receiving messagesfrom other users on a network. Also calledelectronic mailemail-enabled applicationemail-enabled application /�i�mel n|

�eb(ə)ld ��pl |�keʃ(ə)n/ noun a softwareapplication, e.g. a word-processor or spread-sheet, that includes a direct link to an emailapplication to allow a user to send the currentdocument as an email (NOTE: In Microsoftapplications, there is a Send option underthe File menu that allows a user to send thedocument using email.)embedded codeembedded code /m|�bedd �kəυd/ nounsections or routines written in machine code,inserted into a high-level program to speedup or perform a special functionembedded commandembedded command /m|�bedd kə|

�mɑ�nd/ noun a printer control command,e.g. one indicating that text should be in ital-ics, inserted into text and used by a word-processor when text formattingembedded objectembedded object /m|�bedd əb|�d'ekt/noun a feature of Windows OLE that allowsa file or object, e.g. an image, to be includedwithin another document or file

embeddingembedding /m|�bedŋ/ noun (in Win-dows) the act of dragging an object and drop-ping it into a document or file so that is in-cluded within the documentemboldeningemboldening /m |�bɒld(ə)n/ noun theprocess of making a word print in bold typeem dashem dash /�em d�ʃ/ noun a line as long asan em, used to link two words or parts ofwordsEMFEMF abbr electromotive forceEMIEMI /�i� em �a/ noun corruption of data dueto nearby electrically generated magneticfields. Full form electromagnetic interfer-enceemissionemission /|�mʃ(ə)n/ noun the sending outof a signal or radiation, etc. � the emission ofthe electron beam � The receiver picked upthe radio emission.emitemit /|�mt/ verb to send outemitteremitter /|�mtə/ noun a connection to a bi-polar transistoremitter-coupled logicemitter-coupled logic / |�mtə�k�p(ə)ld �lɒd'k/ noun full form of ECLEMMYEMMY noun the annual prize given by theNational Academy of Television, Arts andSciences for the most outstanding artisticwork in each area of film and television (film)emphasisemphasis /�emfəss/ noun 1. a filter thathelps cut down the background noise and soboost a signal 2. a special effects function ina paint program that will increase the value ofa range of colours so that they appear brighter(NOTE: The plural is emphases.)EMSEMS /�i� em �es/ noun a standard in an IBMPC that defines extra memory added abovethe 640 Kb limit of conventional memory.Full form expanded memory specifica-tion (NOTE: This memory could only beused by specially written programs.)emulateemulate /�emjυ|�let/ verb to copy or be-have like something else � Some laser print-ers are able to emulate the more popular of-fice printers. (NOTE: emulates – emulating –emulated)

‘…some application programs do not have theright drivers for a laser printer, so look out for la-ser printers which are able to emulate the morepopular office printers’ [Publish]

emulationemulation /�emjυ|�leʃ(ə)n/ noun behav-iour by one computer or printer which is ex-actly the same as another and which allowsthe same programs to be run and the samedata to be processedemulatoremulator /�emjυletə/ noun a piece ofsoftware or hardware that allows a machineto behave like another

‘…for an authentic retro coding experience,download an emulator and turn your computerinto a virtual BBC Micro.’ [The Guardian]

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emulsion 88emulsionemulsion /|�m�lʃən/ noun a light-sensitivecoating on photographic film or paperemulsion laser storageemulsion laser storage / |�m�lʃ(ə)n�lezə �stɔ�rd'/ noun a digital storage tech-nique using a laser to expose light-sensitivematerialenen /en/ noun a unit of measure equal to halfthe width of an emenableenable /n|�eb(ə)l/ verb 1. to allow some-thing to happen � A spooling program ena-bles editing work to be carried out whileprinting is going on. 2. to use an electronicsignal to start a process or access a functionon a chip or circuit (NOTE: enables – ena-bling – enabled)enabledenabled /n|�eb(ə)ld/ adjective referring toa function or menu item that is available tothe user � If an option on a menu appears ingrey text rather than black, this indicates thatthese are not enabled and that you cannot usethe option.encapsulatedencapsulated /n|�k�psjυletd/ adjec-tive referring to something contained withinanother thingencapsulated PostScriptencapsulated PostScript /n |

�k�psjυletd �pəυstskrpt/ noun a Post-Script facility providing commands that de-scribe an image or page contained within afile that can be placed within a graphics orDTP program. Abbr EPSencapsulated PostScript fileencapsulated PostScript file /n |

�k�psjυletd �pəυstskrpt �fal/ noun afile that contains encapsulated PostScript in-structions. Abbr EPSFencapsulationencapsulation /n|�k�psjυleʃ(ə)n/ noun(in a network) a system of sending a frame ofdata in one format within a frame of anotherformatencipherencipher /n|�safə/ verb to convert plain-text into a secure coded form by means of acipher system � Our competitors cannot un-derstand our files – they have all been enci-phered. Opposite decipherencloseenclose /n|�kləυz/ verb to surround withsomething; to put something inside some-thing elseenclosureenclosure /n|�kləυ'ə/ noun a protectivecasing for equipmentencodeencode /n|�kəυd/ verb to apply the rules ofa code to a program or data (NOTE: encodes– encoding – encoded)encoderencoder /n|�kəυdə/ noun a device that cantranslate data from one format to anotherencodingencoding /n|�kəυdŋ/ noun the translationof a message or text according to a codingsystemencryptencrypt /n|�krpt/ verb to convert plaintextto a secure coded form, using a cipher system� The encrypted text can be sent along ordi-

nary telephone lines, and no one will be ableto understand it.encryptionencryption /n|�krpʃən/ noun the conver-sion of plaintext to a secure coded form bymeans of a cipher systemendend /end/ noun a statement or character toindicate the last word of a source file � verbto finish or to stop somethingen dashen dash /�em d�ʃ/ noun a line as long asan en, used to link two words or parts ofwordsendingending /�endŋ/ noun 1. the action of com-ing to an end or of stopping something 2. theend part of somethingendlessendless /�endləs/ adjective with no endend of addressend of address /�end əv ə |�dres/ noun atransmitted code which indicates that addressdata has been sent. Abbr EOAend of blockend of block /�end əv �blɒk/ noun a codewhich shows that the last byte of a block ofdata has been sent through a communicationslink. Abbr EOBend of dataend of data /�end əv �detə/ noun a codewhich shows that the end of a stored data filehas been reached. Abbr EODend of documentend of document /�end əv �dɒkjυmənt/noun same as end of fileend of fileend of file /�end əv �fal/ noun a markerafter the last record in a file. Also called endof document. Abbr EOFend of jobend of job /�end əv �d'ɒb/ noun a codeused in batch processing to show that a jobhas been finished. Abbr EOJend of messageend of message /�end əv �mesd'/ nouna code used to separate the last character ofone message from the first of another mes-sage. Abbr EOMend of recordend of record /�end əv �rekɔ�d/ noun acode used to show the end of a record. AbbrEORend of textend of text /�end əv �tekst/ noun a codesent after last character of text. Abbr EOT,ETXend of transmissionend of transmission /�end əv tr�nz|

�mʃ(ə)n/ noun a sequence of characters in-dicating that all the data from a terminal orperipheral has been transmitted. Abbr EOTend userend user /�end �ju�zə/ noun a person whowill use the device, program or product �The company is creating a computer with aspecific end user in mind.energy-savingenergy-saving /�enəd'i �sevŋ/ adjec-tive which saves energy � The company is in-troducing energy-saving measures.Energy StarEnergy Star /�enəd'i stɑ�/ noun a stand-ard and logo on a monitor, computer or otherelectrical device indicating that the producthas been specially designed to save electrici-ty

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89 epidiascopeENGENG abbr electronic news gatheringengaged toneengaged tone /n|�"ed'd təυn/ noun thesound made by a telephone showing that thenumber dialled is busyengineengine /�end'n/ noun a part of a softwarepackage that carries out a particular function� A search engine is the part of a multimediatitle that lets a user search for text in a multi-media book.enhanceenhance /n|�hɑ�ns/ verb to make better orclearerenhanced-definition televisionenhanced-definition television /n|

�hɑ�nst �defnʃ(ə)n �tel|�v'(ə)n/ nounfull form of EDTVenhanced dot matrixenhanced dot matrix /n|�hɑ�nst �dɒt�metrks/ noun a clearer character or graph-ics printout using smaller dots and more dotsper inch than standard dot matrixenhanced expanded memory specificationenhanced expanded memory speci-fication /n|�hɑ�nst k|�sp�ndd �mem(ə)ri�spesfkeʃ(ə)n/ noun full form of EEMSenhanced parallel portenhanced parallel port /n|�hɑ�nst�p�rəlel �pɔ�t/ noun full form of EPPenhanced small device interfaceenhanced small device interface /n|

�hɑ�nst smɔ�l d|�vas �ntəfes/ noun fullform of ESDIenhancementenhancement /n|�hɑ�nsmənt/ noun anadd-on facility which improves the output orperformance of equipmentenlargeenlarge /n|�lɑ�d'/ verb to make (a photo-graph) largerenlargementenlargement /n|�lɑ�d'mənt/ noun 1. theprocess of making something larger; a largerversion of a photograph 2. a larger version ofa photograph � An enlargement of the photo-graph was used to provide better detail. �blow-upenlargement printingenlargement printing /n|�lɑ�d'mənt�prntŋ/ noun optical printing that enlargesa small frame area, e.g. 16mm to 35mmENQENQ abbr enquiryenquiryenquiry /n|�kwari/ noun 1. a request fordata or information from a device or database2. an act of accessing data in a computermemory without changing the data. AbbrENQensureensure /n|�ʃυə/ verb to make sure � Push-ing the write-protect tab will ensure that thedata on the disk cannot be erased.enterenter /�entə/ verb to type in information ona terminal or keyboard. � carriage returnkeyenteringentering /�entərŋ/ noun the act of typingin data or writing items in a recordenter keyenter key /�entə ki�/ noun a key pressed toindicate the end of an input or line of textenterprise networkenterprise network /�entəpraz�netw��k/ noun a network which connectsall the workstations or terminals or comput-

ers in a company (NOTE: It can be within onebuilding or link several buildings in differentcountries.)enterprise software

enterprise software /�entəpraz�sɒftweə/ noun computer software that isdesigned to integrate and automate all of acompany’s functionsentity

entity /�entti/ noun a subject to which thedata stored in a file or database refers (NOTE:The plural is entities.)entry

entry /�entri/ noun 1. a single record or dataabout one action or object in a database or li-brary (NOTE: The plural is entries.) 2. a placewhere you can enterentry point

entry point /�entri pɔnt/ noun the ad-dress from which a program or subroutine isto be executedenumerated type

enumerated type /|�nju�məretd �tap/noun data storage or classification usingnumbers to represent chosen convenient la-bels

COMMENT: If ‘man’, ‘horse’, ‘dog’, ‘cat’ arethe items of data, stored by the machinesimply as 0, 1, 2, 3, they can still be re-ferred to in the program as man, horse etc.to make it easier for the user to recognisethem.

envelopeenvelope /�envələυp/ noun 1. a transmit-ted packet of data containing error-detectionand control information 2. (in multimedia)the shape of the decay curve of a sound 3. (inemail) the data which contains a mail mes-sage with the destination address information4. a paper packet that contains a letterenvelope feederenvelope feeder /�envələυp �fi�də/ nouna special add-on to a printer used to print onan envelope instead of a sheet of paperenvironment

environment /n|�varənmənt/ noun 1.the condition in a computer system of all theregisters and memory locations 2. surround-ings or physical conditions 3. the imaginaryspace in which a user works when using acomputer. This can be changed to suit the us-er’s needs – by defining its characteristicssuch as colour or wallpaper and by setting upa printer, keyboard and fonts.EOAEOA abbr end of addressEOB

EOB abbr end of blockEOD

EOD /�� əυ �di�/ abbr end of dataEOFEOF abbr end of fileEOJ

EOJ abbr end of jobEOMEOM abbr end of messageEOR

EOR abbr end of recordEOT

EOT abbr end of textepidiascopeepidiascope /�ep|�daəskəυp/ noun anoptical projector which mixes the function ofa diascope (a transparency projector) withthat of an episcope

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episcope 90episcopeepiscope /�epskəυp/ noun a projectorthat can display opaque material, such asphotographs, and documents onto a screenepitaxial layerepitaxial layer /�ep|�t�ksiəl �leə/ noun avery thin layer of material or doped semicon-ductor deposited onto a substrate baseepitaxyepitaxy /�ept�kis/ noun a method of de-positing very thin layers of materials onto abase, for use in chip manufactureEPOSEPOS /�i�pɒs/ noun a system that uses acomputer terminal at a point-of-sale site forelectronic funds transfer or stock control aswell as matters such as product identifica-tion. Full form electronic point-of-saleEPPEPP /�i� pi� �pi�/ noun a standard that de-fines the way data can be transferred at highspeed through a parallel port connector. Fullform enhanced parallel portEPREPR noun a system which ensures consist-ent frame-frame steadiness in telecine trans-fer (film) Full form electronic pin registra-tionEPROMEPROM /�i� �pi� �rɒm/ abbr erasable pro-grammable read-only memoryEPSEPS abbr encapsulated PostScriptEPSFEPSF abbr encapsulated PostScript fileequalequal /�i�kwəl/ adjective exactly the same� verb to be the same as � Production thismonth has equalled our best month ever.equalisationequalisation /�i�kwəla|�zeʃən/, equali-zation noun the process of making a signalequal (to preset values)equaliserequaliser /�i�kwəlazə/, equalizer noun adevice which changes the amplitude of vari-ous parts of a signal according to preset val-uesequalizeequalize /�i�kwə|�laz/ verb to make equal(to preset values) � The received signal wasequalised to an optimum shape.equallyequally /�i�kwəli/ adverb in the same way� They were both equally responsible for thesuccessful launch of the new system.equateequate /|�kwet/ verb to be the same as orto make the same as � The variable wasequated to the input data.equatorequator / |�kwetə/ noun an imaginary linerunning round the middle of the earthequatorial orbitequatorial orbit /�ekwə|�tɔ�riəl �ɔ�bt/noun a satellite flight path that follows theearth’s equatorequipequip / |�kwp/ verb to provide with ma-chinery or equipmentequipmentequipment /|�kwpmənt/ noun machin-ery and furniture required to make a factoryor office work � office equipment or businessequipmentequipment failureequipment failure /|�kwpmənt �feljə/noun a hardware fault, rather than a softwarefault

equivalenceequivalence /|�kwvələns/ noun 1. beingequivalent 2. a logical operation that is true ifall the inputs are the same

COMMENT: Output is 1 if both inputs are 1 orif both are 0; if the two inputs are different,the output is 0.

erasableerasable / |�rezəb(ə)l/ adjective whichcan be erasederasable memoryerasable memory / |�rezəb(ə)l�mem(ə)ri/ noun same as erasable storageerasable read-only memoryerasable read-only memory /|

�rezəb(ə)l �ri�d �əυnli �mem(ə)ri/ noun fullform of EROMerasable storageerasable storage / |�rezəb(ə)l �stɔ�rd'/noun 1. a storage medium which can be re-used 2. temporary storage � also callederasable memoryeraseerase / |�rez/ verb 1. to set all the digits ina storage area to zero 2. to remove any signalfrom a magnetic medium (NOTE: erases –erasing – erased)erasereraser /|�rezə/ noun a device that erasesthe contents of something, e.g. a device usingUV light to erase an EPROMeraser tooleraser tool /|�rezə tu�l/ noun (in a graph-ics program) function that allows areas of animage to be erased, or set to the backgroundcolour. Also called eraseERCCERCC noun memory which checks and cor-rects errors. Full form error checking andcorrectingergonomicsergonomics /���"ə|�nɒmks/ noun the sci-ence of designing software or hardware sothat it is comfortable and safe to useergonomistergonomist /��|�"ɒnəmst/ noun a scien-tist who studies people at work and tries toimprove their working conditionsEROMEROM /�i� rɒm/ noun full form erasableread-only memory. same as EAROMerratumerratum /e|�rɑ�təm/ noun a correction on aseparate slip of paper to an error or omissionfrom a document (NOTE: The plural is erra-ta.)errorerror /�erə/ noun a mistake due to a humanoperator

‘…syntax errors, like omitting a bracket, willproduce an error message from the compiler’[Personal Computer World]

error detectionerror detection /�erə d|�tekʃ(ə)n/ nounthe process of using special hardware or soft-ware to detect errors in a data entry or trans-mission, then usually to ask for retransmis-sionerror detection and correctionerror detection and correction /�erəd |�tekʃən ən kə|�rekʃən/ noun full form ofEDACerror handlingerror handling /�erə �h�ndlŋ/ nounsame as exception handlingerror loggingerror logging /�erə �lɒ"ŋ/ noun the proc-ess of recording errors that have occurred �

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91 exchangeableFeatures of the program include error log-ging.error messageerror message /�erə �mesd'/ noun a re-port displayed to the user saying that an errorhas occurrederror rateerror rate /�erə ret/ noun 1. the number oferrors that occur within a certain time 2. thenumber of corrupt bits of data in relation tothe total transmission lengthESCESC / |�skep/ noun 1. same as escapecode 2. same as escape keyescape codeescape code / |�skep kəυd/ noun a trans-mitted code sequence which informs the re-ceiver that all following characters representcontrol actions. Also called ESCescape keyescape key /|�skep ki�/ noun a key on akeyboard which allows the user to enter es-cape codes to control the computer’s basicmodes or actions. Also called ESC, Esc keyescapementescapement / |�skepmənt/ noun a presetvertical movement of a sheet of paper in aprinterEsc keyEsc key / |�skep ki�/ noun same as escapekeyESDIESDI noun an interface standard between aCPU and peripherals such as disk drives. Fullform enhanced small device interface. �SCSIESSESS abbr electronic switching systemestablishestablish /|�st�blʃ/ verb 1. to discoverand prove something � They establishedwhich component was faulty. 2. to define theuse or value of somethingestablishing shotestablishing shot /|�st�blʃŋ ʃɒt/noun an atmospheric long shot that establish-es the main location of the film or pro-gramme and is generally used in the openingscene (film)etchetch /etʃ/ verb to use an acid to remove se-lected layers of metal from a metal printingplate or printed circuit boardetch typeetch type /�etʃ tap/ noun type for printingproduced from an etched plateEthernetEthernet /�i�θənet/ noun a standard, IEEE802.3, defining the protocol and signallingmethod of a local area network

COMMENT: Ethernet has several implemen-tations: 10Base5 is a bus-based topologyrunning over coaxial cable; 10BaseT usesunshielded-twisted-pair cable in a star-based topology; Ethernet normally has adata transmission rate of 10Mbps.

ETVETV abbr educational TVEuronet™Euronet™ /�jυərəυnet/ noun a telephoneconnected network, covering the EC coun-tries, that provides access to each country’sscientific and economic informationEuropean Article NumberEuropean Article Number /�jυərə|

�pi�ən �ɑ�tk(ə)l �n�mbə/ noun full form ofEAN

evaluateevaluate /|�v�ljuet/ verb 1. to calculate avalue or a quantity 2. to test or try or look ata product before buying itevaluationevaluation / |�v�lju|�eʃ(ə)n/ noun the ac-tion of calculating a value or a quantityevaluation copyevaluation copy /|�v�lju|�eʃ(ə)n �kɒpi/noun a demonstration version of a softwareproduct that allows a user to try the mainfunctions of a software product before buy-ing itevaluative abstractevaluative abstract /|�v�ljuətv��bstr�kt/ noun a library abstract that con-tains details of the value and usefulness of thedocumenteventevent / |�vent/ noun an action or activityevent-drivenevent-driven /|�vent �drv(ə)n/ adjectivereferring to a computer program or process inwhich each step of the execution relies on ex-ternal actions

‘Forthcoming language extensions will includeobject-oriented features, including classes withfull inheritance, as well as event-driven program-ming.’ [Computing]

event handlerevent handler /|�vent �h�ndlə/ noun aroutine that responds to an event or messagewithin an object-oriented programming envi-ronment � If a user clicks the mouse buttonthis generates a message which can be actedupon by the event handler.ewalletewallet /�i�|�wɒlət/, e-wallet /�i� �wɒlt/noun a feature of web browsers that allows auser to store personal details about his or hercredit card, bank account or other ways ofpaying for goods on the Internetexceptexcept /k|�sept/ preposition, conjunctionnot including � All the text has been key-boarded, except the last ten pages.exceptionexception /k|�sepʃən/ noun somethingwhich is different from all others in the samecategoryexceptionalexceptional /k|�sepʃən(ə)l/ adjective notusual or differentexception handlingexception handling /k|�sepʃ(ə)n�h�ndlŋ/ noun routines and procedures thatdiagnose and correct errors or minimise theeffects of errors, so that a system will runwhen an error is detected. Also called errorhandling, error managementexcessexcess /k|�ses/ noun too much of some-thingexcessiveexcessive /k|�sesv/ adjective too muchor too large � The program used an excessiveamount of memory to accomplish the job.exchangeexchange /ks|�tʃend'/ noun the givingof one thing for another � verb to swap databetween two locations (NOTE: exchanges –exchanging – exchanged)exchangeableexchangeable /ks|�tʃend'əb(ə)l/ adjec-tive which can be exchanged

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exchangeable disk storage 92exchangeable disk storageexchangeable disk storage /ks|

�tʃend'əb(ə)l dsk �stɔ�rd'/ noun fullform of EDSexclamation markexclamation mark /�eksklə|�meʃ(ə)nmɑ�k/ noun a printed or written sign (!),which shows surpriseexcludeexclude /k|�sklu�d/ verb to keep out or notto includeexcludingexcluding /k|�sklu�dŋ/ preposition notincludingexclusionexclusion /k|�sklu�'(ə)n/ noun 1. the actof not including 2. restriction of access to asystemexclusiveexclusive /k|�sklu�sv/ adjective whichexcludesexeexe /�eksi/ noun an extension to a filenamewhich indicates that the file is a program andcan be executed directly by the operating sys-tem � In DOS, to start a program type in itsEXE file name.executable fileexecutable file /�eks|�kju�təb(ə)l fal/noun a file that contains a program ratherthan dataexecutable formexecutable form /�eks|�kju�təb(ə)lfɔ�m/ noun a program translated or compiledinto a machine code form that a processor canexecuteexecuteexecute /�eks|�kju�t/ verb to run or carryout a computer program or process (NOTE:executes – executing – executed)executionexecution /�eks|�kju�ʃ(ə)n/ noun theprocess of carrying out a computer programor processexecution timeexecution time /�eks |�kju�ʃ(ə)n �tam/noun 1. the time taken to run or carry out aprogram or series of instructions 2. the timetaken for one execution cycleexecutive information systemexecutive information system /" |

�zekjυtv nfə|�meʃ(ə)n �sstəm/ noun fullform of EISexhaustive searchexhaustive search /" |�zɔ�stv s��tʃ/noun a search through every record in a data-baseEXITEXIT /�ekst/ noun an MS-DOS systemcommand to stop and leave a child processand return to the parent processexpandexpand /k|�sp�nd/ verb to make larger �If you want to hold so much data, you willhave to expand the disk capacity.expandableexpandable /k|�sp�ndəb(ə)l/ adjectivewhich can be expandedexpanded memoryexpanded memory /k|�sp�ndd�mem(ə)ri/ noun an extra RAM memory fit-ted to a computer that is located at an addressabove 1 Mbexpanded memory specificationexpanded memory specification /k |

�sp�ndd �mem(ə)ri �spesfkeʃ(ə)n/noun full form of EMS

expansionexpansion /k|�sp�nʃən/ noun an increasein computing power or storage sizeexpansion boardexpansion board /k|�sp�nʃən bɔ�d/noun a printed circuit board connected to asystem to increase its functions or perform-ance. Also called expansion cardexpansion cardexpansion card /k |�sp�nʃ(ə)n kɑ�d/noun same as expansion boardexpansion slotexpansion slot /k|�sp�nʃ(ə)n slɒt/ nouna connector inside a computer into which anexpansion board can be plugged � Insert theboard in the expansion slot.expertexpert /�eksp��t/ noun a person whoknows a lot about something � He is a com-puter expert.expert systemexpert system /�eksp��t �sstəm/ noun �IKBSexpirationexpiration /�ekspə|�reʃ(ə)n/ noun comingto an end � expiration date 1. last date atwhich photographic film or paper can beused with good results 2. date when a compu-ter file is no longer protected from deletionby the operating systemexpireexpire /k|�spaə/ verb to come to an end orto be no longer validexplicit referenceexplicit reference /k|�splst�ref(ə)rəns/ noun (within a program orscript) a way of identifying a particular ob-ject, e.g. a field or button, by a unique nameExplorer™Explorer™ /k|�splɔ�rə/ a program sup-plied with Windows 95 that lets you manageall the files stored on a diskexponentexponent /k|�spəυnənt/ noun a numberindicating the power to which a base anumber is to be raisedexponentiationexponentiation /�ekspə|�nenʃi |�eʃ(ə)n/noun the raising of a base number to a certainpowerexportexport /k|�spɔ�t/ verb to save data in a dif-ferent file format from the defaultexposeexpose /k|�spəυz/ verb to allow light toreach photographic film or paper to form animageexposureexposure /k|�spəυ'ə/ noun the process ofletting light fall on a photographic film toform an imageexposure end pointexposure end point /k|�spəυ'ə �end�pɔnt/ noun the quantity of light required toproduce a certain image densityexposure indexexposure index /k |�spəυ'ə �ndeks/noun the sensitivity of a photographic emul-sionexposure latitudeexposure latitude /k|�spəυ'ə�l�ttju�d/ noun the extent to which film canbe over-exposed or under-exposed and stillprovide a clear pictureexposure meterexposure meter /k|�spəυ'ə �mi�tə/ nouna device for measuring the light intensity onor reflected by a scene which is to be filmed

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93 e-zineexpress

express /k|�spres/ verb to state or to de-scribe � Express the formula in its simplestform.expression

expression /k |�spreʃ(ə)n/ noun 1. amathematical formula or relationship 2. thedefinition of a value or variable in a programextend

extend /k|�stend/ verb to make longerextended binary coded decimal interchange code

extended binary coded decimal in-terchange code /k|�stendd �banəri�kəυdd �desm(ə)l �ntətʃend' �kəυd/noun full form of EBCDICextended character set

extended character set /k|�stendd�k�rktə �set/ noun a set of 128 specialcharacters that includes accents, graphics andsymbolsextended data output memory

extended data output memory /k|

�stendd �detə �aυtpυt �mem(ə)ri/ nounfull form of EDO memoryextended-definition television

extended-definition television /k|

�stendd �defnʃ(ə)n �tel|�v'(ə)n/ nounfull form of EDTVextended graphics array

extended graphics array /k|�stendd�"r�fks ə|�re/ noun full form of XGAextended memory

extended memory /k|�stendd�mem(ə)ri/ noun (in an IBM PC) the mostpopular standard method of adding extramemory above 1 Mb which can be used di-rectly by many operating systems or pro-gramsextensible

extensible /k|�stensb(ə)l/ adjectivewhich can be extendedextensible hypertext markup language

extensible hypertext markup lan-guage /k|�stensb(ə)l �hapətekst�mɑ�k�p �l�ŋ"wd'/ noun full form ofXHTMLextensible markup language

extensible markup language /k|

�stensb(ə)l �mɑ�k�p �l�ŋ"wd'/ noun fullform of XMLextension

extension /k|�stenʃən/ noun the processof making something longer; something add-ed to something else to make it longerextent

extent /k|�stent/ noun the number of pagesin a printed document, such as a book � Byadding the appendix, we will increase thepage extent to 256.external

external /k|�st��n(ə)l/ adjective outside aprogram or deviceexternal device

external device /k|�st��n(ə)l d|�vas/noun 1. an item of hardware, e.g. a terminalor printer, which is attached to a main com-puter 2. any device that allows communica-tions between the computer and itself but

which is not directly operated by the maincomputerexternal disk drive

external disk drive /k|�st��n(ə)l �dsk �drav/ noun a device not built into the com-puter but added to increase its storage capa-bilitiesextra

extra /�ekstrə/ noun an item which is addi-tional to a software or hardware package �The mouse and cabling are sold as extras.extract

extract /k |�str�kt/ verb to remove requireddata or information from a database � We canextract the files required for typesetting.extranet

extranet /�ekstrənet/ noun an intranet thathas a connection to the public Internet and al-lows users to gain access via the Internet(NOTE: It is often used to provide access topeople in the company who are workingaway from the office. Most intranets do notallow access via the public Internet and in-clude security measures that protectagainst hackers and unauthorised users.)extrapolation

extrapolation /k |�str�pə|�leʃ(ə)n/ nounthe process of predicting future quantities ortrends by the analysis of current and past dataeyeball

eyeball /�abɔ�l/ noun a user of the Internetwho visits a particular website or uses a par-ticular product (slang)eye candy

eye candy /�a �k�ndi/ noun the decora-tive elements on a computer screen or a webpage that are intended to make it attractive tolook at (informal)eye-dropper

eye-dropper /�a �drɒpə/ noun a tool in agraphics software application that allows auser to click on a pixel in an image and selectthe colour of the pixeleye-lighting

eye-lighting /�a �latŋ/ noun the processof illuminating a close shot in order to pro-duce a small highlight reflection on the ac-tor’s eyeball which causes the eye to sparkle(film)eyepiece

eyepiece /�api�s/ noun a camera view-findereyepiece lens

eyepiece lens /�api�s lens/ noun a lens inthe viewfinder of a camera through which thecameraman lookseye-strain

eye-strain /�a stren/ noun pain in theeyes, caused by looking at bright lights or ata VDU for too long

‘…to minimize eye-strain, it is vital to have goodlighting conditions with this LCD system’[Personal Computer World]

e-zine

e-zine /�i� zi�n/ noun a website that modelsits contents and layout a printed magazine

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FF

F symbol the hexadecimal number equiva-lent to decimal number 15face

face /fes/ noun same as typefacefacility

facility /fə |�slti/ noun 1. a mechanism ormeans allowing something to being done, es-pecially easily � We offer facilities forprocessing a customer’s own disks. (NOTE:The plural is facilities.) 2. a single largebuilding (US) � We have opened our newdata processing facility. 3. a communicationspath between two or more locations, with noancillary line equipmentfacsimile

facsimile /f�k|�smli/ noun an exact copyof an originalfacsimile character generator

facsimile character generator /f�k|

�smli �k�rktə �d'enəretə/ noun a meansof displaying characters on a computerscreen by copying preprogrammed imagesfrom memoryfacsimile transmission

facsimile transmission /f�k|�smltr�nz|�mʃ(ə)n/ noun full form of faxFACT

FACT noun an organisation that prevents il-legal copying of film and TV material (film)Full form Federation Against CopyrightTheftfactor

factor /�f�ktə/ noun 1. something which isimportant or which has an influence onsomething else 2. any number in a multipli-cation that is the operandfactorise

factorise /�f�ktəraz/, factorize verb tobreak down a number into two whole num-bers which when multiplied will give theoriginal number � When factorised, 15 givesthe factors 1, 15 or 3, 5. (NOTE: factorises –factorising – factorised)factory

factory /�f�kt(ə)ri/ noun a building whereproducts are manufactured � computer fac-toryfade

fade /fed/ verb (of a radio or electricalsignal) to become less strong (NOTE: fades –fading – faded)fade in

fade in /�fed �n/ noun 1. an image thatstarts with a blank screen that graduallyshows the image 2. a sound that starts inaudi-bly and gradually increases in volumefade out

fade out /�fed �aυt/ noun 1. an image thatgradually changes to a blank screen 2. asound that gradually decreases in volume un-til it is inaudible � verb to decrease in vol-ume gradually

faderfader /�fedə/ noun an instrument whichbrightens or darkens the picture, or decreasesor increases the audio levels (film)fader shutterfader shutter, fading shutter noun ashutter with two blades in a film camera; anadjustable opening can be used to vary theexposure for fade or dissolve effectsfadingfading /�fedŋ/ noun 1. a variation instrength of radio and television broadcast sig-nals 2. the process of becoming less dark �When fading occurs turn the density dial onthe printer to full black.failfail /fel)/ verb not to do something whichshould be done � The company failed to car-ry out routine maintenance of its equipment.fail safe systemfail safe system /�fel sef �sstəm/ nouna system which has a predetermined state itwill go to if a main program or device fails,so avoiding the total catastrophe that a com-plete system shutdown would produce

‘The DTI is publishing a new code of best prac-tice which covers hardware reliability and fail-safe software systems.’ [Computing]

failurefailure /�feljə/ noun the process of break-ing down or stopping; not doing somethingwhich should be donefailure ratefailure rate /�feljə ret/ noun the numberof occurrences of a particular type of failurewithin a specified period of timefall back routinesfall back routines /�fɔ�l b�k ru�|�ti�nz/plural noun routines that are called or proce-dures which are executed by a user when amachine or system has failedfall-offfall-off /�fɔ�l ɒf/ noun a gradual decrease inbrightness from the centre of a screen to theedges (film)FAMFAM abbr fast access memoryfamilyfamily /�f�m(ə)li/ noun 1. a range of differ-ent designs of a particular typeface 2. a rangeof machines from one manufacturer that arecompatible with other products in the sameline from the same manufacturerfanfan /f�n/ noun 1. a mechanism which circu-lates air for cooling � If the fan fails, the sys-tem will rapidly overheat. 2. a spread of dataitems or devices � verb 1. to cool a device byblowing air over it 2. to spread out a series ofitems or devices

‘Intel is investigating other options to solve thePentium system overheating problems, includingselling the chip with its own miniature fan.’[Computing]

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95 feature‘…a filtered fan maintains positive air pressurewithin the cabinet, to keep dust and dirt from en-tering’ [Personal Computer World]

fanfoldfanfold /�f�nfəυld/ noun same as accordi-on foldFAQFAQ /f�k, �ef e �kju�/ noun a webpage orhelp file that contains common questions andtheir answers related to a particular subjectfascia platefascia plate /�feʃə plet/ noun the frontpanel on a device � The fascia plate on thedisk drive of this model is smaller than thoseon other models.fastfast /fɑ�st/ adjective 1. which moves quick-ly; which works quickly; (storage or periph-eral device) that performs its functions veryrapidly � fast program execution 2. (photo-graphic lens) with a very wide aperture; high-ly light-sensitive photographic filmfast access memoryfast access memory /�fɑ�st ��kses�mem(ə)ri/ noun abbr FAMFATFAT /�ef e �ti�/ noun (in a PC operatingsystem) a data file stored on disk that con-tains the names of each file stored on thedisk, together with its starting sector posi-tion, date and size. Full form file allocationtablefatal errorfatal error /�fet(ə)l �erə/ noun a fault in aprogram or device that causes the system tocrashFatBitsFatBits /�f�tbts/ a MacPaint option whichallows a user to edit an image one pixel at atimefather filefather file /�fɑ�ðə fal/ noun a backup ofthe previous version of a file. � grandfatherfile, son filefaultfault /fɔ�lt/ noun a situation in which some-thing has gone wrong with software or hard-ware, causing it to malfunction � The techni-cal staff are trying to correct a programmingfault. � bug, errorfault detectionfault detection /�fɔ�lt d|�tekʃ(ə)n/ nounan automatic process which logically ormathematically determines that a fault existsin a circuitfault diagnosisfault diagnosis /�fɔ�lt �daə"nəυss/noun a process by which the cause of a faultis locatedfault tolerancefault tolerance /�fɔ�lt �tɒlərəns/ noun theability of a system to continue functioningeven when a fault has occurredfault-tolerantfault-tolerant /�fɔ�lt �tɒlərənt/ adjectivereferring to a system or device that is able tocontinue functioning even when a fault oc-curs � They market a highly successful rangeof fault-tolerant minis.faultyfaulty /�fɔ�lti/ adjective which does notwork properly � There must be a faulty pieceof equipment in the system.

‘Hampshire fire brigade is investing £2 million ina command and control system based on the new

SeriesFT fault-tolerant Unix machine from Mo-torola.’ [Computing]‘…before fault-tolerant systems, users had to relyon cold standby fault tolerance is usually associ-ated with a system’s reliability’ [ComputerNews]

faxfax /f�ks/, FAX noun a method of sendingand receiving images in digital form over atelephone or radio link (informal) � We willsend a fax of the design plan. Full form fac-simile transmissionfax cardfax card /�f�ks kɑ�d/, fax adapter /f�ksə|�d�ptə/, fax board /f�ks bɔ�d/ noun anadapter card which plugs into an expansionslot and allows a computer to send or receivefax dataFCB

FCB area of memory (used by the operatingsystem) that contains information about thefiles in use or those stored on a disk drive.Full form file control blockFCCFCC (film) abbr US Federal Communica-tions Commission � noun in the printing offilm, a control cue device based on the elec-tronic counting of the amount of frames mov-ing through the machine. Full form framecount cueingfdfd, FD abbr 1. full duplex 2. floppy diskFDCFDC /�ef di� �si�/ noun a combination ofhardware and software devices that controland manage the read/write operations of adisk drive from a computer. Full form floppydisk controllerFDDFDD abbr floppy disk driveFDDIFDDI /�ef di� di� �a/ noun an ANSI standardfor high-speed networks which use fibre op-tic cable in a dual ring topology, transmittingdata at 100 Mbps. Full form fibre distribut-ed data interfaceFDDI IIFDDI II /�ef di� di� a �tu�/ noun an en-hanced ANSI standard for high-speed net-works that uses fibre optic cable and trans-mits data at 100 Mbps but can also allocatepart of the bandwidth to a 64 Kbits/secondanalog channel for audio or video data. Fullform fibre distributed data interface IIFDISKFDISK /�ef dsk/ noun an MS-DOS systemutility that configures the partitions on a harddiskfdx

fdx, FDX abbr full duplexfeasibilityfeasibility /�fi�zə|�blti/ noun the likeli-hood that something will or can be done �He has been asked to report on the feasibilityof a project.feasibility studyfeasibility study /�fi�zə|�blti �st�di/noun an examination and report into the use-fulness and cost of a new product that is be-ing considered for purchasefeaturefeature /�fi�tʃə/ noun a special function orability or design of hardware or software

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feature film 96feature filmfeature film /�fi�tʃə flm/ noun a commer-cial, full-length film production to be shownin a cinema; usually ninety minutes in lengthFEDFED abbr field emission displayFederation Against Copyright TheftFederation Against Copyright Theft/�fedə|�reʃ(ə)n ə|�"enst �kɒpi|�rat θeft/noun full form of FACTFEDSFEDS /�ef i� di� �es/ noun a magnetic diskstorage system that contains some removabledisks such as floppy disks and some fixed orhard disk drives. Full form fixed and ex-changeable disk storagefeedfeed /fi�d/ noun a device which puts some-thing such as paper into and through a ma-chine such as a printer or photocopier � verbto put something such as paper into andthrough a machine such as a printer or photo-copier � This paper should be manually fedinto the printer. (NOTE: feeding – fed)feedbackfeedback /�fi�db�k/ noun 1. informationfrom one source which can be used to modifysomething or provide a constructive criticismof something � We are getting customerfeedback on the new system. 2. part of an out-put signal that is fed back to the input andamplifiedfeederfeeder /�fi�də/ noun 1. a channel that car-ries signals from one point to another 2. amechanism that automatically inserts the pa-per into a printerfeed hornfeed horn /�fi�d hɔ�n/ noun a microwavechannelling device used to direct transmittedsignalsfeeveefeevee /�fi� �vi�/ noun US pay cable, formof cable TV where the viewer pays an extrafee for extra channels (informal)feintfeint /fent/ noun very light lines on writingpaperfemale connectorfemale connector /�fi�mel kə|�nektə/noun a connector with female socketsFEPFEP /�ef i� �pi�/ noun a processor placed be-tween an input source and the central compu-ter, whose function is to preprocess receiveddata to relieve the workload of the main com-puter. Full form front-end processorferric oxideferric oxide /�ferk �ɒksad/, ferrite/�ferat/ noun iron oxide used as a tape ordisk coating that can be magnetised to storedata or signalsferromagneticferromagnetic /�ferəυm�"|�netk/ adjec-tive (material) that has a high magnetic per-meabilityFETFET /�ef i� �ti�/ noun an electronic devicethat can act as a variable current flow control.Full form field effect transistor (NOTE: Anexternal signal varies the resistance of thedevice and current flow by changing thewidth of a conducting channel by means ofa field. It has three terminals: source, gateand drain.)

fibre distributed data interfacefibre distributed data interface/�fabə d|�strbjυtd �detə �ntəfes/ nounfull form of FDDIfibre distributed data interface IIfibre distributed data interface II/�fabə d|�strbjυtd �detə �ntəfes �tu�/noun full form of FDDI IIfibre Ethernetfibre Ethernet /�fabə �i�θənet/ noun ahigh-speed network that uses optical fibre tolink one node to another in a point-to-pointtopologyfibre optic cablefibre optic cable /�fabə �ɒptk�keb(ə)l/, fibre optic connection /�fabə�ɒptk kə|�nekʃən/ noun a bundle of finestrands of glass or plastic protected by a sur-rounding material, used for transmission oflight signals that carry data at very highspeedsfibre opticsfibre optics /�fabə �ɒptks/ plural nounthe use of thin strands of glass or plastic thatcan transmit light signals at the speed of light(NOTE: The light or laser signal is pulsed ormodulated to represent data being transmit-ted.)fibre ribbonfibre ribbon /�fabə �rbən/ noun a fabric-based ribbon used in printersfidelityfidelity /f|�delti/ noun the ability of an au-dio system to reproduce sound correctly. � hififieldfield /fi�ld/ noun 1. an area of force and en-ergy distribution, caused by magnetic or elec-tric energy sources 2. a section containingparticular data items in a record � The em-ployee record has a field for age. 3. a sectionof an image that is available after the light haspassed through the camera and lens. AbbrFEDfield blankingfield blanking /�fi�ld �bl�ŋkŋ/ noun aninterval when television signal field synchro-nizing pulses are transmittedfield effect transistorfield effect transistor /fi�ld |�fekt tr�n|

�zstə/ noun full form of FETfield emission displayfield emission display /�fi�ld |�mʃ(ə)nd |�sple/ noun 1. a method of producing thin,flat displays for laptop computers in which aminiature colour CRT is located at each pixelpoint. Abbr FED 2. a method of building upa picture on a television screenfield engineerfield engineer /�fi�ld �end' |�nə/ noun anengineer who does not work at one singlecompany, but travels between customers car-rying out maintenance on their computersfield fly backfield fly back /�fi�ld �fla �b�k/ noun thereturn of electron beam to the top left handcorner of a screenfield frequencyfield frequency /�fi�ld �fri�kwənsi/ nounthe number of field scans per secondfield labelfield label /�fi�ld �leb(ə)l/ noun a series ofcharacters used to identify a field or its loca-tion. Also called field name

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97 file validationfield lengthfield length /�fi�ld leŋθ/ noun the numberof characters that a field can containfield markerfield marker /�fi�ld �mɑ�kə/ noun a codeused to indicate the end of one field and thestart of the next. Also called field separatorfield namefield name /�fi�ld nem/ noun same asfield labelfield programmable devicefield programmable device /�fi�ld�prəυ"r�məb(ə)l d|�vas/ noun same asPLAfield programmingfield programming /�fi�ld�prəυ"r�mŋ/ noun the writing of data intoa PROMfield separatorfield separator /�fi�ld �sepəretə/ nounsame as field markerfield strengthfield strength /�fi�ld streŋθ/ noun the am-plitude of the magnetic or electric field at onepoint in that fieldfield sweepfield sweep /�fi�ld swi�p/ noun a verticalelectron beam movement over a televisionscreenfield sync pulsefield sync pulse /�fi�ld �sŋk �p�ls/ nouna pulse in a TV signal that makes sure that thereceiver’s field sweep is in syncFIFFIF /�ef a �ef/ noun a file format used tostore graphics images which have been high-ly compressed using fractals. Full form frac-tal image formatFIFOFIFO /�fafəυ/ noun a storage read/writemethod in which the first item stored is thefirst read. Full form first in first outfifth generation computerfifth generation computer /�ffθ�d'enəreʃ(ə)n kəm|�pju�tə/ noun a compu-ter belonging to the next stage of computersystem design using fast VLSI circuits andpowerful programming languages to allowhuman interactionfigurefigure /�f"ə/ noun 1. a printed number 2. aprinted line illustration in a book � See figure10 for a chart of ASCII codes.filefile /fal/ noun 1. documents kept for refer-ence 2. a section of data on a computer, e.g.payroll, address list or customer accounts, inthe form of individual records which maycontain data, characters, digits or graphics

‘The first problem was solved by configuring aWindows swap file, which I hadn’t done beforebecause my 4Mb 486 had never been overload-ed.’ [Computing]‘…the lost file, while inaccessible without a file-recovery utility, remains on disk until new infor-mation writes over it’ [Publish]

file allocation tablefile allocation table /�fal ��lə|�keʃ(ə)n�teb(ə)l/ noun full form of FATfile attributefile attribute /�fal ��trbju�t/ plural nouna set of data stored with each file which con-trols particular functions or aspects of the filesuch as read-only, archived or system filefile deletionfile deletion /�fal d|�li�ʃ(ə)n/ noun theprocess of erasing a file from storage

file formatfile format /�fal �fɔ�m�t/ noun a way inwhich data is stored in a filefile managementfile management /�fal �m�nd'mənt/,file management system /�fal�m�nd'mənt �sstəm/ noun a section of aDOS that allocates disk space to files, keep-ing track of the sections and their sector ad-dressesfile managerfile manager /�fal �m�nd'ə/ noun a sec-tion of a disk operating system that allocatesdisk space to files, keeping track of the filesections if it has to be split and their sectoraddressesfilenamefilename /�falnem/ noun a unique identi-fication code allocated to a program

‘…when the filename is entered at the prompt,the operating system looks in the file and exe-cutes any instructions stored there’ [PC User]

filename extensionfilename extension /�falnem k|

�stenʃ(ə)n/ noun an additional three-charac-ter name that is used together with a filena-me, indicating the type or use of the filefile-recovery utilityfile-recovery utility /�fal r |�k�v(ə)ri ju�|

�tlti/ noun a piece of software which allowsfiles that have been accidentally deleted ordamaged to be read again � A lost file cannotbe found without a file-recovery utility.file securityfile security /�fal s|�kjυərti/ noun hard-ware or software organisation of a computersystem to protect users’ files from unauthor-ised accessfile serverfile server /�fal �s��və/ noun a computerconnected to a network which runs a networkoperating system software to manage user ac-counts, file sharing and printer sharingfile sharingfile sharing /�fal �ʃeərŋ/ noun a facilityallowing one file to be used by two or moreusers or programs in a network, often usingfile lockingfile storagefile storage /�fal �stɔ�rd'/ noun a physi-cal means of preserving data in a file, e.g. adisk drivefile structurefile structure /�fal �str�ktʃə/ noun a wayin which a data file is organisedfile transferfile transfer /�fal �tr�nsf��/ noun theprocess of moving a file from one area ofmemory to another or to another storage de-vice or between computersfile transfer protocolfile transfer protocol /�fal �tr�nsf���prəυtəkɒl/ noun full form of FTPfile typefile type /�fal tap/ noun a method of clas-sifying what a file contains � Files with theextension exe are file types that contain pro-gram code.file updatefile update /�fal ��pdet/ noun 1. the re-cent changes or transactions to a file 2. a newversion of software which is sent to users ofan existing versionfile validationfile validation /�fal �v�ldeʃ(ə)n/ nounthe process of checking that a file is correct

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filing 98filingfiling /�falŋ/ noun 1. the process of puttingdocuments in order 2. documents which haveto be put in orderfiling systemfiling system /�falŋ �sstəm/ noun 1. away of putting documents in order for refer-ence 2. a piece of software which organisesfilesfillfill /fl/ verb 1. to make something full � Thescreen was filled with flickering images. 2. toput characters into gaps in a field so that thereare no spaces left 3. to draw an enclosed areain one colour or shadingfill lightfill light /�fl lat/, filler /�flə/, fill-in light/fl n lat/ noun an additional studio lampused to provide extra light in shadows (film)filmfilm /flm/ noun 1. a transparent strip ofplastic, coated with a light-sensitive com-pound and used to produce photographs withthe aid of a camera 2. a projection at highspeed of a series of still images that createsthe impression of movement � verb to ex-pose a photographic film to light by means ofa camera, and so to produce images � filmadvance 1. lever on a camera used to windon a roll of film to the next frame 2. the dis-tance a phototypesetting machine has tomove prior to the next line to be setfilm assemblyfilm assembly /�flm ə|�sembli/ noun thecorrect arrangement of photographs or nega-tives prior to the production of a printingplatefilm basefilm base /�flm bes/ noun thin transpar-ent roll of plastic used as a supporting mate-rial for photographic filmfilm chainfilm chain /�flm tʃen/ noun all the neces-sary equipment needed when showing film orslides on television, such as a projector, TVcamera and synchroniserfilm gatefilm gate /�flm "et/ noun the alliance ofthe aperture and pressure plates in a cameraor a projector to guide the film through, andto also ensure the correct focal distance be-tween the film and the lensfilm gaugefilm gauge /�flm "ed'/ noun the diame-ter of different types of cinematographic filmfilmingfilming /�flmŋ/ noun the shooting of acinema film or TV film � Filming will startnext week if the weather is fine.film optical scanning device for input into computersfilm optical scanning device for in-put into computers /�flm �ɒptk(ə)l�sk�nŋ d |�vas fə �npυt �ntə kəm |

�pju�təz/ noun full form of FOSDICfilm pickupfilm pickup /�flm �pk�p/ noun the trans-mission of a motion picture film by televisionby electronically scanning each framefilm projectorfilm projector /�slad prə|�d'ektə/, slideprojector noun a mechanical device that dis-plays films or slides on a screenfilm recorderfilm recorder /�flm r|�kɔ�də/ noun a de-vice that produces a 35 mm slide from a com-

puter image (NOTE: A film recorder can pro-duce slides at very high resolution, normallyaround 3,000 lines, by regenerating the im-age on an internal screen.)filmsettingfilmsetting /�flm|�setŋ/ noun the processof photocompositionfilm speedfilm speed /�flm spi�d/ noun the lightsensitivity of photographic film, as deter-mined by ASA or DINfilm stripfilm strip /�flm strp/ noun a set of relatedimages on a reel of film, usually for educa-tional purposesfilterfilter /�fltə/ noun 1. an electronic circuitthat allows certain frequencies to pass whilestopping others 2. an option in a software ap-plication that allows it to import or export aparticular foreign file type � Most graphicspackages have import filters that will decodeTIFF, BMP and PCX file formats. 3. opticalcoloured glass, which stops certain frequen-cies of light 4. a pattern of binary digits usedto select various bits from a binary word. Aone in the filter retains that bit in the sourceword. � verb 1. to remove unwanted ele-ments from a signal or file 2. to select variousbits from a word � Filter the top three bits ofthe video attribute word. 3. to select variousrecords from a database file � We filtered thedata to select those customers based in NewYork.finalfinal /�fan(ə)l/ adjective last or coming atthe end of a period � to keyboard the finaldata filesfinal cutfinal cut /�fan(ə)l k�t/ noun (film) 1. theoriginal negative when it has been altered toconform with the workprint 2. the final ver-sion of the edited film on which the soundtrack can now be placedfinal trial compositefinal trial composite /�fan(ə)l �traəl�kɒmpəzt/ noun a film containing audioand visual effects; this is the final and ap-proved version of all former trial composites(film)findfind /fand/ verb to get something backwhich has been lost � It took a lot of time tofind the faulty chip. � noun a command to lo-cate a piece of informationfind and replacefind and replace /�fand ən r|�ples/noun a feature on a word-processor that al-lows certain words or sections of text to belocated and replaced with othersFinderFinder /�fandə/ a trade name for a graphi-cal user interface to an Apple Mac allowing auser to view files and folders and start appli-cations using a mousefinefine /fan/ adjective excellent or of veryhigh qualityfine-tunefine-tune /�fan �tju�n/ verb to adjust bysmall amounts the features or parameters ofhardware or software to improve perform-

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99 flatbed scannerance � Fine-tuning improved the speed byten per cent.fingerfinger /�fŋ"ə/ noun a software program onthe Internet that will retrieve informationabout a user based on his or her email addressfinishfinish /�fnʃ/ noun 1. the final appearanceof something � The product has an attractivefinish. 2. the end of a process or function �verb 1. to do something or to make some-thing completely � The order was finished intime. 2. to come to an end � The contract isdue to finish next month.finishedfinished /�fnʃt/ adjective which has beencompletedfirewallfirewall /�faəwɔ�l/ noun a hardware orsoftware security system between a server orintranet and the public Internet that allows in-formation to pass out to the Internet butchecks any incoming data before passing iton to the private server � We have installed afirewall in our intranet to prevent hackers ac-cessing company data via the Internet link.FirewireFirewire /�faəwaə/ a trade name for ahigh-speed serial interface developed by theApple Computer Corporation and used tolink devices such as a digital camera with thecomputer. � USBfirmwarefirmware /�f��mweə/ noun a computerprogram or data that is permanently stored ina hardware memory chip, e.g. a ROM orEPROM. Compare hardware, softwarefirst generation computerfirst generation computer /�f��st�d'enəreʃ(ə)n kə,|�pju�tə/ noun an origi-nal computer made with valve-based elec-tronic technology, started around 1951first generation imagefirst generation image /�f��st�d'enəreʃ(ə)n �md'/ noun a master copyof an original image, text or documentfirst gripfirst grip /�f��st �"rp/ noun on a film set,the principal stagehand who is responsiblefor the other stagehands (film) Also calledkey gripfirst in first outfirst in first out /�f��st n �f��st �aυt/noun full form of FIFOfirst party releasefirst party release /�f��st �pɑ�ti r |�li�s/noun the ending of a telephone connection assoon as either party puts his phone down ordisconnects his modemfisheye lensfisheye lens /�fʃe �lenz/ noun an ex-tremely wide angle photographic lens thathas a field of view of 180 degrees and pro-duces a distorted circular imagefitfit /ft/ verb to plot or calculate a curve thatmost closely approximates a number ofpoints or data (NOTE: fitting – fitted)fixfix /fks/ verb 1. to make something perma-nent or to attach something permanently �The computer is fixed to the workstation. 2.to mend � The technicians are trying to fixthe switchboard.

fixed and exchangeable disk storagefixed and exchangeable disk stor-age /�fkst ən ks|�tʃend'əb(ə)l �dsk�stɔ�rd'/ noun full form of FEDSfixed diskfixed disk /�fkst �dsk/ noun a magneticdisk which cannot be removed from the diskdrivefixed-frequency monitorfixed-frequency monitor /�fkst�fri�kwənsi �mɒntə/ noun a monitor thatcan only accept one frequency and type ofvideo signalflagflag /fl�"/ noun 1. a way of showing theend of field or of indicating something spe-cial in a database � If the result is zero, thezero flag is set. 2. a method of reporting thestatus of a register after a mathematical orlogical operation 3. a square or rectangularopaque sheet which is used to stop light fromthe camera lens hitting places where it is notneeded on the set � verb to attract the atten-tion of a program while it is running to pro-vide a result, report an action or indicatesomething special (NOTE: flagging – flagged)flaggingflagging /�fl�"ŋ/ noun 1. the process ofputting an indicator against an item so that itcan be found later 2. distortion in a televisionpicture which is created by timing mistakesin a video tape recorder’s playback signalflameflame /flem/ verb send a rude or angry In-ternet message to a user (NOTE: flames –flaming – flamed)flareflare /fleə/ noun 1. an error in which disper-sion of light in a lens undesirably brightensthe dark areas of an image 2. areas of filmthat have been exposed to light on account ofthe camera not being fully light proofflaredflared /fleəd/ adjective image with unwant-ed bright spots or lines due to internal lens orcamera reflectionsflashflash /fl�ʃ/ verb to switch a light on and offflashingflashing /�fl�ʃŋ/ noun a signal sent over atelephone line to get the attention of an oper-ator or userflash ROMflash ROM /�fl�ʃ rɒm/ noun an electronicmemory component that contains data thatcan normally only be read, but that does al-low new data to be stored in the memory us-ing a special electrical signalflatflat /fl�t/ adjective 1. smooth (surface) 2.fixed or not changing 3. lacking contrast (inan image or photograph)flatbedflatbed /�fl�t |�bed/ adjective referring to aprinting or scanning machine that holds thepaper or image on a flat surface whileprocessing � Scanners are either flatbedmodels or platen type, paper-fed models.flatbed scannerflatbed scanner /�fl�tbed �sk�nə/ nouna device with a flat sheet of glass on whichartwork is placed and a scan head that movesbelow the glass and converts the image into agraphics file

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flat file 100flat file

flat file /�fl�t fal/ noun a two-dimensionalfile of data itemsflat file databaseflat file database /�fl�t fal �detəbes/noun a database program that can only ac-cess data stored in one file at a time, not al-lowing relational dataflat screenflat screen /�fl�t skri�n/ noun a displaymonitor that has been manufactured with aflat, square-edged front to the monitorflexflex /fleks/ noun a wire or cable used to con-nect an appliance to the mains electricity sup-ply (NOTE: no plural: for one item, say apiece of flex)flexibilityflexibility /�fleks|�blti/ noun the abilityof hardware or software to adapt to variousconditions or tasksflexibleflexible /�fleksb(ə)l/ adjective which canbe altered or changedflexible machining systemflexible machining system/�fleksb(ə)l mə |�ʃi�nŋ �sstəm/ noun fullform of FMS 1flexible manufacturing system

flexible manufacturing system/�fleksb(ə)l �m�njυ |�f�ktʃərŋ �sstəm/noun full form of FMS 2flickerflicker /�flkə/ noun 1. a computer graphicimage whose brightness varies rapidly at avisible rate because of a low image refreshrate or signal corruption 2. a random varia-tion of brightness in a television picture 3. aneffect that occurs when a frame from a vide-odisc is frozen and two different pictures aredisplayed alternately at high speed due to theincorrect field matching 4. a very short inter-ruption in a film which is caused by a fault inthe film projector or by a slow film projector� verb 1. to move very slightly � The imageflickers when the printer is switched on. 2. tovary in brightness rapidly and visibly be-cause of a low image refresh rate or signalcorruptionflicker-freeflicker-free /�flkə fri�/ adjective referringto a display that does not flicker

‘A CRT (cathode ray tube) monitor paints thescreen from top to bottom, and is usually consid-ered ‘flicker free’ if it refreshes the image 75times a second, or more’ [The Guardian]

flierflier /�flaə/ noun a small advertising leafletdesigned to encourage customers to ask formore information about a product or serviceflight simulator

flight simulator /�flat �smjυletə/ nouna computer program which allows a user topilot a plane, showing a realistic control pan-el and moving scenes, used either as a train-ing programme or a computer gameflip-flopflip-flop /�flp flɒp/ noun an electronic cir-cuit or chip whose output can be one of twostates determined by one or two inputs, andwhich can be used to store one bit of digitaldata. Abbr FF

floatfloat /fləυt/ noun (film) 1. the slow shake ofan image up and down due to faulty synchro-nisation 2. overlapping images in multipleexposure rostrum camera work 3. part of astudio set which can easily be moved into orout of positionfloatingfloating /�fləυtŋ/ adjective referring to acharacter which is separate from the charac-ter it should be attached tofloating point notationfloating point notation /�fləυtŋ pɔntnəυ|�teʃ(ə)n/ noun a numerical notation inwhich a fractional number is representedwith a point after the first digit and a power,so that any number can be stored in a stand-ard formfloating point unitfloating point unit /�fləυtŋ pɔnt�ju�nt/ noun a specialised CPU that canprocess floating point numbers very rapidly� The floating point unit speeds up theprocessing of the graphics software. AbbrFPU. Also called floating point processorfloating windowfloating window /�fləυtŋ �wndəυ/noun a window that can be moved anywhereon screenfloodflood /fl�d/, floodlight /�fl�dlat/ noun alamp which gives a wide range of light (film)floodingflooding /�fl�dŋ/ noun a rapid, reliable butnot very efficient means of routing packet-switched data, in which each node sends thedata received to each of its neighboursflood trackflood track /�fl�d tr�k/ noun the soundtrack on a photographic film which is notused for sound and reveals the standard max-imum width of a picture area (film)floppy diskfloppy disk /�flɒpi �dsk/, floppy /�flɒpi/noun a secondary storage device in the formof a flat, circular flexible disk onto whichdata can be stored in a magnetic form. AbbrFD (NOTE: The plural of floppy is floppies.)

COMMENT: Floppy disks are available invarious sizes: the commonest are 3.5 inch,5.25 inch and 8 inch. The size refers to thediameter of the disk inside the sleeve.

floppy disk controllerfloppy disk controller /�flɒpi �dsk kən|

�trəυlə/ noun full form of FDCfloppy disk drivefloppy disk drive /�flɒpi �dsk �drav/noun a disk drive for floppy disks. AbbrFDD. Also called floppy disk unitflowflow /fləυ/ noun a regular movement � Au-tomatic text flow across pages. � verb tomove smoothly � Work is flowing normallyagain after the breakdown of the printer.flowchartflowchart /�fləυtʃɑ�t/ noun a diagramshowing the arrangement of various workprocesses as a series of stagesflow controlflow control /�fləυ kən |�trəυl/ noun man-agement of the flow of data into queues andbuffers, to prevent heavy trafficflow textflow text /�fləυ �tekst/ verb to insert textinto a page format in a DTP system (NOTE:

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101 fontThe text fills all the space around pictures,and between set margins.)fluctuate

fluctuate /�fl�ktʃuet/ verb to move upand down � The electric current fluctuatesbetween 1 Amp and 1.3 Amp.fluctuatingfluctuating /�fl�ktjυetŋ/ adjective mov-ing up and down � fluctuating signalstrengthfluctuation

fluctuation /�fl�ktʃu|�eʃ(ə)n/ noun an upand down movement � Voltage fluctuationscan affect the functioning of the computersystem.fluid headfluid head /�flu�d hed/ noun a camerahead for a tripod which possesses smooth panand tilt facilities (film)flushflush /fl�ʃ/ verb to clear or erase all the con-tents of a queue, buffer, file or section ofmemory � adjective level or in line withsomethingflutingfluting /�flu�tŋ/ noun twisting and bendingof film edges created by humidity or bywinding the film too tightly around a spool(film)flutter

flutter /�fl�tə/ noun the occurrence of fluc-tuations of tape speed due to mechanical orcircuit problems, causing signal distortion �Wow and flutter and common faults on cheaptape recorders.fluxflux /fl�ks/ noun 1. a measure of magneticfield strength 2. the amount of reflected lightfrom an objectflux densityflux density /�fl�ks �densəti/ noun the in-tensity of a magnetic fluxfly

fly /fla/ verb to move (through the air)flybackflyback /�flab�k/ noun an electron picturebeam return from the end of a scan to the be-ginning of the next. Also called line flybackFMFM verb a method of changing the frequencyof one signal according to another. Full formfrequency modulation

COMMENT: FM is often used as a method ofrepresenting data through changes in thefrequency of a signal (the carrier), and as amethod of carrying data over fibre-optic ortelephone cables (e.g. many modemstandards use FM to transmit data).

FMS

FMS /�ef em �es/ noun 1. CNC or control ofa machine by a computer. Full form flexiblemachining system 2. the use of CNC ma-chines, robots and other automated devices inmanufacturing. Full form flexible manufac-turing systemFM synthesiserFM synthesiser /�ef em �snθə|�sazə/noun a device or other means for creatingsounds by combining base signals of differ-ent frequencies (NOTE: Sound cards usingan FM synthesiser create sounds of a pi-ano, drum or guitar by combining differentfrequencies at different levels to recreate

the complex sound of a musical instru-ment.)FNPFNP abbr front-end processorf-numberf-number /�ef �n�mbə/ noun a measure-ment of the amount of light that an opticallens can collect, measured as the ratio of fo-cal length to maximum apertureFOFO abbr fibre opticsfocal lengthfocal length /�fəυk(ə)l �leŋθ/ noun thedistance between the centre of an optical lensand the focusing plane, when the lens is fo-cused at infinityfocal planefocal plane /�fəυk(ə)l plen/ noun a planethrough the main focus of a camera lenswhich is at right angles to its optical axis(film)focusfocus /�fəυkəs/ noun 1. a particular win-dow or field that is currently ready to accepta user’s command � In Windows, the objectthat currently has the user’s focus has a dot-ted line around it. 2. an image or beam that isclear and well defined � verb 1. to adjust amonitor so that the image that is displayed onthe screen is sharp and clear 2. to adjust thefocal length of a lens or beam deflection sys-tem so that the image or beam is clear andwell defined � The camera is focused on theforeground. � They adjusted the lens positionso that the beam focused correctly.fogfog /fɒ"/ noun an effect on photographicmaterial which has been accidentally ex-posed to unwanted light, causing a loss ofpicture contrastfog filterfog filter /�fɒ" �fltə/ noun a filter placed infront of the camera lens that diffuses the lightto produce a softer image; also used to createthe impression of fog (film)foggingfogging /�fɒ"ŋ/ noun a graphic effect thatis used to simulate atmospheric fog or haze,used to make a three-dimensional scene morerealistic. Also called hazefolderfolder /�fəυldə/ noun a group of files storedtogether under a name. � directoryfolding machinefolding machine /�fəυldŋ mə|�ʃi�n/noun a machine which automatically foldssheets of paperfoliofolio /�fəυliəυ/ noun a page with a number,especially two facing pages in an accountbook which have the same numberfollow focusfollow focus /�fɒləυ �fəυkəs/ verb to keepan object in focus even if it is moving awayfrom the camera (film)follow spotfollow spot /�fɒləυ spɒt/ noun a verystrong spotlight which follows a performer(film)fontfont /fɒnt/ noun a set of characters all of thesame style, size and typeface. Also calledfount

‘Word Assistant is designed to help wordprocess-ing users produce better- looking documents. It

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foobar 102has style templates and forms providing 25 Tru-eType fonts, 100 clip-art images and two fontutility programs.’ [Computing]‘…laser printers store fonts in several ways: asresident, cartridge and downloadable fonts’[Desktop Publishing Today]

foobarfoobar /�fu�bɑ�/ noun a term used by pro-grammers to refer to whatever is being dis-cussed � If a programmer is explaining howa graphic program works, he might refer toan example graphic file that stores the imageas ‘foobar.gif ’ – it does not really exist but isjust an example.foolscap

foolscap /�fu�lsk�p/ noun a large size ofwriting paper, longer than A4 (NOTE: no plu-ral) � a foolscap envelope large envelopewhich takes foolscap paperfoot

foot /fυt/ noun 1. the bottom part of some-thing � He signed his name at the foot of theletter. 2. a measurement of length (= 30cm) �The table is six feet long. � My office is tenfeet by twelve. 3. a measurement of length offilm which represents a certain number offrames, e.g.: one foot contains 72 frames forSuper 8, 40 for 16mm and 16 for 35mm (film)(NOTE: The plural is feet for (a) and (c).There is no plural for (b). In measurements,foot is usually written ft or ’ after figures:10ft; 10’.)footagefootage /�fυtd'/ noun a measurement offilm length in metres or feet (film)footerfooter /�fυtə/, footing /�fυtŋ/ noun a mes-sage at the bottom of all the pages in a printeddocument, e.g. the page numberfootnotefootnote /�fυt |�nəυt/ noun a note at the bot-tom of a page, referring to the text above it,usually using a superior number as a refer-encefootprintfootprint /�fυt|�prnt/ noun 1. the area cov-ered by a transmitting device such as a satel-lite or antenna 2. the area that a computertakes up on a desk

‘…signals from satellites in orbit 36,000kmabove the earth don’t care very much whetheryou are close to an exchange or not….as long asyou have a dish within their footprint.’[The Guardian]

force

force /fɔ�s/ noun strength � verb to makesomeone do something � Competition hasforced the company to lower its prices.forced page breakforced page break /�fɔ�st �ped' �brek/noun an embedded code which indicates anew page startforegroundforeground /�fɔ�"raυnd/ noun 1. the frontpart of an illustration, as opposed to the back-ground 2. a high-priority task done by a com-puter 3. the area in a shot which is closest tothe camera 4. an image displayed in front ofanother image in a video clip. For example,Windows Movie Player displays an object in

a high score channel in front of an object in alow score channel. Compare background

‘This brighter – but still anti-glare – type ofscreen is especially useful for people using col-ourful graphic applications, where both the back-ground and foreground are visually important.’[Computing]

foreground colour

foreground colour /�fɔ�"raυnd �k�lə/noun the colour of characters and text dis-played on a screenforeground mode

foreground mode /�fɔ�"raυnd məυd/plural noun in a computer system in whichtwo modes for program execution are possi-ble, the mode that is for interactive user pro-grams. Compare background modeforelengthen

forelengthen /fɔ� |�leŋθən/ noun to createan illusion of depth by using a wide anglelens on a cameraforeshorten

foreshorten /fɔ�|�ʃɔ�tən/ verb to create anillusion that all objects are very close togeth-er by using a long (telephoto) lens on a cam-eraforest

forest /�fɒrst/ noun a number of intercon-nected data structure treesfork

fork /fɔ�k/ noun (in an Apple Mac) a folderthat contains system files and informationabout a file or applicationform

form /fɔ�m/ noun 1. a preprinted documentwith blank spaces where information can beentered � It’s been easy to train the opera-tors to use the new software since its displaylooks like the existing printed forms. 2. agraphical display that looks like an existingprinted form and is used to enter data into adatabase 3. a page of computer stationery 4.a complete plate or block of type, ready forprinting � verb to create a shape; to construct� The system is formed of five separate mod-ules.format

format /�fɔ�m�t/ noun 1. a specific methodof arranging text or data 2. the precise syntaxof instructions and arguments 3. the size andshape of a book � The printer can deal withall formats up to quarto. 4. the way of arrang-ing a TV programme � verb to arrange textas it will appear in printed form on paper �Style sheets are used to format documents.

‘As an increasing amount of information withinbusinesses is generated in wordprocessed format,text retrieval tools are becoming a highly attrac-tive pragmatic solution.’ [Computing]

formatter

formatter /�fɔ�m�tə/ noun a piece of hard-ware or software that arranges text or data ac-cording to certain rulesformula

formula /�fɔ�mjυlə/ noun a set of mathe-matical rules applied to solve a problem(NOTE: The plural is formulae.)formula translator

formula translator /�fɔ�mjələ tr�ns|

�letə/ noun full form of FORTRAN

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103 frameFORTHFORTH /fɔ�θ/ noun a programming lan-guage mainly used in control applicationsFORTRANFORTRAN /�fɔ�tr�n/ noun a program-ming language developed in the first placefor scientific use. Full form formula trans-latorforty-track diskforty-track disk /�fɔ�ti tr�k �dsk/ nouna floppy disk formatted to contain fortytracks of dataforumforum /�fɔ�rəm/ noun an Internet discus-sion group for people who share a special in-terest in somethingforwardforward /�fɔ�wəd/ adjective moving in ad-vance or in front � verb to send an emailmessage that you have received on to anotheruser � I did not know the answer to the ques-tion, so I have forwarded your message to mycolleague.for your informationfor your information /fə �jɔ�r �nfə|

�meʃ(ə)n/ noun full form of FYIFOSDICFOSDIC /�ef əυ es di� a �si�/ noun a stor-age device for computer data using micro-film. Full form film optical scanning de-vice for input into computersfountfount /fɒnt/ noun same as fontfourccfourcc /�fɔ� si� �si�/, four-character code/�fɔ� �k�rktə �kəυd/ noun a method ofidentifying the type of data within a RIFF file4GL4GL abbr fourth generation languageFourier seriesFourier series /�fυriə �səri�z/ noun amathematical representation of waveformsby a combination of fundamental and har-monic components of a frequencyfourth generation computerfourth generation computer /�fɔ�θ�d'enəreʃ(ə)n kəm|�pju�tə/ noun a compu-ter using technology using LSI circuits, de-veloped around 1970 and still in current usefourth generation languagefourth generation language /�fɔ�θ�d'enəreʃ(ə)n �l�ŋ"wd'/ noun a compu-ter language that is user-friendly and hasbeen designed with the nonexpert in mind.Abbr 4GLfour-track recorderfour-track recorder /�fɔ� tr�k r|�kɔ�də/noun a tape recorder that is able to record andplay back four independent audio tracks atonceFPFP abbr front projection (film)fpsfps noun 1. the number of individual framesof a video sequence that can be displayedeach second to give the impression of move-ment. Full form frames per second. �MPEG 2. the speed of single frames of a mo-tion picture through a projector or cameraevery second 3. the number of television pic-ture frames transmitted per second

COMMENT: To give the impression ofsmooth continuous video (also called full-motion video), a computer needs to displayat least 25 separate frames each second. Ifthe frames are small, there is less data to

update; however if the frame is large – e.g.filling a large window – then the computerhas to update the hundreds of thousandsof pixels that make up each image 25 timesper second. To do this needs a fast graph-ics adapter or special video display hard-ware

FPUFPU abbr floating point unitFQDNFQDN /�ef kju� di� �en/ noun a completedomain name that can be used to identify aserver as well as the host, e.g.bloomsbury.com. Full form fully qualifieddomain namefractalfractal /�fr�kt(ə)l/ noun a geometric shapethat repeats itself within itself and always ap-pears the same, however much you magnifythe imagefractal compressionfractal compression /�fr�kt(ə)l kəm |

�preʃ(ə)n/ noun a technique used to com-press imagesfractal image formatfractal image format /�fr�kt(ə)l �md'�fɔ�m�t/ noun full form of FIFfractionfraction /�fr�kʃən/ noun 1. a part of awhole unit, expressed as one figure above an-other, e.g. 1/4, 1/2, or a figure after a decimalpoint, e.g. 25. 2. a mantissa of a floating pointnumber. Also called fractional partfragmentfragment /�fr�"mənt/ noun a piece of in-formation that has had to be split up into sev-eral smaller units of information before beingsent over the Internet. The receiver will re-as-semble these units into the correct order.fragmentationfragmentation /�fr�"mən|�teʃ(ə)n/noun 1. (in main memory) memory alloca-tion to a number of files, which has resultedin many small, free sections or fragments thatare too small to be of any use, but waste a lotof space 2. (on a disk drive) a situation withfiles stored scattered across non-contiguoussectors on a hard disk

COMMENT: When a file is saved to disk, it isnot always saved in adjacent sectors. Thiswill increase the retrieval time. Defragmen-tation moves files back into adjacent sec-tors so that the read head does not have tomove far across the disk, so it increasesperformance.

frameframe /frem/ noun 1. a space on magnetictape for one character code 2. a packet oftransmitted data including control and routeinformation 3. (in animation, film or video)one single image within a sequence of differ-ent images that together show movement oranimation. Each frame is normally slightlydifferent from the previous one to give theimpression of movement. 4. (in an HTMLwebpage) a set of commands that allow themain window of a browser to be split intoseparate sections, each of which can bescrolled independently. This allows lots ofinformation to be presented clearly. � HTML

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frame-based animation 1045. (in communications) a standard unit of in-formation that contains a header with the des-tination address and sender’s address fol-lowed by the information and a trailer thatcontains error detection information 6. amovable, resizable box that holds text or animage 7. one screen of data 8. one individualshot in a film or the area it occupies in thecamera lens 9. one complete image displayedon a television screen (in the US this is madeup of 525 lines, in the UK it is 625 lines)frame-based animationframe-based animation /�frem besd��n |�meʃ(ə)n/ noun a series of screens dis-played in quick succession, each one slightlydifferent, that gives the impression of move-mentframe bufferframe buffer /�frem �b�fə/ noun a sec-tion of memory used to store an image beforeit is displayed on screenframe grabberframe grabber /�frem �"r�bə/ noun ahigh speed digital sampling circuit that storesa TV picture in memory so that it can then beprocessed by a computer. Also called grab-ber

‘…the frame grabber is distinguished by its abil-ity to acquire a TV image in a single frame inter-val’ [Electronics & Wireless World]

frame indexframe index /�frem �ndeks/ noun acounter used by the Microsoft Movie Playersoftware that identifies the current frame ofthe videoframes per secondframes per second /�fremz pə�sekənd/ noun full form of fpsframeworkframework /�fremw��k/ noun the basicstructure of a database, process or program �The program framework was designed first.framingframing /�fremŋ/ noun 1. the positioningof a camera’s field of view for a required im-age 2. the synchronisation of time divisionmultiplexed frames of dataframing bitframing bit /�fremŋ bt/ noun a sync bitor transmitted bit used to synchronise devicesframing codeframing code /�fremŋ kəυd/ noun amethod of synchronizing a receiver with abroadcast teletext stream of datafreefree /fri�/ adjective available for use or notcurrently being used � verb to erase, removeor back up programs or files to provide spacein memoryfreedomfreedom /�fri�dəm/ noun being free to dosomething without restrictionfreedom of informationfreedom of information /�fri�dəm əvnfə|�meʃ(ə)n/ noun the opportunity andability to examine computer records, ei-ther(referring to government activities orabout individuals)freewarefreeware /�fri�weə/ noun software that isin the public domain and can be used by any-one without having to payfreezefreeze /fri�z/ verb same as hang. � crash

freeze framefreeze frame /�fri�z frem/ noun a videosequence stopped so that only one frame isdisplayedfrequencyfrequency /�fri�kwənsi/ noun a number ofcycles or periods of a regular waveform thatare repeated per second (NOTE: The plural isfrequencies.)frequency equaliserfrequency equaliser /�fri�kwənsi�i�kwəlazə/ noun a device that changes theamplitude of various frequency componentsof a signal according to preset valuesfrequency modulationfrequency modulation /�fri�kwənsimɒdju|�leʃ(ə)n/ noun full form of FMfrequentfrequent /�fri�kwənt/ adjective whichcomes or goes or takes place oftenfrequentlyfrequently /�fri�kwəntli/ adverb oftenfrequently asked questionsfrequently asked questions/�fri�kwənt(ə)li ɑ�skd �kwestʃənz/ pluralnoun common questions and their answersrelating to a particular subject that are con-tained in a document � The website has asection for FAQ about the new disk drive.Abbr FAQfriction feedfriction feed /�frkʃ(ə)n fi�d/ noun a print-er mechanism where the paper is advancedby holding it between two rollers (as opposedto tractor feed)friendly front endfriendly front end /�frendli �fr�nt �end/noun the design of the display of a programthat is easy to use and understandfrontfront /fr�nt/ noun part of something whichfaces away from the back � The disks are in-serted in slots in the front of the terminal.front endfront end /�fr�nt �end/ adjective 1. locatedat the start or most important point of a cir-cuit or network 2. the visible part of an appli-cation that is seen by a user and is used toview and work with information � The pro-gram is very easy to use thanks to the uncom-plicated front-end.front-end processorfront-end processor /�fr�nt end�prəυsesə/ noun full form of FEPFSAAFSAA abbr full scene anti-aliasingFSKFSK abbr frequency shift keyingFTPFTP /�ef ti� �pi�/ noun an TCP/IP standardfor transferring files between computers; it isa file sharing protocol that operates at layers5, 6 and 7 of an OSI model network. Fullform file transfer protocolfullfull /fυl/ adjective 1. with as much inside aspossible � The disk is full, so the materialwill have to be stored on another disk. 2.complete or including everything

‘…transmitter and receiver can be operated inde-pendently, making full duplex communicationpossible’ [Electronics & Power]

full adderfull adder /�fυl ��də/ noun a binary addi-tion circuit which can produce the sum of twoinputs, and can also accept a carry input, pro-ducing a carry output if necessary

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105 FYIfull duplex

full duplex /�fυl �dju�pleks/ noun datatransmission down a channel in two direc-tions simultaneously. Abbr fd, FD, fdxfull-motion video

full-motion video /�fυl �məυʃ(ə)n�vdiəυ/ noun � fpsfull-motion video adapter

full-motion video adapter /�fυl�məυʃ(ə)n �vdiəυ ə|�d�ptə/ noun a compu-ter fitted with a digitising card that is fastenough to capture and display moving videoimages, at a rate of 25 or 30 frames per sec-ondfull scene anti-aliasing

full scene anti-aliasing /�fυl si�n ��nti�eliəsŋ/ noun a method of anti-aliasing acomplete frame of a video or animation rath-er than just one object, which requires pow-erful graphics hardware. Abbr FSAAfull-screen

full-screen /�fυl �skri�n/ adjective refer-ring to a program display that uses all theavailable screen, and is not displayed withina windowfully

fully /�fυli/ adverb completelyfully qualified domain name

fully qualified domain name /�fυli�kwɒlfad dəυ|�men �nem/ noun full formof FQDNfunction

function /�f�ŋkʃən/ noun 1. a mathemati-cal formula in which a result is dependentupon several other numbers 2. a sequence ofcomputer program instructions in a main pro-gram that perform a certain task 3. a specialfeature available on a computer or word-processor � The word-processor had a spell-ing-checker function but no built-in text-edit-ing function. � verb to operate or performcorrectly � The new system has not func-tioned properly since it was installed.functional

functional /�f�ŋkʃən(ə)l/ adjective whichrefers to the way something works

functional diagramfunctional diagram /�f�ŋkʃ(ə)nəl�daə"r�m/ noun a drawing of the internalworkings and processes of a machine orpiece of softwarefunctional specificationfunctional specification /�f�ŋkʃ(ə)nəl�spesf|�keʃ(ə)n/ noun a specificationwhich defines the results which a program isexpected to producefunction keyfunction key /�f�ŋkʃən ki�/ noun one ofseveral special keys placed along the top of aPC keyboard that have different uses accord-ing to different applications � Tags can be al-located to function keys.

COMMENT: Function keys often form a sep-arate group of keys on the keyboard, andhave specific functions attached to them.They may be labelled F1, F2, and so on.Most applications use the F1 key to displayhelp information and Alt-F4 to quit an appli-cation

fusefuse /fju�z/ noun an electrical protectiondevice consisting of a small piece of metal,which will melt when too much power passesthrough itfusionfusion /�fju�'(ə)n/ noun the process ofcombining two hardware devices or pro-grams or chemical substances to create a sin-gle formfuzzy logicfuzzy logic /�f�zi �lɒd'k/, fuzzy theory/�f�zi �θəri/ noun a type of logic applied tocomputer programming, which tries to repli-cate the reasoning methods of the humanbrainFYIFYI /�ef wa �a/ noun a document file thatcontains general background information re-lated to the Internet or the TCP/IP protocols.Full form for your information. � RFC(NOTE: Specific technical information is nor-mally contained in RFC documents.)

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GGG abbr giga-

COMMENT: In computing G refers to 230,equal to 1,073,741,824.

gaingain /"en/ noun 1. an increase or enlarge-ment 2. an amount by which a signal ampli-tude is changed as it passes through a circuit,usually given as a ratio of output to input am-plitude. Opposite attenuationgalactic noisegalactic noise /"ə|�l�ktk nɔz/ nounrandom electrical noise which originatesfrom planets and stars in spacegalley proofsgalley proofs /�"�li pru�fs/ plural nounproofs in the form of long pieces of text, notdivided into pages, printed on long pieces ofpapergamegame /"em/ noun something which isplayed for enjoyment or relaxationgame consolegame console /�"em �kɒnsəυl/ noun adedicated computer that is used primarily toplay games, designed to connect to a televi-sion set rather than a monitor and usuallycontrolled using a gamepad rather than a key-board and mouse. Also called games con-solegamepadgamepad /�"emp�d/ noun a device heldin the hand to control a computer gamegame portgame port /�"em pɔ�t/ noun a connectionthat allows a joystick to be plugged into acomputergammagamma /�"�mə/ noun 1. a unit of magneticintensity 2. a measurement of the degree ofcontrast in a television picture. For televisioncameras and receivers, the measurement isfound from the input and output voltage andthe light input or output. 3. a measure of thecontrast of a film emulsiongangedganged /"�ŋd/ adjective referring to me-chanically linked devices that are operated bya single actiongapgap /"�p/ noun 1. a space between record-ed data 2. a space between a read head andthe magnetic medium 3. a method of radiocommunications using a carrier signal that isswitched on and off, as in a telegraphic sys-temgarbagegarbage /�"ɑ�bd'/ noun 1. a radio inter-ference from adjacent channels 2. data or in-formation that is no longer required becauseit is out of date or contains errorsgarbage in garbage outgarbage in garbage out /�"ɑ�bd' n�"ɑ�bd' �aυt/ noun full form of GIGO

gas discharge displaygas discharge display /�"�s ds|

�tʃɑ�d' d|�sple/, gas plasma display/�"�s �pl�zmə d |�sple/ noun a flat, light-weight display screen that is made of two flatpieces of glass covered with a grid of conduc-tors, separated by a thin layer of a gas whichluminesces when one point of the grid is se-lected by two electric signals. Also calledplasma display

COMMENT: Mainly used in modern portablecomputer displays, but the definition is notas good as in cathode ray tube displays.

gategate /"et/ noun 1. a logical electronicswitch whose output depends on the states ofthe inputs and the type of logical function im-plemented 2. a mechanical film or slideframe aligner in a camera or projector 3. theaperture in which the frame is exposed orprojectedgatewaygateway /�"etwe/ noun 1. a device thatlinks two dissimilar networks � We use agateway to link the LAN to WAN. 2. a soft-ware protocol translation device that allowsusers working in one network to access an-other 3. a piece of software that allows emailmessages to be sent via a different route or toanother network � To send messages by faxinstead of across the network, you’ll need toinstall a fax gateway.gateway pagegateway page /�"etwe ped'/ noun thefirst webpage that a visitor to a website seesand the one that contains the key words andphrases that enable a search engine to find itgaugegauge /"ed'/ noun 1. a device whichmeasures thickness or width 2. a film or tapediameter, usually described in millimetres �verb to measure the thickness or width ofsomethinggaussgauss /"aυs/ noun a unit of magnetic in-ductiongauzegauze /"ɔ�z/ noun a material which istransparent or translucent and is used for spe-cial effects (film)Gb

Gb abbr gigabitGB

GB abbr gigabyteGDI

GDI abbr graphics device interfacegelgel /d'el/ noun a translucent sheet of col-oured plastic used to alter the colour charac-teristics of the source of light (film)gelatin filtergelatin filter /�d'el �fltə/, gel filter nouna sheet of coloured gelatin which is used with

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107 gigabytea camera to alter the colour of the source light(film)gender changergender changer /�d'endə �tʃend'ə/noun a device for changing a female connec-tion to a male or vice versa (informal)generalgeneral /�d'en(ə)rəl/ adjective 1. ordinaryor not special 2. dealing with everythinggeneral packet radio servicegeneral packet radio service/�d'en(ə)rəl �p�kt �rediəυ �s��vs/ nounfull form of GPRSgeneral protection faultgeneral protection fault /�d'en(ə)rəlprə|�tekʃən �fɔ�lt/ noun full form of GPFgeneral purpose interface busgeneral purpose interface bus/�d'en(ə)rəl �p��pəs �ntəfes �b�s/ nounfull form of GPIBgenerategenerate /�d'enə|�ret/ verb to use soft-ware or a device to produce codes or a pro-gram automatically � to generate an imagefrom digitally recorded datagenerationgeneration /�d'enə|�reʃ(ə)n/ noun 1. theprocess of producing data or software or pro-grams using a computer � The computer isused in the generation of graphic images. 2.the state or age of the technology used in thedesign of a system 3. the distance between afile and the original version, used when mak-ing backups � The father file is a first gener-ation backup.generation lossgeneration loss /�d'enə|�reʃ(ə)n lɒs/noun degradation of signal quality with eachsuccessive recording of a video or audio sig-nalgeneratorgenerator /�d'enə|�retə/ noun a devicewhich generates electricity � The computercentre has its own independent generator, incase of mains power failure.generator lockgenerator lock /�d'enə|�retə lɒk/ noun adevice that synchronises the timing signals oftwo video signals from different sources sothat they can be successfully combined ormixed. Also called genlock (NOTE: It is oftenused to synchronise the output of a compu-ter’s display adapter with an external videosource when using the computer to createoverlays or titling.)genericgeneric /d'ə |�nerk/ adjective that is com-patible with a whole family of hardware orsoftware devices from one manufacturergenlockgenlock /�d'enlɒk/ noun same as genera-tor lockgenuinegenuine /�d'enjun/ adjective real or cor-rect � Authentication allows the system torecognise that a sender’s message is genuine.geometric distortiongeometric distortion /�d'i�ə|�metrk d |

�stɔ�ʃ(ə)n/ noun linear distortion of a televi-sion picture, which can be caused by videotape speed fluctuationsgeometry processinggeometry processing /d'i�|�ɒmətri�prəυsesŋ/ noun a process required to cal-culate the x, y and z coordinates of a three-di-

mensional object that is to be displayed onscreen � Geometry processing is usually car-ried out by the CPU or by a specialisedgraphics processor.geostationary orbitgeostationary orbit/�d'i�əυsteʃ(ə)n(ə)ri �ɔ�bt/ noun a satel-lite which moves at the same velocity as theearth, so remains above the same area of theearth’s surface, and appears stationary whenviewed from earthgeostationary satellitegeostationary satellite /�d'i�əυ|

�steʃn(ə)ri �s�tə|�lat/ noun a satellitewhich moves at the same velocity as theearth, so remains above the same area of theearth’s surface, and appears stationary whenviewed from the earthgeotargetinggeotargeting /�d'i�əυ|�tɑ�"tŋ/ noun amethod of analysing what a visitor to yourwebsite is viewing or doing and deducing hisor her location, then displaying custom con-tent or advertisements accordingly � If awebsite visitor searches for the weather inSeattle, the intelligent geotargeting softwaredisplays banner advertisements from taxicompanies in Seattle.germaniumgermanium /d'|�reniəm/ noun a semi-conductor material, used as a substrate insome transistors instead of silicongetget /"et/ noun an instruction to obtain arecord from a file or databaseGET methodGET method /�"et �meθəd/ noun (inHTML for CGI access) a method of transfer-ring information between a webpage, whichuses the HTML form GET command, and aserver-based applicationghostghost /"əυst/ noun 1. a menu item dis-played in grey and not currently available 2.an effect on a television image in which aweaker copy of the picture is displayed to oneside of the main image, caused by signal re-flectionsghostingghosting /�"əυstŋ/ noun hazy double im-ages appearing in a picture (film)GHzGHz abbr gigahertzGIFGIF /"f/ a trade name for a graphics file for-mat of a file containing a bit-mapped image.Full form graphics interface formatGIF fileGIF file /�d'i� a �ef fal/ noun graphics fileformat of a file containing a bit-mapped im-agegiga-giga- /""ə/ prefix one thousand million.Abbr G

COMMENT: In computing giga refers to 230,which is equal to 1,073,741,824.

gigabitgigabit /�""əbt/ noun a unit of capacityof a computer local area network, equal toone megabyte of computer information or1,073,741,824 bits. Abbr Gbgigabytegigabyte /�""əbat/ noun 109 bytes. AbbrGB

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gigaflop 108gigaflopgigaflop /�""əflɒp/ noun one thousandmillion floating-point operations per secondgigahertzgigahertz /�""əh��ts/ noun a frequencyof one thousand million cycles per second.Abbr GHzGIGOGIGO /�"a"əυ/ noun the principle that theaccuracy and quality of information that isoutput depends on the quality of the input.Full form garbage in garbage out

COMMENT: GIGO is sometimes taken tomean ‘garbage in gospel out’: i.e. thatwhatever wrong information is put into acomputer, people will always believe thatthe output results are true.

GINOGINO /�d'i� a en �əυ/ noun a graphicalcontrol routine written in FORTRAN. Fullform graphical input outputGKSGKS /�d'i� ke �es/ noun a standard for soft-ware command and functions describinggraphical input/output to provide the samefunctions, etc. on any type of hardware. Fullform graphics kernel systemglareglare /"leə/ noun very bright light reflec-tions, especially on a VDU screen � Theglare from the screen makes my eyes hurt.glitchglitch /"ltʃ/ noun anything which causesthe sudden unexpected failure of a computeror equipment (informal)

‘The programmer was upgrading a verificationsystem at Visa’s UK data centre when his worktriggered a software glitch causing hundreds ofvalid cards to be rejected for several hours.’[Computing]

globalglobal /�"ləυb(ə)l/ adjective covering eve-rything

‘In an attempt to bring order to an electronicTower of Babel, pharmaceutical giant Rhone-Poulenc has assembled an X.400-based globalmessaging network and a patchwork directorysystem that will be used until a single email sys-tem is deployed worldwide.’ [Computing]

global backupglobal backup /�"ləυb(ə)l �b�k�p/ noun1. a backup of all data stored on all nodes orworkstations connected to a network 2. abackup of all files on a hard disk or file serverglobal system for mobile communicationsglobal system for mobile communi-cations /�"ləυb(ə)l �sstəm fə �məυbalkə|�mju�n|�keʃ(ə)nz/ noun full form ofGSMglossyglossy /�"lɒsi/ adjective shiny (paper) �The illustrations are printed on glossy art pa-per. � noun � the glossies expensive maga-zines (informal)GNDGND /�d'i� en �di�/ abbr groundgo aheadgo ahead /�"əυ ə|�hed/ noun a signal to in-dicate that a receiver or device is ready to ac-cept informationgoalgoal /"əυl/ noun 1. an aim or what you aretrying to do 2. the final state reached when atask has been finished or has produced satis-factory results

gobo

gobo /�"əυbəυ/ noun a moveable opaqueshield which is used to hide light between alamp and a camera lens (film)gold contactgold contact /�"əυld �kɒnt�kt/ noun anelectrical contact, usually for low-level sig-nals, that is coated with gold to reduce theelectrical resistancegolf-ballgolf-ball /�"ɒlf bɔ�l/ noun a metal ball withcharacters on its surface, which producesprinted characters by striking a ribbon ontopaperGoogleGoogle /�"u�"(ə)l/ a trade name for a pop-ular search engineGOSIPGOSIP /�"ɒsp/ noun a set of standards de-fined by the US Government to ensure thatcomputers and communications systems caninteract. Full form Government Open Sys-tems Interconnect ProfileGOSUB

GOSUB /�"əυs�b/ noun a programmingcommand which executes a routine then re-turns to the following instructionGOTOGOTO /�"əυtu�/ noun a programming com-mand which instructs a jump to another pointor routine in the program � GOTO 105 in-structs a jump to line 105.

COMMENT: GOTO statements are frownedupon by software experts since their usediscourages set, structured programmingtechniques.

go to blackgo to black /�"əυ tə �bl�k/ verb to fadegradually from an image to a dark or emptyscreenGouraud shading

Gouraud shading /�"u�rəυ �ʃedŋ/noun shading within a three-dimensionalscene created by a mathematical equationthat is applied to each side of each object andproduces a gradual change in colour to givethe impression of light and shadeGovernment Open Systems Interconnect ProfileGovernment Open Systems Inter-connect Profile /�"�v(ə)nmənt �əυpən�sstəm �ntəkənekt �prəυfal/ noun fullform of GOSIPGPFGPF /�d'i� pi� �ef/ noun an error conditionthat occurs in Microsoft Windows and causesan application to crash, usually caused by in-sufficient memory, by using an incompatibleperipheral or device driver or by an error in asoftware program. Full form general pro-tection faultGPIB

GPIB /�d'i� pi� a �bi�/ noun a standard foran interface bus between a computer and lab-oratory equipment. Full form general pur-pose interface busGPRS

GPRS /�d'i� pi� ɑ� �es/ noun a standard sys-tem for wireless radio and mobile telephonecommunications that is due to replace the ex-isting GSM system. Full form generalpacket radio service (NOTE: GPRS sup-ports high-speed data transfer rates of up to

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109 graphics file150Kbps compared to the GSM limit of9.6Kbps.)grabgrab /"r�b/ verb to take something andhold it

‘…sometimes a program can grab all the availa-ble memory, even if it is not going to use it’[Byte]

grabbergrabber /�"r�bə/ noun same as framegrabbergraceful degradationgraceful degradation /�"resf(ə)l�de"rə|�deʃ(ə)n/ noun the process of allow-ing some parts of a system to continue tofunction after a part has broken downgradegrade /"red/ noun a level or rank � a top-grade computer expertgradinggrading /�"redŋ/ noun 1. the process ofchoosing the colour and density printing val-ues needed for each scene on a negative 2. (inthe editing of videotapes) the process ofmatching colour balance between shotsgraduatedgraduated /�"r�d'uetd/ adjectivewhich has a scale or measurements markedon itgraduated filtergraduated filter /�"r�d'uetd �fltə/noun a coloured filter which has a colour onedge and gradually fades into a clear filter onthe other side of the filter (film)graingrain /"ren/ noun the molecular make-upof film emulsion. Fine grain film has verysmall particles that provide a very sharp,clear image.graininessgraininess /�"rennəs/ noun a collectionof visible silver particles which create a gran-ular effect on a film’s picture; the more visi-ble the particles are, the grainier the picturegrammagegrammage /�"r�md'/ noun the weight ofpaper, calculated as grams per square metre(NOTE: usually shown as gsm: 80 gsm pa-per)grammargrammar /�"r�mə/ noun a set of rules forthe correct use of a languagegrammar checkergrammar checker /�"r�mə �tʃekə/ nouna software utility used to check a documentor letter to make sure it is grammatically cor-rectgrammatical errorgrammatical error /"rə|�m�tk(ə)l �erə/noun an incorrect use of a computer pro-gramming language syntaxgrandfather filegrandfather file /�"r�nfɑ�ðə fal/ nounthe third most recent version of a backed upfile, after father and son filesgranularitygranularity /�"r�njυ |�l�rti/ noun the sizeof memory segments in a virtual memorysystemgraphgraph /"rɑ�f/ noun a diagram showing therelationship between two or more variablesas a line or series of pointsgraphicgraphic /�"r�fk/ adjective referring torepresentation of information in the form ofpictures or plots instead of by text

graphicalgraphical /�"r�fkl/ adjective referring tosomething represented by graphicsgraphical input outputgraphical input output /�"r�fkl �npυt�aυtpυt/ noun full form of GINOgraphicallygraphically /�"r�fkli/ adverb by usingpictures � The sales figures are graphicallyrepresented as a pie chart.graphical user interfacegraphical user interface /�"r�fkl�ju�zə �ntəfes/ noun full form of GUIgraphic datagraphic data /�"r�fk �detə/ noun storeddata that represents graphical informationwhen displayed on a screengraphic displaygraphic display /�"r�fk d |�ple/ noun acomputer screen able to present graphical in-formationgraphic display resolutiongraphic display resolution /�"r�fk d|

�sple �rezəlu�ʃ(ə)n/ noun the number ofpixels that a computer is able to display onthe screengraphic languagegraphic language /�"r�fk �l�ŋ"wd'/noun a computer programming languagewith inbuilt commands that are useful whendisplaying graphicsgraphic objectgraphic object /�"r�fk �ɒbd'ekt/ nouna small graphic image imported from anotherdrawing application and placed on a page(NOTE: In most DTP, paint or drawing pack-ages, the object can be moved, sized andpositioned independently from the other el-ements on the page.)graphicsgraphics /�"r�fks/ noun pictures or lineswhich can be drawn on paper or on a screento represent information � graphics outputsuch as bar charts, pie charts, line drawings,etc.graphics acceleratorgraphics accelerator /�"r�fks ək|

�seləretə/ noun a card that fits inside a com-puter and uses a dedicated processor chip tospeed up the action of drawing lines and im-ages on the screengraphics adaptergraphics adapter /�"r�fks ə|�d�ptə/noun an electronic device, usually on an ex-pansion card, in a computer that convertssoftware commands into electrical signalsthat display graphics on a connected monitor� The new graphics adapter is capable ofdisplaying higher resolution graphics.graphics charactergraphics character /�"r�fks �k�rktə/noun a preprogrammed shape that can be dis-played on a non-graphical screen instead of acharacter, used extensively in videotext sys-tems to display simple picturesgraphics coprocessorgraphics coprocessor /�"r�fks kəυ|

�prəυsesə/ noun same as graphics proces-sorgraphics filegraphics file /�"r�fks fal/ noun a bina-ry file which contains data describing an im-age � There are many standards for graphicsfiles including TIFF, IMG and EPS.

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graphics file format 110graphics file formatgraphics file format /�"r�fks fal�fɔ�m�t/ noun a method in which data de-scribing an image is storedgraphics interface formatgraphics interface format /�"r�fks�ntəfes �fɔ�m�t/ noun full form of GIFgraphics kernel systemgraphics kernel system /�"r�fks�k��n(ə)l �sstəm/ noun full form of GKSgraphics librarygraphics library /�"r�fks �labr(ə)ri/noun a number of routines stored in a libraryfile that can be added to any user program tosimplify the task of writing graphics pro-gramsgraphics light pengraphics light pen /�"r�fks �lat �pen/noun a high-accuracy light pen used fordrawing onto a graphics display screengraphics modegraphics mode /�"r�fks məυd/ noun avideotext terminal whose displayed charac-ters are taken from a range of graphics char-acters instead of textgraphics overlay cardgraphics overlay card /�"r�fks�əυvəle �kɑ�d/ noun an expansion card for aPC or Apple Mac that combines generatedtext or images with an external video sourcegraphics padgraphics pad /�"r�fks p�d/ noun sameas graphics tabletgraphics primitivegraphics primitive /�"r�fks �prmtv/noun a basic shape such as an arc, line orfilled square that is used to create othershapes or objectsgraphics printergraphics printer /�"r�fks �prntə/ nouna printer capable of printing bit-mapped im-agesgraphics processorgraphics processor /�"r�fks�prəυsesə/ noun a secondary processor usedto speed up the display of graphics � Thisgraphics adapter has a graphics coprocessorfitted and is much faster. Also called graph-ics coprocessor (NOTE: It calculates theposition of pixels that form a line or shapeand display graphic lines or shapes.)graphics softwaregraphics software /�"r�fks �sɒftweə/noun prewritten routines which performstandard graphics commands such as linedrawing and plotting that can be called fromwithin a program to simplify program writ-inggraphics tabletgraphics tablet /�"r�fks �t�blət/ nouna flat device which allows a user to inputgraphical information into a computer bydrawing on its surface � It is much easier todraw accurately with a graphics tablet thanwith a mouse. Also called graphics padgraphics terminalgraphics terminal /�"r�fks�t��mn(ə)l/ noun a special terminal with ahigh-resolution graphic display and graphicstablet or other input devicegraphics VDUgraphics VDU /�"r�fks �vi� di� �ju�/noun a special VDU which can display high-resolution or colour graphics as well as text

gray scalegray scale /�"re skel/ noun US anotherspelling of grey scalegreekedgreeked /"ri�kd/ adjective (in a DTP pro-gram) referring to a font with a point size toosmall to display accurately, shown as a linerather than individual charactersGreen BookGreen Book /�"ri�n �bυk/ noun a formalspecification for CD-i standard published byPhilipsgremlingremlin /�"remln/ noun an unexplainedfault in a system (informal)grey scalegrey scale /�"re skel/ noun 1. the shadesof grey used to measure the correct exposurewhen filming 2. the shades which are pro-duced from displaying what should be colourinformation on a monochrome monitor(NOTE: The US spelling is gray scale.)gridgrid /"rd/ noun a system of numberedsquares used to help when drawinggripgrip /"rp/ verb to hold something tightly �In friction feed, the paper is gripped by therollers.groundground /"raυnd/ noun an electrical circuitconnection to earth or to a point with a zerovoltage level. Abbr GND (NOTE: ground ismore common in US English; the BritishEnglish is earth)ground glassground glass /�"raυnd �"lɑ�s/ noun atranslucent sheet of glass (which has beenetched on one side) on which an image isseen in a film camera’s viewfinder (film)groupgroup /"ru�p/ noun 1. a set of computerrecords containing related information 2. asix-character word used in telegraphic com-munications 3. (in a GUI) a collection oficons, of files or programs displayed togetherin a window � All the icons in this group areto do with painting. 4. (in a network) a col-lection of users conveniently identified byone name � The group ACCOUNTS containsall the users who work in the accounts de-partment. 5. a collection of objects that canbe moved or resized as a single object; (in aGUI) collection of icons of files or programsdisplayed together in a window � All theicons in this group are to do with painting. 6.a single communications channel made upfrom a number of others that have been mul-tiplexed together � verb to bring severalthings togethergroupwaregroupware /�"ru�pweə/ noun softwarespecially written to be used by a group ofpeople connected to a network and help themcarry out a particular task (NOTE: It providesuseful functions such as a diary or emailthat can be accessed by all users.)gsmgsm, g/m² noun a way of showing theweight of paper used in printing � The bookis printed on 70 gsm coated paper. Full formgrams per square metre (per sheet

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111 G/VGSMGSM /�d'i� es �em/ noun a popular systemused for wireless cellular telephone commu-nications throughout Europe, Asia and partsof North America. Full form global systemfor mobile communications. � GPRS

COMMENT: The GSM system allows eightcalls to share the same radio frequencyand carries the digital data that representsvoice signals transmitted by each user’stelephone. The main drawback of GSM isthat it does not offer very fast data transferrates which has become more important asusers want to access the Internet and reademail via a mobile telephone connection.GSM provides data transfer at up to9.6Kbps, but it is due to be replaced by theGPRS system that can support high-speeddata transfer at up to 150Kbps.

guaranteeguarantee /�"�rən|�ti�/ noun a legal docu-ment promising that a machine will workproperly or that an item is of good quality �The system is still under guarantee and willbe repaired free of charge.guard bandguard band /�"ɑ�d b�nd/ noun 1. a sec-tion of magnetic tape between two channelsrecorded on the same tape 2. the frequencygap between two communication bands toprevent data corruption due to interferencebetween each otherguardingguarding /�"ɑ�dŋ/ noun the process ofjoining a single sheet to a book or magazineGUIGUI /�"u�i/ noun an interface between an op-erating system or program and the user thatuses graphics or icons to represent functionsor files and allow the software to be control-led more easily. Full form graphical userinterface. Compare command line inter-face

COMMENT: GUIs normally use a combina-tion of windows, icons, and a mouse tocontrol the operating system. In manyGUIs, such as Microsoft Windows and theApple Mac System, you can control all thefunctions of the operating system just usingthe mouse. Icons represent programs andfiles; instead of entering the file name, youselect it by moving a pointer with a mouse.

guide barguide bar /�"ad bɑ�/ noun a special line ina bar code that shows either the start or thefinish of the code � The standard guide barsare two thin lines that are a little longer thanthe coding lines.guide pathguide path /�"ad pɑ�θ/ noun in audio andvideo recorders, the posts and mechanicalguides that ensure that the tape follows thecorrect path (film)guide trackguide track /�"ad tr�k/ noun a soundtrack of low quality which is recorded withthe picture only as a guide for post synchro-nisation (film)guillotineguillotine /�"ləti�n/ noun an office ma-chine for cutting papergulpgulp /"�lp/ noun a group of words, usuallytwo bytes. � byte, nybblegungun /"�n/ noun same as electron gungun microphonegun microphone /�"�n �makrəfəυn/noun a highly directional microphone, alsocalled a rifle microphone, often mounted ona rifle stock that allows it to be easily aimedat the source of the sound (film)guttergutter /�"�tə/ noun (in a DTP system) ablank space or inner margin between two fac-ing pagesG/VG/V noun the process of establishing a filmor video shot (film) Full form general view

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Hhackhack /h�k/ verb 1. to experiment and ex-plore computer software and hardware 2. tobreak into a computer system for criminalpurposeshackerhacker /�h�kə/ noun a person who hacks

‘The two were also charged with offences underthe Computer Misuse Act and found guilty of thevery actions upon which every hacker is intent.’[Computing]

hair in the gatehair in the gate /�heər n ðə �"et/ nounhair-shaped particles visible on the edge offilm images after the development process(film)hairline rulehairline rule /�heəlan ru�l/ noun (in aDTP system) a very thin linehalationhalation /hə |�leʃ(ə)n/ noun a photographiceffect seen as a dark region with a very brightsurround, caused by pointing the camera intothe lighthalfhalf /hɑ�f/ noun one of two equal parts �Half the data was lost in transmission.half duplexhalf duplex /�hɑ�f �dju�pleks/ noun fullform of HDhalf-intensityhalf-intensity /�hɑ�f n|�tensti/ adjectivereferring to a character or graphics display athalf the usual display brightnesshalftonehalftone /�hɑ�ftəυn/ adjective 1. continu-ous shading of a printed area 2. grey shadehalf way between white and black � noun aphotograph or image that originally had con-tinuous tones, displayed or printed by a com-puter using groups of dots to represent thetoneshalidehalide /�helad/ noun a silver compoundthat is used to provide a light-sensitive coat-ing on photographic film and paperHall effectHall effect /�hɔ�l |�fekt/ noun a descriptionof the effect of a magnetic field on electronflowhalohalo /�heləυ/ noun a photographic effectseen as a dark region with a very bright linearound it, caused by pointing the camera intothe lighthalthalt /hɔ�lt/ noun a computer instruction tostop a CPU carrying out any further instruc-tions until restarted, or until the program isrestarted, usually by external means, e.g. a re-set button � verb to stop � Hitting CTRL Swill halt the program.Hamming codeHamming code /�h�mŋ kəυd/ noun acoding system that uses check bits andchecksums to detect and correct errors in

transmitted data, mainly used in teletext sys-temshand-heldhand-held /�h�nd held/ adjective whichcan be held in the hand

‘A year ago the hand-held computer business re-sembled that of PCs a decade ago, with a largenumber of incompatible models, often softwareincompatible and using proprietary displays, op-erating systems and storage media.’ [Computing]

hand-held computerhand-held computer /�h�nd held kəm|

�pju�tə/, hand-held programmable/�h�nd held �prəυ"r�məb(ə)l/ noun a verysmall computer which can be held in thehand, useful for basic information input,when a terminal is not availablehand-held scannerhand-held scanner /�h�nd held�sk�nə/ noun a device that is held in yourhand and contains a row of photo-electriccells which, when moved over an image, con-vert it into data which can be manipulated bya computerH & JH & J /�etʃ ənd �d'e/ noun the process ofjustifying lines to a set width, splitting thelong words correctly at the end of each line.Full form hyphenation and justificationhandlehandle /�h�nd(ə)l/ noun 1. (in program-ming) number used to identify an active filewithin the program that is accessing the file2. (in a GUI) a small square displayed thatcan be dragged to change the shape of a win-dow or graphical object � To stretch the boxin the DTP program, select it once to displaythe handles then drag one handle to changeits shape.handlerhandler /�h�ndlə/ noun a part of an oper-ating system software or a special softwareroutine which controls a device or function �The scanner handler routines are supplied ondisk. � driverhand offhand off /�h�nd ɒf/ noun the process ofpassing control of a communications channelfrom one transmitter to anotherhandsethandset /�h�ndset/ noun a telephone re-ceiver, with both microphone and loudspeak-er. � acoustic couplerhandshakehandshake /�h�n(d)|�ʃek/, handshak-ing noun a set of standardised signals be-tween two devices to make sure that the sys-tem is working correctly, the equipment iscompatible and data transfer is correct (NOTE:Signals would include ready to receive,ready to transmit and data OK.)

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113 hardware reliabilityhandwritinghandwriting /�h�ndratŋ/ noun wordswritten by hand � the new PDA has excellenthandwriting recognitionhandwriting recognitionhandwriting recognition /�h�ndratŋ�rekə"nʃ(ə)n/ noun software that is capableof recognising handwritten text and convert-ing it into ASCII characters � The new PDAhas excellent handwriting recognition.handwrittenhandwritten /�h�nd|�rt(ə)n/ adjectivewritten by hand, using a pen or pencil, nottyped � The author sent in two hundred pag-es of handwritten manuscript.

‘…all acquisition, data reduction, processing,and memory circuitry is contained in the singlehand-held unit’ [Byte]‘A year ago the hand-held computer business re-sembled that of PCs a decade ago, with a largenumber of incompatible models, often softwareincompatible and using proprietary displays, op-erating systems and storage media’ [Computing]‘…if a line is free, the device waits another400ms before reserving the line with a quickhandshake process’ [Practical Computing]

handy talkieshandy talkies /�h�ndi �tɔ�kis/ pluralnoun full form of HThanghang /h�ŋ/ verb to enter an endless loopand not respond to further instruction (NOTE:hung)hangoverhangover /�h�ŋəυvə/ noun 1. a suddentone change on a document that is transmit-ted over a fax machine as a gradual change,caused by equipment faults 2. an effect on aTV screen where the previous image can stillbe seen when the next image appearshang uphang up /�h�ŋ ��p/ verb to cut off a com-munications linehanguphangup /�h�ŋ�p/ noun a sudden stop of aworking program, often caused by the CPUexecuting an illegal instruction or entering anendless loophardhard /hɑ�d/ adjective 1. referring to parts ofa computer system that cannot be pro-grammed or altered 2. high contrast (photo-graphic paper or film)hardboundhardbound /�hɑ�dbaυnd/ adjective (of abook) with a hard cased cover, as opposed toa paperbackhard copyhard copy /�hɑ�d �kɒpi/ noun a printeddocument or copy of information containedin a computer or system, in a form that isreadable. � soft copyhardcoverhardcover /�hɑ�dk�və/ noun, adjectiveversion of a book with a cased binding (asopposed to paperback) � We printed 4,000copies of the hardcover edition, and 10,000of the paperback.hard diskhard disk /�hɑ�d �dsk/ noun a rigid mag-netic disk that is able to store many timesmore data than a floppy disk, and usuallycannot be removed from the disk drive

hard disk drive

hard disk drive /�hɑ�d �dsk �drav/ nouna unit used to store and retrieve data from aspinning hard disk on the commands of acomputer. Abbr HDD. Also called harddrivehard drivehard drive /�hɑ�d drav/ noun same ashard disk drivehard errorhard error /�hɑ�d �erə/ noun an errorwhich is permanent in a systemhard hyphen

hard hyphen /�hɑ�d �haf(ə)n/ noun a hy-phen which is always in a word, even if theword is not split (as in co-administrator). �discretionary hyphenhard reset

hard reset /�hɑ�d �ri�set/ noun a switchthat generates an electrical signal to reset theCPU and all devices, equivalent to turning acomputer off and back on againhard returnhard return /�hɑ�d r|�t��n/ noun a code ina word-processing document that indicatesthe end of a paragraph or its characteristicshard-sectoringhard-sectoring /�hɑ�d �sektərŋ/ noun amethod of permanently formatting a disk,where each track is split into sectors, some-times preformatted by a series of punchedholes around the central hub, where eachhole marks the start of sectorhardwarehardware /�hɑ�d|�weə/ noun 1. the physi-cal units, components, integrated circuits,disks and mechanisms that make up a com-puter or its peripherals 2. equipment used onset or location

‘Seuqent’s Platform division will focus on hard-ware and software manufacture, procurement andmarketing, with the Enterprise division concen-trating on services and client-server implementa-tion.’ [Computing]

hardware compatibilityhardware compatibility /�hɑ�dweəkəm |�p�tə|�blti/ noun architecture of twodifferent computers that allows one to run theprograms of the other without changing anydevice drivers or memory locations, or theability of one to use the add-on boards of theotherhardware configurationhardware configuration /�hɑ�dweəkən|�f"jə|�reʃ(ə)n/ noun a way in which thehardware of a computer system is connectedtogetherhardware graphics cursor

hardware graphics cursor /�hɑ�dweə�"r�fks �k��sə/ noun an electronic compo-nent that is used to calculate the position onscreen of a pointer, according to the move-ment of a mouse, and display the pointerhardware platformhardware platform /�hɑ�dweə�pl�tfɔ�m/ noun the standard of a particularcomputer such as IBM PC or Apple Machardware reliabilityhardware reliability /�hɑ�dweə r|�laə|

�blti/ noun the ability of a piece of hard-ware to function normally over a period oftime

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hardwired connection 114hardwired connectionhardwired connection /�hɑ�dwaəd kə|

�nekʃ(ə)n/ noun 1. a permanent phone lineconnection, rather than a plug and socket 2. alogical function or program, which is builtinto the hardware, using electronic devices,such as gates, rather than in softwareharmonicharmonic /hɑ�|�mɒnk/ noun frequency ofan order of magnitude greater or smaller thana fundamentalharmonic distortionharmonic distortion /�hɑ�mɒnk d|

�stɔ�ʃ(ə)n/ noun unwanted harmonics pro-duced by a non-linear circuit from an inputsignalharmonic telephone ringerharmonic telephone ringer/�hɑ�mɒnk �telfəυn �rŋə/ noun a tele-phone that will only detect a certain range ofringing frequencies, this allows many tele-phones on a single line to be rung individual-lyhashhash /h�ʃ/ verb to produce a uniquenumber derived from the entry itself, for eachentry in a databasehashmarkhashmark /�h�ʃmɑ�k/, hash mark /�h�ʃmɑ�k/ noun a printed sign ( # ) used as a hardcopy marker or as an indicator. Also calledhash

COMMENT: The US term is pound sign. InUS usage # means number; #32 = number32 (e.g. a flat number in a postal address,paragraph number in a text).

hazardhazard /�h�zəd/ noun a fault in hardwaredue to incorrect signal timinghazehaze /hez/ noun same as fogginghaze filterhaze filter /�hez �fltə/, haze-cutting fil-ter /�hez �k�tŋ �fltə/ noun a lens filterwhich cuts out ultraviolet light and reduceshaziness (film)HCIHCI abbr host controller interfaceHDHD /�etʃ �di�/ noun data transmission in onedirection only, over a bidirectional channel.Full form half duplexHDDHDD abbr hard disk driveHDLCHDLC abbr high-level data link controlHDTVHDTV abbr high definition televisionHDXHDX abbr half duplexheadhead /hed/ noun 1. data that indicates thestart address of a list of items stored in mem-ory 2. a top edge of a book or of a page 3. thestart of a reel of recording tape 4. the top partof a device, network or body 5. an adjustablemounting for a camera on its tripod 6. thestart of a reel of photographic film or record-ing tape � verb to be the first item of data ina list � The queue was headed by my file.head endhead end /�hed end/ noun interconnectionequipment between an antenna and a cabletelevision networkheaderheader /�hedə/ noun 1. (in a local area net-work) a packet of data that is sent before atransmission to provide information on desti-

nation and routing 2. information at the be-ginning of a list of data relating to the rest ofthe data 3. a section of words at the top of apage of a document, giving e.g. the title, au-thor’s name or page number. Also calledheading. � footerheadingheading /�hedŋ/ noun 1. the title or nameof a document or file 2. a header or section ofwords at the top of each page of a document.Also called headline 3. the title for a pagewithin a multimedia bookheadlifeheadlife /�hedlaf/ noun the length of timethat a video or tape head can work before be-ing serviced or replacedheadlineheadline /�hedlan/ noun same as head-inghead wheelhead wheel /�hed wi�l/ noun a wheel thatkeeps video tape in contact with the headheadwordheadword /�hedw��d/ noun the main entryword in a printed dictionaryheapheap /hi�p/ noun a temporary data storagearea that allows random access. Comparestackheat-absorbing filterheat-absorbing filter /�hi�t əb|�zɔ�bŋ�fltə/, heat filter /�hi�t �fltə/ noun a filterthat is able to reflect or absorb infrared radi-ation; used in projectors to reduce the amountof heat on a filmheat-sinkheat-sink /�hi�t sŋk/ noun a metal deviceused to conduct heat away from an electroniccomponent to prevent damagehelical scanhelical scan /�helk(ə)l �sk�n/ noun amethod of storing data on magnetic tape inwhich the write head stores data in diagonalstrips rather than parallel with the tape edgeso using the tape area more efficiently and al-lowing more data to be recorded. It is usedmost often in video tape recorders.helios noisehelios noise /�hi�liɒs nɔz/ noun noiseoriginating from the sun that is picked up byan earth- based antenna when it points in thedirection of the sunhelphelp /help/ noun 1. anything which makes iteasier to do something � He finds his word-processor a great help in the office. 2. a func-tion in a program or system that provides use-ful information about the program in use �Hit the HELP key if you want informationabout what to do next.

COMMENT: Most software applications forIBM PCs have standardised the use of theF1 function key to display help text explain-ing how something can be done.

help deskhelp desk /�help desk/ noun a service thatprovides technical help and support for peo-ple using a computer package or networkhelper applicationhelper application /�helpə��plkeʃ(ə)n/ noun software which workswith a web browser to increase the function-ality of the browser � To view Adobe Acrobat

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115 high fidelitypages in your web browser you will need toget the Adobe helper application.help screenhelp screen /�help skri�n/ noun a displayof information about a program or functionhertzhertz /h��ts/ noun an SI unit of frequency,defined as the number of cycles per second oftime. Abbr Hz

COMMENT: Hertz rate is the frequency atwhich mains electricity is supplied to theconsumer . The hertz rate in the US andCanada is 60; in Europe it is 50.

heterogeneous networkheterogeneous network/�hetərəυd'i�niəs �netw��k/ noun a compu-ter network joining computers of many dif-ferent types and makesheuristicheuristic /hjυə|�rstk/ adjective whichlearns from past experiences � A heuristicprogram learns from its previous actions anddecisions.Hewlett PackardHewlett Packard /�hewlət �p�kɑ�d/manufacturer of computers, test equipmentand printers. Abbr HPHewlett Packard Graphics LanguageHewlett Packard Graphics Lan-guage /�hewlət �p�kɑ�d �"r�fks�l�ŋ"wd'/ a standard set of commands usedto describe graphics. Abbr HPGLHewlett Packard Interface BusHewlett Packard Interface Bus/�hewlət �p�kɑ�d �ntəfes b�s/ a standardmethod of interfacing peripheral devices ortest equipment and computers. Abbr HPIBHewlett Packard LaserJetHewlett Packard LaserJet /�hewlət�p�kɑ�d �lezəd'et/ a trade name for a laserprinter manufactured by Hewlett Packardthat uses its PCL language to describe a page.Also called LaserJetHewlett Packard Printer Control LanguageHewlett Packard Printer ControlLanguage /�hewlət �p�kɑ�d �prntə kən |

�trəυl �l�ŋ"wd'/ a standard set of com-mands developed by Hewlett Packard to al-low a software application to control a laserprinter’s functions. Abbr HP-PCLHFHF noun a radio communications range offrequencies between 3 MHz and 30 MHz.Full form high frequencyHFSHFS /�etʃ ef �es/ noun (in an Apple Macsystem) a method used to store and organisefiles on a disk. Full form hierarchical filingsystemHi-8Hi-8 /�ha �et/ noun a video cassette tapeformat that uses 8mm wide tape; mostly usedin camcordershiddenhidden /�hd(ə)n/ adjective which cannotbe seenhidden fileshidden files /�hd(ə)n falz/ plural nounimportant system files which are not dis-played in a directory listing and cannot nor-mally be read by a user � It allows users tobackup or restore hidden files independently.hidden line algorithmhidden line algorithm /�hd(ə)n lan��l"ərð(ə)m/ noun a mathematical formula

that removes hidden lines from a two-dimen-sional computer image of a 3-D objecthierarchical classificationhierarchical classification /haə|

�rɑ�kk(ə)l �kl�sf |�keʃ(ə)n/ noun a libraryclassification system where the list of sub-jects is divided down into more and more se-lective subsetshierarchical communications systemhierarchical communications sys-tem /�haərɑ�kk(ə)l kə|�mju�n|�keʃ(ə)nz�sstəm/ noun a network in which eachbranch has a number of separate minorbranches dividing from ithierarchical computer networkhierarchical computer network/�haərɑ�kk(ə)l kəm |�pju�tə �netw��k/noun a method of allocating control andprocessing functions in a network to the com-puters which are most suited to the taskhierarchical databasehierarchical database /�haərɑ�kk(ə)l�detəbes/ noun a database in whichrecords can be related to each other in a de-fined structurehierarchical directoryhierarchical directory /�haərɑ�kk(ə)lda |�rekt(ə)ri/ noun a directory listing offiles on a disk, showing the main directoryand its files, branches and any sub-directorieshierarchical filing systemhierarchical filing system/�haərɑ�kk(ə)l �falŋ �sstəm/ noun fullform of HFShierarchical routinghierarchical routing /�haərɑ�kk(ə)l�ru�tŋ/ noun a method of directing networktraffic over a complex network by breakingdown the structure of the network into sepa-rate levels, each level being responsible fordirecting traffic within its area � The Internethas a three-level hierarchical routing systemin which the backbones can direct traffic fromone Mid-level to another, the mid-levels candirect traffic from one server site to anotherand each server site can direct traffic inter-nally.hierarchical vector quantisationhierarchical vector quantisation/�haərɑ�kk(ə)l �vektə �kwɒntazeʃ(ə)n/noun full form of HVQhi fihi fi, hifi noun the accurate reproduction ofaudio signals by equipment such as a recordplayer and amplifier. Full form high fidelityhighhigh /ha/ adjective large or very greathigh definition televisionhigh definition television /�ha�defnʃ(ə)n �tel |�v'(ə)n/ noun a broadcasttelevision standard that displays images at adifferent aspect ratio and with much betterdefinition than existing television sets. AbbrHDTV (NOTE: There are six standards: alldisplay 16:9 aspect ratio images, three sup-port a resolution of 1920x1080 pixels, threesupport 1280x720.)high fidelityhigh fidelity /�ha f |�deləti/ noun verygood quality sound, usually stereo sound re-corded in 16 bits at a sample rate of 44.1 KHz

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high fidelity system 116high fidelity systemhigh fidelity system /�ha f|�delti�sstəm/ noun high-quality equipment forplaying records or compact discs or tapes orfor listening to the radio (tape recorder, turn-table, amplifier and speakers). � hi fihigh-level data link controlhigh-level data link control /�ha�lev(ə)l �detə lŋk kən|�trəυl/ noun an ISOstandard that provides a link-layer protocoland defines how data is formatted before be-ing transmitted over a synchronous network.Abbr HLDLChigh-level languagehigh-level language /�ha �lev(ə)l�l�ŋ"wd'/, high-level programming lan-guage /�ha �lev(ə)l �prəυ"r�mŋ�l�ŋ"wd'/ noun a computer programminglanguage which is easy to learn and allowsthe user to write programs using words andcommands that are easy to understand andlook like English words. Abbr HLL (NOTE:The program is then translated into ma-chine code, with one HLL instruction oftenrepresenting more than one machine codeinstruction.)highlighthighlight /�halat/ verb 1. to make part ofthe text stand out from the rest � The head-ings are highlighted in bold. 2. to select anobject or text by dragging the pointer acrossit; when text is highlighted it normally ap-pears inverted (white on a black background)high memoryhigh memory /�ha �mem(ə)ri/ noun (inan IBM PC) a memory area between 640 Kband 1 Mbhigh memory areahigh memory area /�ha �mem(ə)ri�eəriə/ noun (in an IBM PC) the first 64 Kbof extended memory above 1 Mb that can beused by MS-DOS programs. Abbr HMAhigh performance filing systemhigh performance filing system /�hapə|�fɔ�məns �falŋ �sstəm/ noun full formof HPFShigh-resolutionhigh-resolution /�ha �rezə|�lu�ʃ(ə)n/,high-res /�ha �rez/ noun the ability to dis-play or detect a very large number of pixelsper unit area. Also called hi-reshigh resolution graphicshigh resolution graphics /�ha�rezəlu�ʃ(ə)n �"r�fks/ noun full form ofHRGhigh Sierra specificationhigh Sierra specification /�ha si |�erə�spesf|�keʃ(ə)n/ noun an industry standardmethod of storing data on a CD-ROM dischigh-spechigh-spec /�ha �spek/ plural noun havinga high specification � High-spec cablingneeds to be very carefully handled.high specificationhigh specification /�ha �spesf|

�keʃ(ə)n/ noun a high degree of accuracy ora large number of featureshigh-speedhigh-speed /�ha spi�d/ adjective whichoperates faster than normal data transmissionor processinghigh-techhigh-tech /ha �tek/ adjective technologi-cally advanced

highwayhighway /�hawe/ noun same as bushi-reshi-res /�ha �rez/ noun same as high-res-olutionhisshiss /hs/ noun high-frequency noise mixedwith a signalhistogramhistogram /�hstə"r�m/ noun a graph onwhich values are represented as vertical orhorizontal barshistoryhistory /�hst(ə)ri/ noun a feature of someapplications that keeps a log of the actions auser has carried out, the places within a hy-pertext document visited or the sites on theInternet exploredhithit /ht/ noun a successful match or searchof a database � verb to press a key � To savethe text, hit ESCAPE S. (NOTE: hitting – hit)HLDLCHLDLC abbr high-level data link controlHLLHLL abbr high-level languageHMAHMA abbr high memory areaHMIHMI abbr human-machine interfaceHMS time formatHMS time format /�etʃ �em �es tam�fɔ�m�t/ noun a system used by MCI to ex-press time in hours, minutes and seconds –normally used only for videodisc devices. �MCIholdhold /həυld/ noun synchronisation timingpulse for a television time base signal

COMMENT: The hold feature keeps the pic-ture steady and central on the screen.Some televisions have horizontal and ver-tical hold controls to allow the picture to bemoved and set up according to variousconditions.

holdupholdup /�hɒld�p/ noun 1. a time periodover which power will be supplied by a UPS2. a pause in a program or device due to amalfunctionholehole /həυl/ noun a punched gap in apunched paper tape or card, representing datahologramhologram /�hɒlə|�"r�m/ noun an imagi-nary three-dimensional image produced bythe interference pattern when a part of a co-herent light source, e.g. a laser, is reflectedfrom an object and mixed with the mainbeamholographholograph /�hɒlə"rɑ�f/ noun a handwrit-ten manuscript, as written by the author usinga pen or pencil, but not typedholographic imageholographic image /�hɒlə"r�fk�md'/ noun a hologram of a three-dimen-sional objectholographic storageholographic storage /�hɒlə"r�fk�stɔ�rd'/ noun storage of data as a holo-graphic image which is then read by a bankof photocells and a laser (NOTE: This is astorage medium with massive storage po-tential.)holographyholography /hɒ|�lɒ"rəfi/ noun the scienceand study of holograms and their manufac-ture

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117 hotspothomehome /həυm/ noun 1. a place where a per-son lives 2. a starting point or the initial pointhome bankinghome banking /�həυm �b�ŋkŋ/ noun amethod of examining and carrying out banktransactions in the user’s home via a terminaland modemhome computerhome computer /�həυm kəm |�pju�tə/noun a microcomputer designed for homeuse, whose applications might include teach-ing, games, personal finance and word-processinghome consumptionhome consumption /�həυm kən|

�s�mpʃən/ noun the use of something in thehomehome keyhome key /�həυm ki�/ noun a key on anIBM PC keyboard that moves the cursor tothe beginning of a line of texthome pagehome page /�həυm ped'/ noun the open-ing page of a websitehominghoming /�həυmŋ/ noun location of thesource of a transmitted signal or data itemhomogeneous computer networkhomogeneous computer network/�həυməυd'i�niəs kəm |�pju�tə �netw��k/noun a network made up of similar machinesthat are compatible or from the same manu-facturerhomogeneous multiplexinghomogeneous multiplexing/�həυməυd'i�niəs �m�lt|�pleksŋ/ noun aswitching multiplexer system in which all thechannels contain data using the same proto-col and transmission ratehoodhood /hυd/ noun a cover which protectssomethinghookhook /hυk/ noun a point in a program atwhich a programmer can insert test code ordebugging codehookinghooking /�hυkŋ/ noun distortion of a vid-eo picture caused by tape head timing errorshophop /hɒp/ noun the path taken by a packetof data as it moves from one server or routerto anotherhopperhopper /�hɒpə/ noun a device which holdspunched cards and feeds them into the readerhorizontalhorizontal /�hɒr|�zɒnt(ə)l/ adjective lyingflat or going from side to side, not up anddownhorizontal blanking periodhorizontal blanking period/�hɒrzɒnt(ə)l �bl�ŋkŋ �pəriəd/ noun thetime taken for the picture beam in a monitorto return to the start of the next line from theend of the previous linehorizontal scan frequencyhorizontal scan frequency/�hɒrzɒnt(ə)l �sk�n �fri�kwənsi/ noun thenumber of lines on a video display that are re-freshed each secondhorizontal scrollbarhorizontal scrollbar /�hɒrzɒnt(ə)l�skrəυlbɑ�/ noun (in a GUI) a bar along thebottom of a window that indicates that thepage is wider than the window (NOTE: A user

can move horizontally across the page bydragging the indicator bar on the scrollbar.)horizontal scrollinghorizontal scrolling /�hɒrzɒnt(ə)l�skrəυlŋ/ noun the process of movingacross a page, horizontallyhornhorn /hɔ�n/ noun a directional radio devicewith a wider open end leading to a narrowsection, used for the reception and transmis-sion of radio waveshosthost /həυst/ noun, adjective to providestorage space on a server computer where auser can store files or data, often used to storethe files required for a website � We chosethis company to host our website because ithas reliable server computers and high-speed connection to the Internet.

‘…you select fonts manually or through com-mands sent from the host computer along with thetext’ [Byte]

host addresshost address /�həυst ə|�dres/ noun sameas Internet addresshost computerhost computer /�həυst kəm |�pju�tə/noun 1. the main controlling computer in amulti-user or distributed system 2. a compu-ter used to write and debug software for an-other computer, often using a cross compiler3. a computer in a network that provides spe-cial services or programming languages to allusers

‘…you select fonts manually or through com-mands sent from the host computer along with thetext’ [Byte]

hosting service providerhosting service provider /�həυstŋ�s��vs prə|�vadə/ noun same as host serv-icehost namehost name /�həυst �nem/ noun a namegiven to a website on the Internethost numberhost number /�həυst �n�mbə/ noun sameas Internet addresshost servicehost service /�həυst �s��vs/ noun a com-pany that provides connections to the Internetand storage space on its computers which canstore the files for a user’s website � We rentstorage space on this host service provider’sserver for our company website. � ISP. Alsocalled hosting service providerhot keyhot key /�hɒt ki�/ noun a special key or keycombination which starts a process or acti-vates a programhot plugginghot plugging /�hɒt �pl�"ŋ/ noun a fea-ture of a computer that allows a device or pe-ripheral to be plugged in or connected whilethe computer is working � This server sup-port hot plugging so I can plug in this net-work card and the operating system softwarewill automatically detect and alter its config-uration. Also called hot swappinghotspothotspot /�hɒtspɒt/ noun 1. a special areaon an image or display that does somethingwhen the cursor is moved onto it � The im-

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hot standby 118age of the trumpet is a hotspot and will playa sound when you move the pointer over it. 2.a region of high brightness on a film or dis-play screenhot standbyhot standby /�hɒt �st�ndba/ noun apiece of hardware that is kept operational atall times and is used as backup in case of sys-tem failure. Compare cold standby, warmstandbyhot swappinghot swapping /�hɒt �swɒpŋ/ noun sameas hot plugginghotword

hotword /�hɒtw��d/ noun a word withindisplayed text that does something when thecursor is moved onto it or it is selectedhousehouse /haυz/ noun a company, especially apublishing company � One of the biggestsoftware houses in the US � verb to put a de-vice in a case � The disc is housed in a solidplastic case.housekeepinghousekeeping /�haυs |�ki�pŋ/ noun tasksthat have to be regularly carried out to main-tain a computer system, e.g. checking back-ups and deleting unwanted fileshouselightshouselights /�haυslats/ plural noun stu-dio lighting, or lights illuminating where theaudience is seated (film)housinghousing /�haυzŋ/ noun a solid case � Thecomputer housing was damaged when it fellon the floor.howlerhowler /�haυlə/ noun 1. a buzzer which in-dicates to a telephone exchange operator thata user’s telephone handset is not on the re-ceiver 2. a very bad and obvious mistake �What a howler, no wonder your programwon’t work.HP

HP abbr Hewlett PackardHPFSHPFS /�etʃ pi� ef �es/ noun (in an OS/2operating system) a method of storing fileinformation that is faster and more flexiblethan MS-DOS FAT. Full form high per-formance filing systemHPGLHPGL abbr Hewlett Packard Graphics Lan-guageHPIB

HPIB abbr Hewlett Packard Interface BusHP-PCLHP-PCL /�etʃ �pi� �pi� si� �el/ abbr HewlettPackard Printer Control LanguageHRGHRG /�etʃ ɑ� �d'i�/ noun the ability to dis-play a large number of pixels per unit area.Full form high resolution graphicsHSVHSV abbr hue, saturation and valueHTHT plural noun small portable transceivers.Full form handy talkiesHTML

HTML /�etʃ ti� em �el/ noun a series of spe-cial codes that define the typeface and stylethat should be used when displaying the textand also allow hypertext links to other partsof the document or to other documents �HTML is used to create documents for the

World Wide Web. Full form hypertextmarkup languageHTTPHTTP /�etʃ ti� ti� �pi�/ noun a series ofcommands used by a browser to ask an Inter-net web server for information about a web-page. Full form hypertext transfer proto-colHTTPdHTTPd /�etʃ ti� ti� pi� �di�/ noun a serversoftware that carries sends webpage files to aclient in response to a request from a user’sweb browser � When you type a website ad-dress into your web browser, this sends a re-quest to the HTTPd server software that re-plies with the HTML code of a formattedwebpage. Full form hypertext transfer pro-tocol daemonhubhub /h�b/ noun 1. the central part of a disk,usually with a hole and ring which the diskdrive grips to spin the disk 2. (in a star-topol-ogy network) the central ring or wiring cabi-net where all circuits meet and form an elec-trical path for signals 3. a continuous audiblesound of low frequencyhuehue /hju�/ noun the colour of an image orpixelhue, saturation and intensityhue, saturation and intensity /�hju��s�tʃəreʃ(ə)n ənd n|�tensti/ noun amethod of defining a colour through its threeproperties. Abbr HSI. Also called hue, satu-ration and brightness, hue, saturationand level (NOTE: Hue is colour defined byits the wavelength; saturation refers to thepurity of the colour (where at zero satura-tion the colour appears white and full satu-ration is pure colour); and intensity, bright-ness and level refer to the amount of white.)hue, saturation and valuehue, saturation and value /�hju��s�tʃəreʃ(ə)n ənd �v�lju�/ noun same ashue, saturation and intensity. abbr HSVHuffman codeHuffman code /�h�fmən kəυd/ noun adata compression code in which frequentcharacters occupy less bit space than less fre-quent oneshuge modelhuge model /�hju�d' �mɒd(ə)l/ noun (inprogramming) the memory model of an Intelprocessor that allows data and program codeto exceed 64Kb, but the total of both must beless than 1Mbhumhum /h�m/ noun a low frequency electricalnoise or interference on a signalhuman-computer interfacehuman-computer interface /�hju�mənkəm|�pju�tə �ntəfes/ noun abbr HMI. sameas human-machine interfacehuman-machine interfacehuman-machine interface /�hju�mənmə|�ʃi�n �ntəfes/ noun facilities providedto improve the interaction between a user anda computer system. Abbr HMI. Also calledhuman-computer interfacehum barshum bars /�h�m bɑ�z/ plural noun slow-moving horizontal bars on a television pic-

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119 Hzture which are created by the input of an un-desirable mains hum into the video signalhunghung � hanghuntinghunting /�h�ntŋ/ noun 1. the process ofsearching out a data record in a file 2. low-frequency instability of sound or picture cre-ated by cyclic variations in tape or film trans-port speedHVQHVQ /�etʃ vi� �kju�/ noun a video compres-sion standard which allows colour video im-ages to be transmitted in a bandwidth of 112Kbps. Full form hierarchical vector quan-tisationhybrid circuithybrid circuit /�habrd �s��kt/ noun theconnection of a number of different electron-ic components such as integrated circuits,transistors, resistors and capacitors in a smallpackage, which since the components are notcontained in their own protective packages,requires far less space than the individual dis-crete componentsHyperCardHyperCard /�hapəkɑ�d/ a trade name fora database system controlled by HyperTalkprogramming language, used to produce hy-pertext documentshyperlinkhyperlink /�hapəlŋk/ noun a word or im-age or button in a webpage or multimedia ti-tle that moves the user to another page whenclickedhypermediahypermedia /�hapəmi�diə/ noun a hyper-text system that is capable of displaying im-ages and soundHyperTalkHyperTalk /�hapətɔ�k/ a trade name for aprogramming language used to control a Hy-perCard databaseHyperTerminalHyperTerminal /�hapə|�t��mn(ə)l/ nouna communications program that is included

with Windows 95 and allows a user to call aremote computer via a modem and transferfileshypertexthypertext /�hapətekst/ noun 1. a multi-media system of organising information inwhich certain words in a document link toother documents and display the text whenthe word is selected � In this hypertext page,click once on the word ‘computer’ and it willtell you what a computer is. 2. a way of link-ing one word or image on an Internet page toanother page in which clicking on certainwords or images moves the user directly tothe relevant new pagehypertext markup languagehypertext markup language/�hapətekst �mɑ�k�p �l�ŋ"wd'/ nounfull form of HTMLhypertext transfer protocolhypertext transfer protocol/�hapətekst �tr�nsf�� �prəυtəkɒl/ nounfull form of HTTPhypertext transfer protocol daemonhypertext transfer protocol daemon/�hapətekst �tr�nsf�� �prəυtəkɒl�di�mən/ noun full form of HTTPdhyphenhyphen /�haf(ə)n/ noun a printing sign (-)to show that a word has been splithyphenatedhyphenated /�hafənetd/ adjective writ-ten with a hyphen � The word ‘high-level’ isusually hyphenated.hyphenationhyphenation /�hafə|�neʃ(ə)n/ noun thesplitting of a word at the end of a line, whenthe word is too long to fithyphenation and justificationhyphenation and justification /hafə|

�naʃ(ə)n ən �d'�stf|�keʃ(ə)n/ noun fullform of H & J � An American hyphenationand justification program will not work withBritish English spellings.HzHz abbr hertz

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II75OI75O /�a �sev(ə)n fa �əυ/ noun a videoprocessor chip developed by Intel and used tocompress and decompress digital video se-quencesIABIAB /�a e �bi�/ noun 1. an independentcommittee that is responsible for the design,engineering and management of the Internet.Full form Internet Activities Board 2. agroup that monitors and manages the devel-opment of the Internet. Full form InternetArchitecture BoardIAMIAM /�a e �em/ noun memory storage thathas an access time between that of mainmemory and a disk based system. Full formintermediate access memoryIANAIANA abbr Internet Assigned Numbers Au-thorityI-beamI-beam /�a bi�m/ noun a cursor shaped likethe letter ‘I’ used in a GUI to edit text or in-dicate text operationsIBMIBM /�a bi� �em/ the largest computer com-pany in the world, which developed the firstPC based on the Intel processor. Full form In-ternational Business MachinesIBM-compatibleIBM-compatible /�a bi� em kəm |

�p�tb(ə)l/ adjective referring to a personalcomputer that has hardware and softwarecompatible with the IBM PC regardless ofwhich Intel processor it uses (NOTE: IBM-compatible computers feature an ISA, EISAor MCA expansion bus.)ICIC abbr integrated circuitICEICE noun a communication system (devel-oped by the BBC) which transmits data in thefield blanking period. Full form insertioncommunication equipmentICMPICMP /�a ci� em �pi�/ noun an extension tothe Internet Protocol that provides error de-tection and control messages � The Internetcommand ‘ping’ uses ICMP to test if a namednode is working correctly. Full form Internetcontrol message protocol. � IP, PINGiconicon /�akɒn/, ikon noun a graphic symbolor small picture displayed on screen, used inan interactive computer system to provide aneasy way of identifying a function � The iconfor the graphics program is a small picture ofa palette.

‘Despite (or because of?) the swap file, loadingwas slow and the hourglass icon of the mousepointer frequently returned to the arrow symbolwell before loading was complete.’ [Computing]

icon resourceicon resource /�akɒn r |�zɔ�s/ noun a filethat contains the bitmap image of an icon,used by a programmer when writing an appli-cationICQICQ a software program developed by Mira-bilis that supports instant messaging and al-lows two or more users to send messages toeach other via the Internet that are instantlydisplayed on the other person’s screen (NOTE:pronounced ‘I-seek-you’)IDID abbr 1. identification 2. identifierI-DI-D abbr Internet-draftIDAIDA abbr integrated digital accessIDDIDD abbr international direct diallingIDEIDE /�a di� �i�/ noun a popular standard fora hard disk drive controller unit that allowsdata transfer rates up to 4.1MBps and cansupport two hard disk drives on each control-ler; enhanced versions of the IDE standardprovide more flexibility and speed (alsoknown as AT Attachment – ATA – interface)� IDE drives are fitted to most home PCs.Full form integrated drive electronics, in-tegrated device electronics. � ATA, SCSIidealideal /a |�dəl/ adjective perfect or verygood for somethingideal formatideal format /a |�dəl �fɔ�m�t/ noun astandard large format for photographic nega-tives, used mainly in professional equipmentidenticalidentical /a|�dentk(ə)l/ adjective exactlythe same � The two systems use identicalsoftware.identificationidentification /a|�dentf |�keʃ(ə)n/ nouna procedure used by a host computer to estab-lish the identity and nature of the callingcomputer or user. This could be for securityand access restriction purposes or to providetransmission protocol information.identification characteridentification character /a |�dentf|

�keʃ(ə)n �k�rktə/ noun a single charactersent to a host computer to establish the iden-tity and location of a remote computer or ter-minalidentifieridentifier /a |�dentfaə/ noun a set of char-acters used to distinguish between differentblocks of data or files. Abbr IDidentifyidentify /a |�dent |�fa/ verb to establishwho someone is or what something is � Theuser has to identify himself to the system byusing a password before access is allowed.identityidentity /a|�dentti/ noun who someone orwhat something is

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121 image bufferidiot tapeidiot tape /�diət tep/ noun a tape con-taining unformatted text, which cannot betypeset until formatting data, such as justifi-cation, line width, and page size, has beenadded by a computeridleidle /�ad(ə)l/ adjective referring to a ma-chine, telephone line or device which is notbeing used, but is ready and waiting to beusedIEIE abbr Internet ExplorerIEC connectorIEC connector /�a i� �si� kə |�nektə/ nouna standard for a three-pin connector used onsockets that carry mains electricity to thecomputer � All PCs have a male IEC con-nector and use a mains lead with a femaleIEC connector.IEEEIEEE abbr US Institute of Electrical andElectronic EngineersIESGIESG noun a group that reviews Internetstandards and manages the IETF. Full formInternet Engineering Steering GroupIETFIETF /�a i� ti� �ef/ noun a committee that ispart of the IAB and determines Internetstandards. Full form Internet EngineeringTask Force. � IABifif /f/ abbr intermediate frequencyIFFIFF /�a ef �ef/ noun 1. a standard for com-pressed files stored on a CD-i. Full form in-ternational file format 2. a standard that de-fines how palette data is stored in an Amigaand some graphics programs. Full form in-terchange file formatIF statementIF statement /�f �stetmənt/ noun a com-puter programming statement meaning do anaction IF a condition is true, and usually fol-lowed by THENIGMPIGMP /�a d'i� em �pi�/ noun a standard thathelps manage how data is transferred duringan IP Multicast operation in which one servercomputer sends each packet of data to severaldestinations at the same time. Full form In-ternet group management protocol(NOTE: This is useful when broadcasting alot of data to several different recipients.The IGMP standard is defined inRFC1112.)ignoreignore /"|�nɔ�/ verb not to recognise or notto do what someone says � This commandinstructs the computer to ignore all punctua-tion.IGPIGP /�a d'i� �pi�/ noun a protocol that dis-tributes information to gateways, i.e. routers,within a particular network. Full form interi-or gateway protocolIILIIL abbr integrated injection logicIISIIS a piece of web server software developedby Microsoft. Full form Internet Informa-tion ServerIKBSIKBS /�a ke bi� �em/ noun software thatapplies the knowledge, advice and rules de-

fined by an expert in a particular field to a us-er’s data to help solve a problem. Full formintelligent knowledge-based system.Also called expert systemikonikon /�akɒn/ noun another spelling of iconILFILF abbr infra-low frequencyILLILL abbr inter-library loanillegalillegal /|�li�"(ə)l/ adjective which is againstthe lawillegallyillegally / |�li�"əli/ adverb against the law oragainst rules � The company has been ille-gally copying copyright software.illegal operationillegal operation /|�li�"(ə)l �ɒpə|

�reʃ(ə)n/ noun an instruction or process thatdoes not follow the computer system’s proto-col or language syntaxillegibleillegible / |�led'b(ə)l/ adjective which can-not be read � If the manuscript is illegible,send it back to the author to have it typed.illiterateilliterate / |�lt(ə)rət/ adjective (person)who cannot read

‘…three years ago the number of people whowere computer illiterate was much higher than to-day’ [Minicomputer News]

illuminanceilluminance / |�lu�mnəns/ noun a meas-urement of the amount of light that strikes asurface, measured in luxilluminateilluminate /|�lu�mnet/ verb to shine alight on something � The screen is illuminat-ed by a low-power light.illuminationillumination /|�lu�m |�neʃ(ə)n/ nounlightingillustrateillustrate /�lə|�stret/ verb to add picturesto a text � The book is illustrated in colour. �The manual is illustrated with charts and pic-tures of the networking connections.illustrationillustration /�lə|�streʃ(ə)n/ noun a pic-ture (in a book) � The book has twenty-fivepages of full-colour illustrations.IMAIMA /�a em �e/ noun a professional organ-isation that covers subjects including author-ing languages, formats and intellectual prop-erty. Full form Interactive Multimedia As-sociation � abbr International MIDIAssociationiMaciMac /�a �m�k/ a personal computer devel-oped by Apple Computer Corporationimageimage /�md'/ noun 1. an exact duplicateof an area of memory 2. a copy of an originalpicture or design 3. a projected picture that isshown when light is shone through a photo-graph film 4. a picture displayed on a screenor monitorimage areaimage area /�md' �eəriə/ noun a regionof microfilm or display screen on whichcharacters or designs can be displayedimage bufferimage buffer /�md' �b�fə/ noun an areaof memory that is used to build up an imagebefore it is transferred to screen

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image compression 122image compression

image compression /�md' kəm |

�preʃ(ə)n/ noun the process of compressingthe data that forms an imageimage degradation

image degradation /�md'�de"rədeʃ(ə)n/ noun the loss of picturecontrast and quality due to signal distortionor bad copying of a video signalimage editing

image editing /�md' �edtŋ/ noun theprocess of altering or adjusting an image us-ing a paint package or special image editingprogramimage editor

image editor /�md' �edtə/ noun a pieceof software that allows a user to edit, changeor create a bitmap imageimage enhancement

image enhancement /�md' n|

�hɑ�nsmənt/ noun the process of adjustingparts of an image using special imageprocessing software to change the brightnessor sharpness of an imageimagemap

imagemap /�md'm�p/ noun a graphicimage that has areas of the image defined ashyperlink hotspots that link to another web-pageimage processing

image processing /�md' �prəυsesŋ/noun the analysis of information contained inan image, usually by electronic means or us-ing a computer which provides the analysisor recognition of objects in the imageimage processing software

image processing software /�md'�prəυsesŋ �sɒftweə/ noun software that al-lows a user to adjust contrast, colour orbrightness levels or apply special effects to abitmap imageimage processor

image processor /�md' �prəυsesə/noun an electronic or computer system usedfor image processing, and to extract informa-tion from the image

‘The Max FX also acts as a server to a growingnumber of printers, including a Varityper 5300with emerald raster image processor and a CanonCLC 500 colour photocopier.’ [Computing]

image retention

image retention /�md' r|�tenʃən/ nounthe time taken for a TV image to disappearafter it has been displayed, caused by longpersistence phosphorimage scanner

image scanner /�md' �sk�nə/ noun aninput device which converts documents ordrawings or photographs into a digitised, ma-chine-readable formimage sensor

image sensor /�md' �sensə/ noun aphotoelectric device which produces a signalrelated to the amount of light falling on itimage setter

image setter /�md' �setə/ noun a type-setting device which can process a PostScriptpage and produce a high-resolution outputimage stability

image stability /�md' stə|�blti/ nounthe ability of a display screen to provide aflicker-free picture

image storage spaceimage storage space /�md' �stɔ�rd'�spes/ noun a region of memory in which adigitised image is storedimage tableimage table /�md' �teb(ə)l/ noun eachof two bit-mapped tables used to control in-put and output devices or processesimagingimaging /�md'ŋ/ noun a technique forcreating pictures on a screen, in medicineused to provide pictures of sections of thebody, using scanners attached to computersimaging systemimaging system /�md'ŋ �sstəm/noun equipment and software used to cap-ture, digitise and compress video or still im-agesIMAPIMAP /�am�p/ noun a standard that defineshow email messages can be accessed andread over a network. Full form Internetmessage access protocol. � POP 3,SMTP

COMMENT: This standard (currently at ver-sion four) provides an alternative to thecommon POP 3 standard. The IMAPstandard stores a user’s messages on ashared server (e.g. at your ISP) and allowsa user to connect from any computer andread, send or manage messages. In con-trast, the POP 3 protocol downloads allmessages from a shared server onto theuser’s computer. This makes it very difficultfor a user to access messages from a dif-ferent computer, e.g. if you are travelling.Regardless of whether IMAP or POP 3 isused to read messages, the SMTP proto-col is normally used to send messages.

IMAXIMAX noun a wide-screen motion picturesystem using 70 mm film and having a framesize of 70 multiplied by 46 mmimmunityimmunity /|�mju�nti/ noun � interfer-enceimpactimpact /�mp�kt/ noun the act of hitting orstriking something

‘Lexmark is shipping the Wheelwriter family oftypewriters that can be connected to a PC usingthe parallel printer port, making it act like a PCimpact printer.’ [Computing]

impairment scaleimpairment scale /m |�peəmənt skel/noun the scale of the loss of quality in soundor picture reproduction in both film and vid-eo. Scale 5 is negligible loss and scale 1 is un-acceptable.impedanceimpedance /m|�pi�d(ə)ns/ noun a meas-urement of the effect an electrical circuit orcable has on signal current magnitude andphase when a steady voltage is applied. �ohm

COMMENT: Network cables need to havethe correct impedance for the type of net-work card installed. 10BaseT unshieldedtwisted-pair cable normally has an imped-ance between 100 and105 ohms, while10Base2 coaxial cable has an impedanceof 50 ohms.

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123 incorrectimpedance mismatch

impedance mismatch /m |�pi�d(ə)ns�msm�tʃ/ noun a situation where the im-pedance of the transmission or receiving endof a system does not match the other, result-ing in loss of signal powerimplantimplant /m |�plɑ�nt/ verb to fix deeply intosomething; to bond one substance into anoth-er chemically � The dopant is implanted intothe substrate.implementimplement /�mpl|�ment/ verb to carry outor to put something into actionimplementationimplementation /�mplmən|�teʃ(ə)n/noun a version of something that works �The latest implementation of the softwareruns much faster.importimport /m |�pɔ�t/ verb 1. to bring goods intoa country to resell 2. to bring something infrom outside a system � You can import im-ages from the CAD package into the DTPprogram. 3. to convert a file stored in one for-mat to the default format used by a program� Select import if you want to open a TIFFgraphics file.

‘At the moment, Acrobat supports only the send-ing and viewing of documents. There are legalimplications associated with allowing users toedit documents in the style of the original appli-cation, without having the tool itself on theirdesks, and there is no import facility back into ap-plications.’ [Computing]

importationimportation /�mpɔ� |�teʃ(ə)n/ noun theact of importing. Compare export

‘…text and graphics importation from other sys-tems is possible’ [Publish]‘At the moment, Acrobat supports only the send-ing and viewing of documents. There are legalimplications associated with allowing users toedit documents in the style of the original appli-cation, without having the tool itself on theirdesks, and there is no import facility back into ap-plications’ [Computing]

impression

impression /m |�preʃ(ə)n/ noun thenumber of books or documents printed all onthe same printrunimpression cylinderimpression cylinder /m|�preʃ(ə)n�slndə/ noun a roller in a printing press thatpresses the sheets of paper against the inkedtypeimprintimprint /�mprnt/ noun the publisher’s orprinter’s name which appears on the titlepage or in the bibliographical details of abookimprint positionimprint position /�mprnt pə|�zʃ(ə)n/noun on a sheet of paper, place where thenext letter or symbol is to be printedimpulseimpulse /�mp�ls/ noun a voltage pulsewhich lasts a very short timeimpulsiveimpulsive /m |�p�lsv/ adjective lasting avery short timeIMSIMS abbr information management system

inaccuracyinaccuracy /n|��kjυrəsi/ noun a mistakeor error � The bibliography is full of inaccu-racies.inaccurateinaccurate /n|��kjυrət/ adjective not cor-rect or wrong � He entered an inaccuratepassword.inactiveinactive /n|��ktv/ adjective not workingor not runninginactive windowinactive window /n|��ktv �wndəυ/noun (in a GUI) a window still displayed, butnot currently being usedin-band signallingin-band signalling /�n b�nd�s"n(ə)lŋ/ noun data transmission in whichthe signal carrying the data is within thebandwidth of the cable or transmission mediaInBoxInBox /�nbɒks/ noun a feature of the Win-dows messaging system that can gather to-gether a user’s electronic messages includingmail sent over the network, fax messages andmail sent over the Internetinbuiltinbuilt /�nblt/ adjective referring to a fea-ture or device included in a system � Thissoftware has inbuilt error correction.in camera processin camera process /�n �k�m(ə)rə�prəυses/ noun a type of film processingwhich takes place inside the cameraincandescenceincandescence /�nk�n|�des(ə)ns/ nounthe generation of light by heating a wire in aninert gas (as in a light bulb)incandescentincandescent /�nk�n|�des(ə)nt/ adjec-tive shining because of heat produced in aninert gasincandescent lightingincandescent lighting/�nk�ndes(ə)nt �latŋ/ noun a light usingheated tungsten, gas-filled bulbs or tubes in-stead of bulbs with carbon arcsincidentincident /�nsd(ə)nt/ noun light that is re-flected from an object (film)in-circuit emulatorin-circuit emulator /�n �s��kt�emjυletə/ noun a circuit that emulates adevice or integrated circuit and is insertedinto a new or faulty circuit to test if it is work-ing correctly � This in-circuit emulator isused to test the floppy disk controller by em-ulating a disk drive.inclined orbitinclined orbit /n|�kland �ɔ�bt/ noun or-bit that is not polar or equatorialinclusiveinclusive /n|�klu�sv/ adjective whichcounts something in with other things �Prices are inclusive of VAT.incomingincoming /�nk�mŋ/ adjective which iscoming in from outsideincompatibleincompatible /�nkəm|�p�tb(ə)l/ adjec-tive which cannot work together � They triedto link the two systems, but found they wereincompatible.incorrectincorrect /�nkə|�rekt/ adjective not cor-rect or with mistakes � The input data wasincorrect, so the output was also incorrect.

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incorrectly 124incorrectly

incorrectly /�nkə|�rektli/ adverb not cor-rectly or with mistakes � The data was incor-rectly keyboarded.increment

increment /�ŋkrmənt/ noun 1. the addi-tion of a set number, usually one, to a regis-ter, often for counting purposes � An incre-ment is added to the counter each time apulse is detected. 2. the value of the numberadded to a register � Increase the incrementto three. � verb 1. to add something or to in-crease a number � The counter is increment-ed each time an instruction is executed. 2. tomove forward to the next locationincremental backup

incremental backup /�ŋkrment(ə)l�b�k�p/ noun a backup procedure that onlybacks up the files that have changed since thelast backupincremental plotter

incremental plotter /�ŋkrment(ə)l�plɒtə/ noun a graphical output device thatcan only move in small steps, with input datarepresenting the difference between presentposition and the position required, so draw-ing lines and curves as a series of shortstraight linesindent

indent noun /�ndent/ a space or series ofspaces from the left margin, when starting aline of text � verb /n|�dent/ to start a line oftext with a space in from the left margin �The first line of the paragraph is indented twospaces.indentation

indentation /�nden|�teʃ(ə)n/ noun theprocess of leaving a space at the beginning ofa line of textIndeo

Indeo /�ndiəυ/ a trade name for video soft-ware technology developed by Intel that al-lows a computer to store and play back com-pressed video sequences using software com-pression techniquesindependentindependent /�nd |�pendənt/ adjectivefree or not controlled by anyoneindependently

independently /�nd|�pendəntli/ adverbfreely or without being controlled or withoutbeing connected � In spooling, the printer isacting independently of the keyboard.index

index /�ndeks/ noun 1. a list of items in acomputer memory, usually arranged alpha-betically 2. the address to be used that is theresult of an offset value added to a start loca-tion. � indexed addressing 3. a list of termsclassified into groups or put in alphabeticalorder 4. an alphabetical list printed, usuallyat the back of a book, giving references toitems in the main part of the book 5. a list ofsubjects and contents of a book in alphabeti-cal order (usually at the back of a book) 6.guide marks along the edge of a piece of filmor strip of microfilm � verb to put marksagainst items so that they will be selected andsorted to form an index

indexed addressindexed address /�ndeksd ə|�dres/noun the address of the location to be ac-cessed, which is found in an index registerindexed addressingindexed addressing /�ndeksd ə|

�dresŋ/ noun an addressing mode, in whichthe storage location to be accessed is made upof a start address and an offset value, whichis then added to it to give the address to beusedindexed sequential access methodindexed sequential access method/�ndeks s|�kwensəl ��kses �meθəd/ nouna data retrieval method using a list containingthe address of each stored record, where thelist is searched, then the record is retrievedfrom the address in the list. Abbr ISAMindex.htmlindex.html /�ndeks dɒt �etʃ ti� em �el/noun a filename that is used to store the textand HTML formatting commands for thehome page on a websiteindexingindexing /�ndeksŋ/ noun 1. the use of in-dexed addressing in software or a computer2. the process of building and sorting a list ofrecords 3. the process of writing an index fora bookindex pageindex page /�ndeks ped'/ noun 1. apage of a multimedia book that lists all theother pages within the book and allows a userto locate other pages or areas of interest 2. theinitial opening webpage of a site on the Inter-net or on a company’s intranetindex registerindex register /�ndeks �red'stə/ noun acomputer address register that is added to areference address to provide the location tobe accessed. Abbr IRindicateindicate /�nd|�ket/ verb to showindicationindication /�nd|�keʃ(ə)n/ noun a sign orsomething which showsindicatorindicator /�nd|�ketə/ noun somethingwhich shows the state of a process, usually alight or buzzerindirectindirect /�nda|�rekt/ adjective not directinduceinduce /n|�dju�s/ verb to generate an elec-trical current in a coil of wire by electromag-netic effectsinductanceinductance /n|�d�ktəns/ noun a measure-ment of the amount of energy a device canstore in its magnetic fieldinductioninduction /n|�d�kʃən/ noun the genera-tion of an electrical current by electromag-netic effects from a nearby sourceinductive coordinationinductive coordination /n|�d�ktv kəυ |

�ɔ�d|�neʃ(ə)n/ noun agreement betweenelectrical power suppliers and communica-tion providers on methods of reducing in-duced interferenceinductorinductor /n|�d�ktə/ noun an electricalcomponent consisting of a coil of wire usedto introduce inductance effects into a circuitby storing energy in its magnetic field

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125 infraredIndustry Standard ArchitectureIndustry Standard Architecture/�ndəstri �st�ndəd �ɑ�k|�tektʃə/ noun fullform of ISAinequality operatorinequality operator /�n|�kwɒlti�ɒpəretə/ noun a symbol used to indicatethat two variables or quantities are not equal� The C programming language uses thesymbol ‘!=’ as its inequality operator.inertinert / |�n��t/ adjective (chemical substanceor gas) that does not react with other chemi-calsinfectinfect /n|�fekt/ verb to contaminate a com-puter system with a virus that is capable ofdamaging its programs or datainfected computerinfected computer /n|�fektd kəm |

�pju�tə/ noun a computer that carries a virusprograminferenceinference /�nf(ə)rəns/ noun 1. a deduc-tion of results from data according to certainrules 2. a method of deducing a result aboutconfidential information concerning an indi-vidual by using various data related to groupsof peopleinferior figureinferior figure /n|�fəriə �f"ə/ noun anyone of the smaller numbers or characters thatare printed slightly below normal characters,used in mathematical and chemical formulae.� subscript, superscript (NOTE: used withfigures and letters: CO2)INF fileINF file /�a en �ef fal/ noun a configura-tion file supplied by a hardware manufacturerto allow Windows to correctly install the de-viceinfiniteinfinite /�nfnət/ adjective with no endinfinityinfinity /n|�fnti/ noun 1. a space or quan-tity that never ends 2. the distance of an ob-ject from a viewer where beams of light fromthe object would be seen to be parallel, i.e.very far away 3. a distance setting on a cam-era lens beyond which all images are in focusinformaticsinformatics /�nfɔ� |�m�tks/ noun the sci-ence and study of ways and means of infor-mation processing and transmissioninformationinformation /�nfə |�meʃ(ə)n/ noun 1.knowledge presented to a person in a formwhich can be understood 2. data that hasbeen processed or arranged to provide factswhich have a meaninginformation contentinformation content /�nfə |�meʃ(ə)n�kɒntent/ noun a measurement of theamount of information conveyed by thetransmission of a symbol or character, oftenmeasured in shannonsinformation flow controlinformation flow control /�nfə|

�meʃ(ə)n fləυ kən|�trəυl/ noun the regula-tion of access to particular informationinformation inputinformation input /�nfə |�meʃ(ə)n�npυt/ noun information received from aninput device

information management systeminformation management system/�nfəmeʃ(ə)n �m�nd'mənt �sstəm/noun a computer program that allows infor-mation to be easily stored, retrieved,searched and updated. Abbr IMSinformation networkinformation network /�nfə|�meʃ(ə)n�netw��k/ noun a number of databaseslinked together, usually using telephone linesand modems, allowing a large amount of datato be accessed by a wider number of usersinformation outputinformation output /�nfəmeʃ(ə)n�aυtpυt/ noun a display of information on anoutput deviceinformation processinginformation processing/�nfəmeʃ(ə)n �prəυsesŋ/ noun same asdata processinginformation providerinformation provider /�nfə|�meʃ(ə)nprə|�vadə/ noun a company or user who pro-vides an information source for use in a vid-eotext system, e.g. a company providingweather information or stock market reports.Abbr ipinformation retrievalinformation retrieval /�nfəmeʃ(ə)n r|

�tri�v(ə)l/ noun the process of locating quan-tities of data stored in a database and produc-ing useful information from the data. Abbr IRinformation storageinformation storage /�nfəmeʃ(ə)n�stɔ�rd'/ noun the process of storing data ina form which allows it to be processed at alater dateinformation storage and retrievalinformation storage and retrieval/�nfəmeʃ(ə)n �stɔ�rd' ən r|�tri�v(ə)l/noun techniques involved in storing informa-tion and retrieving data from a store. AbbrISRinformation structureinformation structure /�nfə|�meʃ(ə)n�str�ktʃə/ noun same as data structureinformation systeminformation system /�nfə|�meʃ(ə)n�sstəm/ noun a computer system which pro-vides information according to a user’s re-questsinformation technologyinformation technology/�nfəmeʃ(ə)n tek|�nɒləd'i/ noun the tech-nology involved in acquiring, storing,processing, and distributing information byelectronic means, including radio, TV, tele-phone and computers. Abbr ITinformation theoryinformation theory /�nfə|�meʃ(ə)n�θəri/ noun the body of formulae and math-ematics concerned with data transmissionequipment and signalsinfra-infra- /nfrə/ prefix meaning below or lessthan. Abbr ILFinfra-low frequencyinfra-low frequency /�nfrə ləυ�fri�kwənsi/ noun a range of audio frequen-cies between 300Hz-3KHz. Abbr ILFinfraredinfrared /�nfrə |�red/ noun the section ofthe electromagnetic radiation spectrum ex-tending from visible red to microwaves

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infra-red link 126infra-red linkinfra-red link /�nfrə red �lŋk/ noun asystem that allows two computers or a com-puter and a printer to exchange informationusing an infrared light beam to carry the datainfrasonic frequencyinfrasonic frequency /�nfrəsɒnk�fri�kwənsi/ noun a sound wave frequencythat is in the range below that audible by thehuman earinfrastructureinfrastructure /�nfrə|�str�ktʃə/ noun ba-sic structure or basic servicesinfringementinfringement /n|�frnd'mənt/ noun theact of breaking the law or a ruleinheritinherit /n|�hert/ verb (in object-orientedprogramming) to acquire the characteristicsof another class or data typeinheritanceinheritance /n|�hert(ə)ns/ noun (in ob-ject-oriented programming) the passing ofthe characteristics of one class or data type toanother, called its descendantinhibitinhibit /n|�hbt/ verb to stop a process tak-ing place or to prevent an integrated circuit orgate from operating,, by means of a signal orcommandin-housein-house /�n �haυs/ adverb, adjective(working) inside a company’s building � Allthe data processing is done in-house.INI fileINI file /�a en �a fal/ noun a configurationfile used in Windows 3.x and earlier that tellsWindows how to load and run an application.(NOTE: The INI file could contain the workingdirectory, user name and user settings.)initialinitial /|�nʃ(ə)l/ adjective first or at the be-ginning � noun the first letter of a word, es-pecially of a name � What do the initialsIBM stand for?initialiseinitialise / |�nʃə |�laz/, initialize verb to setvalues or parameters or control lines to theirinitial values, to allow a program or processto be restarted (NOTE: initialises – initialis-ing – initialised)injection laserinjection laser /n |�d'ekʃən �lezə/ nouna solid state laser device used to transmit dataas pulses of light down an optic fibreinjection logicinjection logic /n|�d'ekʃən �lɒd'k/noun � integrated injection logicinkink /ŋk/ noun 1. a dark liquid used to markor write with 2. colour selected that appearswhen you paint or draw using a drawing pro-gram on a computer � verb 1. to draw lineson paper by the use of a plotter device 2. toapply ink to printing rollers in a printing ma-chineink cartridgeink cartridge /�ŋk �kɑ�trd'/ noun aplastic module that contains ink, for use in abubble-jet or ink-jet printerinkieinkie, inky noun same as incandescentlighting (informal)ink-jet printerink-jet printer /�nk d'et �prntə/ noun aprinter that produces characters by sending a

stream of tiny drops of electrically chargedink onto the paper

‘…ink-jet printers work by squirting a finestream of ink onto the paper’[Personal Computer World]

inlayinlay /�nle/ noun the combination of twotelevision or video signals to produce a singlepictureinlay cardinlay card /n|�le kɑ�d/ noun an identifica-tion card inside the box of a CD, DVD orsimilar recordingin-linein-line /�n �lan/ adjective referring to con-nection pins on a chip arranged in one or tworows � noun referring to a graphical imagethat is part of a webpage � adverb way inwhich unsorted or unedited data is processedinline imageinline image /�nlan �md'/ noun agraphical image that is part of a WWW pageinline plug-ininline plug-in /�nlan �pl�" �n/ noun �plug-ininner loopinner loop /�nə lu�p/ noun a loop con-tained inside another loop. � nested loopin phasein phase /�n �fez/ adverb 1. (two electri-cal signals) that have no phase difference be-tween them, i.e. there is no delay or a delayof one complete cycle between them 2. syn-chronization of film frames and projectorshutter timinginputinput /�npυt/ verb to transfer data or infor-mation from outside a computer to its mainmemory � The data was input via a modem.� noun 1. the action of inputting information2. electrical signals which are applied to rel-evant circuits to perform the operation � abbr(all senses) i/p, I/P

‘In fact, the non-Qwerty format of the Maltronkeyboard did cause a few gasps when it was firstshown to the staff, but within a month all the Mal-tron users had regained normal input speeds.’[Computing]

input-boundinput-bound /�npυt �baυnd/ adjectivereferring to a program or device that is notrunning as fast as it could, because it is limit-ed by the input rate from a slower peripheral.Also called input-limitedinput deviceinput device /�npυt d |�vas/ noun a de-vice, e.g. a keyboard or bar code reader, thatconverts actions or information into a formthat a computer can understand, and transfersthe data to the processorinput-limitedinput-limited /�npυt �lmtd/ adjectivesame as input-boundinput/outputinput/output /�npυt �aυtpυt/ noun fullform of I/Oinput/output deviceinput/output device /�npυt �aυtpυt d|

�vas/ noun a peripheral, e.g. such as a termi-nal in a workstation, that can be used both forinputting and outputting data to a processorinquiryinquiry /n|�kwaəri/ noun another spellingof enquiry

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127 integrated circuitinsertinsert /n|�s��t/ verb 1. to put somethinginto something � First insert the system diskin the left slot. 2. to add new text inside aword or sentence 3. to replace a part of an ex-isting recording with inserted materialinsertion communication equipmentinsertion communication equip-ment /n|�s��ʃ(ə)n kə |�mju�n|�keʃ(ə)n |

�kwpmənt/ noun full form of ICEinsertion lossinsertion loss /n|�s��ʃ(ə)n lɒs/ noun aweakening of a signal caused by adding a de-vice into an existing channel or circuitinsertion pointinsertion point /n|�s��ʃ(ə)n pɔnt/ nounthe point in a document, indicated by the po-sition of the cursor, where new text typed bythe user will be enteredinstallinstall /n |�stɔ�l/ verb 1. to put a machineinto an office or factory � The system is easyto install and simple to use. 2. to set up a newcomputer system to the user’s requirementsor to configure a new program to the existingsystem capabilitiesinstallable device driverinstallable device driver /n|

�stɔ�ləb(ə)l d |�vas �dravə/ noun a devicedriver that is loaded into memory and re-mains resident, replacing a similar functionbuilt into the operating systeminstallationinstallation /�nstə|�leʃ(ə)n/ noun 1. acomputer and equipment used for one type ofwork and processing � The engineers arestill testing the new installation. 2. the proc-ess of setting up a new computer system �The installation of the equipment took only afew hours.installation manualinstallation manual /�nstə |�leʃ(ə)n�m�njυəl/ noun a booklet showing how asystem should be installedinstall programinstall program /�nstɔ�l �prəυ"r�m/noun a piece of software that transfers pro-gram code from the distribution disks onto acomputer’s hard disk and configures the pro-graminstanceinstance /�nstəns/ noun 1. (in object-ori-ented programming) an object or duplicateobject that has been created 2. one copy of anapplication, routine or object � MicrosoftWindows will let you run several copies of thesame program at the same time. � Each iscalled an instance of the original.instant jumpinstant jump /�nstənt d'�mp/ noun (in avideodisc player) a hardware feature that al-lows the player to skip a number of frames,up to 200, in the time it takes to refresh thescreeninstant messaginginstant messaging /�nstənt�mesd'ŋ/ noun a feature that lets a usertype in and exchange messages with one ormore other people connected via the Internet.Each of the users in the group runs specialsoftware that tells them when a friend or col-league has connected to the Internet and is

available to receive messages. Any messagethat he or she types in is then sent instantly tothe other user.instant replay

instant replay /�nstənt ri�|�ple/ noun afeature found in video recording systems thatallows the action that has just been recordedto be viewed immediatelyinstruct

instruct /n|�str�kt/ verb to tell someone ora computer what to doinstruction

instruction /n|�str�kʃən/ noun a wordused in a programming language that is un-derstood by the computer as a command tocarry out a particular action

‘A Taos kernel, typically 15Kb in size, resides ateach processing node to ‘translate’, non-nativeinstructions – on the fly when needed. This kernelcontains the only code which has to be written inthe processor’s native instruction set.’ [Comput-ing]

instruction manual

instruction manual /n|�str�kʃən�m�njuəl/ noun a document describing howto use a system or softwareinstruction register

instruction register /n|�str�kʃən�red'stə/ noun a register in a centralprocessing unit that stores an instruction dur-ing decoding and execution operations. AbbrIRinstrument

instrument /�nstrυmənt/ noun an elec-tronic device that can produce a sound in re-sponse to a MIDI note or to a keyboard pressinstrumentation

instrumentation /�nstrυmen|�teʃ(ə)n/noun equipment for testing, display or re-cording signals � We’ve improved the instru-mentation on this model to keep you better in-formed of the machine’s position.integer

integer /�ntd'ə/ noun a mathematicalterm to describe a whole number (NOTE: Aninteger may be positive or negative or zero.)integral

integral /nt"rəl, n|�te"əl/ adjective re-ferring to an add-on device or special featurethat is already built into a system � The inte-gral disk drives and modem reduced deskspace.integrated

integrated /�nt |�"retd/ adjective refer-ring to a system containing many peripheralsgrouped together to provide a neat, completesystemintegrated circuit

integrated circuit /�nt"retd �s��kt/noun a circuit made up of components all ofwhich are formed on one small piece of sem-iconductor by means of etching and chemicalprocesses. Abbr IC (NOTE: Integrated circuitscan be classified as follows: Small Scale In-tegration (SSI): 1 to 10 components per IC;Medium Scale Integration (MSI): 10 to 100components per IC; Large Scale Integration(LSI): 100 to 5000 components per IC; VeryLarge Scale Integration (VLSI): 5,000 to50,000 components per IC; Ultra Large

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integrated database 128Scale Integration (ULSI): over 100,000components per IC.)integrated databaseintegrated database /�nt"retd�detəbes/ noun a database that is able toprovide information for varied requirementswithout any redundant dataintegrated device electronicsintegrated device electronics /�nt|

�"retd d |�vas �elek|�trɒnks/, integrateddrive electronics /�nt |�"retd drav �elek|

�trɒnks/ noun full form of IDEintegrated injection logicintegrated injection logic /�nt"retdn|�d'ekʃən �lɒd'k/ noun a type of circuitdesign able to produce very small, low-powercomponents. Abbr IILintegrated modemintegrated modem /�nt"retd�məυdem/ noun a modem that is an internalpart of the systemintegrationintegration /�nt |�"reʃ(ə)n/ noun theprocess of bringing several operations to-gether � small scale integration (SSI)integrityintegrity /n|�te"rti/ noun the reliability ofdata which is being processed or stored ondiskIntelIntel /�ntel/ the company that developed thefirst commercially available microprocessor,the 4004, and also developed the range ofprocessors that is used in IBM PCs and com-patible computersIntel IndeoIntel Indeo /�ntel �ndiəυ/ a trade namefor software technology developed by Intelthat allows a computer to store and play backcompressed video sequences using softwarecompression techniquesintelligenceintelligence /n|�teld'əns/ noun 1. theability to reason 2. the ability of a device tocarry out processing or run a programintelligentintelligent /n|�teld'ənt/ adjective refer-ring to a machine, program or device that iscapable of limited reasoning facilities, givingit human-like responsesintelligent knowledge-based systemintelligent knowledge-based sys-tem /n|�teld'(ə)nt �nɒld' besd �sstəm/noun full form of IKBSintelligent tutoring systemintelligent tutoring system /n |

�teld'(ə)nt �tju�tərŋ �sstəm/ noun acomputer-aided learning system that pro-vides responsive and interactive teaching fa-cilities for usersIntel PentiumIntel Pentium /�ntel �pentiəm/ a tradename for a range of advanced microproces-sors that use a 32-bit data busINTELSATINTELSAT /�ntels�t/ noun an interna-tional group that deals with the design, con-struction and allocation of space to variouscommunications satellite projects. Full formInternational Telecommunications Satel-lite Organizationintensityintensity /n|�tensti/ noun a measure ofthe strength of a signal or the brightness of alight source

inter-inter- /ntə/ prefix betweeninteractinteract /�ntər|��kt/ verb to act on eachotherinteractioninteraction /�ntər|��kʃən/ noun the ac-tion of two things on each otherinteractiveinteractive /�ntər |��ktv/ adjective refer-ring to a system or piece of software that al-lows communication between the user andthe computer in conversational mode

‘Oracle today details its interactive informationsuperhighway aims, endorsed by 17 industrypartners. The lynchpin to the announcement willbe software based on the Oracle Media Server, amultimedia database designed to run on massive-ly parallel computers.’ [Computing]

interactive graphicsinteractive graphics /�ntər�ktv�"r�fks/ plural noun a display system thatis able to react to different inputs from theuserinteractive mediainteractive media /�ntər�ktv �mi�diə/plural noun media that provide two-waycommunications between users and their ma-chines or systems and enable users to controltheir systems and obtain responses fromthem in real timeinteractive modeinteractive mode /�ntər|��ktv �məυd/noun a computer mode that allows the user toenter commands or programs or data and re-ceive immediate responsesInteractive Multimedia AssociationInteractive Multimedia Association/�ntər�ktv �m�lti|�mi�diə ə|�səυsieʃ(ə)n/noun full form of IMAinteractive systeminteractive system /�ntər�ktv�sstəm/ noun a system which provides animmediate response to the user’s commandsor programs or datainteractive TVinteractive TV /�ntər�ktv ti� �vi�/ nouna channel that allows two-way communica-tion between the viewer and the broadcastingstation. This feature often allows the user tochoose which programme to watch or to re-spond directly to questions displayed on-screen.interactive videointeractive video /�ntər�ktv �vdiəυ/noun full form of IVinteractive videotextinteractive videotext /�ntər�ktv�vdiəυtekst/ noun viewdata service that al-lows the operator to select pages, displaythem, ask questions, or use a service such asteleshoppinginteractivityinteractivity /�ntər�k|�tvti/ noun two-way communication between users and ma-chines such as computers and television sets,in which the machines provide real-time re-sponses to the inquiries and commands of theusers

‘…interactivity is a buzzword you’ve been hear-ing a lot lately. Resign yourself to it becauseyou’re going to be hearing a lot more of it’[Music Technology]

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129 interleavingintercarrier noise

intercarrier noise /�ntək�riə �nɔz/noun interference caused by two differentsignal carriers getting mixed � Television in-tercarrier noise is noticed when the pictureand the sound signal carriers clash.interchange

interchange /�ntətʃend'/ noun the ex-change of one thing for another � The ma-chine allows document interchange betweenit and other machines without reformatting.� verb to exchange one thing for anotherinterchangeable

interchangeable /�ntə|�tʃend'əb(ə)l/adjective which can be exchangedinterchange file format

interchange file format /�ntətʃend'�fal �fɔ�m�t/ noun full form of IFFintercharacter spacing

intercharacter spacing /�ntək�rəktə�spesŋ/ noun a word-processor feature thatprovides variable spacing between words tocreate a justified lineintercomintercom /�ntəkɒm/ noun a short-rangevoice communications systeminterconnect

interconnect /�ntəkə|�nekt/ verb to con-nect together � a series of interconnectedterminalsinterconnection

interconnection /�ntəkə |�nekʃən/ noun1. a section of connecting material betweentwo devices 2. the connection between a tel-ephone set and a telephone networkinterface

interface /�ntəfes/ noun 1. the point atwhich one computer system ends and anotherbegins 2. a circuit, device or port that allowstwo or more incompatible units to be linkedtogether in a standard communication sys-tem, allowing data to be transferred betweenthem 3. a section of a program which allowstransmission of data to another program �verb 1. to modify a device by adding a circuitor connector to allow it to conform to a stand-ard communications system 2. to connecttwo or more incompatible devices togetherwith a circuit, in order to allow them to com-municate

‘The original release of ODBC only included adriver for Microsoft’s own SQL Server database.Microsoft has subsequently published the ODBCapplication program interface enabling third-par-ty vendors to create drivers for other databasesand tools.’ [Computing]

interface card

interface card /�ntəfes kɑ�d/ noun anadd-on board that allows a computer to inter-face to certain equipment or conform to a cer-tain standardinterfacing

interfacing /�ntəfesŋ/ noun hardwareor software used to interface two computers,programs or devicesinterference

interference /�ntə|�fərəns/ noun 1. theunwanted addition of signals or noise to atransmitted signal 2. an effect seen when twosignals are added, creating constructive inter-ference when both signals are in phase or de-

structive interference when they are out ofphaseinterframe coding

interframe coding /�ntəfrem �kəυdŋ/noun a system for compressing video imag-es, in which only the differences betweeneach frame are recordedinterior gateway protocol

interior gateway protocol /n|�təriə�"etwe �prəυtəυ|�kɒl/ noun full form ofIGPinterlace

interlace /�ntə|�les/ verb to build up animage on a television screen using two passesto create two picture fields. One displays allthe odd-numbered lines, the other all theeven-numbered lines. The aim is to reducethe flicker effects on the television picture.interlaced scanning

interlaced scanning /�ntəlesd�sk�nŋ/ noun a technique for producing animage on a television or computer screen thatis clear and correctly aligned in the verticalplane. It involves scanning first all the oddnumbered and then all the even numberedlines in the screen image.interlaced video

interlaced video /�ntəlesd �vdiəυ/noun a video signal made up of two separatefields. This is the normal display mode forhome video.interleave

interleave /�ntər |�li�v/ noun a method ofstoring data on alternate tracks on a hard diskdrive to slow down data transfer rates tomatch a slower processor � Fast computersrun the hard disk with no interleave factor,since they can cope with the fast flow of datato and from the hard disk.interleaved

interleaved /�ntər |�li�vd/ adjective 1. re-ferring to sections of two programs executedalternately to give the impression that theyare running simultaneously 2. (thin sheets ofpaper) which are stuck between the pages ofa book � Blank paper was interleaved withthe newly printed text to prevent the ink run-ning.interleave factor

interleave factor /�ntər|�li�v �f�ktə/noun the ratio of sectors skipped between ac-cess operations on a hard disk (NOTE: In ahard disk with an interleave of 3, the firstsector is read, then three sectors areskipped and the next sector is read. This isused to allow hard disks with slow accesstime to store more data on the disk.)interleaving

interleaving /�ntər |�li�vŋ/ noun 1. thetechnique of dealing with slices or sections ofprocesses alternately, so that they appear tobe executed simultaneously 2. the process ofdividing data storage into sections so thateach can be accessed separately 3. the addi-tion of blank paper between printed sheets toprevent the ink from making other sheetsdirty

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inter-library loan 130inter-library loaninter-library loan /n|�t�� �labrəri ləυn/noun the lending of books or documentsfrom one library to another. Abbr ILLinterlinear spacinginterlinear spacing /�ntəlniə �spesŋ/noun the insertion of spaces between lines oftextinterlockinterlock /�ntə|�lɒk/ noun 1. a security de-vice that is part of the logon prompt and re-quires a password 2. a method of synchronis-ing audio tape with a video or filmed se-quence. This can be achieved by using aframe counter or a timer or by running bothaudio and visual tapes on the same motor. �verb to prevent a device from performing an-other task until the present one has been com-pletedintermediateintermediate /�ntə|�mi�diət/ adjective 1.which is at a stage between two others 2.widespread term for colour master positivesand duplicate negatives which are printed onan integral colour masking film stockintermediate access memoryintermediate access memory/�ntəmi�diət ��kses �mem(ə)ri/ noun fullform of IAMintermediate frequencyintermediate frequency /�ntəmi�diət�fri�kwənsi/ noun the frequency in a radioreceiver to which the incoming received sig-nal is transformed. Abbr ifintermittent errorintermittent error /�ntəmt(ə)nt �erə/noun an error which apparently occurs ran-domly in a computer or communications sys-tem due to a program fault or noise (NOTE:These errors are very difficult to trace andcorrect due to their apparent random ap-pearance.)internalinternal /n|�t��n(ə)l/ adjective which is in-side

COMMENT: Many compiled languages aretranslated to an internal language.

internally stored programinternally stored program /n|�t��n(ə)listɔ�d �prəυ"r�m/ noun a computer pro-gram code that is stored in a ROM device ina computer system and does not have to beloaded from backing storeinternal memoryinternal memory /n|�t��n(ə)l �mem(ə)ri/noun storage space that is available withinthe main computer and is under its direct con-trol. Also called internal storeinternal modeminternal modem /n |�t��n(ə)l �məυ|�dem/noun a modem on an expansion card that fitsinto an expansion connector and transfers in-formation to the processor through the bus,rather than connecting to a serial portinternal sortinternal sort /n|�t��n(ə)l sɔ�t/ noun asorting program using only the main memoryof a systeminternal storeinternal store /n|�t��n(ə)l �stɔ�/ nounsame as internal memoryinternationalinternational /�ntə|�n�ʃ(ə)nəl/ adjectivereferring to different countries

International Business MachinesInternational Business Machines/�ntən�ʃ(ə)nəl �bznəs mə|�ʃi�nz/ full formof IBMinternational direct diallinginternational direct dialling /ntə|

�n�ʃ(ə)nəl da |�rekt �daəlŋ kəυd/ nounthe process of calling telephone numbers inother countries direct. Abbr IDD (NOTE: noplural)international file formatinternational file format/�ntən�ʃ(ə)nəl �fal �fɔ�m�t/ noun fullform of IFFInternational MIDI AssociationInternational MIDI Association/�ntən�ʃ(ə)nəl �mdi ə|�səυsieʃ(ə)n/ nouna professional organisation that covers sub-jects including authoring languages, formats,and intellectual property. Abbr IMAInternational Standards OrganizationInternational Standards Organiza-tion /�ntən�ʃ(ə)nəl �st�ndədz�ɔ�"ənazeʃ(ə)n/ noun an organisationwhich creates and regulates standards formany types of computer and networkingproducts. Abbr ISOInternational Telecommunications Satellite OrganizationInternational TelecommunicationsSatellite Organization /�ntə|�n�ʃ(ə)nəl�telikə|�mju�n|�keʃ(ə)nz �s�tə|�lat�ɔ�"əna|�zeʃ(ə)n/ noun full form of INTEL-SATinter-negativeinter-negative /n|�t�� �ne"ətv/ noun du-plicate colour negative film which is pre-pared directly from an original colour nega-tive film exposed in the camera (film)InternetInternet /�ntənet/ noun an internationalwide area network that provides file and datatransfer, together with electronic mail func-tions for millions of users around the world.� HTTP, POP 3, SMTP, World Wide WebInternet addressInternet address /�ntənet ə|�dres/ nouna unique number that identifies the preciselocation of a particular node on the InternetThe address is a 32-bit number usually writ-ten in dotted decimal format, i.e. in the form‘123.33.22.32’, and it is used by the TCP/IPprotocol. A domain name system is used toconvert a domain name, e.g.‘bloomsbury.com’, into a full Internet ad-dress. Also called IP addressInternet Architecture BoardInternet Architecture Board /�ntənet�ɑ�ktektʃə �bɔ�d/ noun full form of IAB 2(NOTE: Its members include the IETF andthe IRTF.)Internet Assigned Numbers AuthorityInternet Assigned Numbers Author-ity /�ntənet ə |�sand �n�mbəz ɔ� |�θɒrti/noun a group that assigns unique identifyingnumbers to the different protocols and net-work products used on the Internet. AbbrIANAInternet bankingInternet banking /�ntənet �b�ŋkŋ/noun a system that allows customers to checktheir bank accounts, pay bills and transfermoney by means of the Internet

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131 interrupt‘…most banks now offer reasonable telephoneand Internet banking facilities.’ [The Guardian]

Internet caféInternet café /�ntənet �k�fe/ nounsame as cybercaféInternet control message protocolInternet control message protocol/�ntənet kən|�trəυl �mesd' �prəυtəkɒl/noun full form of ICMPInternet-draftInternet-draft /�ntənet drɑ�ft/ adjectivereferring to draft documents produced by theIETF that often lead to RFCs. Abbr I-DInternet Engineering Steering GroupInternet Engineering SteeringGroup /�ntənet �end'nərŋ �stərŋ"ru�p/ noun full form of IESGInternet Engineering Task ForceInternet Engineering Task Force/�ntənet �end'nərŋ �tɑ�sk �fɔ�s/ nounfull form of IETFInternet ExplorerInternet Explorer /�ntənet k |�splɔ�rə/noun a web browser developed by Microsoftwhich allows a user to view formatted HTMLinformation such as webpages on the Inter-net. Abbr IEInternet group management protocolInternet group management proto-col /�ntənet "ru�p �m�nd'mənt�prəυtəkɒl/ noun full form of IGMPInternet Information ServerInternet Information Server /�ntənet�nfə|�meʃ(ə)n �s��və/ noun full form of IISInternet merchant accountInternet merchant account /�ntənet�m��tʃənt ə|�kaυnt/ noun a business bankaccount that allows the business to acceptcredit card payments via the Internet. Manybusinesses have a merchant account, allow-ing them to accept credit card payments bytelephone or mail, but still need a separateIMA to accept payments via the net. AbbrIMAInternet message access protocolInternet message access protocol/�ntənet �mesd' ��kses �prəυtəkɒl/ nounfull form of IMAPInternet numberInternet number /�ntənet �n�mbə/noun � Internet addressInternet protocolInternet protocol /�ntənet �prəυtəkɒl/noun full form of IPInternet relay chatInternet relay chat /�ntənet �ri�le�tʃ�t/ noun a system that allows many usersto participate in a chat session in which eachuser can send messages and sees the text ofany other user. Abbr IRCInternet research steering groupInternet research steering group/�ntənet r|�s��tʃ �stərŋ "ru�p/ noun agroup that manages the Internet research taskforce; part of the Internet Society. AbbrIRSGInternet research task forceInternet research task force /�ntənetr|�s��tʃ �tɑ�sk fɔ�s/ noun full form of IRTFInternet server application program interfaceInternet server application programinterface /�ntənet �s��və ��plkeʃ(ə)n�prəυ"r�m �ntəfes/ noun full form of IS-APIInternet service providerInternet service provider /�ntənet�s��vs prə|�vadə/ noun full form of ISP

Internet SocietyInternet Society /�ntənet sə|�saəti/noun an organisation that has the task ofmaintaining and enhancing the Internet. It ismade up of committees, such as the InternetAdvisory Board and the Internet EngineeringTask Force, and is not linked to any govern-ment or company, so that it provides an inde-pendent view of the future of the Internet.Internet telephonyInternet telephony /�ntənet tə|�lefəni/noun a system that allows users to make tel-ephone calls using the Internet to carry thevoice signals. To make a call, users need acomputer with a sound card fitted and a mi-crophone and loudspeaker plugged in, andspecial software manages the connection andtransfers the voice data over the Internet.(NOTE: This system is particularly appealingif you have low-cost dial-up access to the In-ternet, since it allows you to make long dis-tance calls for the low-price you pay for yourInternet connection.)InternetworkInternetwork /�ntə|�netw��k/ noun anumber of networks connected together us-ing bridges or routers to allow users on onenetwork to access any resource on any otherof the connected networksInterNICInterNIC noun an organisation that wasoriginally responsible for managing the waydomain names are registered, assigned andpaid for by organisations. Recently, the sys-tem has changed to allow a group of compa-nies in different countries to manage the reg-istration and payment process.interoperabilityinteroperability /�ntə|�ɒpərə|�blti/noun the ability of two devices or computersto exchange informationinterpolationinterpolation /n|�t��pə|�leʃ(ə)n/ noun thecalculation of intermediate values betweentwo pointsinter-positiveinter-positive /n|�t�� �pɒztv/ noun pos-itive colour duplicate film made from anoriginal negative (film)interpretinterpret /n|�t��prt/ verb to translate whatis said in one language into anotherinterpreterinterpreter /n|�t��prtə/ noun a piece ofsoftware used to translate a user’s high-levelprogram into machine code at the time of ex-ecution. Compare compiler (NOTE: A com-piler translates the high-level language intomachine code and then executes it, where-as an interpreter makes a translation in realtime.)interrogationinterrogation /n |�terə|�"eʃ(ə)n/ noun theact of asking questionsinterruptinterrupt /�ntə|�r�pt/ verb to stop some-thing happening while it is happening �noun 1. the stopping of a transmission as aresult of an action at the receiving end of asystem 2. a signal which diverts a centralprocessing unit from one task to another that

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interrupt request 132has higher priority, allowing the CPU to re-turn to the first task laterinterrupt request

interrupt request /�ntər�pt r|�kwest/noun a signal from a device that indicates tothe CPU that it requires attention. Abbr IRQinterval

interval /�ntəv(ə)l/ noun a short pause be-tween two actions � There was an intervalbetween pressing the key and the starting ofthe printout.interventionintervention /�ntə|�venʃən/ noun actingto make a change in a systeminterword spacinginterword spacing /�ntəw��d �spesŋ/noun variable spacing between words in atext, used to justify linesintraintra /�ntrə/, intra frame /�ntrə frem/noun a reference frame used to synchronisevideo data that has been compressed usingthe MPEG systemintrinsic

intrinsic /n|�trnsk/ adjective pure (sub-stance) which has had no other chemicals(such as dopants) added � The base materialfor ICs is an intrinsic semiconductor which isthen doped.introduceintroduce /�ntrə|�dju�s/ verb to put some-thing into something � Errors were intro-duced into the text at keyboarding.intruderintruder /n|�tru�də/ noun a person who isnot authorised to use a computer or connectto a network. � firewall, hackerintrusion

intrusion /n|�tru�'(ə)n/ noun the action bya telephone operator to allow both parties oneach end of the telephone line to hear his orher messageinvalidinvalid /�nvəld/ adjective not valid � Hetried to use an invalid password.inverse video

inverse video /�nv��s �vdiəυ/ noun atelevision effect created by swapping thebackground and foreground text display col-oursinversion

inversion /n|�v��ʃ(ə)n/ noun 1. the proc-ess of changing over the numbers in a binaryword, one to zero and zero to one � The in-version of a binary digit takes place in one’scomplement. 2. the process of changing thelogical state of a signal or device to its logicaloppositeinvertinvert /�n|�v��t/ verb to change all binaryones to zeros and zeros to onesinverter

inverter /n|�v��tə/ noun 1. a logical gatethat provides inversion facilities 2. a circuitused to provide alternating current supplyfrom a DC battery sourceinvisible

invisible /n|�vzb(ə)l/ adjective visible ona DTP page or graphics layout during the de-sign phase, but not printedinvitation

invitation /�nv |�teʃ(ə)n/ noun action by aprocessor to contact another device and allowit to send a message

invitation to sendinvitation to send /�nvteʃ(ə)n tə�send/ noun a special character transmittedto indicate to a device that the host computeris willing to receive messages. Abbr ITSinviteinvite /n|�vat/ verb to ask someone to dosomethinginvolveinvolve /n|�vɒlv/ verb to have to do with; toinclude (something) in a process � Backingup involves copying current working filesonto a separate storage disk.I/OI/O /�a �əυ/ noun the process of receiving ortransmitting data between a computer and itsperipherals, and other points outside the sys-tem. Full form input/outputionion /�aən/ noun a charged particleion depositionion deposition /�aən �depəzʃ(ə)n/noun printing technology that uses a print-head that deposits ions to create a chargedimage which attracts the tonerionosphereionosphere /a|�ɒnəsfə/ noun a layer ofcharged particles surrounding the earthipip abbr information providerIPIP /�a �pi�/ noun one part of the TCP/IPstandard that defines how data is transferredover a network. Full form Internet protocoli/pi/p, I/P abbr inputIP addressIP address /�a �pi� ə|�dres/ noun same asInternet addressIPngIPng /�a pi� en �d'i�/ noun an upgrade ofthe Internet Protocol that allows more com-puters to connect to the Internet and supportsmore data traffic. Full form Internet Proto-col next generationIpsecIpsec /�a �pi� s|�kjυərəti/, IP Securitynoun a set of security protocols that allowsinformation to be transferred securely overthe Internet and is used to set up and supportsecure virtual private networks. The systemworks with packets of data at the IP layer andsupports two types of public-key data en-cryption. The first, called Transport mode,encrypts the data within a packet, but doesnot touch the header information, which con-tains the destination address, subject andsource of a packet. The second mode, Tunnelmode, provides a greater level of security byencrypting all of the packet, including theheader information.IP spoofingIP spoofing /�a �pi� �spu�fŋ/ noun amethod of gaining unauthorised access to acomputer or network by pretending to be anauthorised computer or device (NOTE: Eachdevice on the network has its own unique IPaddress, and many security systems blockor allow access to networks depending onthe IP address of the computer that is re-questing access. A hacker finds an IP ad-dress that is allowed, then modifies theheader information in the data packets fromhis or her own computer to include this IP

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133 IVaddress. Newer routers and firewalls use arange of techniques to spot this schemeand block the data.)IR

IR abbr 1. information retrieval 2. index reg-ister 3. instruction registerIRC

IRC abbr Internet relay chatiris

iris /�ars/ noun a small hole in a camerabetween the lens and the film. The iris is nor-mally variable in size to adjust the amount oflight passing through it to the film.IRQs

IRQs abbr interrupt requestsirretrievable

irretrievable /�r |�tri�vəb(ə)l/ adjectivewhich cannot be retrieved � The files are ir-retrievable since the computer crashed.IRSG

IRSG /�a ɑ� es �d'i�/ noun a group thatmanages the Internet research task force andis part of the Internet Society. Full form In-ternet Research Steering GroupIRTF

IRTF /�a ɑ� ti� �ef/ noun a committee that ispart of the IAB and researches new Internetstandards before referring them to the IETFfor approval. Full form Internet ResearchTask ForceIS

IS abbr indexed sequentialISA

ISA /�asə/ noun a standard used for the 16-bit expansion bus in an IBM PC or compati-ble. Full form Industry Standard Architec-ture. Compare EISA, MCAISAM

ISAM abbr indexed sequential access meth-odISAPI

ISAPI /�a es e a �pi�/ noun (on a Win-dows NT server) a set of commands and pro-cedures that allow web server software to ac-cess other applications on the same serverrunning Windows NT. Full form Internetserver application program interfaceISBN

ISBN abbr International Standard BookNumberISDN

ISDN /�a es di� �en/ noun a method of dig-ital data transmission. It utilises the existingtelephone network, but omits the digital/ana-log conversion required by conventional tele-phonic equipment; the customer thereforehas a fully digital connection. ISDN connec-tions usually provide two 64K bps channels,which can work independently or be com-bined to achieve transfer speeds of 128K bps.Full form integrated services digital net-workISO

ISO abbr International Standards Organiza-tionISO 9660

ISO 9660 noun a standard method of stor-ing files on a CD-ROM, used in many for-mats including PhotoCD

isolate

isolate /�asə|�let/ verb 1. to separatesomething from a system 2. to insulate(something) electricallyisolation

isolation /�asə |�leʃ(ə)n/ noun being iso-latedisolator

isolator /�asəletə/ noun a device or mate-rial which isolatesisometric view

isometric view /�asəυ|�metrk vju�/noun (in graphics) a drawing that shows allthree dimensions of an object in equal pro-portion � An isometric view does not showany perspective.ISO/OSI

ISO/OSI abbr International Standards Or-ganization Open Systems InterconnectionISO/OSI model

ISO/OSI model /�a es əυ əυ es �a�mɒd(ə)l/ noun a layered architecture thatdefines how computers and networks shouldinteractISP

ISP /�a es �pi�/ noun a company that pro-vides one of the permanent links that makeup the Internet and sells connections to pri-vate users and companies to allow them toaccess the Internet. Full form Internet serv-ice providerISR

ISR abbr information storage and retrievalISSN

ISSN abbr International Standard SerialNumberIT

IT abbr information technologyitalic

italic /|�t�lk/ noun type of character font inwhich the characters slope to the right � Theheadline is printed in italic and underlined.item

item /�atəm/ noun a single thing amongmany � a data item can be a word or a seriesof figures or a record in a fileiterate

iterate /�təret/ noun a loop or series of in-structions in a program which repeat overand over again until the program is complet-ed. Also called iterative routineiteration

iteration /�tə |�reʃ(ə)n/ noun the repeatedapplication of a program to solve a problemiterative routine

iterative routine /�tərətv ru� |�ti�n/ nounsame as iterateITS

ITS abbr invitation to sendIV

IV /�a �vi�/ noun a system that uses a compu-ter linked to a video disk player to provideprocessing power and real images or movingpictures. Full form interactive video (NOTE:This system is often used in teaching. A stu-dent is asked questions, and if he or she an-swers correctly, the system responds byproviding a filmed sequence from the vide-odisc.)

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Jjabberjabber /�d'�bə/ noun a continuous randomsignal transmitted by a faulty adapter card ornode on a networkjackjack /d'�k/, jack plug /�d'�k pl�"/ nouna plug which consists of a single pinjacketjacket /�d'�kt/ noun the cover for a bookor disk � The book jacket has the author’sname on it.jaggiesjaggies /�d'�"i�z/ plural noun jagged edg-es which appear along diagonal or curvedlines displayed on a computer screen, causedby the size of each pixel. � aliasing, anti-aliasingJANETJANET /�d'�nt/ noun a wide area networkthat connects universities and academic es-tablishments. Full form joint academic net-workjarjar /d'ɑ�/ verb to give a sharp shock to a de-vice � You can cause trouble by turning off orjarring the PC while the disk read heads aremoving.JavaJava /�d'ɑ�və/ a trade name for a program-ming language and program definition devel-oped by Sun Microsystems. Java is used tocreate small applications designed to en-hance the functionality of a webpage. It issimilar to object-oriented languages such asC++ and can run on any compatible platform.Compare JavaScriptJava BeansJava Beans /�d'ɑ�və bi�nz/ a trade namefor a software system, developed by Sun Mi-crosystems, that provides objects within theJava programming language, and is similar toCOM and CORBA and can work with boththese standardsJava Database ConnectivityJava Database Connectivity /�d'ɑ�və�detəbes �kɒnek |�tvti/ a trade name for aset of standard functions that allow a pro-grammer to access a database from within aJava application. Abbr JDBCJavaScriptJavaScript /�d'ɑ�vəskrpt/ a trade namefor set of programming commands that canbe included within a normal webpage writtenusing HTML commands. When the webbrowser loads the webpage, it runs the Java-Script commands, normally used to createspecial effects to a webpage. CompareHTML, Perl, VBScriptJCLJCL /�d'a si� �el/ noun a set of commandsthat identify, and describe resources requiredby, a job that a computer has to process. Fullform job control language

JDBCJDBC abbr Java Database Connectivityjetjet /d'et/ � ink-jet printerjinglejingle /�d'ŋ"(ə)l/ noun a short easily-re-membered tune used to advertise a producton televisionjitterjitter /�d'tə/ noun the rapid small up-and-down movement of characters or pixels on ascreen displaying image bits in a facsimiletransmission � Looking at this screen jitter isgiving me a headache.jobjob /d'ɒb/ noun a task or a number of tasksto be processed as a single unit � The nextjob to be processed is to sort all the records.jobbing printerjobbing printer /�d'ɒbŋ �prntə/ noun aperson who does small printing jobs, such asprinting business cardsjob control languagejob control language /�d'ɒb kən|�trəυl�l�ŋ"wd'/ noun full form of JCLjogjog /d'ɒ"/ verb to advance a video tape byone frame at a timejog/shuttlejog/shuttle, jog/shuttle control noun amanual control on a video player or camerathat allows a user to edit a sequence (NOTE:Jog moves the tape one frame a time, shut-tle moves the tape more rapidly.)joinjoin /d'ɔn/ verb 1. to link or to put severalthings together 2. to combine two or morepieces of information to produce a single unitof informationjoint academic networkjoint academic network /d'ɔnt ��kə|

�demk �netw��k/ noun full form of JANETJoint Photographic Experts GroupJoint Photographic Experts Group/�d'ɔnt fəυtə|�"r�fks �eksp��ts "ru�p/noun full form of JPEGjournaljournal /�d'��n(ə)l/ noun 1. a record of allcommunications to and from a terminal 2. alist of any changes or updates to a file � Themodified records were added to the masterfile and noted in the journal.journal filejournal file /�d'��n(ə)l fal/ noun a storedrecord of every communication between auser and the central computer, used to helpretrieve files after a system crash or faultjournalistjournalist /�d'��n(ə)lst/ noun a personwho writes for a newspaperjoystickjoystick /�d'ɔ|�stk/ noun a device that al-lows a user to move a cursor around thescreen by moving an upright rod connectedto an I/O port on the computerJPEGJPEG /�d'e pe"/ noun a standard that de-fines a way of storing graphic images in a

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135 justifycompressed format in a file on disk. Fullform Joint Photographic Experts GroupJPEG++

JPEG++ /�d'a pe" pl�s �pl�s/ noun anextension to JPEG that allows parts of an im-age to be compressed in different waysJScript

JScript /�d'askrpt/ a trade name for aversion of JavaScript developed by Microsoftjudder

judder /�d'�də/ noun an unwanted move-ment in a printing or facsimile machine thatresults in a distorted picturejukebox

jukebox /�d'u�k|�bɒks/ noun a CD-ROMdrive that can hold several CD-ROM discsand select the correct disc when requiredjumbo chipjumbo chip /�d'�mbəυ tʃp/ noun an in-tegrated circuit made using the whole of asemiconductor wafer. � wafer scale inte-grationjump

jump /d'�mp/ noun a programming com-mand to end one set of instructions and directthe processor to another section of the pro-gram � verb 1. to direct a CPU to anothersection of a program 2. to miss a page or aline or a space when printing � The typewrit-er jumped two lines. � The paging systemhas jumped two folio numbers.jump cut

jump cut /�d'�mp �k�t/ verb to eliminatea part of the continuous action within a scene

jumperjumper /�d'�mpə/ noun a temporary wireconnection on a circuit boardjump on zerojump on zero /�d'�mp ɒn �zərəυ/ nouna conditional jump executed if a flag or reg-ister is zerojump outjump out /�d'�mp �aυt/ verb to deleteframes in film or video tape editing (film)junctionjunction /�d'�ŋkʃən/ noun 1. a connectionbetween wires or cables 2. a region betweentwo areas of semiconductor which have dif-ferent doping levels (such as a p-type and n-type area), resulting in a potential differencebetween themjunkjunk /d'�ŋk/ noun information or hardwarewhich is useless or out of date or non-func-tional � verb to make a file or piece of hard-ware redundantjustificationjustification /�d'�stf|�keʃ(ə)n/ nounthe process of moving data bits or charactersto the left or right so that the lines havestraight marginsjustifyjustify /�d'�st|�fa/ verb 1. to change thespacing between words or characters in adocument so that the left and right marginswill be straight 2. to shift the contents of acomputer register by a set amount 3. to setlines of printed text as wide as possible in acertain page size

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KKK /ke/ symbol kiloK56flexK56flex a trade name for a communicationsstandard developed by Hayes, Pace and othermanufacturers for a range of high-speed mo-dems that can transfer data at 56,000 bits persecond. � V series, X2Kaleida LabsKaleida Labs /kə|�ladə l�bz/ a companyformed as a joint venture between Apple andIBM to produce cross-platform multimediaauthoring toolsKarnaugh mapKarnaugh map /�kɑ�nəυ m�p/ noun agraphical representation of states and condi-tions in a logic circuit � The prototype waschecked for hazards with a Karnaugh map.KbpsKbps /�ke bi� pi� �es/ noun a measure ofthe amount of data that a device can transfereach second � A fast modem can transferdata at a rate of 56Kbps, whereas an ISDNadapter can transfer data at a rate of128Kbps. Full form kilobits per secondKbyteKbyte /�ke bat/ abbr kilobyteKermitKermit /�k��mt/ noun a file transfer proto-col usually used when downloading data witha modemkernkern /k��n/ verb to adjust the space betweenpairs of letters so that they are printed closertogetherkernelkernel /�k��n(ə)l/ noun the essential in-struction routines required as a basis for anyoperations in a computer system (NOTE: Ker-nel routines are usually hidden from the us-er. They are used by the operating systemfor tasks such as loading a program or dis-playing text on a screen.)kerningkerning /�k��nŋ/ noun the slight overlap-ping of certain printed character areas to pre-vent large spaces between them, giving aneater appearancekeykey /ki�/ noun 1. a button on a keyboard thatoperates a switch � There are 64 keys on thekeyboard. 2. an important object or group ofcharacters in a computer system, used to rep-resent an instruction or set of data 3. a specialcombination of numbers or characters thatare used with a cipher to encrypt or decrypt amessage � Type this key into the machine, itwill decode the last message. 4. an identifica-tion code or word used for a stored record ordata item � We selected all the records withthe word ‘disk’ in their keys.keyboardkeyboard /�ki�bɔ�d/ verb to enter informa-tion by using a keyboard � It was cheaper to

have the manuscript keyboarded by anothercompany.

‘…the main QWERTY typing area is in the cen-tre of the keyboard with the 10 function keys onthe left’ [Personal Computer World]

keyboarder

keyboarder /�ki�bɔ�də/ noun a personwho enters data via a keyboardkeyboarding

keyboarding /�ki�bɔ�dŋ/ noun the actionof entering data using a keyboard � The costof keyboarding is calculated in keystrokes perhour.keyboard overlay

keyboard overlay /�ki�bɔ�d �əυvəle/noun a strip of paper that is placed above thekeys on a keyboard to indicate their functionkeyboard send/receive

keyboard send/receive /�ki�bɔ�d sendr|�si�v/ noun full form of KSRkey combination

key combination /�ki� �kɒmbneʃ(ə)n/noun a combination of two or more keys thatcarry out a function when pressed at the sametimekeyed sequential access method

keyed sequential access method/�ki�d s|�kwenʃəl ��kses �meθəd/ noun fullform of KSAMkey frame

key frame /�ki� �frem/ noun 1. a singlepicture in an animation that describes themain actions in the sequence 2. (in a hyper-text document) a page that gives the user achoice of destination 3. (in full motion video)a frame that is recorded in full rather than be-ing compressed or differentially recordedkey grip

key grip /�ki� �"rp/ noun same as firstgrip (film)keying

keying /�ki�ŋ/ noun a method of overlay-ing one particular video signal onto anotherkey light

key light /�ki� lat/ noun the main lightwhich projects the most brightness on to thesubject being filmed (film)keypad

keypad /�ki� |�p�d/ noun a group of specialkeys used for certain applications � You canuse the numeric keypad to enter the figures.

‘…it uses a six button keypad to select the devic-es and functions’ [Byte]

keystone distortion

keystone distortion /�ki�stəυn d|

�stɔ�ʃ(ə)n/ noun image distortion in whichthe vertical lines slant out towards the hori-zontal edges of the monitor. Also called trap-ezoidal distortionkeystroke

keystroke /�ki�strəυk/ noun the action ofpressing a key � He keyboards at a rate of3500 keystrokes per hour.

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137 KWOCkey-to-diskkey-to-disk /�ki� tə �dsk/ noun a systemwhere data is keyed in and stored directly ondisk without any processingkeywordkeyword /�ki�w��d/ noun 1. a commandword used in a programming language toprovide a function � The BASIC keywordPRINT will display text on the screen. 2. animportant or informative word in a title ordocument that describes its contents � Com-puter is a keyword in IT. 3. a word which isrelevant or important to a textKHzKHz abbr kilohertzkillkill /kl/ verb to erase a file or stop a programduring executionkilokilo /�kləυ/ prefix one thousandkilobitkilobit /�kləbt/ noun 1,024 bits of data.Abbr Kb, Kbitkilobits per secondkilobits per second /�ki�ləυ bts p���sekənd/ noun a measure of the amount ofdata that a device can transfer each second.Abbr Kbpskilobytekilobyte /�kləυ|�bat/ noun a unit of meas-urement for high-capacity storage devicesmeaning 1,024 bytes of data. Abbr KB,Kbytekilohertzkilohertz /�kləh��ts/ noun a frequency ofone thousand cycles per second. Abbr KHzkilo instructions per secondkilo instructions per second /�kləυn|�str�kʃənz p�� �sekənd/ noun full formof KIPSkilo-ohmkilo-ohm /�ki�ləυ əυm/ noun one thousandohmsKilostreamKilostream /�kləstri�m/ a trade name fora leased line connection supplied by BritishTelecom that provides data transfer rates of64Kbit per secondkilowordkiloword /�kləw��d/ noun a unit of meas-urement of 1,024 computer wordskimball tagkimball tag /�kmbɔ�l t�"/ noun a codedcard attached to a product in a shop, contain-ing information about the product that is readby a scanner when the product is soldkioskkiosk /�ki�ɒsk/ noun a small booth with ascreen, a means of user input and a computer,used to provide information for the generalpublicKIPSKIPS /�ke a pi� �es/ noun one thousandcomputer instructions processed every sec-ond, used as a measure of computer power.Full form kilo instructions per second

kludgekludge, kluge noun (informal) 1. a tempo-rary correction made to a badly written orconstructed piece of software or to a key-boarding error 2. hardware which should beused for demonstration purposes onlyklugedkluged /klu�d'd/ adjective temporarily re-pairedknobknob /nɒb/ noun a round button (such as ona monitor), which can be turned to controlsome process � Turn the on/off knob.knowledgeknowledge /�nəυ haυ/ noun what isknownknowledge baseknowledge base /�nɒld' bes/ noun thecomputerised data in an expert system thatcan be used to solve a particular type of prob-lemknowledge-based systemknowledge-based system /�nɒld'best �sstəm/ noun a computer system thatapplies the stored reactions, instructions andknowledge of experts in a particular field to aproblemknowledge engineeringknowledge engineering /�nɒld'�end'nərŋ/ noun the process of designingand writing expert computer systemsknowledge industryknowledge industry /�nɒld' �ndəstri/noun businesses that specialise in dataprocessing or the development and use of in-formation technologyKSAMKSAM /�ke es e �em/ noun a file structurethat allows data to be accessed using keyfields or key field content. Full form keyedsequential access methodKSRKSR /�ke es �ɑ�/ noun a terminal which hasa keyboard and monitor, and is linked to aCPU. Full form keyboard send/receive.Compare ASRKVAKVA abbr kilovolt-ampere output ratingKWKW abbr 1. kilowatt 2. kilowordKWACKWAC /kw�k/ noun a library indexing sys-tem that uses keywords from the text and titleas indexed entries. Full form keyword andcontextKWICKWIC /kwk/ noun a library indexing sys-tem that uses keywords from the title or textof a book or document as an indexed entryfollowed by the text it relates to. Full formkeyword in contextKWOCKWOC /kwɒk/ noun a library indexing sys-tem that indexes books or document titles un-der any relevant keywords. Full form key-word out of context

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LLL /el/ noun the unit of surface brightness(film) Full form lambertL2TPL2TP /�el tu� ti� �pi�/ noun a network proto-col, an extension to the PPP protocol, that al-lows the data from small Virtual Private Net-works to be transferred over a network suchas the public Internet. Full form layer twotunnelling protocol. � tunnelling, PPP,protocol (NOTE: L2TP operates enclosingthe network packets from the Virtual PrivateNetwork within a special packet that canthen travel over the Internet, a processcalled tunnelling.)labellabel /�leb(ə)l/ noun 1. a word or othersymbol used in a computer program to iden-tify a routine or statement � BASIC usesmany program labels such as line numbers.2. a character or set of characters used toidentify a variable or piece of data or a file 3.a piece of paper or card attached to some-thing to show instructions for use or an ad-dress � verb to print an address on a labellabellinglabelling /�leb(ə)lŋ/ noun 1. the processof putting a label on something � The word-processor has a special utility allowing sim-ple and rapid labelling. 2. the process ofprinting labelslaboratorylaboratory /lə|�bɒrət(ə)ri/ noun a placewhere scientists work on research and devel-opment of new products � The new chip isbeing developed in the university laborato-ries.lacelace /les/ verb to thread film on to a projec-tor or tape on to a cassette recorderlaglag /l�"/ noun 1. the time taken for an im-age to be no longer visible after it has beendisplayed on a CRT screen (NOTE: Lag iscaused by long persistence phosphor.) 2.the time taken for a signal to pass through acircuit, such that the output is delayed com-pared to the input � Time lag is noticeable oninternational phone calls.lambertlambert /�l�mbət/ noun full form of Llaminatelaminate /�l�mnet/ verb to cover a paperwith a thin film of plastic, to give it a glossylook � The book has a laminated cover.lamplamp /l�mp/ noun an electrical componentwhich provides artificial light by heating athin wire within a glass bulb filled with an in-ert gasLANLAN /l�n/, lan noun a network where thevarious terminals and equipment are all with-

in a short distance of one another, e.g. in thesame building, and can be interconnected bycables. Full form local area network

‘The opportunities to delete and destroy data arefar greater on our LAN than in the days when wehad a mainframe. PC people are culturally differ-ent from mainframe people. You really don’tthink about security problems when you canphysically lock your system up in a closet.’[Computing]

landing zone

landing zone /�l�ndŋ zəυn/ noun anarea of a hard disk which does not carry data.The head can come into contact with the diskin this area without damaging the disk or da-ta. � parklandline

landline /�l�n(d)|�lan/ noun a communica-tions link that uses cable to physically andelectrically link two deviceslandscape

landscape /�l�ndskep/ noun the orienta-tion of a page or piece of paper where thelongest edge is horizontal. Compare portraitlanguage

language /�l�ŋ"wd'/ noun a system ofwords or symbols which allows communica-tion with computers, especially one that al-lows computer instructions to be entered aswords which are easy to understand, and thentranslates them into machine code

COMMENT: There are three main types ofcomputer languages: machine code, as-semble, and high-level language. Themore high-level the language is, the easierit is to program and understand, but theslower it is to execute. The following arethe commonest high-level languages:ADA, ALGOL, APL, BASIC, C, C++,COBOL, COMAL, CORAL, FORTH, FOR-TRAN, LISP, LOGO, PASCAL, PL/1, POP-2, PROLOG, and Visual Basic. Assemblylanguage uses mnemonics to representmachine code instructions. Machine codeis the lowest level of programming lan-guage and consists of basic binary pat-terns that instruct the processor to performvarious tasks.

LAN Manager

LAN Manager /�l�n �m�nd'ə/ a tradename for a network operating system devel-oped for the PC by MicrosoftLAN server

LAN server /�l�n �s��və/ noun a computerwhich runs a network operating system andcontrols the basic network operations. All theworkstations in a LAN are connected to thecentral network server and users log onto thenetwork server.

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139 lay outLAN ServerLAN Server /�l�n �s��və/ a trade name fora network operating system for the PC devel-oped by IBMlaplap /l�p/ noun 1. a person’s knees, when heor she is sitting down � He placed the com-puter on his lap and keyboarded some orderswhile sitting in his car. 2. an overlap of print-ed colours, which prevents any gaps showingLAPLAP /�el e �pi�/ noun a CCITT standardprotocol used to start and maintain links overan X.25 network. Full form link access pro-tocollapel microphonelapel microphone /lə|�pel �makrəfəυn/noun a small microphone that is pinned to thesomeone’s jacketlaptoplaptop /�l�ptɒp/, laptop computer/�l�ptɒp kəm |�pju�tə/ noun a computer thatis light enough to carry, but not so small as tofit in a pocket, and that usually consists of ascreen, keyboard and disk drive. � desktop,hand-held computer, PDA

‘Michael Business Systems has provided re-search company BMRB with 240 Toshiba laptopcomputers in a deal valued at £300,000. The dealincludes a three-year maintenance contract.’[Computing]

large modellarge model /�lɑ�d' �mɒd(ə)l/ noun (in anIntel processor) a memory model in whichboth code and data can exceed 64Kb in size,but combined size should be less than 1Mblarge-scalelarge-scale /�lɑ�d' skel/ adjective work-ing with large amounts of data. Comparesmall-scalelarge-scale integrationlarge-scale integration /�lɑ�d' skel�nt|�"reʃ(ə)n/ noun full form of LSIlaserlaser /�lezə/ noun a device that producescoherent light of a single wavelength in a nar-row beam, by exciting a material so that itemits photons of light. Full form light ampli-fication by stimulated emission of radia-tionlaser disclaser disc /�lezə dsk/ noun same ascompact discLaserJetLaserJet /�lezəd'et/ same as HewlettPackard LaserJetlaser printerlaser printer /�lezə �prntə/ noun a high-resolution computer printer that uses a lasersource to print high-quality dot matrix char-acter patterns on paperLaserWriterLaserWriter /�lezəratə/ a trade name fora laser printer manufactured by Apple thatuses the PostScript page description lan-guagelast in first outlast in first out /�lɑ�st n �f��st �aυt/ ad-jective full form of LIFO � This computerstack uses a last in first out data retrievalmethod.last in last outlast in last out /�lɑst n lɑ�st �aυt/ adjec-tive full form of LILO

latency

latency /�let(ə)nsi/ noun a time delay be-tween the moment when an instruction is giv-en to a computer and the execution of the in-struction or return of a result, e.g. the delaybetween a request for data and the data beingtransferred from memorylatent imagelatent image /�let(ə)nt �md'/ noun therecorded invisible image in exposed but un-developed filmlateral reversallateral reversal /�l�t(ə)rəl r|�v��s(ə)l/noun the process of creating the mirror im-age of a picture by swapping left and rightlaunchlaunch /lɔ�ntʃ/ noun the process of puttinga new product on the market � The launch ofthe new PC has been put back six months. �verb 1. to put a new product on the market �The new PC was launched at the ComputerShow. 2. to start or run a program � Youlaunch the word-processor by double-click-ing on this icon.launch amplifierlaunch amplifier /�lɔ�ntʃ ��mplfaə/noun an amplifier used to boost the televisionsignals before they are transmitted over a ca-ble networklaunch vehicle

launch vehicle /�lɔ�ntʃ �vi�k(ə)l/ noun aspacecraft used to transport a satellite fromearth into spacelayer

layer /�leə/ noun 1. ISO/OSI standards de-fining the stages a message has to passthrough when being transmitted from onecomputer to another over a local area net-work 2. the division of sections of space atcertain distances from the earth into separateregions used for various radio communica-tions. These are: D-Region from 50 – 90kmabove earth’s surface, E-Region from 90 –150km above earth’s surface, F-Region from150 – 400km above the earth’s surface. 3. afeature of graphics software that provides astack of separate drawing areas that can beoverlaid to produce the final image, or con-trolled and manipulated independently. It isoften used in complex images: e.g., the back-ground might be on layer 1, an image of ahouse on layer 2 and any special effects onlayer 3 – the finished picture is made up ofthe three layers combined and viewed togeth-er.layered

layered /�leəd/ adjective that consists oflayers � The kernel has a layered structureaccording to user priority.layer two tunnelling protocol

layer two tunnelling protocol /�leətu� �t�nəlŋ �prəυtəkɒl/ noun full form ofL2TPlay in

lay in /�le �n/ verb to synchronise a frameof film with the music or sound trackslay out

lay out /�le �aυt/ verb to plan and designthe positions and sizes of a piece of work tobe printed

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layout 140layout

layout /�leaυt/ noun 1. rules governing thedata input and output from a computer 2. away of using a sheet of paper. � landscape,portraitLBR

LBR noun a system for producing charac-ters on a light sensitive film by laser beam di-rectly controlled from a computer. Full formlaser beam recordingLC circuit

LC circuit /�el �si� �s��kt/ noun a simpleinductor-capacitor circuit that acts as a filteror oscillatorLCD

LCD /�el si� �di�/ noun a type of display thatuses liquid crystals that turn black when avoltage is applied. LCDs are found in manywatches, calculators and other small digitaldevices. Full form liquid crystal displayLCD screen

LCD screen /�el si� �di� skri�n/ noun ascreen that uses LCD technology to create athin display and is normally found in laptopcomputers and flat-screen monitors. Fullform liquid crystal display screenLCD shutter printer

LCD shutter printer /�el si� �di� �ʃ�tə/noun a page printer that uses an LCD panelin front of a bright light to describe imagesonto the photosensitive drum. The LCD pan-el stops the light passing through, except atpixels that describe the image.LCP

LCP /�el si� �pi�/ noun rules defining thetransmission of data over a channel. Fullform link control procedureLDAP

LDAP /�el d�p/ noun a new standard thatprovides directory services over the Internet;derived from the X.500 standard. LDAP isbeginning to be included in many Internet ap-plications and provides a way of organising,locating and using resources on the Internetthat are listed within its database. Full formlightweight directory access protocolLDS

LDS noun a TV signal relay station thattransmits signals to another point from whichthey are distributed over cable. Full form lo-cal distribution servicelead

lead /li�d/ noun 1. an electrical conductingwire 2. a thin piece of metal used to give extraspace between lines of type before printingleader

leader /�li�də/ noun 1. a section of magnetictape that contains no signal, used at the be-ginning of the reel for identification and toaid the tape machine to pick up the tape 2. arow of printed dotsleading

leading /�li�dŋ/ noun space between linesof printed or displayed textleading edge

leading edge /�li�dŋ ed'/ noun the firstedge of a punched card that enters the cardreaderleading zero

leading zero /�li�dŋ �zərəυ/ noun thezero digit used to pad out the beginning of astored number

lead in pagelead in page /�li�d n �ped'/ noun a vide-otext page that directs the user to other pagesof interestleafleaf /li�f/ noun 1. the final node in a treestructure 2. a page of a book (printed on bothsides)leafletleaflet /�li�flət/ noun a small publicity sheet(usually one page folded in half)leakleak /li�k/ noun a gradual loss of chargefrom a charged component due to faulty insu-lation � verb to lose electric charge gradually� In this circuit, the capacitor charge leaksout at 10% per second.leakageleakage /�li�kd'/ noun a loss of signalstrength

‘…signal leakages in both directions can be a ma-jor problem in co-axial cable systems’[Electronics & Wireless World]

learning curvelearning curve /�l��nŋ k��v/ noun agraphical description of how someone canacquire knowledge about a product over timeleaselease /li�s/ noun a written contract for let-ting or renting a piece of equipment for a pe-riod against payment of a fee � verb to allowequipment to be used for a period by anotherperson or organisation in return for a feeleast cost designleast cost design /�li�st kɒst d|�zan/noun the best money-saving use of space orcomponents � The budget is only £1000, weneed the least cost design for the new circuit.least significant bitleast significant bit /�li�st s"|�nfkənt�bt/ noun full form of LSBleast significant digitleast significant digit /�li�st s"|

�nfkənt �dd't/ noun full form of LSDleaveleave /li�v/ verb � leaving files open aphrase meaning that a file has not been closedor does not contain an end of text marker.This will result in the loss of data since thetext will not have been saved.LEDLED /�el i� �di�/ noun a semiconductor diodethat emits light when a current is applied.Full form light-emitting diode (NOTE: LEDdisplays are used to display small amountsof information, as in pocket calculators,watches, and indicators.)

COMMENT: LED displays are used to dis-play small amounts of information, as inpocket calculators, watches, indicators,etc.

left-clickleft-click /�left klk/ verb to press and re-lease the left-hand button on a computermouseleft-handed mouseleft-handed mouse /�eft �h�ndd�maυs/ noun a mouse that has been config-ured so that the usual functions of the twobuttons are reversedleft justificationleft justification /�left �d'�stf|

�keʃ(ə)n/ noun the act of making the left-hand margin of the text even

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141 licence agreementleft justifyleft justify /�left �d'�stfa/ verb to makethe left-hand margin of the text evenlegacylegacy /�le"əsi/ noun an older technologyor a previous version of software or hardwarethat is still supported in new developments toallow existing applications and hardware tocontinue to be usedlegallegal /�li�"(ə)l/ adjective a statement or in-struction that is acceptable within languagesyntax ruleslegibilitylegibility /�led'|�blti/ noun being able tobe read � The keyboarders find the manu-script lacks legibility.legiblelegible /�led'b(ə)l/ adjective which can beread easily � The manuscript is written inpencil and is hardly legible.lengthlength /leŋθ/ noun the number of dataitems in a variable or listlenslens /lenz/ noun an optical system of trans-parent glass through which light is refractedon curved surfaces to produce photographicimageslens aperturelens aperture /�lenz ��pətʃə/ noun theopening of a lens system; it may be expressedas a fraction (f)-number, the ratio of focallength to physical opening, or as a measuredfactor of transmission, T numberlens coatinglens coating /�lenz �kəυtŋ/ noun a fluo-ride coating which is used to decrease reflec-tion and to let more light through the lens ofthe cameralens flarelens flare /�lenz fleə/ noun a luminousspot which appears on a film image, causedby the lens having received overbright lightfrom a natural or artificial sourcelens hoodlens hood /�lenz hυd/ noun an extensionof the outer part of lens which prevents un-wanted light entering the lenslens mountlens mount /�lenz maυnt/ noun a deviceused to fix a lens to a cameralens prismlens prism /�lenz �prz(ə)m/ noun a de-vice which is used for multiple-image pho-tography and is attached to the lenslens speedlens speed /�lenz spi�d/ noun the maxi-mum aperture of a lens, relating to theamount of light that can enter the lenslens spotlightlens spotlight /�lenz �spɒtlat/ noun alight whose beam is controlled by a single,sliding lenslens stoplens stop /�lenz stɒp/ noun lens aperturesizelens turretlens turret /�lenz �t�rt/ noun a revolvingmounting which carries two or more lenses,making it possible to change lenses veryquicklyletterletter /�letə/ noun 1. a piece of writing sentfrom one person to another or from one com-pany to another, e.g. to give new or informa-tion or to send an instructions 2. a written or

printed sign, which goes to make a word(such as A, B, C, etc.) � His name was writ-ten in capital letters.letterheadletterhead /�letəhed/ noun the name andaddress of a company printed at the top of thecompany’s notepaper � Business forms andletterheads can now be designed on a PC.levellevel /�lev(ə)l/ noun 1. the quantity of bitsthat make up a digital transmitted signal 2.strength or power of an electrical signal �Turn the sound level down, it’s far too loud.Level ALevel A /�lev(ə)l e/ noun an ADPCM au-dio quality level with a 20KHz bandwidth,38.7KHz sample rate and 8-bit samplesLevel BLevel B /�lev(ə)l bi�/ noun an ADPCM au-dio quality level with a 17KHz bandwidth,38.7KHz sample rate and 8-bit samplesLevel CLevel C /�lev(ə)l si�/ noun an ADPCM au-dio quality level with an 8.5KHz bandwidth,18.9KHz sample rate and 4-bit sampleslexical analysislexical analysis /�leksk(ə)l ə|�n�ləss/noun a stage in program translation when thecompiling or translating software replacesprogram keywords with machine code in-structionslexicographical orderlexicographical order/�lekskə"r�fk(ə)l �ɔ�də/ noun the order ofitems, where the words are listed in the orderof the letters of the alphabet, as in a diction-aryLFLF1 abbr line feedLFLF2 noun a range of audio frequencies be-tween 5Hz and 300Hz or range of radio fre-quencies between 30KHz and 300KHz. Fullform low frequencyLFE channelLFE channel /�el ef �i� �tʃ�n(ə)l/ nounsame as low frequency effects channellibrarianlibrarian /la|�breəriən/ noun a person whoworks in a library

‘…a library of popular shapes and images is sup-plied’ [Practical Computing]

librarylibrary /�labrəri/ noun 1. a collection offiles, documents, books or records, that canbe consulted or borrowed by the public, usu-ally kept in a public place 2. a collection ofthings for use on a computer, e.g. programsor diskettes 3. a collection of routines or in-structions used by a computer programlicencelicence /�las(ə)ns/ noun a statement ofpermission that is given by one manufacturerto another and allows the second manufactur-er to make copies of the first one’s productsin return for payment of a fee � The softwareis manufactured in this country under li-cence.licence agreementlicence agreement /�las(ə)ns ə|

�"ri�mənt/ noun a legal document that ac-companies any commercial software productand defines how you can use the softwareand, most importantly, how many people can

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lifetime 142use the software. Unless you buy a networkversion of a software product, the licence al-lows one person to use it. Copying the soft-ware is illegal. If you want several people touse the software or if you want to use it on anetwork, then you need to buy a multi-user li-cence.lifetimelifetime /�laftam/ noun the period of timeduring which a device is useful or not outdat-ed � This new computer has a four-year life-time.LIFOLIFO /�lafəυ/ adjective used to describe aqueue system that reads the last item stored,first � This computer stack uses a LIFO dataretrieval method. Full form last in first out.� FIFOlifterlifter /�lftə/ noun a mechanical device thatlifts magnetic tape away from the headswhen rewinding the tapelightlight /lat/ noun energy in the form of elec-tromagnetic effects in the frequency range400 – 750 nm, which allows a person to see� The VDU should not be placed under abright light.light-emitting diodelight-emitting diode /�lat |�mtŋ�daəυd/ noun full form of LEDlightinglighting /�latŋ/ noun 1. any regulated illu-mination of an object or person which is be-ing filmed 2. the source of this illumination,whether natural or artificiallighting riglighting rig /�latŋ r"/ noun a group oflights and their stands and controlslight penlight pen /�lat pen/ noun a computer ac-cessory in the shape of a pen that contains alight-sensitive device that can detect pixelson a video screen (NOTE: Light pens are of-ten used with suitable software to drawgraphics on a screen or position a cursor.)light-sensitivelight-sensitive /�lat �senstv/ adjectivewhich is sensitive to lightlight-sensitive devicelight-sensitive device /�lat �senstvd|�vas/ noun a device (such as a phototran-sistor) which is sensitive to light, and produc-es a change in signal strength or resistancelightweightlightweight /�latwet/ adjective notheavy � A lightweight computer which caneasily fit into a suitcase.lightweight directory access protocollightweight directory access proto-col /�latwet da|�rekt(ə)ri ��kses�prəυtəkɒl/ noun full form of LDAPLILOLILO /�laləυ/ adjective used to describe adata storage method in which the data storedlast is retrieved last. Full form last in lastoutlimited distance modemlimited distance modem /�lmtd�dstəns �məυdem/ noun a data transmis-sion device with a very short range that sendspure digital data rather than data sent on amodulated carrier

limiterlimiter /�lmtə/ noun a device that removesthe part of an input signal that is greater thanor less than a predefined limit; used with au-dio and video signals to prevent overloadingan amplifierlimiting resolutionlimiting resolution /�lmtŋ �rezə|

�lu�ʃ(ə)n/ noun the maximum number oflines that make up an image on a CRT screenlimitslimits /�lmts/ noun predefined maximumranges for numbers in a computerlineline /lan/ noun 1. a physical connection fordata transmission, e.g. a cable between partsof a system or a telephone wire 2. single longthin mark drawn by a pen or printed on a sur-face � the printer has difficulty in reproduc-ing very fine lines 3. one trace by the electronpicture beam on a television screen 4. row ofcharacters (printed on a page or displayed ona computer screen or printer) � each pagehas 52 lines of text 5. series of characters re-ceived as a single input by a computer 6. onerow of commands or arguments in a compu-ter program

‘…straight lines are drawn by clicking the pointson the screen where you would like the line tostart and finish’ [Personal Computer World]

linear frame bufferlinear frame buffer /�lniə frem �b�fə/noun a video memory arranged so that bymoving from one address to the next in thebuffer you move from one pixel to the one be-low it on the displaylinearitylinearity /�lni|��rti/ noun the shape of thefrequency response curve of a device such asa microphone or A/D converter. If the curveis straight, the device is very accurate, if it isnot, the device is introducing frequency dis-tortion.linear programlinear program /�lniə �prəυ"r�m/ nouna computer program that contains no loops orbrancheslinear programminglinear programming /�lniə�prəυ"r�mŋ/ noun a method of mathemat-ically breaking down a problem so that it canbe solved by computerlinear videolinear video /�lniə �vdiəυ/ noun 1. a con-tinuous playback of a video sequence fromvideotape 2. normal video that is played backin a continuous sequence rather than a singleframe at a time as in interactive videolinear video editinglinear video editing /�lniə �vdiəυ�edtŋ/ noun a video sequence, on video-tape, that is edited by inserting or deletingnew frames but without changing the order ofthe framesline breakline break /�lan brek/ noun the point atwhich continuous text is split into separatelinesline drawingline drawing /�lan �drɔ�ŋ/ noun an illus-tration in which objects are drawn using thinlines, without shading or surface texture

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143 live-on-tapeline feedline feed /�lan fi�d/ noun a control on aprinter or computer terminal that moves thecursor down by one line. Abbr LFline flybackline flyback /�lan �flab�k/ noun same asflybackline frequencyline frequency /lan �fri�kwənsi/ noun(in a CRT) the number of times that the pic-ture beam scans a horizontal row of pixels ina monitorline of sightline of sight /�lan əv �sat/ noun a cleartransmission path for radio communicationsin a straight lineline printerline printer /�lan �prntə/ noun a devicefor printing draft quality information at highspeeds, typical output is 200 to 3000 lines perminute (NOTE: Line printers print a wholeline at a time, running from right to left andleft to right, and are usually dot matrix print-ers with not very high quality print. Comparepage printers, which print a whole page at atime.)lines per minutelines per minute /�lanz p�� �mnət/noun the number of lines printed by a lineprinter per minute. Abbr LPMline-upline-up /�lan �p/ verb to prepare a cameraready to photograph a scenelinklink /lŋk/ noun 1. a communications pathor channel between two components or de-vices � To transmit faster, you can use the di-rect link with the mainframe. 2. a softwareroutine that allows data transfer between in-compatible programs � verb 1. to join or in-terface two pieces of software or hardware 2.to combine separate routines from differentfiles and library files to create a program 3. tocreate an association between two objects ina title, e.g. to link a button to another page inthe title that is displayed when the user se-lects the button � The two computers arelinked.link access protocollink access protocol /�lŋk ��kses�prəυtəkɒl/ noun full form of LAPlinkagelinkage /�lŋkd'/ noun the act of linkingtwo thingslink control procedurelink control procedure /�lŋk kən|�trəυlprə|�si�d'ə/ noun full form of LCPlinked objectlinked object /�lŋkd �ɒbd'ekt/ noun onepiece of data that is referred to in another fileor applicationlinkinglinking /�lŋkŋ/ noun the merging of anumber of small programs to enable them torun as one unitLinuxLinux /�lnəks/ a trade name for a version ofthe UNIX operating system originally devel-oped by Linus Torvalds, who then distributedit free of charge over the Internet. Enthusiastsand other developers have extended and en-hanced the software, normally also publish-ing their software free of charge. Linux is oneof the most popular operating systems for de-

velopers and people running web-based ap-plications. Unlike many other operating sys-tems, such as Microsoft Windows, the Linuxsoftware runs on a range of different types ofcomputer hardware including the PC andMacintosh.lip synclip sync /�lp sŋk/ noun a voice recordedat the same time that a person is filmed to en-sure that the movement of the mouth matchesthe speech (film)liquid crystal displayliquid crystal display /�lkwd�krst(ə)l ds|�ple/ noun full form of LCDLISPLISP /lsp/ noun a high-level language usedmainly in processing lists of instructions ordata and in artificial intelligence work. Fullform list processinglistlist /lst/ noun a series of ordered items ofdata � verb to print or display certain itemsof informationLIST chunkLIST chunk /�lst �tʃ�ŋk/ noun (in a RIFFfile) a four-character code LIST that containsa series of subchunkslistinglisting /�lstŋ/ noun a display or printedcopy of the lines in a program in orderlist processinglist processing /�lst �prəυsesŋ/ noun 1.the processing of a series of items of data, i.e.such tasks as adding, deleting, sorting or up-dating entries 2. full form of LISPlistservlistserv /�lst|�s��v/, listserver /�lsts��və/noun a server on the Internet that sends anewsletter or articles to a list of registered us-ersliteracyliteracy /�lt(ə)rəsi/ noun the ability to readand writeliteralliteral /�lt(ə)rəl/ noun 1. a computer in-struction that contains the actual number oraddress to be used, rather than a label or itslocation 2. a printing error when one charac-ter is replaced by another or when two char-acters are transposedliterateliterate /�lt(ə)rət/ adjective who can readand writelith filmlith film /�lθ flm/ noun high quality andcontrast photographic film used in litho-graphic printinglithium-Ion batterylithium-Ion battery /�lθiəm �aən�b�t(ə)ri/ noun a type of rechargeable bat-tery that provides high output power in acompact and lightweight unit. This type ofbattery is often used in mobile telephones,PDAs and lightweight laptop computers.livelive /lav/ adjective action transmitted as ithappens rather than being transmitted from arecordingLive3DLive3D /�lav θri� �di�/ noun same as VRMLlive-on-tapelive-on-tape /�lav ɒn �tep/ noun actionwhich is recorded without any break, is notedited and is filmed to fit into a particulartime frame

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live recording 144live recordinglive recording /�lav r |�kɔ�dŋ/ noun anoriginal recordinglivewareliveware /�lavweə/ noun the operators andusers of a computer system, as opposed to thehardware and softwareLLCLLC /�el el �si�/ abbr logical link controlLLLLLL abbr low-level languagelmlm noun the unit of luminous flux. Full formlumenloadload /ləυd/ noun 1. a job or piece of work tobe done 2. impedance presented to a line ordevice � verb 1. to transfer a file or programfrom disk to main memory 2. to put some-thing such as a disk into a computer, so that itcan be run 3. to place an impedance or deviceat the end of a line

‘…this windowing system is particularly handywhen you want to load or save a file or change di-rectories’ [Byte]

loaderloader /�ləυdə/ noun a program whichloads another file or program into computermemoryloadingloading /�ləυdŋ/ noun the action of trans-ferring a file or program from disk to memo-ry � Loading can be a long process.load pointload point /�ləυd pɔnt/ noun the start of arecording section in a reel of magnetic tapelocallocal /�ləυk(ə)l/ adjective 1. referring to avariable or argument that is only used in acertain section of a computer program orstructure 2. referring to a system with limitedaccesslocal area networklocal area network /�ləυk(ə)l �eəriə�netw��k/ noun full form of LANlocal drivelocal drive /�ləυk(ə)l drav/ noun a diskdrive that is physically attached to a compu-ter, as opposed to a resource that is accessedacross a networklocal printerlocal printer /�ləυk(ə)l �prntə/ noun aprinter physically attached to a computerrather than a shared resource available on anetworkLocalTalkLocalTalk /�ləυkəltɔ�k/ a trade name for anetwork standard developed by Apple thatdefines the physical layer, i.e. the cablingsystem and connectors, used in Apple’s Ap-pleTalk network. The network transfers dataat 230Kbits/second over unshielded twisted-pair cable.locatelocate /ləυ|�ket/ verb 1. to place or to set �The computer is located in the main officebuilding. 2. to find � Have you managed tolocate the programming fault?locationlocation /ləυ|�keʃ(ə)n/ noun 1. a numberor absolute address that specifies the point inmemory where a data word can be found andaccessed 2. any setting away from the studio,whether outdoors or indoors, where a film orprogramme is recorded

locklock /lɒk/ verb 1. to prevent access to a sys-tem or file 2. to synchronise two devices orsignals, such as two video recorders or twoclockslockoutlockout /�lɒkaυt/ noun the process of pre-venting a user sending messages over a net-work by continuously transmitting datalock uplock up /�lɒk ��p/ noun a faulty operatingstate of computer that cannot be recoveredfrom without switching off the power

COMMENT: This can be caused by an infiniteprogram loop or a deadly embrace.

loglog /lɒ"/ noun 1. a record of computerprocessing operations 2. a detailed record ofcamera and sound-recording operations dur-ing filming (film)logarithmlogarithm /�lɒ"ərð(ə)m/ noun a mathe-matical operation that gives the power anumber must be raised to, to give the requirednumber � decimal logarithm of 1,000 is 3 (=10 x 10 x 10)logarithmiclogarithmic /�lɒ"ə|�rðmk/ adjective re-ferring to variations in the logarithm of ascalelogarithmic graphlogarithmic graph /�lɒ"ərðmk �"rɑ�f/noun a graph whose axes have a scale that isthe logarithm of the linear measurementlog filelog file /�lɒ" fal/ noun 1. a file that con-tains a record of actions 2. (on a web server )a file that contains details of the visitors to awebsite, recorded automatically with the vis-itor’s DNS address, the time and the name ofthe webpage that he or she viewedlogginglogging /�lɒ"ŋ/ noun an input of data intoa systemlogging inlogging in /�lɒ"ŋ n/ noun the process ofopening operations with a systemlogging offlogging off /�lɒ"ŋ ɒf/ noun the process ofending operations with a systemlogging onlogging on /�lɒ"ŋ ɒn/ noun same as log-ging inlogging outlogging out /�lɒ"ŋ aυt/ noun same aslogging offlogiclogic /�lɒd'k/ noun 1. a science whichdeals with thought and reasoning 2. a mathe-matical treatment of formal logic operationssuch as AND, OR, etc., and their transforma-tion into various circuits. � Boolean algebra3. a system for deducing results from binarydata 4. the components of a computer or dig-ital systemlogicallogical /�lɒd'k(ə)l/ adjective that uses log-ic in its operation � Logical reasoning can besimulated by an artificial intelligence ma-chine.logical link controllogical link control /�lɒd'k(ə)l �lŋkkən|�trəυl/ noun an IEEE 802.2 standard de-fining the protocol for data-link-level trans-missions. Abbr LLC. � data link layer

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145 lower caselogical palettelogical palette /�lɒd'k(ə)l �p�lət/ noun(in Windows) a graphics object that includesthe colour palette information it requireslogical unitlogical unit /�lɒd'k(ə)l �ju�nt/ noun fullform of LUlogic-seekinglogic-seeking /�lɒd'k �si�kŋ/ adjectivereferring to a printer that can print the re-quired information with the minimum headmovement, detecting ends of lines, justifica-tion commands, etc.loginlogin /�lɒ"n/ verb to enter various identifi-cation data, such as a password, usually bymeans of a terminal, to the central computerbefore accessing a program or data (used as ameans of making sure that only authorisedusers can access the computer system)log in scriptlog in script /�lɒ" n �skrpt/ noun a seriesof instructions that are automatically runwhen you log into a network. For example, ifyou log into your office network in the morn-ing by typing your name and password, thelogin script might remind you of importantinformation or just display ‘good morning’.logologo /�ləυ"əυ/ noun a special printed set ofcharacters or symbols used to identify a com-pany or productLOGOLOGO /�ləυ"əυ/ noun a high-level pro-gramming language used mainly for educa-tional purposes, with graphical commandsthat are easy to uselogofflogoff /lɒ"|�ɒf/ verb same as logging offlogonlogon /lɒ"|�ɒn/ verb same as logging inlogoutlogout /�lɒ"aυt/ noun same as logging offlong filenamelong filename /�lɒŋ �fal |�nem/ noun afeature of Windows 95 that lets a user givefiles names up to 254 characters in lengthlong focal-length lens

long focal-length lens, long lens noun� telephoto lenslong haul network

long haul network /�lɒŋ hɔ�l �netw��k/noun a communications network betweendistant computers that usually uses the publictelephone systemlong integerlong integer /�lɒŋ �ntd'ə/ noun (in pro-gramming languages) an integer representedby several bytes of datalongitudinal time codelongitudinal time code/�lɒŋ"tju�dn(ə)l �tam kəυd/ noun fullform of LTClong persistence phosphorlong persistence phosphor /�lɒŋ pə|

�sstəns �fɒsfə/ noun a television screencoating that retains the displayed image for aperiod of time longer than the refresh rate, soreducing flicker effectslong shotlong shot /�lɒŋ ʃɒt/ noun a photograph ofa general view of the setting where the actiontakes place (film)look-aheadlook-ahead /�lυk ə|�hed/ noun an actionperformed by some CPUs that fetch instruc-

tions and examine them before they are exe-cuted in order to speed up operationslook-up tablelook-up table /�lυk �p �teb(ə)l/ noun fullform of LUT � Look-up tables are prepro-grammed then used in processing so savingcalculations for each result required.

‘…a lookup table changes a pixel’s value basedon the values in a table’ [Byte]

looploop /lu�p/ noun 1. a procedure or series ofinstructions in a computer program that areperformed again and again until a test showsthat a specific condition has been met or untilthe program is completed 2. a communica-tions channel that is passed via all receiversand is terminated where it started from 3. alength of wire coiled in the shape of a circle4. a long piece of tape with the two endsjoined � verb to make a piece of wire or tapeinto a circlelossloss /lɒs/ noun the power of a signal that islost when passing through a circuitlossless compressionlossless compression /�lɒsləs kəm |

�preʃ(ə)nn/ noun image compression tech-niques that can reduce the number of bitsused for each pixel in an image, without los-ing any information or quality. � Huffmancodelossy compressionlossy compression /�lɒsi kəm |

�preʃ(ə)n/ noun image compression tech-niques that can reduce the number of bitsused for each pixel in an image, but in doingso lose information. � JPEGloudnessloudness /�laυdnəs/ noun a volume of asignal which you can hearloudspeakerloudspeaker /�laυd|�spi�kə/ noun an elec-tromagnetic device that converts electricalsignals into audible noiselow angle shotlow angle shot /�ləυ ��ŋ"(ə)l �ʃɒt/ nouna camera shot taken from below the subjectwith the camera tilted up towards subject(film)low band videolow band video /�ləυ b�nd �vdiəυ/noun a video tape recording system which isusually used for low-quality home use anddoes not meet television broadcast standards(film)low contrastlow contrast /�ləυ �kɒntrɑ�st/ noun (film)1. muted colours in a film 2. a film whichdoes not have a great contrast between itsblack and white toneslow contrast filterlow contrast filter /�ləυ �kɒntrɑ�st�fltə/ noun a camera lens which mutes col-ourslow-endlow-end /�ləυ �end/ adjective referring tohardware or software that is not very power-ful or sophisticated and is designed for begin-nerslower caselower case /�ləυə �kes/ noun small char-acters, e.g. a, b and c, as opposed to uppercase, A, B, C

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low frequency 146low frequency

low frequency /�ləυ �fri�kwənsi/ noun arange of audio frequencies between 5–300Hzor range of radio frequencies between 30–300kHzlow frequency effects channel

low frequency effects channel /�ləυ�fri�kwənsi |�fekts �tʃ�n(ə)l/ noun a sepa-rate audio channel in a multichannel systemthat provides very low frequency basssounds. � Dolby Digital™. Also called LFEchannellow key

low key /�ləυ �ki�/ noun (film) 1. pictures inwhich the lower grey scale tones, or shadowyparts, are emphasised 2. low lighting of sub-jectlow-level format

low-level format /�ləυ �lev(ə)l �fɔ�m�t/noun a process that defines the physical pat-tern and arrangement of tracks and sectors ona disklow-level language

low-level language /�ləυ �lev(ə)l�l�ŋ"wd'/ noun a programming language,particular to one system or computer, inwhich each instruction has a single equiva-lent machine code instruction, so that pro-gramming in it is a long and complex task.Abbr LLLlow memory

low memory /�ləυ �mem(ə)ri/ noun (in aPC) available memory locations up to640Kb. Compare high memorylow pass filter

low pass filter /�ləυ �pɑ�s �fltə/ noun anelectronic circuit that blocks signals above acertain frequencylow-power standby

low-power standby /�ləυ �paυə�st�ndba/ noun an energy-saving feature oflaptop computers and many monitors con-nected to a desktoplow-priority work

low-priority work /�ləυ pra|�ɒrti �w��k/noun work that is not particularly importantlow-resolution graphics

low-resolution graphics /�ləυ �rezə|

�lu�ʃ(ə)n �"r�fks/, low-res graphics /�ləυrez �"r�fks/ plural noun the ability to dis-play character-sized graphic blocks or presetshapes on a screen rather than to creategraphics using individual pixels. Comparehigh-resolutionlow-speed communications

low-speed communications /�ləυspi�d kə|�mju�n|�keʃ(ə)nz/ plural noundata transmission at less than 2400 bits persecondLPM

LPM abbr lines per minuteLPT1

LPT1 /�el pi� ti� �w�n�/ noun (in a PC) thename given to the first, main parallel printerport in the systemLS

LS abbr 1. long shot 2. loudspeakerLSB

LSB /�el es �bi�/ noun a binary digit occupy-ing the right hand position of a word and car-rying the least power of two in the word, usu-ally equal to two raised to zero = 1. Full formleast significant bit

LSD

LSD /�el es �di�/ noun the digit which occu-pies the right hand position in a number andso carries least power, being equal to thenumber radix raised to zero = 1. Full formleast significant digitLSI

LSI /�el es �a/ noun a configuration with be-tween 500 and 10,000 circuits on a single IC.Full form large-scale integrationLTC

LTC /�el ti� �si�/ noun a method of recordinga time code signal on a linear audio trackalong a video tape. The disadvantage of thismethod is that the code is not readable at slowspeeds or when the tape has stopped. Fullform longitudinal time codeLU

LU /�el �ju�/ noun a set of protocols devel-oped by IBM to allow communication overan SNA network. LU1, LU2 and LU3 pro-vide control of the session, LU4 supportscommunication between the devices andLU6.2 is a peer-to-peer protocol. Full formlogical unitluma

luma /�lu�mə/ noun the black and whiteparts of an image or video signal, representedby the symbol Y. � S-Video, Y/Clumen

lumen /�lu�mn/ noun the SI unit of illumi-nation, defined as the amount of flux emittedfrom a candela into an angle of one steradionluminance

luminance /�lu�mn(ə)ns/ noun the part ofa video signal or image that defines thebrightness at each point. � YUV encodingluminous flux

luminous flux /�lu�mnəs fl�ks/ noun therate of stream of visible light coming from asource, measured in lumenslurk

lurk /l��k/ verb to join an online conference,discussion group or chat room and listen tothe messages without contributing anythingyourself. Most discussion forums do notmind people lurking, since it helps to buildconfidence in new users and lets them checkthe content before joining in, however somechat rooms do not approve of lurking and im-mediately identify anyone joining to discour-age people who do not contribute to the fo-rum.LUT

LUT /�el ju� �ti�/ noun a collection of storedresults that can be accessed very rapidly by aprogram without the need to calculate eachresult whenever needed. Full form look-uptable

‘…an image processing system can have threeLUTs that map the image memory to the displaydevice’ [Byte]

lux

lux /l�ks/ noun the SI unit of measurementof one lumen per square metreLV-ROM

LV-ROM /�el vi� �rɒm/ noun a 12-inch di-ameter optical disc, developed by Philips,that can store both analog video and digitaldata

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MMM abbr mega- � noun 1. one million 2. thesymbol for 1,048,576, used only in computerand electronic related applications, equal to220MacMac /m�k/ noun same as MacintoshMACMAC /�em e �si�/ noun a special code trans-mitted at the same time as a message as proofof its authenticity. Full form message au-thentication code � abbr medium accesscontrolMacBinaryMacBinary /m�k|�banəri/ a trade namefor a file storage and transfer system that al-lows Macintosh files, together with theiricons and long file names, to be stored onother computer systemsmachinemachine /mə |�ʃi�n/ noun 1. a number ofseparate moving parts or components, actingtogether to carry out a process 2. a computer,system or processor made up of various com-ponents connected together to provide afunction or perform a taskmachine addressmachine address /mə|�ʃi�n ə|�dres/ nounsame as absolute addressmachine codemachine code /mə|�ʃi�n kəυd/ noun aprogramming language that consists of com-mands in binary code that can be directly un-derstood by the central processing unit with-out the need for translation. Also called com-puter codeMacintoshMacintosh /�m�kntɒʃ/ a trade name for arange of personal computers designed by Ap-ple Corporation. The Macintosh uses the Mo-torola family of processors, the 68000, andoffers similar computing power to a PC. TheMacintosh is best known for its graphicaluser interface which allows a user to controlthe computer using icons and a mouse. �Macintosh computers are not compatiblewith an IBM PC unless you use special emu-lation software. Also called Macmacromacro /m�krəυ/ noun a program routineor block of instructions identified by a singleword or labelmacro blockmacro block /�m�krəυ blɒk/ noun a gridof 16x16 pixels used to analyse and compressvideo data in the MPEG compression systemmacro lensmacro lens /�m�krəυ lenz/ noun a mag-nifying lens which is used for close-up shotsMacromedia DirectorMacromedia Director /�m�krəυmi�diəda|�rektə/ a trade name for authoring soft-ware for the PC and Macintosh that uses theLingo scripting language

macro virusmacro virus /�m�krəυ �varəs/ noun atype of virus that is stored as a macro at-tached to a document or e-mail message.Most advanced software applications providea macro language that lets users extend theapplication and automate features. However,as macro languages become more advancedand powerful, they also provide an opportu-nity for someone to create a macro that candelete files or corrupt data when run.

COMMENT: A macro virus will run when thedocument is opened. Some viruses are be-nign, others carry out malicious damage onyour files and data. The virus will also tryand spread to other compatible documentsand applications on your computer, so thatany new documents you create are also in-fected. Current macro virus attacks haveused the macro features of advanced emailsoftware to re-send the virus to all theemail addresses stored in your email ad-dress book. The last major macro virus cre-ated so much extra network email traffic onthe Internet that many servers were over-loaded. The best way to avoid a macro vi-rus is to regularly run virus detection soft-ware that can check and remove virusesattached to documents and new emailmessages.

macrozoommacrozoom /�m�krəυzu�m/ noun azoom lens that can focus on very close ob-jectsmagazinemagazine /�m�"ə|�zi�n/ noun 1. a numberof pages in a videotext system 2. a paper,usually with illustrations which comes outregularly, every month or every week � aweekly magazine � He edits a computermagazine. 3. a light-tight film containerwhich is used with a camera, printer or filmprocessing machinemagnetmagnet /�m�"nt/ noun something thatproduces a magnetic fieldmagneticmagnetic /m�"|�netk/ adjective that has amagnetic field associated with itmagnetic ink character recognitionmagnetic ink character recognition/m�"|�netk ŋk �k�rktə �rekə" |�nʃ(ə)n/noun full form of MICRmagnetic tapemagnetic tape /m�"|�netk �tep/ noun anarrow length of thin plastic coated with amagnetic material used to store signals mag-netically

COMMENT: Magnetic tape is available onspools of between 200 and 800 metres.The tape is magnetised by the read/writehead. Tape is a storage medium that only

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magneto-optical disc 148allows serial access, that is, all the tapehas to be read until the required location isfound, as opposed to disk storage, whichcan be accessed randomly.

magneto-optical discmagneto-optical disc /m�"|�ni�təυ�ɒptk(ə)l �dsk/ noun an optical disc that isused in a magneto-optical recording devicemagneto-optical recordingmagneto-optical recording /m�"|

�ni�təυ �ɒptk(ə)l r|�kɔ�dŋ/ noun a methodof recording that uses an optical disc coveredwith a thin layer of magnetic film that is heat-ed by a laser. The particles are then polarisedby a weak magnetic field. (NOTE: Magneto-optical discs have very high capacity, over600MB, and are re-writable.)magnificationmagnification /�m�"nf|�keʃ(ə)n/ nounthe amount by which something has beenmade to appear larger � The lens gives amagnification of 10 times.magnifymagnify /�m�"n|�fa/ verb to make some-thing appear larger � The photograph hasbeen magnified 200 times.magnitudemagnitude /�m�"ntju�d/ noun a level orstrength of a signal or variablemag-optmag-opt /�m�" ɒpt/ noun a motion pictureprint which contains both magnetic and opti-cal sound tracks (film)mag tapemag tape /�m�" tep/ noun same as mag-netic tape (informal)mailmail /mel/ noun 1. a system for sending let-ters and parcels from one place to another 2.letters sent or received 3. electronic messagesto and from users of a bulletin board or net-work � verb to send something by post � tomail a lettermail application programming interfacemail application programming inter-face /�mel ��plkeʃ(ə)n �prəυ"r�mŋ�ntəfes/ noun full form of MAPImailboxmailbox /�melbɒks/, mail box /�melbɒks/ noun an electronic storage space withan address in which a user’s incoming mes-sages are storedmail-enabledmail-enabled /�mel n |�eb(ə)ld/ adjec-tive referring to an application that has accessto an electronic mail system without leavingthe application � This word-processor ismail-enabled – you can send messages toother users from within it.mail gatewaymail gateway /�mel �"etwe/ noun asoftware program, or a combination of serverand software, that links two different elec-tronic mail systems together so that mailmessages can be transferred from one systemto another. For example, if you are using Lo-tus cc:Mail as the electronic mail productwithin your company, you would need to fit agateway function to allow messages to besent to and received by users on the Internet.(NOTE: LAN email systems usually use oneof three main standards, MAPI, MHS or

VIM, to send mail messages. If you aresending mail from a LAN email system tothe Internet, the mail gateway needs to con-vert this standard to one of the Internet mailstandards such as POP3 or SMTP before itcan be delivered.)mailingmailing /�melŋ/ noun the process of send-ing something using the post or e-mailmailing listmailing list /�melŋ lst/ noun (in elec-tronic mail) list of the e-mail addresses of us-ers who receive information on a regular ba-sis from a company, a person or from otherpeople on the list. An Internet mailing list al-lows any person whose name and address areon the list to send a message to the list, whichwill then automatically distribute a copy ofthis message to all the other people on thelist.mailmergemailmerge /�melm��d'/ noun a word-processing program which allows a standardform letter to be printed out to a series of dif-ferent names and addresses

‘Spreadsheet views for data and graphical formsfor data entry have been added to the Q&A data-base, with the traditional reporting, mailmerge,and labels improved through Windows facilities.’[Computing]

mail servermail server /�mel �s��və/ noun a compu-ter that stores incoming mail and sends it tothe correct user and stores outgoing mail andtransfers it to the correct destination serveron the Internetmail transfer agentmail transfer agent /�mel �tr�nsf���ed'ənt/ noun a software program thatmanages the way electronic mail messagesare transferred over a network. On computersrunning the Unix operating system and theInternet the ‘sendmail’ software is the mostpopular mail transfer agent. Abbr MTAmail user agentmail user agent /�mel �ju�zə �ed'ənt/noun full form of MUAmainmain /men/ adjective most importantmainframemainframe /�menfrem kəm|�pju�tə/,mainframe computer /�menfrem kəm|

�pju�tə/ noun a large-scale high-power com-puter system that can handle high-capacitymemory and backing storage devices as wellas a number of operators simultaneouslymainlymainly /�menli/ adverb mostly or usually� Their sales are mainly in the home market.� We are interested mainly in buying colourprinting.mains electricitymains electricity /�mens |�lek|�trsəti/noun the normal domestic electricity supplyto consumers (NOTE: In the UK this is 240volts at 50Hz. In the US, it is 110 volts at60Hz.)maintainmaintain /men|�ten/ verb to ensure a sys-tem is in good condition and functioning cor-rectly

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149 mapmaintainabilitymaintainability /�mentenə|�blti/ nounthe ability to have repairs carried out quicklyand efficiently if a failure occursmaintenancemaintenance /�mentənəns/ noun 1. thetask of keeping a machine in good workingcondition 2. tasks carried out in order to keepa system running, e.g. repairing faults and re-placing componentsmaintenance contractmaintenance contract /�mentənəns�kɒntr�kt/ noun an arrangement with a re-pair company that provides for regularchecks and special repair prices in the eventof a faultmaintenance routinemaintenance routine /�mentənəns ru� |

�ti�n/ noun a software diagnostic tool used byan engineer during preventative maintenanceoperationsmajusculemajuscule /�m�d'əskju�l/ noun a capitallettermake directorymake directory /�mek da|�rekt(ə)ri/noun full form of MDmale connectormale connector /�mel kə |�nektə/ noun aplug with conducting pins that can be insert-ed into a female connector to provide an elec-trical connectionmalfunctionmalfunction /m�l |�f�ŋkʃən/ noun (ofhardware or software) the fact of not work-ing correctly � The data was lost due to asoftware malfunction. � verb not to workproperly � Some of the keys on the keyboardhave started to malfunction.malfunctioningmalfunctioning /m�l |�f�ŋkʃənŋ/ adjec-tive not working properlyMANMAN /m�n/ noun a network extending overa limited geographical area, normally a city.Full form metropolitan area network.Compare LAN, WANmanagemanage /�m�nd'/ verb to direct or to bein charge of somethingmanageablemanageable /�m�nd'əb(ə)l/ adjectivethat can be dealt with easily � processingproblems which are still manageable.managementmanagement /�m�nd'mənt/ noun theact of directing or organising work or a busi-nessmanagement information servicemanagement information service/�m�nd'mənt �nfə|�meʃ(ə)n �s��vs/noun a department within a company that isresponsible for information and data process-ing. Abbr MIS (NOTE: In practice, this de-partment is often responsible for the com-puter system in a company.)management information systemmanagement information system/�m�nd'mənt �nfə|�meʃ(ə)n �sstəm/noun software that allows managers in acompany to access and analyse data. AbbrMISmanagermanager /�m�nd'ə/ noun the head of adepartment in a company � a departmentmanager

managerialmanagerial /�m�nə|�d'əriəl/ adjectivereferring to managers � managerial staffManchester codingManchester coding /�m�ntʃestə�kɒdŋ/ noun a method of encoding data andtiming signals that is used in communica-tions. The first half of the bit period indicatesthe value of the bit (1 or 0), and the secondhalf is used as a timing signal.Mandlebrot setMandlebrot set /�m�nd(ə)lbrɒt set/noun a mathematical equation that is calledrecursively to generate a set of values. Whenplotted these form a fractal image. � fractalM and S microphoneM and S microphone /�em ənd �es�makrəfəυn/ noun a combination used forstereo sound recording (film) Full form mid-dle and side microphonemanipulatemanipulate /mə |�npjυ |�let/ verb to move,edit and change text or data � An image proc-essor that captures, displays and manipu-lates video images.manipulationmanipulation /mə|�npjυ|�leʃ(ə)n/ nounthe process of moving or editing or changingtext or data � The high-speed database man-agement program allows the manipulation ofvery large amounts of data.man machine interfaceman machine interface /�m�n mə|�ʃi�n�ntəfes/ noun full form of MMImantissamantissa /m�n |�tsə/ noun the fractionalpart of a number � The mantissa of thenumber 45.897 is 0.897.manualmanual /�m�njuəl/ noun a document con-taining instructions about the operation of asystem or piece of software � The manual isincluded with the system. � adjective doneby hand or carried out by the operator with-out the help of a machinemanuallymanually /�m�njυəli/ adverb done byhand, not automatically � The paper has tobe fed into the printer manually.manufacturemanufacture /�m�njυ|�f�ktʃə/ verb tomake in a factory � The company manufac-tures diskettes and magnetic tape.manufacturermanufacturer /�m�njυ |�f�ktʃərə/ nouna company which manufactures a product �If the system develops a fault it should be re-turned to the manufacturer for checking. �The manufacturer guarantees the system for12 months.mapmap /m�p/ noun 1. a diagram representingthe internal layout of a computer’s memoryor communications regions 2. data that islinked to another set of data 3. a list of dataitems or objects within an application or mul-timedia book � verb 1. to display how thingsare connected or related or derived from oneanother � to map out to draw or set down thebasic way in which something should bedone 2. to retrieve data and display it as amap 3. to represent a network directory pathon a remote computer with a local drive let-

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MAPI 150ter, enabling a user to view the contents of theremote directory by simply typing in thedrive letter rather than the often long andcomplex directory path 4. to represent a net-work printer connected to another computeron a network with a local printer identifier, soa user can treat the remote network printer asif it is directly connected to their computer 5.to connect to a disk drive or a printer that isconnected to another computer on a network.� texture mapping 6. to transform a two-di-mensional image into a three-dimensionalform that can then be rotated or manipulated7. to transfer data from one region of memoryto another; e.g., a graphic image is mapped inmain memory and on the display 8. to relateor link one set of data items with another. �bit-map 9. (in an image) to transform agraphical object from one coordinate systemto another so that it can be displayed; e.g., totransform a three-dimensional wire framemodel to a solid shaded object. � texturemappingMAPIMAPI /�em e pi� �a/ noun a set of stand-ards, developed by Microsoft, that defineshow electronic mail is sent and delivered.Full form mail application programminginterfacemarginmargin /�mɑ�d'n/ noun 1. the blank spacearound a section of printed text 2. an extratime or spacemarginationmargination /�mɑ�d'n|�eʃ(ə)n/ noun theprocess of giving margins to a printed pagemargin of errormargin of error /�mɑ�d'n əv �erə/ nounthe number of mistakes that is acceptable in adocument or in a calculationmarkmark /mɑ�k/ noun 1. a sign put on a page toshow something 2. a transmitted signal thatrepresents a logical one or true condition �verb to put a mark on somethingmarkermarker /�mɑ�kə/ noun a code inserted in afile or text to indicate a special sectionmark upmark up /�mɑ�k ��p/ verb to prepare copyfor the compositor to set, by showing on thecopy the typeface to be used, the line width,and other typesetting instructionsmarkup languagemarkup language /�mɑ�k�p �l�ŋ"wd'/noun a computer coding system that gives in-structions relating to the layout and style tobe used for a documentmarqueemarquee /mɑ�|�ki�/ noun 1. (in graphics)the area selected by a selection tool 2. (in awebsite) a piece of text that moves slowlyacross the screen, used as a special feature ofa webpagemaskmask /mɑ�sk/ noun 1. an integrated circuitlayout that is used to define the pattern to beetched or doped onto a slice of semiconduc-tor � A mask or stencil is used to transfer thetransistor design onto silicon. 2. a pattern of

binary digits used to select various bits froma binary word. A one in the mask retains thatbit in the word. 3. a photographic device usedto prevent light reaching selected areas of thefilmmaskablemaskable /�mɑ�skəb(ə)l/ adjective thatcan be maskedmaskingmasking /�mɑ�skŋ/ noun 1. an operationused to select various bits in a word 2. the ad-justment of the colour balance by matrixingthe RGB signals; this method is used tomatch colour film primaries to the televisionstandardmass mediamass media /�m�s �mi�diə/ noun mediawhich aim to reach a large public (such as tel-evision, radio, mass-market newspapers)mass productionmass production /�m�s prə|�d�kʃən/noun the process of manufacturing largequantities of goods � mass production ofmonitorsmass storagemass storage /�m�s �stɔ�rd'/ noun thestorage and retrieval of large amounts of datamastermaster /�mɑ�stə/ adjective referring to themain or most important device or person in asystem � The master computer controls eve-rything else. � noun (film) a special positiveprint which is made from an original negativefor duplication or protection instead of forprojection � adjective referring to the mostup-to-date and correct file � noun (film) 1.the finished version of any type of pro-gramme from which release or show copieswill be made 2. output gain control on an au-dio mixer or video chain � verb to learn andunderstand a language or process � We mas-tered the new word-processor quite quickly.masteringmastering /�mɑ�stərŋ/ noun a processused to convert finished data to a master discmatmat /m�t/ noun a plain coloured border thatis displayed around an image that is smallerthan the window in which it is displayedmatchmatch /m�tʃ/ verb 1. to search through adatabase for a similar piece of information 2.to set a register equal to anothermaterialmaterial /mə|�təriəl/ noun a substancewhich can be used to make a finished product� Gold is the ideal material for electricalconnections.mathmath /m�θ/ noun US same as mathemat-ics (informal)mathematicalmathematical /�m�θə|�m�tk(ə)l/ adjec-tive referring to mathematicsmathematical modelmathematical model /�m�θəm�tk(ə)l�mɒd(ə)l/ noun a representation of a systemusing mathematical ideas and formulaemathematicsmathematics /�m�θə|�m�tks/ noun thestudy of the relationship between numbers,their manipulation and organisation to (logi-cally) prove facts and theories. � algebra.Also called math

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151 mean time to repairmathsmaths /m�θs/ noun same as mathematics(informal)maths chipmaths chip /�m�θs �tʃp/ noun a dedicat-ed IC that can be added to a system to carryout mathematical functions far more rapidlythan a standard CPU, speeding up the execu-tion of a programmaths coprocessormaths coprocessor /�m�θs kəυ|

�prəυsesə/ noun same as maths chipmatrixmatrix /�metrks/ noun 1. an array ofnumbers or data items arranged in rows andcolumns 2. an array of connections betweenlogic gates providing a number of possiblelogical functions 3. a pattern of the dots thatmake up a character on a computer screen,dot-matrix or laser printer 4. a filmstrip ofimages which contains dyed emulsion and iscombined with two other filmstrips on a filmbase to create colour film; MATT Characterof a non-specular surface which mirrors lightequally in all directions (film)mattmatt /m�t/, matte noun 1. the addition ofan image onto a film of a background 2. anopaque mask limiting the picture area whichis exposed in special effects; the mask can bea cut-out aperture, a high density image onfilm, or, in video, it may be electronicallycreated in order to blank off the particularsignal 3. a device put before the camerawhich is used to soften or block light fromsections of the action area, or from exposurein the printer � adjective (print) which is notshiny. � chroma keymattematte /m�t/ noun (in video or film) a spec-ified region within an image, which can becoded to appear transparent or opaque. Amatte is reveals or masks off part of an imagein another plane, and is normally used forspecial effects in which an object is photo-graphed against a specially coloured back-ground that is then replaced with another im-age to give the impression that the object ap-pears against that image. � chroma keymatte bleedmatte bleed /�m�t �bli�d/, matte ride/�m�t �rad/ noun an abnormality in the mat-te image which causes the matte lines to be-come visible (film)mattermatter /�m�tə/ noun 1. a question or prob-lem to be discussed 2. the main section oftext on a page as opposed to titles or head-linesmattingmatting /�m�tŋ/ noun the process of in-serting an image into a background, whetherelectronically or optically (film)MATVMATV abbr master antenna television sys-temmaximisemaximise /�m�ksmaz/, maximize verb(in MS-Windows) to expand an applicationicon back to its original display window.Compare minimise

maximummaximum /�m�ksməm/ noun the highestvalue used or that is allowed � adjective thegreatest possible or allowablemaximum transmission ratemaximum transmission rate/�m�ksməm tr�nz|�mʃ(ə)n �ret/ nounthe greatest amount of data that can be trans-mitted every secondmaximum usersmaximum users /�m�ksməm �ju�zəz/plural noun the greatest number of users thata system can support at any one timeMbMb abbr megabitMBRMBR /�em bi� �ɑ�/ noun a register in a CPUthat temporarily buffers all inputs and out-puts. Full form memory buffer registerMCMC abbr millicoulombMCAMCA /�em si� �e/ a trade name for the ex-pansion bus within IBM’s PS/2 range of per-sonal computers that has taken over from theolder ISA/AT bus. MCA is a 32-bit bus thatsupports bus master devices. Full form MicroChannel ArchitectureMCGAMCGA /�em si� d'i� �e/ noun a colourgraphics adapter standard fitted in low-endIBM PS/2 computers. Full form multicolourgraphics adapterMCIMCI /�em si� �a/ noun an interface that al-low any program to control a multimedia de-vice such as a sound card or video clip. Fullform media control interfaceMCI deviceMCI device /�em si� �a d|�vas/ noun arecognised multimedia device that is in-stalled in a computer with the correct driversMDMD /�em �di�/ noun a DOS command used tocreate a new directory on a disk. Full formmake directoryMDKMDK /�em di� �ke/ noun a product devel-oped by Microsoft that allows developers toproduce multimedia applications more easilyusing the supplied libraries of routines tocontrol video playback, process images anddisplay text. Full form multimedia devel-oper’s kitMDRAMMDRAM /�em �di� r�m/ noun a type ofhigh-performance memory normally used invideo adapter cards to provide fast graphicdisplay. Full form multibank dynamic ran-dom access memorymeanmean /mi�n/ noun, adjective the averagevalue of a set of numbers or values � verb tosignify something � The message DISKFULL means that there is no more room onthe disk for further data.mean time between failuresmean time between failures /�mi�ntam b|�twi�n �feljəz/ noun full form ofMTBFmean time to failuremean time to failure /�mi�n tam tə�feljə/ noun full form of MTFmean time to repairmean time to repair /�mi�n �tam tə, tυ/noun full form of MTTR

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measure 152measuremeasure /�me'ə/ noun 1. a way of calcu-lating size or quantity 2. the total width of aprinted line of text 3. a type of action � totake measures to prevent something hap-pening to act to stop something happening �safety measures actions to make sure thatsomething is safe � verb 1. to find out thesize or quantity of something 2. to be of a cer-tain size or quantitymeasurementmeasurement /�me'əmənt/ noun a wayof judging something � Performance meas-urement or measurement of performance iscarried out by running a benchmark pro-gram.mechanicalmechanical /m|�k�nk(ə)l/ adjective re-ferring to machinesmechanical mousemechanical mouse /m|�k�nk(ə)lmaυs/ noun pointing device that is operatedby moving it across a flat surface. As themouse is moved, a ball inside spins and turnstwo sensors that feed the horizontal and ver-tical movement back to the computer. Com-pare optical mousemechanismmechanism /�mekə |�nz(ə)m/ noun apiece of machinery � The printer mechanismis very simple.mediamedia /�mi�diə/ plural noun 1. physical ma-terials that can be used to store data � Com-puters can store data on a variety of media,such as disk or CD-ROM. 2. the variousmeans of transmitting information, includingaudio and video, television, radio, newspa-pers and magazinesmedia access controlmedia access control /�mi�diə ��kseskən|�trəυl/ noun a sublayer within the data-link layer of the OSI network model that pro-vides access to the transmission media. AbbrMACmedia control interfacemedia control interface /�mi�diə kən|

�trəυl �ntəfes/ noun full form of MCIMedia PlayerMedia Player /�mi�diə �pleə/ a tradename for a Windows utility program that al-lows a user to control installed multimediahardware including video disc or audio CDs,or play back multimedia files includingsound, animation and video filesMediaServerMediaServer /�mi�diə|�s��və/ a trade namefor a system developed by Netscape to pro-vide audio and video delivery over the Inter-netmediummedium /�mi�diəm/ adjective middle oraverage � a medium-sized computer system� noun a means of transmitting information(NOTE: The plural is media or mediums.)medium access controlmedium access control /�mi�diəm��kses kən|�trəυl/ noun an IEEE 802 stand-ard defining the protocol for data-link-leveltransmissions. Abbr MAC. � data link layermedium frequencymedium frequency /�mi�diəm�fri�kwənsi/ noun the radio frequency range

between 300 to 3000KHz (often referred toas medium wave (MW), especially on radioreceivers)medium scale integrationmedium scale integration /�mi�diəmskel �nt|�"reʃ(ə)n/ noun an integrated cir-cuit with 10 – 500 components. Abbr MSImedium speedmedium speed /�mi�diəm spi�d/ noun adata communication speed between 2400 and9600 bits per second (NOTE: Medium speedtransmission describes the maximum rateof transfer for a normal voice grade chan-nel.)medium wavemedium wave /�mi�diəm wev/ noun fullform of MWmegmeg /me"/ noun same as megabyte(informal) � This computer has a ninety-meghard disk.mega-mega- /me"ə/ prefix one millionmegabitmegabit /�me"əbt/ noun equal to1,048,576 bits. Abbr Mbmegabits per secondmegabits per second /�me"əbts p���sekənd/ noun a number of million bitstransmitted every second. Abbr Mbpsmegabytemegabyte /�me"əbat/ noun a measure ofthe data capacity of a storage device that isequal to 1,048,576 bytes or 220 bytes. Mega-bytes are used to measure the storage capaci-ty of hard disk drives or main memory(RAM). Abbr MB

‘Doing this reduced a bitmap of my desktop from2.25 megabytes to a 58K GIF’ [The Guardian]

mega floating point instructions per secondmega floating point instructions persecond /�me"ə �fləυtŋ pɔnt n|

�str�kʃənz p�� s |�kɒnd/ noun full form ofMFLOPSmegaflopmegaflop /�me"əflɒp/ noun a measure ofcomputing power and speed equal to one mil-lion floating point instructions per second.Abbr MFLOPSmegahertzmegahertz /�me"ə|�h��ts/ noun a measureof frequency equal to one million cycles persecond. Abbr MHzmegapixel displaymegapixel display /�me"əpks(ə)l d|

�sple/ noun a display adapter and monitorthat are capable of displaying over one mil-lion pixels. This means a resolution of at least1,024x1,024 pixels.MegastreamMegastream /�me"əstri�m/ a trade namefor a data link provided by British Telecomthat offers data transfer at rates up to8Mbits/secondMega VGAMega VGA /�me"ə vi� d'i� �e/ noun a 256colour Super VGA mode with a resolution of1024x768 that requires one megabyte of vid-eo RAMmembermember /�membə/ noun 1. one object on apage of a multimedia book 2. an individualrecord or item in a fieldmembrane keyboardmembrane keyboard /�membren�ki�bɔ�d/ noun a keyboard that uses a thin

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153 metropolitan area networkplastic or rubber sheet with key shapesmoulded into it. When the user presses on akey, it activates a pressure sensor. (NOTE: Thekeys in a membrane keyboard have lesstravel than normal mechanical keys, butsince they have no moving parts, they aremore robust and reliable.)memo field

memo field /�meməυ fi�ld/ noun a field ina database or text window in an applicationthat allows a user to add comments or amemo about the entrymemorise

memorise /�memə|�raz/, memorize verbto remember or to retain in the memorymemory

memory /�mem(ə)ri/ noun storage space ina computer system or medium that is capableof retaining data or instructions

‘The lower-power design, together with an addi-tional 8Kb of on-board cache memory, will in-crease the chip’s performance to 75 million in-structions per second.’ [Computing]‘…when a program is loaded into memory, someis used for the code, some for the permanent data,and some is reserved for the stack which growsand shrinks for function calls and local data’[Personal Computer World]

memory buffer register

memory buffer register /�mem(ə)ri�b�fə �red'stə/ noun full form of MBRmemory-intensive software

memory-intensive software/�mem(ə)ri n |�tensv �sɒftweə/ noun soft-ware that uses large amounts of RAM or diskstorage during run-time, such as programswhose entire code has to be in main memoryduring executionmemory-resident software

memory-resident software/�mem(ə)ri �rezd(ə)nt �sɒftweə/ nounsame as resident softwarememory stick

memory stick /�mem(ə)ri stk/ noun atiny memory expansion device, developed bySony, that can store up to 128Mb of data, of-ten used in MP3 music players and digitalcamerasmenu

menu /�menju�/ noun a list of options orprograms available to the usermenu-bar

menu-bar /�menju� bɑ�/ noun (in a GUI) alist of options available to a user which aredisplayed on a horizontal line along the top ofthe screen or window. Each menu option ac-tivates a pull-down menu.menu-driven software

menu-driven software /�menju��drv(ə)n �sɒftweə/ noun a program inwhich commands or options are selectedfrom a menu by the operator rather thantyped in by the user at a promptmenu item

menu item /�menju� �atəm/ noun one ofthe choices in a menumenu selection

menu selection /�menju� s |�lekʃən/noun the act of choosing commands from alist of options presented to the operator

menu shortcutmenu shortcut /�menju� �ʃɔ�tk�t/ nouna key combination of two or more keys that isthe same are selecting a menu optionmerchant accountmerchant account /�m��tʃənt ə |�kaυnt/noun a bank account that enables its user todeposit payments made by credit card, usedespecially for trading on the Internetmergemerge /m��d'/ verb to combine two datafiles retaining an overall order � The systemautomatically merges text and illustrationsinto the document. (NOTE: merges – merg-ing – merged)merge sortmerge sort /�m��d' �sɔ�t/ noun a softwareapplication in which the sorted files aremerged into a new filemeshmesh /meʃ/ noun any system with two ormore possible paths at each interconnectionmessagemessage /�mesd'/ noun 1. a piece of in-formation sent from one person to another 2.a defined amount of information 3. a codegenerated by an action or object and inter-preted by another object � If a user pressesthe mouse button it generates a‘button_down’ message that can then be in-terpreted by a user-interface or program. 4.text displayed to a user to report on a condi-tion or program 5. data that is sent to controlan instrumentmessage authentication codemessage authentication code/�mesd' ɔ� |�θent|�keʃ(ə)n kəυd/ noun fullform of MACmessage formatmessage format /�mesd' �fɔ�m�t/noun a set of predetermined rules definingthe coding, size and speed of transmittedmessagesmessagingmessaging /�mesd'ŋ/ noun the processof sending a message to other people, e.g. bycomputer, telephone or pagermetafilemetafile /�metəfal/ noun 1. a file that con-tains other files � The operating system usesa metafile to hold data that defines whereeach file is stored on disk. 2. a file that de-fines or contains data about other filesmetalanguagemetalanguage /�metə|�l�ŋ"wd'/ noun alanguage that describes a programming lan-guagemetermeter /�mi�tə/ noun 1. a device whichcounts or records something � an electricitymeter � A meter attached to the photocopierrecords the number of copies made. � multi-meter 2. an icon in the bottom right-handcorner of the status bar that indicates howmuch power is left in a laptop’s battery andwhether the laptop is running off battery ormains electricity power � verb to record andcount � The calls from each office are me-tered by the call logger.metropolitan area networkmetropolitan area network/�metrəpɒlt(ə)n �eəriə �netw��k/ noun fullform of MAN

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MF 154MFMF abbr medium frequencyMFLOPSMFLOPS /�em flɒps/ noun a measure ofcomputing speed calculated as the number offloating point instructions that can be proc-essed each second. Full form mega floatingpoint instructions per secondMFMMFM /�em ef �em/ noun a method of storingdata on magnetic media, e.g. a magnetic diskthat encodes the data bit according to thestate of the previous bit. Full form modifiedfrequency modulation (NOTE: MFM ismore efficient than FM, but less efficientthan RLL encoding.)MHzMHz abbr megahertzMICMIC noun a device which converts sound toan electrical analogue signal. Full form mi-crophoneMICRMICR /�em a si� �ɑ�/ noun a system thatidentifies characters by sensing magnetic inkpatterns, as used on bank cheques. Full formmagnetic ink character recognitionMicro Channel BusMicro Channel Bus /�makrəυ �tʃ�n(ə)l�b�s/ a proprietary 32-bit expansion bus de-fined by IBM in its Micro Channel Architec-turemicrocircuitmicrocircuit /�makrəυ|�k��kt/ noun acomplex integrated circuitmicrocodemicrocode /�makrəυkəυd/ noun a set ofALU control instructions implemented ashardwired softwaremicrocomputermicrocomputer /�makrəυkəm |�pju�tə/noun a complete small-scale, cheap, low-power computer system based around a mi-croprocessor chip and having limited memo-ry capacity

COMMENT: Microcomputers are particularlyused as home computers or as small officecomputers.

microelectronicsmicroelectronics /�makrəυlek|

�trɒnks/ noun the design and manufactureof electronic circuits with integrated circuitsand chipsmicrofichemicrofiche /�makrəυ|�fi�ʃ/ noun a sheetof text and graphics in highly reduced formon a photographic filmmicrofilmmicrofilm /�makrəυflm/ noun a reel offilm containing a sequence of very small im-ages used for document storage � We hold allour records on microfilm. � verb to take verysmall photographs � The 1985 records havebeen sent away for microfilming.microfloppymicrofloppy /�makrəυ|�flɒpi/ noun asmall size magnetic floppy disk, usually a 3.5inch diskmicroformmicroform /�makrəυfɔ�m/ noun a medi-um used for storing information in microim-age formmicrographicsmicrographics /�makrəυ|�"r�fks/noun images and graphics stored as microim-ages

microimagemicroimage /�makrəυ|�md'/ noun agraphical image too small to be seen with thenaked eyemicroinstructionmicroinstruction /�makrəυn|

�str�kʃən/ noun a hardwired instruction,part of a microcode, that controls the actionsof the ALU in a processormicronmicron /�makrɒn/ noun one millionth of ametremicrophonemicrophone /�makrəfəυn/ noun a devicethat converts sound waves into electrical sig-nalsmicrophotographymicrophotography /�makrəυfə|

�tɒ"rəfi/ noun the photographic productionof microimages (too small to be seen with thenaked eye)microprocessormicroprocessor /�makrəυ|�prəυsesə/noun a set of central processing unit ele-ments, often contained on a single integratedcircuit chip, which when combined with oth-er memory and I/O chips will make up a mi-crocomputermicroprocessor unitmicroprocessor unit /�makrəυ|

�prəυsesə �ju�nt/ noun a unit containingthe main elements of a microprocessor. AbbrMPUmicrosecondmicrosecond /�makrəυ |�sekənd/ nounone millionth of a secondMicrosoftMicrosoft /�makrəsɒft/ the biggest devel-oper and publisher of software for the PC andApple Mac. Microsoft developed the MS-DOS operating system for the IBM PC andlater Windows together with a range of appli-cation software.Microsoft Compact Disc ExtensionsMicrosoft Compact Disc Extensions/�makrəsɒft �kɒmp�kt �dsk k|

�stenʃ(ə)nz/ full form of MSCDEXMicrosoft ExchangeMicrosoft Exchange /�makrəsɒft ks|

�tʃend'/ a program included with Windows95 that coordinates the email, fax and net-work messages sent and received on a PCMicrosoft Exchange ServerMicrosoft Exchange Server/�makrəsɒft ks|�tʃend' �s��və/ a programthat runs on a server under Microsoft Win-dows NT and provides sophisticated group-ware functions using the Exchange clientsoftware supplied with Windows 95Microsoft Internet ExplorerMicrosoft Internet Explorer/�makrəsɒft �ntənet ks|�plɔ�rə/ � Inter-net ExplorerMicrosoft NetworkMicrosoft Network /�makrəsɒft�netw��k/ full form of MSNMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft Outlook /�makrəsɒft�aυtlυk/ a trade name for an application thatprovides a range of features to manage email,fax messages, contacts, diary appointments,notes and projectsMicrosoft Outlook ExpressMicrosoft Outlook Express/�makrəsɒft �aυtlυk k|�spres/ a trade namefor a free version of Outlook that is normally

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155 minimumused for email (NOTE: It has fewer extra fea-tures for managing contacts and appoint-ments than Microsoft Outlook.)Microsoft WindowsMicrosoft Windows /�makrəsɒft�wndəυz/ same as Windowsmicrowavemicrowave /�makrəwev/ noun the radiofrequency range from 1 to 3000GHzmicrowave communications linkmicrowave communications link/�makrəwev kə|�mju�n |�keʃ(ə)nz �lŋk/noun the use of a microwave beam to trans-mit data between two pointsmicrowave relaymicrowave relay /�makrəυwev �ri�le/noun radiocommunications equipment usedto receive microwave signals, then boost andretransmit themmicrowave transmissionmicrowave transmission/�makrəwev tr�nz|�mʃ(ə)n/ noun com-munication using modulated microwaves al-lowing high data rates, used for internationaltelephone and satellite communicationsmiddle and side microphonemiddle and side microphone/�md(ə)l ən sad �makrəfəυn/ noun fullform of M and S microphoneMID-F1MID-F1 /�md ef �w�n/ noun (in CD-i) mid-quality sound at Level B. � Level BMIDIMIDI /�mdi/ noun a serial interface that con-nects electronic instruments. Full form mu-sical instrument digital interface (NOTE:The MIDI interface carries signals from acontroller or computer that instructs the dif-ferent instruments to play notes.)MIDI channelMIDI channel /�mdi �tʃ�n(ə)l/ noun anyone of 15 independent connections that issupported by the MIDI system, allowing 16different electronic devices to be connectedto one main sequencerMIDI control-change messageMIDI control-change message /�mdikən|�trəυl tʃend' �mesd'/ noun a messagesent to a synthesiser to control the volume orpitch of a sound or to change the instrumentpatch used to generate a soundMIDI deviceMIDI device /�mdi ði |�vas/ noun a devicethat can receive or send MIDI dataMIDI fileMIDI file /�mdi fal/ noun a file formatused to store a MIDI song, made up of notesand control-change messages (NOTE: It usu-ally has a MID file extension.)MIDI time codeMIDI time code /�mdi �tam kəυd/ nounfull form of MTCmid-usermid-user /�md �ju�zə/ noun an operatorwho retrieves relevant information from a da-tabase for a customer or end usermigratemigrate /ma|�"ret/ verb to transfer a filefrom one computer system or database to an-other (NOTE: migrates – migrating – mi-grated)migrationmigration /ma|�"reʃ(ə)n/ noun the proc-ess of moving users from one hardware plat-form to another

millennium bug

millennium bug /m |�leniəm b�"/ nounthe inability to handle dates later than 1999.This problem, which came to light in the1990s, affected old hardware and softwarethat stored dates as two digits, with the ‘19’being assumed. Such dates would not moveto ‘2000’ at the turn of the millennium butwould revert to ‘1900’, with unpredictableand possibly serious results for the affectedsystems. In the event, the affected systemswere nearly all modified in time. There werevery few problems when the year 2000 ar-rived, and the more apocalyptic predictionsdid not come to pass.milli-milli- /ml/ prefix one thousandth. Abbr mmillion instructions per secondmillion instructions per second/�mljən n|�str�kʃənz p�� s|�kɒnd/ nounfull form of MIPSmillisecondmillisecond /�ml|�sekənd/ noun onethousandth of a second. Abbr msMIMEMIME /�em a em �i�/ noun a standard thatdefines a way of sending files using emailsoftware. Full form multipurpose Internetmail extensions

COMMENT: MIME allows a user to send filesover the Internet to another user withouthaving to carry out any other encoding orconversion actions. MIME was developedto get around a problem of many email sys-tems that could only transmit text which isstored in a 7-bit data format; programs,multimedia, graphics and other files arestored using an 8-bit data format.

minimini /�mni/ noun same as minicomputermini-mini- /mni/ prefix smallminicamminicam /�mnik�m/ noun a hand-held,lightweight video camera (film)minicomputerminicomputer /�mnikəm|�pju�tə/ noun asmall computer with a greater range of in-structions and processing power than a mi-crocomputer but not able to compete with thespeed or data-handling capacity of a main-frame computer. Also called miniminidiskminidisk /�mnidsk/ noun a magnetic disksmaller than the 5.25 inch standard, usually3.5 inchminimise

minimise /�mnmaz/, minimize verb 1.to make something as small as possible � Weminimised costs by cutting down the numberof components. 2. (in Windows) to shrink anapplication window to an icon. Comparemaximise (NOTE: minimises – minimising –minimised)

COMMENT: The application can continue torun in the background. You minimise a win-dow by clicking once on the down arrow inthe top right hand corner.

minimum

minimum /�mnməm/ noun the smallestamount of something (NOTE: The plural isminimums or minima.)

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minmax 156minmaxminmax /�mnim�ks/ noun a method usedin artificial intelligence to solve problemsminuendminuend /�mnju�end/ noun a numberfrom which another is subtractedminusminus /�manəs/, minus sign /�manəssan/ noun a printed or written sign, like asmall dash, to indicate subtraction or to showa negative valueminusculeminuscule /�mnskju�l/ noun a lowercase printed characterMIPSMIPS /mps/ noun a measure of processorspeed that defines the number of instructionsit can carry out per second. Full form millioninstructions per second. Compare mega-flop

‘ICL has staked its claim to the massively parallelmarket with the launch of the Goldrush MegaSe-rver, providing up to 16,000 Unix MIPS ofprocessing power.’ [Computing]

mirrormirror /�mrə/ verb 1. to create an identicalcopy of something 2. to duplicate all disk op-erations onto a second disk drive that can beused if the first breaks down � There’s lesschance of losing our data now that we havemirrored the server’s disk drive.

‘Network-attached storage systems which aim tomake it easy to mirror data between units’[The Guardian]

mirroringmirroring /�mrərŋ/ noun the rotation ofan image by 180 degrees to produce its mir-ror image

‘…they also offer mirror-disk protection againstdisk failure, providing automatic backup of a da-tabase disks are also mirrored so that the systemcan continue to run in the event of a disk crashmirroring of the database is handled automatical-ly by systems software’ [Computer News]

mirror sitemirror site /�mrə sat/ noun an exact copyof a website kept on a different file server sothat the main site does not become overload-ed and its data is protected against loss ifthere is a hardware or software failureMISMIS abbr 1. management information serv-ice 2. management information systemmismatchmismatch /�msm�tʃ/ noun a situationoccurring when two things are not correctlymatchedmission-criticalmission-critical /�mʃ(ə)n �krtk(ə)l/adjective referring to an application or hard-ware on which a company dependsmixmix /mks/ noun 1. the creative blending to-gether of audio or video sources 2. a visualeffect which is similar to a dissolve � verb tocombine several separate signals into a singlesignal � to mix down to combine the signalsfrom several sources such as a number of re-corded audio tracks or instruments into a sin-gle signalmixermixer /�mksə/ noun an electronic circuitused to combine two or more separate signalsinto a single output

mixingmixing /�mksŋ/ noun 1. the process ofcombining several audio signals into a singlesignal 2. the process of printing a line of textwith several different typefacesmixing studiomixing studio /�mksŋ �stju�diəυ/ nouna room with audio mixers and sound proces-sors used when recording musicMJPEGMJPEG /�em �d'e pe"/ noun a version ofthe JPEG image compression system thatsupports video. Full form motion JPEGMKDIRMKDIR abbr make directory. � MDMKSMKS noun a widely used measurement sys-tem based on the metre, kilogram and sec-ond. Full form metre kilogram second. �SI unitsMMAMMA abbr MIDI manufacturers associationMMCMMC /�em em �si�/ noun a compact memo-ry expansion device that includes digital cop-yright control features and is often used inMP3 music players and digital cameras. Fullform multimedia card. Also called SD cardMMEMME abbr multimedia extensionsMMIMMI /�em em �a/ noun hardware and soft-ware designed to make it easier for users tocommunicate effectively with a machine.Full form man machine interfaceMMXMMX a trade name for an enhanced Intelprocessor chip that includes special featuresand components that are used to improve theperformance when dealing with multimediaand communications. Full form multimediaextensionsmnemonicmnemonic /n|�mɒnk/ noun a shortenedform of a word or function that is helpful as areminder, e.g. INCA for increment register Amnemonic keyboard shortcutmnemonic keyboard shortcut /n|

�mɒnk �ki�bɔ�d �ʃɔ�t |�k�t/ noun a shortcutto a menu option or function by pressing aspecial key sequencemobilemobile /�məυbal/ adjective 1. which canmove about 2. meaning a travelling radiobase such as a car transceiver (informal)mobile earth terminalmobile earth terminal /�məυbal ���θ�t��mn(ə)l/ noun satellite communicationsequipment that is mobilemobile phonemobile phone /�məυbal �fəυn/ noun asmall, portable device that lets someonemake and receive telephone calls. Also calledcellular phone

COMMENT: Older mobile phone standardstransmitted the user’s voice as an analogradio signal; current phones convert thevoice to digital data and transmit this via aradio signal. New mobile phones providedata and messaging services as well asbasic telephone functions: some includebuilt-in modems to provide dial-up accessto the Internet, many allow text messagesto be transmitted to other phone users andsome incorporate an electronic diary, or-ganiser and address book. Current mobile

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157 modular programmingtelephones transmit information using theGSM, PCS or GPRS standard and can pro-vide basic Internet access using WAP andGPRS.

mobile radiophonemobile radiophone /�məυbal�rediəυfəυn/ noun a radio telephone linkedto a main telephone system, which uses a net-work of stations, each covering a certain area,to provide a service over a large areamobile unitmobile unit /�məυbal �ju�nt/ noun acomplete set of television filming and editingequipment carried in a vehicle (for outsidebroadcasts)mock-upmock-up /�mɒk �p/ noun a model of a newproduct for testing or to show to possible cus-tomersMODMOD /mɒd/ noun the remainder after the di-vision of one number by another. Full formmodulusmodalmodal /�məυd(ə)l/ adjective 1. referring tomodes � Dialog boxes are normally modalwindows. 2. (in Windows) referring to a win-dow that is displayed and does not allow auser to do anything outside itmodemode /məυd/ noun 1. a way of doing some-thing 2. the number of paths taken by lightwhen travelling down an optical fibre 3. thenumber that occurs most frequently in a se-ries of samples

‘The approach being established by the Jedeccommittee provides for burst mode data transferclocked at up to 100MHz.’ [Computing]

Mode 1Mode 1 /�məυd w�n/ noun an encodingformat used on compact discs that has error-detection and -correction codesMode 2Mode 2 /�məυd tu�/ noun an encoding for-mat with two forms, form 1, which is thesame as Mode 1, and form 2, which requiresno processing and allows data to be sentstraight to the output channelmodelmodel /�mɒd(ə)l/ noun 1. a small copy ofsomething to show what it will look likewhen finished � He showed us a model of thenew computer centre building. 2. a style, typeor version of a product � The new model Bhas taken the place of model A. � adjectivewhich is a perfect example to be copied � amodel agreement � verb to make a compu-terised model of a new product or of a sys-tem, e.g. the economic system (NOTE: mod-elling – modelled. The US spellings aremodeling – modeled.)modellingmodelling /�mɒd(ə)lŋ/ noun 1. the proc-ess of creating computer models 2. the proc-ess of colouring and shading a (normallywire-frame or vecto) graphic object so that itlooks solid and realmodemmodem /�məυ|�dem/, MODEM noun a de-vice that allows data to be sent over telephonelines by converting binary signals from a

computer into analog sound signals whichcan be transmitted over a telephone line. Fullform modulator/demodulator

‘AST Research has bundled together a notebookPC with a third-party PCMCIA fax modem tech-nology for a limited-period special offer.’ [Com-puting]COMMENT: The process of converting bina-ry signals to analog is called ‘modulation’.When the signal is received, another con-verter reverses the process (called ‘de-modulation’). Both parts must be workingaccording to the same standards.

modem standardsmodem standards /�məυdem�st�ndədz/ plural noun rules defining trans-mitting frequencies and other factors whichallow different modems to communicatemoderated newsgroupmoderated newsgroup /�mɒd(ə)rətd�nju�z"ru�p/ noun a newsgroup in which amoderator reads all the material that has beensubmitted before it is published in the news-group (NOTE: Most newsgroups are notmoderated and anyone can write anything.Moderated newsgroups usually have a ’-d’after their name.)moderatormoderator /�mɒdə|�retə/ noun a personresponsible for reading messages sent to amailing list or newsgroup and editing anymessages that do not conform to the rules ofthe list, e.g. by deleting commercial messag-esmodificationmodification /�mɒdf|�keʃ(ə)n/ noun achange made to something � The modifica-tions to the system allow it to be run as partof a LAN.modifiermodifier /�mɒd|�faə/ noun a program-ming instruction that alters the normal actionof a commandmodifymodify /�mɒd|�fa/ verb to change some-thing or make something fit a different use �The keyboard was modified for European us-ers. (NOTE: modifies – modifying – modi-fied)Modula-2Modula-2 /�mɒdjulə �tu�/ noun a high-lev-el programming language derived from Pas-cal that supports modular programming tech-niques and data abstractionmodularmodular /�mɒdjυlə/ adjective referring toa method of constructing hardware or soft-ware products by connecting several smallerblocks together to produce a customisedproductmodularisationmodularisation, modularization nounthe process of designing programs from a setof standard modulesmodularitymodularity /�mɒdjυ |�l�rti/ noun the stateor fact of being made up from modules � Themodularity of the software or hardware al-lows the system to be changed.modular programmingmodular programming /�mɒdjυlə�prəυ"r�mŋ/ noun programming with

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modulate 158small individually written sections of compu-ter code that can be made to fit into a struc-tured program and can be called up from amain programmodulatemodulate /�mɒdjυ|�let/ verb to change acarrier wave so that it can carry data (NOTE:modulates – modulating – modulated)modulationmodulation /�mɒdju|�leʃ(ə)n/ noun theprocess of varying a carrier’s amplitude orfrequency or phase according to an appliedsignalmodulatormodulator /�mɒdjυletə/ noun an elec-tronic circuit that varies a carrier signal ac-cording to an applied signalmodulator/demodulatormodulator/demodulator /�mɒdjυletədi�|�mɒdjυletə/ noun full form of modemmodulemodule /�mɒdju�l/ noun 1. a small sectionof a large program that can, if required, func-tion independently as a program in its ownright 2. a self-contained piece of hardwarethat can be connected with other modules toform a new system � A multifunction analoginterface module includes analog-to-digitaland digital-to-analog converters. 3. a systemfor imprinting a signal on a radio frequencycarrier (film) 4. a system for producing audioeffects where one sound is modulated by an-other (film)modulo arithmeticmodulo arithmetic /�mɒdjuləυ ə|

�rθmətk/ noun a branch of arithmetic thatuses the remainder of one number when di-vided by anothermodulusmodulus /�mɒdjυləs/ noun full form ofMOD � 7 mod 3 = 1moirémoiré /�mwɑ�re/ noun 1. picture distortionwhich is caused by interference beats of sim-ilar frequencies 2. an unwanted watery effectwhich is created by a set of closely spacedlines which are placed over another set (seenin film or prints). � screen anglemoiré effectmoiré effect /�mwɑ�re |�fekt/ noun aninterference pattern caused by printing withthe wrong screen anglemomentary switchmomentary switch /�məυmənt(ə)riswtʃ/ noun a switch that only conductswhile it is being pressedmonitormonitor /�mɒntə/ noun 1. a VDU used todisplay high quality text or graphics, generat-ed by a computer 2. a system that watches forfaults or failures in a circuit 3. a loudspeakerused to listen to the sound signals producedduring recording or mixing 4. a TV screen ina TV studio control room, which shows theimage being filmed by one of the cameras 5.a computer program that allows basic com-mands to be entered to operate a system, suchas load a program, examine the state of devic-es, etc. � verb 1. to check or to examine howsomething is working � He is monitoring theprogress of the trainee programmers. 2. to

look after and supervise a process or experi-ment to make sure it is operating correctly �The machine monitors each signal as it issent out.mono-mono- /mɒnəυ/ prefix single or onemonoauralmonoaural /�mɒnəυ|�ɔ�rəl/ adjective hav-ing one source of sound or one sound signal.Compare stereomonochromatic lightmonochromatic light/�mɒnəυkrəm�tk �k�lə/ noun light of asingle colour (film)monochromemonochrome /�mɒnəkrəυm/ adjective,noun referring to an image in one colour,usually shades of grey and black and whitemonochrome display adaptermonochrome display adapter/�mɒnəkrəυm d |�sple ə|�d�ptə/ noun avideo adapter standard used in early PC sys-tems that could display text in 25 lines of 80columns. Abbr MDAmonochrome monitor

monochrome monitor /�mɒnəkrəυm�mɒntə/ noun a computer monitor that dis-plays text and graphics in black, white andshades of grey instead of coloursmonolithicmonolithic /� mɒnə|�lθk/ adjective (of anintegrated circuit) manufactured on a singlecrystal of semiconductormonolithic driver

monolithic driver /�mɒnəlθk �dravə/noun a piece of driver software that has arange of different functions or applicationswithin one programmonomode fibremonomode fibre /�mɒnəυməυd �fabə/noun same as single mode fibremonoprogramming systemmonoprogramming system /�mɒnəυ|

�prəυ"r�mŋ �sstəm/ noun a computerbatch processing system that executes oneprogram at a time. Compare multi-program-ming systemmonospacedmonospaced /�mɒnəυspest/ adjectivereferring to a font in which each character hasthe same width. Compare proportionallyspacedmontagemontage /�mɒntɑ�'/ noun 1. a series ofquickly changing images, sometimes withgeneral pictures seen simultaneously on thescreen 2. the process of combining severalstill or video imagesMonte Carlo methodMonte Carlo method /�mɒnti �kɑ�ləυ�meθəd/ noun a statistical analysis techniqueMOOMOO noun a virtual space in which partici-pants can discuss a topic online. Full formmultiuser domain, object-orientedmorphingmorphing /�mɔ�fŋ/ noun a special effectused in multimedia and games in which oneimage gradually turns into anotherMorse codeMorse code /�mɔ�s �kəυd/ noun a systemof signalling using only two symbols: dotsand dashes � morse key switch used to sendmorse messages by hand

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159 MP3mosaicmosaic /məυ|�zek/ noun 1. a displaycharacter used in videotext systems that ismade up of small dots 2. a light-sensitive sur-face of a television camera pick-up tubewhich is scanned by the electron beamMosaicMosaic /məυ|�zek/ a trade name for a pop-ular browser software used to view webpageson the Internetmost significant bitmost significant bit /�məυst s" |

�nfkənt �bt/ noun full form of msb � Themost significant bit in an eight bit binaryword represents 128 in decimal notation.most significant digitmost significant digit /məυst s"|

�nfkənt �dd't/, most significant char-acter /məυst s"|�nfkənt �k�rktə/ nounfull form of MSDmotherboardmotherboard /�m�ðəbɔ�d/ noun the mainprinted circuit board of a system, containingmost of the components and connections forexpansion boards and other featuresmotion blurmotion blur /�məυʃ(ə)n bl��/ noun theblurring of an object that moves too fast to befrozen by the cameramotion controlmotion control /�məυʃ(ə)n kən|�trəυl/noun a computer that allows a user to controlall the aspects of a camera to allow special ef-fects in video or still imagesmotion JPEGmotion JPEG /�məυʃ(ə)n �d'e �pe"/noun full form of MJPEGmotion picturemotion picture /�məυʃ(ə)n �pktʃə/ nouna series of still pictures (each slightly differ-ent) which give an object the appearance ofmotion when projected on to a screenmotion-picture cameramotion-picture camera /�məυʃ(ə)n�pktʃə �k�m(ə)rə/ noun a box with lens,shutter, viewfinder and film advance systemin which motion-picture film is exposedmotion picture experts groupmotion picture experts group/�məυʃ(ə)n �pktʃə �eksp��ts "ru�p/ nounfull form of MPEGmotion-picture filmmotion-picture film /�məυʃ(ə)n �pktʃəflm/ noun light-sensitive film which is usedin a motion picture cameramotormotor /�məυtə/ noun an electromagneticmachine that converts an electrical supplyinto (rotary) motion (by means of a magneticfield)mountmount /maυnt/ verb 1. to fix a device orcircuit onto a base � The chips are mountedin sockets on the PCB. 2. to insert a disk in adisk drive or inform an operating system thata disk drive is ready to be usedmousemouse /maυs/ noun a small hand-held in-put device moved on a flat surface to controlthe position of a cursor on the screen (NOTE:The plural is mice or mouses.)

‘This project has now borne fruit, with the an-nouncement last week of Windots, a projectwhich allows users to ‘see’ Windows screens in aBraille form of Ascii. Other areas of research in-

clude a sound system which allows a sound to‘move’, mirroring the movement of a mouse.’[Computing]

mouse accelerationmouse acceleration /�maυs ək|�selə|

�reʃ(ə)n/ noun a feature of some mousedriver software that will move the mousepointer at different speeds according to thespeed at which you move the mouse ratherthan the distancemouse drivermouse driver /�maυs �dravə/ noun aprogram which converts positional data sentfrom a mouse to a standard form of coordi-nates that can be used by any softwaremouse pointermouse pointer /�maυs �pɔntə/ noun asmall arrow displayed on screen that movesaround as the mouse is movedmovablemovable /�mu�vəb(ə)l/ adjective whichcan be movedmovemove /mu�v/ verb to change the position ofsomethingmovementmovement /�mu�vmənt/ noun the act ofchanging position or of changing the positionof somethingmovie filemovie file /�mu�vi fal/ noun a file storedon disk that contains a series of images thatmake up an animation or video clipmovie IDmovie ID /�mu�vi �a|�di�/ noun a unique IDnumber assigned to a movie in Movie Player– each separate instance has a different IDnumberMovie PlayerMovie Player /�mu�vi �pleə/ noun a Win-dows utility that can playback AVI-formatvideo clips or movie files with the MMM ex-tensionMovie Player instanceMovie Player instance /�mu�vi �pleə�nstəns/ noun one copy of the Movie Playerprogram that is runningMoving Pictures Expert GroupMoving Pictures Expert Group/�mu�vŋ �pktʃəs �eksp��t �"ru�p/ nounfull form of MPEGMP3MP3 /�em pi� �θri�/ noun a way of encodingdigital audio data into a compressed data for-mat that is approximately one twelfth the sizeof the original without perceptible loss ofquality. MP3 files (that normally have the filename extension ‘MP3’) are now one of themost popular ways of storing and distributingmusic over the Internet. Because MP3 filesare compact and easy to copy, they are rela-tively quick to download and very easy todistribute – which is causing problems for theoriginal artists who are trying to protect theircopyright material. Once you have an MP3file you can listen to it by opening it and play-ing it with special software on your computeror by transferring it to a dedicated pocket-sized device that stores the file in its memory,has no moving parts and but can play backCD-quality music. Full form MPEG audiolevel 3

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MPC 160COMMENT: MP3 files, which usually havethe file name extension MP3, are now oneof the most popular ways of storing anddistributing music over the Internet. Be-cause MP3 files are compact and easy tocopy, they are relatively quick to downloadand very easy to distribute, which is caus-ing problems for the original artists who aretrying to protect their copyright material.Once you have an MP3 file you can listento it by opening it and playing it with specialsoftware on your computer or by transfer-ring it to a dedicated pocket-sized devicethat stores the file in its memory, and hasno moving parts but that can play back CD-quality music

MPCMPC /�em pi� �si�/ noun an outdated set ofminimum requirements for a PC that will al-low it to run most multimedia software. Fullform multimedia PCMPEGMPEG /�em pe"/ noun a group of develop-ers that have defined a series of standards toimprove audio and video quality but at thesame time increase data compression so thatthe audio or video information takes lessspace but retains its quality. Full form Mov-ing Pictures Expert Group. � JPEG (NOTE:MPEG is often used to compress videoclips and its derivative standard MP3 pro-vides one of the most popular ways of com-pressing and storing audio information,while JPEG provides a popular way to storecompressed still images.)MPEG audio level 3MPEG audio level 3 /�em pe" �ɔ�diəυ�lev(ə)l �θri�/ noun full form of MP3MPPPMPPP /�em pi� pi� �pi�/ noun communica-tions protocol used with ISDN to link the twoB-channels in a standard ISDN adapter tocreate a transmission channel that can trans-fer data at a higher speed. Full form multi-link point to point protocolMPUMPU abbr microprocessor unitmsms abbr millisecondmsbmsb /�em es �bi�/, MSB noun a bit in a wordthat represents the greatest value or weight,usually the bit furthest to the left. Full formmost significant bitMSCDEXMSCDEX /�em es si� di� �eks/ noun driversoftware installed on a PC to allow DOS andWindows to control a CD-ROM drive. Fullform Microsoft Compact Disc Exten-sionsMSDMSD /�em es �di�/ noun the digit at the farleft of a number, which represents the great-est power of the base. Full form most signif-icant digitMS-DOSMS-DOS /�em es �dɒs/ a trade name for anoperating system for the IBM PC range ofpersonal computers that managed data stor-age onto disks, display output and user input.Windows supports MS-DOS programsthrough the Command Prompt, which emu-

lates MS-DOS. Full form Microsoft DOS(NOTE: MS-DOS is a single-user, single-tasking operating system that is controlledby a command-line interface.)MSF time formatMSF time format /�em es ef �ta�fɔ�m�t/ noun a time format that countsframes per second used by MCI, usually usedby CD-audio devices, in which there are 75frames per secondMSIMSI abbr medium scale integrationM signalM signal /�em �s"n(ə)l/ noun a signal pro-duced from the sum of left and right signalsin a stereophonic systemMSNMSN a trade name for an Internet portal. Fullform Microsoft NetworkMS-WindowsMS-Windows /�em es �wndəυz/ same asWindowsMSXMSX /�em es �eks/ noun a hardware andsoftware standard for home computers thatcan use interchangeable softwareMTBFMTBF /�em ti� bi� �ef/ noun the average pe-riod of time that a piece of equipment willoperate between failures. Full form meantime between failuresMTCMTC /�em ti� �si�/ noun a system of messag-es used to synchronise MIDI sequences withan external device, e.g. an SMPTE time code.Full form MIDI time codeMTFMTF /�em ti� �ef/ noun the average period oftime for which a device will operate, usuallycontinuously, before failing. Full form meantime to failureMTTRMTTR /�em ti� ti� �ɑ�/ noun the average pe-riod of time required to repair a faulty pieceof equipment. Full form mean time to re-pairMUAMUA /�em ju� �e/ noun software used tocreate and read email messages that creates amessage in the correct format and standardand passes this to the mail transfer agent thatis responsible for transferring the messageover the network. Full form mail user agentMUDMUD /�em ti� �e/ noun 1. a virtual onlinespace in which several people can participatein collaborative projects at the same time.Full form multiuser domain 2. an adven-ture game played by multiple users over theInternet. Full form multiuser dungeonmulti-multi- /m�lti/ prefix many or more than one� multimegabyte memory cardmulti-access systemmulti-access system /�m�lt ��kses�sstəm/ noun a computer system that allowsseveral users to access one file or program atthe same time. Also called multiple accesssystemmultibank dynamic random access memorymultibank dynamic random accessmemory /�m�ltb�ŋk da |�n�mk�r�ndəm ��kses �mem(ə)ri/ noun full formof MDRAM

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161 multiple linemulti-board computer

multi-board computer /�m�lt bɔ�dkəm|�pju�tə/ noun a computer which hasseveral integrated circuit boards connectedwith a motherboardmultiburst signal

multiburst signal /�m�ltb��st �s"n(ə)l/noun a television test signalmulticast

multicast /�m�ltikɑ�st/ verb to transmitone message to a group of recipients

COMMENT: This could be as simple as send-ing an email message to a list of email ad-dresses or posting a message to a mailinglist. It can also refer to more complex trans-fers such as a teleconference or videocon-ference in which several users link togetherby telephone or video link. A broadcast, incomparison, refers to the process of send-ing a message to anyone who could re-ceive the message rather than a selectgroup of recipients. Narrowcasting is verysimilar in concept to a multicasting, but isnormally used to refer to the concept,whereas multicasting refers to the technol-ogy used.

multicasting

multicasting /�m�ltikɑ�stŋ/ noun theprocess of broadcasting to a number of re-ceivers or nodes, with an address in eachmessage to indicate the node requiredmultichannel

multichannel /�m�lti|�tʃ�n(ə)l/ adjectivewith more than one channelmulticolour

multicolour /�m�lti |�k�lə/ adjective withseveral coloursmulticolour graphics adapter

multicolour graphics adapter/�m�ltik�lə �"r�fks ə|�d�ptə/ noun fullform of MCGAmultidimensional

multidimensional /�m�ltida |

�menʃən(ə)l/ adjective with features in morethan one dimensionmulti-disk

multi-disk /�m�lt �dsk/ adjective refer-ring to several types of diskmultidrop circuit

multidrop circuit /�m�ltdrɒp �s��kt/noun a network allowing communicationsbetween a number of terminals and a centralcomputer, but not directly between terminalsmultifrequency

multifrequency /�m�lti |�fri�kwənsi/noun � dual tone, multifrequency (DTMF)communication signalling system using twodifferent frequencies to transmit binary datamultifunction

multifunction /�m�lt |�f�nkʃən(ə)l/, mul-tifunctional adjective which has severalfunctions � A multifunction analog interfacemodule includes analog to digital and digitalto analog converters.multifunctional

multifunctional /�m�lt |�f�nkʃən(ə)l/ ad-jective which has several functions � a mul-tifunctional scannermultiline

multiline /�m�lti |�lan/ adjective in a textbox, referring to a display of text broken intoseveral lines rather than as a single continu-ous line. Also called multiple line

multilink system

multilink system /�m�ltlŋk �sstəm/noun a system in which there is more thanone connection between two pointsmultimedia

multimedia /�m�lti |�mi�diə/ adjectivecombining sound, graphics, animation, videoand text within an application

‘The Oracle Media Server is a multimedia data-base designed to run on massively parallel com-puters, running hundreds of transactions per sec-ond and managing multiple data types, such asvideo, audio and text.’ [Computing]

multimedia card

multimedia card /�m�ltimi�diə �kɑ�d/noun full form of MMCmultimedia developer’s kit

multimedia developer’s kit/�m�ltimi�diə d|�veləpəz kt/ noun fullform of MDKmultimedia extensions

multimedia extensions /�m�ltimi�diək|�stenʃ(ə)nz/ plural noun full form of MMXmultimedia PC

multimedia PC /�m�ltimi�diə �pi� �si�/noun full form of MPCmultimedia-ready

multimedia-ready /�m�ltimi�diə �redi/adjective referring to a PC that has all the ex-tra equipment requirement to run most multi-media softwaremultimeter

multimeter /�m�ltimi�tə/ noun testingequipment that provides an indication of thevoltage or current or impedance at a point orof a component. Abbr AMMmultimode fibre

multimode fibre /�m�ltməυd �fabə/noun a commonly used type of optic fibrethat uses a glass fibre with a diameter of be-tween 50 and 125 microns and can carry sev-eral different frequencies of light with a max-imum bandwidth of 2.5 Gbps (NOTE: The dis-advantage is that because the fibre is wide,the light disperses quickly and so repeatersneed to be installed to boost the signal.)multipass overlap

multipass overlap /�m�ltpɑ�s�əυvəl�p/ noun a system of producing high-er quality print from a dot matrix printer byrepeating the line of characters but shiftedslightly, so making the dots less noticeablemulti platform

multi platform /�m�lt �pl�t|�fɔ�m/ adjec-tive referring to software that can run on sev-eral different hardware platformsmultiple

multiple /�m�ltp(ə)l/ adjective havingmany partsmultiple access system

multiple access system /�m�ltp(ə)l��kses �sstəm/ noun same as multi-ac-cess systemmultiple base page

multiple base page /�m�ltp(ə)l bes�ped'/ noun a multi-user system in whicheach user and the operating system have onepage of main memory, which can then call upother pages within main memorymultiple line

multiple line /�m�ltp(ə)l �lan/ adjectivesame as multiline

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multiplex 162multiplexmultiplex /�m�ltpleks/ verb to combineseveral messages in the same transmissionmediummultiplexingmultiplexing /�m�ltpleksŋ/ noun theprocess of combining several messages in thesame transmission mediummultiplexormultiplexor /�m�ltpleksə/ noun fullform of MUX � A 4 to 1 multiplexor com-bines four inputs into a single output.multiplicationmultiplication /�m�ltpl|�keʃ(ə)n/ nouna mathematical operation that adds onenumber to itself a number of times � Themultiplication of 5 and 3 = 15.multiplymultiply /�m�lt |�pla/ verb to perform themathematical operation of multiplication(NOTE: multiplies – multiplying – multi-plied)multipointmultipoint /�m�ltipɔnt/ adjective refer-ring to a connection with several lines, at-taching several terminals to a single line to asingle computermultiprocessing systemmultiprocessing system /�m�lt |

�prəυsesŋ �sstəm/ noun a system whereseveral processing units work together shar-ing the same memorymultiprocessormultiprocessor /�m�lti|�prəυsesə/ nouna number of processing units acting togetheror separately but sharing the same area ofmemorymulti-programming systemmulti-programming system /�m�lt�prəυ"r�mŋ �sstəm/ noun an operatingsystem used to execute more than one pro-gram apparently simultaneously, each pro-gram being executed a little at a time. Com-pare monoprogramming systemmultipurpose Internet mail extensionsmultipurpose Internet mail exten-sions /�m�ltip��pəs �ntənet �mel k|

�stenʃ(ə)nz/ noun full form of MIMEmultisessionmultisession /�m�ltseʃ(ə)n/ noun a CD-ROM which has had data stored onto it at dif-ferent times (each time is called a session).This normally applies to PhotoCD discs – ifthe PhotoCD is not full, you can add extraimages to it: this is a multisession disc be-cause it contains images added after the firstsession.multisession-compatiblemultisession-compatible/�m�ltseʃ(ə)n kəm|�p�tb(ə)l/ adjective re-ferring to a CD-ROM drive that can readPhotoCD discs or other discs that have beencreated in several goesMultiSync™ monitorMultiSync™ monitor /�m�ltsŋk�mɒntə/ noun a monitor which contains cir-cuitry to lock onto the required scanning fre-quency of any type of graphics cardmultitaskingmultitasking /�m�lti|�tɑ�skŋ/ noun theability of a computer system to run two ormore programs at the same time � The sys-tem is multi-user and multi-tasking.

‘X is the underlying technology which allowsUnix applications to run under a multi-user, mul-titasking GUI. It has been adopted as the standardfor the Common Open Software Environment,proposed recently by top Unix vendors includingDigital, IBM and Sun.’ [Computing]COMMENT: Few small systems are capableof simultaneous multitasking, since eachprogram would require its own processor.This is overcome by allocating to each pro-gram an amount of processing time, exe-cuting each a little at a time so that they willappear to run simultaneously due to thespeed of the processor and the relativelyshort gaps between programs.

multi terminal systemmulti terminal system /�m�lt�t��mn(ə)l �sstəm/ noun a system whereseveral terminals are linked to a single CPUmultithreadingmultithreading /�m�ltθredŋ/ noun theprocess of running several different process-es in rapid succession within a program (ef-fectively multitasking within a program)multiuser domainmultiuser domain /�m�ltiju�zə də|

�men/ noun full form of MUDmultiuser domain, object-orientedmultiuser domain, object-oriented/�m�ltiju�zə də|�men �ɒbd'ekt �ɔ�rientd/noun full form of MOOmultiuser dungeon

multiuser dungeon /�m�ltiju�zə�d�nd'ən/ noun full form of MUDmultiuser program

multiuser program /�m�ltiju�zə�prə"r�m/ noun a software diary utility thatallows many users to enter appointments andschedule meetings with other users. Alsocalled network calendar programmultiuser systemmultiuser system /�m�ltiju�zə �sstəm/noun a computer system that can supportmore than one user at a time � The programruns on a standalone machine or a multi-usersystem.multi-window editormulti-window editor /�m�lti �wndəυ�edtə/ noun a program used for creating andediting a number of applications programsindependently, each in a separate window onscreen at the same timemung upmung up /�m�ŋ ��p/ verb to distort data orto ruin a file (informal)mushmush /m�ʃ/ noun distortion and loss of sig-nalmush areamush area /�m�ʃ �eəriə/ noun distortionand loss of signal due to two transmissionsinterferingmusical instrument digital interfacemusical instrument digital interface/�mju�zk(ə)l �nstrυmənt �dd't(ə)l�ntəfes/ noun full form of MIDImusic chipmusic chip /�mju�zk tʃp/ noun an inte-grated circuit capable of generating musicalsounds and tunesmusic track

music track /�mju�zk tr�k/ noun asound track on which is recorded music for afilm (film)

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163 My ComputerMUX

MUX /�em ju� �eks/ noun a circuit that com-bines a number of inputs into a smallernumber of outputs. Full form multiplexor.Compare demultiplexorMWMW abbr 1. medium wave 2. megawatt

My ComputerMy Computer /�ma kəm|�pju�tə/ noun anicon that is normally in the upper left-handcorner of the screen on a computer runningWindows, containing an overview of the PC

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Nnn abbr nano-NABNAB /n�b/ noun a US term used to describestandards specified by this organisation (film)NAB cartridgeNAB cartridge /�n�b �kɑ�trd'/ noun anNAB approved continuous loop magnetictape cartridge which is broadcast standardand is made in three tape capacity sizesNAB curveNAB curve /�n�b �k��v/ noun the standardfor audio playback equalisationnamename /nem/ noun an ordinary word usedto identify an address in machine languagename registrationname registration /�nem�red'streʃ(ə)n/ noun same as domainname registrationname resolutionname resolution /�nem �rezəlu�ʃ(ə)n/noun the process of converting a domainname into its numerical IP addressname servername server /�nem �s��və/ noun a com-puter on the Internet that provides a domainname service to any other computernaming servicesnaming services /�nemŋ �s��vsz/noun a method of assigning each user ornode or computer on a network a uniquename that allows other users to access sharedresources even over a wide area networkNAND functionNAND function /�n�nd �f�ŋkʃ(ə)n/ nouna logical function whose output is false if allinputs are true, and true if any input is false

COMMENT: The NAND function is equiva-lent to an AND function with a NOT func-tion at the output. The output is 0 only ifboth inputs are 1; if one input is 1 and theother 0, or if both inputs are 0, then the out-put is 1.

NAND gateNAND gate /�n�nd "et/ noun an elec-tronic circuit that provides a NAND functionnano-nano- /n�nəυ/ prefix 1. one thousand mil-lionth. Abbr n 2. US one billionthnanosecondnanosecond /�n�nəυ|�sekənd/ noun onethousand millionth of a secondNapsterNapster /�n�pstə/ a trade name for soft-ware that allows users to share files, normallyMP3-format music files, over the Internet

COMMENT: Napster was originally used todistribute and share MP3 files with a per-sonal recording of a commercial artist in anefficient way. The software, developed byShawn Fanning, allowed anyone to down-load music from any another Napster us-er’s computer. Once installed, the free soft-ware searches your hard disk for any MP3music files, then allows other Napster us-ers online to access these files from yourhard disk, via the Internet. Because it al-

lows music to be copied and shared veryeasily, Napster has become unpopular withthe recording and music industry and wasthe subject of a legal case enforcing copy-right over the Internet.

narrativenarrative /�n�rətv/ noun a set of explan-atory notes or comments to help a user oper-ate a programnarrow bandnarrow band /�n�rəυ b�nd/ noun a com-munication method that uses a bandwidthless than that of a voice channel. Abbr see.Compare multicastnarrow band FMnarrow band FM /�n�rəυ b�nd �ef �em/noun a frequency modulation system usingvery small bandwidth (with only one pair ofsidebands). Abbr NBFMnarrow band ISDNnarrow band ISDN /�n�rəυ b�nd �a esdi� �en/ noun the ISDN communications sys-temnarrowcastnarrowcast /�n�rəυkɑ�st/ verb same asmulticastNATNAT /�en e �ti�/ noun a system that allows alocal area network to work with two sets of IPaddresses for each computer or node in thenetwork. Full form network address trans-lation

COMMENT: The first set of addresses isused for internal traffic and the second set(often just one or two addresses) is usedfor external traffic, for example when ac-cessing resources on the public Internetvia a router. This system provides basic se-curity against external attacks, for exampleusing IP spoofing. Its main purpose is thatit allows the local area network to use asmany IP addresses as are required, butonly using a minimal number of public IPaddresses, which must be registered andallocated by an organisation such as Inter-NIC.

National Association of BroadcastersNational Association of Broadcast-ers /�n�ʃ(ə)nəl ə |�səυsieʃ(ə)n əv�brɔ�dkɑ�stəz/ noun full form of NABNational Center for Supercomputing ApplicationsNational Center for Supercomput-ing Applications /�n�ʃ(ə)nəl �sentə fə�su�pəkəm |�pju�tŋ ��plkeʃ(ə)nz/ nounfull form of NCSANational Television System CommitteeNational Television System Com-mittee /�n�ʃ(ə)nəl �tel|�v'(ə)n �sstəmkə|�mti/ noun full form of NTSCnative file formatnative file format /�netv �fal �fɔ�m�t/noun a default file format, usually proprie-tary, that is used by an application to store itsdata on disk

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165 network addressnavigablenavigable /�n�v"əb(ə)l/ adjective refer-ring to a website that has been designed insuch a way that the user can move from onesection of the site to another by clicking onhighlighted computer linksnavigationnavigation /�n�v|�"eʃ(ə)n/ noun theprocess of moving around a multimedia titleusing hotspots, buttons and a user interfaceNCNC abbr 1. network computer 2. numericalcontrolNCR paperNCR paper /�en si� �ɑ� �pepə/ noun a spe-cial type of paper impregnated with chemi-cals and used in multipart forms. Full formno carbon required paper (NOTE: WhenNCR paper is printed on by an impact print-er, the writing also appears on the sheetsbelow.)NCSANCSA /�en si� es �e/ noun an organisationthat helped define and create the World WideWeb with its Mosaic web browser. Full formNational Center for Supercomputing Ap-plicationsNDISNDIS /�en di� e �es/ noun a standard com-mand interface, defined by Microsoft, be-tween network driver software and NICs.Full form network driver interface speci-ficationNDRNDR /�en di� �ɑ�/ noun a display system thatcontinues to display previous characterswhen new ones are displayed. Full form nondestructive readoutnear instantaneously compounded audio multiplexnear instantaneously compoundedaudio multiplex /�nə �nstən|�teniəslikəm|�paυndd �ɔ�diəυ �m�ltpleks/ nounfull form of NICAMnegatenegate /n |�"et/ verb to reverse the sign ofa number � If you negate 23.4 the result is –23.4. (NOTE: negates – negating – negat-ed)negationnegation /n |�"eʃ(ə)n/ noun the reversingof the sign of a number, e.g. from 5 to –5negation gatenegation gate /n |�"eʃ(ə)n "et/ noun asingle input gate whose output is equal to thelogical inverse of the input. Also called NOTgatenegativenegative /�ne"ətv/ adjective meaning‘no’NEQNEQ abbr nonequivalence functionnerdnerd /n��d/ noun a person who is obsessedwith computers and rarely talks or thinksabout anything that is not technologically ex-citing (slang)nested loopnested loop /�nestd �lu�p/ noun a loop in-side another loop in the same programnested macro callnested macro call /�nestd �m�krəυ�kɔ�l/ noun a macro called from within an-other macronested structurenested structure /�nestd �str�ktʃə/noun a section of a program in which one

control loop or subroutine is used within an-otherNetBEUINetBEUI /�net bju�i/ noun an extendedversion of the NetBIOS network protocol de-veloped by Microsoft, which cannot be rout-ed in a network. Full form NetBIOS Extend-ed User InterfaceNetBIOSNetBIOS /�net �baɒs/ noun a commonlyused standard set of commands, originallydeveloped by IBM, that allow applicationprograms to carry out basic operations suchas file sharing and transferring data betweennodes over a network � This software usesNetBIOS calls to manage file sharing. Fullform Network Basic Input Output SystemNetBIOS Extended User InterfaceNetBIOS Extended User Interface/�net baɒs k|�stendd �ju�zə �ntəfes/noun full form of NetBEUInetiquettenetiquette /�netket/ noun a set of unoffi-cial rules that define good manners on the In-ternetnetphonenetphone /�netfəυn/ noun a phone thatuses the Internet to make connections andcarry voice messagesNetscapeNetscape /�netskep/ a software companythat develops Internet applicationsNetscape NavigatorNetscape Navigator /�netskep�n�v"etə/ a trade name for one of the mostpopular web browsers that provides manyfeatures including a news reader and thatsupports Java appletsNetShowNetShow /�netshəυ/ a system developedby Microsoft to provide audio and video de-livery over the Internet without interruptionor glitches in the video sequenceNetWareNetWare /�netweə/ a trade name for a net-work operating system, developed by Novell,that runs on a range of hardware platformsand supports file and print sharing and client-server applicationsnetworknetwork /�netw��k/ noun a system madeof a number of points or circuits that are in-terconnected � verb to link points together ina network � They run a system of networkedmicros.

‘Asante Technologies has expanded its range ofEthernet-to-LocalTalk converters with the re-lease of AsantePrint 8, which connects up to eightLocalTalk printers, or other LocalTalk devices,to a high-speed Ethernet network.’ [Computing]

network adapternetwork adapter /�netw��k ə|�d�ptə/noun same as NICnetwork addressnetwork address /�netw��k ə |�dres/noun a part of an IP address that defines themain network on which the domain is located(NOTE: For class A networks this is the firstbyte of the address, for class B networks itis the first two bytes and for class C net-works it is the first three bytes. The rest ofthe IP address forms the host address.)

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network address translation 166network address translationnetwork address translation/�netw��k ə|�dres tr�ns |�leʃ(ə)n/ noun fullform of NATnetwork administratornetwork administrator /�netw��k əd |

�mnstretə/ noun a person who is respon-sible for looking after a network, with re-sponsibilities including installing, configur-ing and maintaining the networknetwork architecturenetwork architecture /�netw��k�ɑ�ktektʃə/ noun the way in which a net-work is constructed, e.g. layers in an OSI sys-temnetwork calendar programnetwork calendar program /�netw��k�k�lndə �prəυ"r�m/ noun same as multi-user programnetwork computernetwork computer /�netw��k kəm |

�pju�tə/ noun a computer that is designed torun Java programs and access informationusing a web browser. Abbr NC

COMMENT: The network computer has asmall desktop box that does not have afloppy disk drive. Instead it downloads anysoftware it requires from a central server.Network computers are simpler and cheap-er than current PCs and Apple Mac com-puters, and are designed to be easier tomanage in a large company.

network databasenetwork database /�netw��k�detəbes/ noun a database structure inwhich data items can be linked togethernetwork diagramnetwork diagram /�netw��k �daə"r�m/noun a graphical representation of the inter-connections between points in a networknetwork directorynetwork directory /�netw��k da|

�rekt(ə)ri/ noun a directory that is stored ona disk drive on another computer in the net-work but can be accessed by anyone on thenetworknetwork drivenetwork drive /�netw��k drav/ noun adisk drive that is part of another computer ona network but can be used by anyone on thenetworknetwork driver interface specificationnetwork driver interface specifica-tion /�netw��k �dravə �ntəfes�spesfkeʃ(ə)n/ noun full form of NDISnetwork file systemnetwork file system /�netw��k �fal�sstəm/ noun a network protocol developedby Sun Microsystems that allows a computerto share its local disk drives with other userson a network and is now used as a standardacross most of the Internet. Abbr NFSnetwork hardwarenetwork hardware /�netw��k �hɑ�dweə/noun same as networking hardwarenetworkingnetworking /�netw��kŋ/ noun 1. theworking or organisation of a network 2. theprocess of interconnecting two or more com-puters either in the same room or differentbuildings, in the same town or differenttowns, allowing them to exchange informa-tion 3. the process of broadcasting a prime-

time TV programme over several local sta-tions at the same time

COMMENT: Networking allows a machinewith a floppy disk drive to use another PC’shard disk when both machines are linkedby a cable and are using networking soft-ware.

networking hardware

networking hardware /�netw��kŋ�hɑ�dweə/ noun the physical links, comput-ers and control equipment that make up a net-work. Also called network hardwarenetworking softwarenetworking software /�netw��kŋ�sɒftweə/ noun software that is used to es-tablish the link between a user’s program andthe network. Also called network softwarenetworking specialistnetworking specialist /�netw��kŋ�speʃəlst/ noun a company or person whospecialises in designing and setting up net-works � This computer firm is a UK net-working specialist.network interface cardnetwork interface card /�netw��k�ntəfes �kɑ�d/ noun full form of NICnetwork management

network management /�netw��k�m�nd'mənt/ noun the organisation, plan-ning, running and upkeep of a networkNetwork NeighborhoodNetwork Neighborhood /�netw��k�nebəhυd/ noun a Windows 95 utility thatallows you to view and manage connectionsto your computernetwork news transfer protocolnetwork news transfer protocol/�netw��k nju�z �tr�nsf�� �prəυtəkɒl/noun full form of NNTPnetwork operating systemnetwork operating system /�netw��k�ɒpəretŋ �sstəm/ noun an operating sys-tem running on a server computer, usually adedicated one, that controls access to the net-work resources, managing network links,printing and users. Abbr NOSnetwork printer

network printer /�netw��k �prntə/ nouna printer attached to a server or workstationthat can be used by any user connected to thenetworknetwork protocol

network protocol /�netw��k �prəυtəkɒl/noun a set of handshaking signals that de-fines how a workstation sends data over anetwork without clashing with other datatransmissionsnetwork redundancynetwork redundancy /�netw��k r|

�d�ndənsi/ noun the existence of extra linksbetween points allowing continued operationin the event of one point failingnetwork servernetwork server /�netw��k �s��və/ noun acomputer which runs a network operatingsystem and controls the basic network opera-tions (NOTE: All the workstations in a LANare connected to the central network serverand users log onto a network server,)network softwarenetwork software /�netw��k �sɒftweə/noun same as networking software

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167 non destructive cursornetwork topologynetwork topology /�netw��k tə|

�pɒləd'i/ noun the layout of machines in anetwork, e.g. a star network, ring network orbus network, which will determine what ca-bling and interfaces are needed and what pos-sibilities the network can offerneural networkneural network /�njυərəl �netw��k/noun a system running an artificial intelli-gence program that attempts to simulate theway the brain works, how it learns and re-membersneutralneutral /�nju�trəl/ adjective with no state,bias or voltagenewnew /nju�/ adjective recent or not old �They have installed a new computer system.newbienewbie /�nju�bi/ noun a new user of the In-ternet (slang)newsnews /nju�z/ noun information aboutthings which have happened � news agencyoffice which distributes news to newspapersand television companies � newsgroup col-lection of articles on the Usenet relating toone particular subject � news release sheetgiving information about a new event whichis sent to newspapers and TV and radio sta-tions so that they can use it � the companysent out a news release about the new manag-ing directornewsgroupnewsgroup /�nju�z|�"ru�p/ noun a featureof the Internet that provides free-for-all dis-cussion forumsnewsprintnewsprint /�nju�zprnt/ noun mechanicalpaper used for printing newspapers (NOTE: noplural)news readernews reader /�nju�z �ri�də/ noun a pieceof software that allows a user to view the listof newsgroups and read the articles posted ineach group or submit a new articlenew technologynew technology /�nju� tek|�nɒləd'i/noun electronic instruments which have re-cently been developednexusnexus /�neksəs/ noun a connection pointbetween units in a networkNFSNFS abbr network file systemnibblenibble /�nb(ə)l/ noun another spelling ofnybbleNICNIC /�en a �si�/ noun an add-in board thatconnects a computer to a network. Full formnetwork interface card. Also called net-work adapter (NOTE: The board convertsthe computer’s data into electrical signalsthat are then transmitted along the networkcable.)NICAMNICAM /�nak�m/ noun a digital systemused for coding in the television transmissionof stereo sound (film) Full form near instan-taneously compounded audio multiplexNintendo™Nintendo™ /nn|�tendəυ/ a major videogame developer producing both software andhardware consoles

NNTPNNTP /�en en ti� �pi�/ noun a standardmethod of distributing news messages on theInternet, one of the protocols within theTCP/IP protocol suite, that provides a way ofcreating, reading and distributing messageswithin newsgroups over the Internet. Fullform network news transfer protocolno-breakno-break /�nəυ �brek/ adjective (powersupply system) which will not be affected bya power failure. � UPSno carbon required paperno carbon required paper /nəυ�kɑ�bən r|�kwaəd �pepə/ noun full formof NCR papernodenode /nəυd/ noun an interconnection pointin a structure or network � A tree is made ofbranches that connect together at nodes.no-drop imageno-drop image /�nəυ �drɒp �md'/ noun(in a GUI) an icon image displayed during adrag and drop operation when the pointer isover an object that cannot be the destinationobject and onto which it cannot be droppednoisenoise /nɔz/ noun a random signal presentin addition to any wanted signal, caused bystatic, temperature, power supply, magneticor electric fields and also from stars and theSunnomenclaturenomenclature /nəυ|�meŋklətʃə/ noun apredefined system for assigning words andsymbols to represent numbers or termsnomogramnomogram /�nɒmə"r�m/, nomograph/�nɒmə"rɑ�f/ noun a graphical system forsolving one value given two othersnon-non- /nɒn/ prefix notnonalignednonaligned /�nɒnə|�land/ adjective refer-ring to two devices which are not correctlypositioned in relation to each other, for opti-mum performancenon breaking spacenon breaking space /�nɒn �brekŋ�spes/ noun (in word-processing or DTPsoftware) a space character that prevents twowords being separated by a line breaknoncompatibilitynoncompatibility /�nɒnkəm |�p�t|�blti/noun inability of two or more pieces of hard-ware or software to exchange data or use thesame peripheralsnon-composite video signalnon-composite video signal /�nɒn�kɒmpəzt �vdiəυ �s"n(ə)l/ noun a videosignal which has no synchronising signalsbut contains picture and blanking informa-tionnon dedicated servernon dedicated server /�nɒn�dedketd �s��və/ noun a computer thatruns a network operating system in the back-ground and can also be used to run normalapplications at the same timenon destructive cursornon destructive cursor /�nɒn d|

�str�ktv �k��sə/ noun a cursor on a displaythat does not erase characters already dis-played as it passes over them � The screen

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non destructive readout 168quickly became unreadable when using anon-destructive cursor.non destructive readout

non destructive readout /�nɒn d|

�str�ktv �ri�daυt/ noun full form of NDRnondirectional microphonenondirectional microphone/�nɒndarekʃən(ə)l �makrəfəυn/ noun amicrophone which picks up sound equally inevery direction (film)nonequivalence functionnonequivalence function /�nɒn|

�kwvələns �f�ŋkʃən/ noun a logical func-tion in which the output is true if the inputsare not the same, otherwise the output isfalse. Abbr NEQnonerasable storagenonerasable storage /�nɒnrezəb(ə)l�stɔ�rd'/ noun a storage medium that can-not be erased and reusednon impact printer

non impact printer /�nɒn m|�p�kt�prntə/ noun a printer such as an ink-jetprinter in which the character form does nothit a ribbon onto the papernon interlaced

non interlaced /�nɒn �ntəlesd/ adjec-tive (in a monitor) referring to a system inwhich the picture electron beam scans eachline of the display once during each refreshcycle (NOTE: The beam in an interlaced dis-play scans every alternate line.)nonlinear video editing

nonlinear video editing /�nɒnlniə�vdiəυ �edtŋ/ noun a method of editing avideo sequence in which the video is digi-tised and stored in a computer and the editorcan then cut and move frames in any orderbefore outputting the finished sequence(NOTE: The finished sequence can either beproduced directly from the computer output– though this is normally at a lower qualitythan the original because of compressionlosses – or the computer can output timecode instructions that can be used to editthe original videotape.)nonprinting codenonprinting code /�nɒnprntŋ �kəυd/plural noun a code that represents an actionof the printer rather than a printed character� The line width can be set using one of thenon-printing codes, .LW, then a number.non scrollable

non scrollable /�nɒn �skrəυləb(ə)l/ ad-jective referring to part of the screen displaywhich is always displayed (NOTE: In a WPthe text can scroll while instructions are nonscrollable.)non-synchronous soundnon-synchronous sound /�nɒn�sŋkrənəs �saυnd/, non-sync sound nounany sound recorded without a camera operat-ing at the same time (film)non volatile memory

non volatile memory /�nɒn �vɒlətal�mem(ə)ri/ noun a storage medium or mem-ory that retains data even when the power hasbeen switched off � Bubble memory is a non-volatile storage. Also called non volatilestorage, non volatile store

non volatile storagenon volatile storage /�nɒn �vɒlətal�stɔ�rd'/, non volatile store noun same asnon volatile memoryno-op instructionno-op instruction /�nəυ �ɒp n |

�str�kʃ(ə)n/, no op /�nəυ �ɒp/ noun an in-struction that does not carry out any func-tions but increments the program counterno parityno parity /�nəυ �p�rəti/ noun data trans-mission which does not use a parity bitNOR functionNOR function /�nɔ�r �f�ŋkʃən/ noun alogical function whose output is false if ei-ther input is true

COMMENT: The output is 1 only if both in-puts are 0; if the two inputs are different orif both are 1, the output is 0.

NOR gateNOR gate /�nɔ�r "et/ noun an electric cir-cuit or chip which performs a NOR functionnormalnormal /�nɔ�m(ə)l/ adjective usual orwhich happens regularly � The normal pro-cedure is for backup copies to be made at theend of each day’s work.normal formnormal form /�nɔ�m(ə)l fɔ�m/ noun amethod of structuring information in a data-base to avoid redundancy and improve stor-age efficiencynormalisationnormalisation /�nɔ�məla |�zeʃ(ə)n/, nor-malization noun the process of normalisingdatanormalisenormalise /�nɔ�mə|�laz/, normalize verb1. to convert data into a form which can beread by a particular computer system 2. tostore and represent numbers in a pre-agreedform, usually to provide maximum precision� All the new data has been normalised to 10decimal places. (NOTE: normalises – nor-malising – normalised)normalised formnormalised form /�nɔ�məlazd fɔ�m/noun a floating point number that has beennormalised so that its mantissa is within acertain rangenormal rangenormal range /�nɔ�m(ə)l rend'/ nounthe expected range for a result or number(NOTE: Any outside this range are errors.)NOSNOS abbr network operating systemNOT-ANDNOT-AND /�nɒt ��nd/ noun an equivalentto the NAND functionnotationnotation /nəυ|�teʃ(ə)n/ noun a method ofwriting or representing numbersnotebook computernotebook computer /�nəυtbυk kəm|

�pju�tə/ noun a very small portable compu-ter, usually smaller than a laptop computer,that has a small keyboard and display and canbe carried easilyNOT functionNOT function /�nɒt �f�ŋkʃən/ noun a log-ical inverse function in which the output istrue if the input is false

COMMENT: If the input is 1, the output is 0; ifthe input is 0, the output is 1.

NOT gateNOT gate /�nɒt "et/ noun same as nega-tion gate

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169 nybblenotice boardnotice board /�nəυts bɔ�d/ noun 1. aboard fixed to a wall where notices can bepinned up 2. a type of bulletin board onwhich messages to all users can be leftnotification messagenotification message /�nəυtf |

�keʃ(ə)n �mesd'/ noun a message withinauthoring software to notify other objectsthat a particular task has been completed � Ifan object is moved, the application will gen-erate a notification message to tell otherprocesses when it has finished moving the ob-ject.notify handlernotify handler /�nəυtfa �h�ndlə/ nouna series of commands that are executed whena particular notification message is receivedNovellNovell /nəυ |�vel/ a large company that pro-duces network software and is best known forits NetWare range of network operating sys-tem software that runs on a PC servernsns abbr nanosecondNSFnetNSFnet /�en es �ef net/ noun a wide areanetwork developed by the National ScienceFoundation to replace ArpaNet as the mainUS government-funded network linking to-gether universities and research laboratories(NOTE: NSFnet was a crucial stepping-stonein the development history of the Internet. Itwas closed down in 1995 and replaced by acommercial high-speed network backbonethat formed one of the foundations for thecurrent commercial Internet.)NTFSNTFS full form New Technology FileSystemNTSCNTSC /�en ti� es �si�/ noun a US committeethat defines standards for television and vid-eo. Full form National Television SystemCommitteeNuBusNuBus /�nju�b�s/ noun a high-speed 96-pin expansion bus used within Apple Mac IIcomputersnullnull /n�l/ adjective nothingnumbernumber /�n�mbə/ noun 1. a representationof a quantity 2. a written figure � Each pieceof hardware has a production number. � verb

1. to put a figure on a document � The pagesof the manual are numbered 1 to 196. 2. toassign digits to a list of items in an orderedmannernumber crunchernumber cruncher /�n�mbə �kr�ntʃə/noun a dedicated processor used for high-speed calculationsnumber crunchingnumber crunching /�n�mbə kr�ntʃŋ/noun the process of performing high-speedcalculations � A very powerful processor isneeded for graphics applications which re-quire extensive number crunching capabili-ties.numeralnumeral /�nju�m(ə)rəl/ noun a characteror symbol which represents a numbernumericnumeric /nju�|�merk/ adjective 1. refer-ring to numbers 2. which contains only num-bers � a numeric fieldnumericalnumerical /nju� |�merk(ə)l/ adjective re-ferring to numbersnumerical analysisnumerical analysis /nju�|�merk(ə)l ə|

�n�ləss/ noun the study of ways of solvingmathematical problemsnumerical controlnumerical control /nju�|�merk(ə)l kən|

�trəυl/ noun a machine operated automati-cally by computer or a set of circuits control-led by stored data. Abbr NCnumeric keypadnumeric keypad /nju�|�merk �ki�p�d/noun a set of ten keys with figures 0–9, in-cluded in most computer keyboards as a sep-arate group, used for entering large amountsof data in numeric form. Also called numer-ic padnumeric padnumeric pad /nju�|�merk �p�d/ nounsame as numeric keypadNum Lock keyNum Lock key /�n�m lɒk �ki�/ noun (on akeyboard ) a key that switches the function ofa numeric keypad from cursor control to nu-meric entrynybblenybble /�nb(ə)l/, nibble noun half thelength of a standard byte (informal )

COMMENT: A nybble is usually 4 bits, butcan vary according to different microcom-puter.

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OOA

OA abbr office automationobject

object /�ɒbd'ekt/ noun 1. the data thatmakes up a particular image or sound 2. avariable used in an IKBS within a reasoningoperation 3. the data in a statement which isto be operated on by the operatorobjective

objective /əb|�d'ektv/ noun 1. somethingwhich someone tries to do 2. an optical lensnearest the object viewed 3. any optical de-vice which has the ability to form imagesobject language

object language /�ɒbd'ekt �l�ŋ"wd'/noun the language of a program after it hasbeen translated. Opposite source languageobject linking and embedding

object linking and embedding/�ɒbd'ekt �lŋkŋ ənd m |�bedŋ/ noun fullform of OLEobject linking and embedding 2

object linking and embedding 2/�ɒbd'ekt �lŋkŋ ənd m|�bedŋ �tu�/ nounfull form of OLE-2object-oriented

object-oriented /�ɒbd'ekt �ɔ�rientd/adjective referring to a system or languagethat uses objectsobject-oriented graphics

object-oriented graphics /�ɒbd'ekt�ɔ�rientd �"r�fks/ plural noun graphicswhich use lines and curves, vector defini-tions, to describe the shapes of the imagerather than pixels in a bitmap image � Thisobject-oriented graphics program lets youmove shapes around very easily.object-oriented language

object-oriented language /�ɒbd'ekt�ɔ�rientd �l�ŋ"wd'/ noun a programminglanguage that is used for object-oriented pro-gramming, e.g. C++object-oriented programming

object-oriented programming/�ɒbd'ekt �ɔ�rientd �prəυ"r�mŋ/ noun amethod of programming, as in C++, in whicheach element of the program is treated as anobject that can interact with other objectswithin the program. Abbr OOPObject Request Broker

Object Request Broker /əb |�d'ekt r|

�kwest �brəυkə/ noun software that linksobjects together using the CORBA standard.Abbr ORBoblique stroke

oblique stroke /ə|�bli�k strəυk/ noun aprinting sign (/) like stroke sloping to therightobtain

obtain /əb|�ten/ verb to get or receivesomething � to obtain data from a storagedevice

OCE

OCE /�əυ si� �i�/ noun a set of standards thatallow networked Apple Mac users to shareobjects and files. Full form open collabora-tion environmentOCR

OCR /�əυ si� �ɑ�/ noun 1. a device whichscans printed or written characters, recognis-es them and converts them into machine-readable form for processing in a computer.Full form optical character reader 2. soft-ware or a process that allows printed or writ-ten characters to be recognised optically andconverted into machine-readable code thatcan be input into a computer, using an opticalcharacter reader. Full form optical charac-ter recognition

‘In 1986, Calera Recognition Systems introducedthe first neural-network-based OCR system thatcould read complex pages containing any mix-ture of non-decorative fonts without manualtraining.’ [Computing]COMMENT: There are two OCR fonts incommon use: OCR-A, which is easy forscanners to read, and OCR-B, which iseasier for people to read than the OCR-Afont.

octal

octal /�ɒkt(ə)l/, octal notation /�ɒkt(ə)lnəυ|�teʃ(ə)n/ noun a number notation usingbase 8, with digits 0 to 7

COMMENT: In octal, the digits used are 0 to7; so decimal 9 is octal 11.

octet

octet /ɒk |�tet/ noun a group of eight bitstreated as one unit or word. � byteOCX

OCX /�əυ si� �eks/ noun the file extension ofan ActiveX component or add-in that is usedby an application such as a web browser orcustom application running under Windows95 or 98ODBC

ODBC noun a software interface that allowsan application to access any compatible datasource. Full form open database connec-tivity (NOTE: The standard was developedby Microsoft but is used by many differentdevelopers as a standard method of provid-ing access to a wide range of databases.)ODI

ODI a trade name for a standard interface,defined by Novell, for an NIC that allows us-ers to have just one network driver that willwork with all NICs. Full form open datalinkinterface. Compare NDIS (NOTE: Thestandard also supports more than one pro-tocol, e.g. IPX and NetBEUI.)

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171 OMROEM

OEM /�əυ i� �em/ noun a company whichproduces equipment using basic parts madeby other manufacturers, and customises theproduct for a particular application � OneOEM supplies the disk drive, another themonitor. Full form original equipmentmanufactureroff-cut

off-cut /�ɒf k�t/ noun scrap paper that isleft when a sheet is trimmed to sizeoffice

office /�ɒfs/ noun a room or buildingwhere a company works or where business isdoneoffice automation

office automation /�ɒfs �ɔ�tə |�meʃ(ə)n/noun the use of machines and computers tocarry out ordinary office tasks. Abbr OAoffice computer

office computer /�ɒfs kəm |�pju�tə/noun a small computer, sometimes with ahard disk and several terminals, suitable foroffice useoff-line

off-line /�ɒf �lan/ adverb, adjective 1. re-ferring to a processor, printer or terminal thatis not connected to a network or central com-puter, usually temporarily � Before changingthe paper in the printer, switch it off-line. 2.referring to a peripheral connected to a net-work but not available for use. Compare on-lineoff-line editing

off-line editing /�ɒf lan �edtŋ/ noun anediting process in which copies of the origi-nal sound tape or videotape are used, cut andedited to create an EDL that is then used in anon-line editing suite to automatically assem-ble all the sectors of the tape according to theinstructions in the EDL (NOTE: Off-line edit-ing software allows two or more video clipsto be edited and merged with effects.)off-line newsreader

off-line newsreader /�ɒf lan�nju�zri�də/ noun a piece of software that al-lows a user to read newsgroup articles whenthe computer is not connected to the Internetoff-line printing

off-line printing /�ɒf lan �prntŋ/ nouna printout operation that is not supervised bya computeroff-line processing

off-line processing /�ɒf lan�prəυsesŋ/ noun processing performed bydevices not under the control of a centralcomputeroff-line storage

off-line storage /�ɒf lan �stɔ�rd'/ nounstorage that is not currently available for ac-cessoffprint

offprint /�ɒfprnt/ noun a section of a jour-nal reprinted separatelyoff-scale

off-scale /�ɒf �skel/ adverb outside thearea of the standard light point scale of aprinteroff screen

off screen /�ɒf �skri�n/ adverb TV actionthat is taking place off the screen, outside theviewer’s field of vision

off-screen bufferoff-screen buffer /�ɒf skri�n �b�fə/ nounthe area of RAM used to hold an off-screenimage before it is displayed on screenoff-screen imageoff-screen image /�ɒf skri�n �md'/noun an image that is first drawn in memoryand then is transferred to the display memoryto give the impression of fast display actionoffsetoffset /�ɒfset/ noun positive or negativetime displacement in systems using timecode synchronisationohmohm /əυm/ noun a unit of measurement ofelectrical resistanceOhm’s LawOhm’s Law /�əυmz lɔ�/ noun a scientificrule which defines one ohm as: one volt dropacross a resistance of one ohm when one ampof current is flowing000OKOK /�əυ �ke/ noun used as a prompt in placeof ‘ready’ in some systemsOK buttonOK button /əυ |�ke �b�t(ə)n/ noun (in aGUI) a button with an ‘OK’ label that is usedto start or confirm an actionOLEOLE /�əυ el �i�/ noun (in Microsoft Win-dows) a facility for including data formattedin one application within another application;e.g. insertion of an object such as an image orsound into a document or spreadsheet. Fullform object linking and embedding. �DDEOLE-2OLE-2 /�əυ el i� �tu�/ noun (in MicrosoftWindows) a facility that extends the func-tions of OLE to include visual editing to al-low the embedded object to be edited withoutleaving the document in which it is embed-ded. Full form object linking and embed-ding 2 (NOTE: If you insert an image into adocument, you can now edit the image with-out leaving the word-processor. OLE2 alsoallows applications to exchange informa-tion.)omission factoromission factor /əυ|�mʃ(ə)n �f�ktə/noun the number of relevant documents thatwere missed in a searchomnidirectionalomnidirectional /�ɒmni|�darekʃən(ə)l/adjective device that can pick up signalsfrom all directionsomnidirectional microphoneomnidirectional microphone/�ɒmnidarekʃən(ə)l �makrəfəυn/ noun amicrophone which is able to pick up soundevenly in all directionsOMROMR /�əυ em �ɑ�/ noun 1. a device that canrecognise marks or lines on a special formssuch as an order form or a reply to a question-naire and convert them into a form a compu-ter can process. Full form optical markreader 2. a process that allows certain marksor lines on special forms such as an orderform or a reply to a questionnaire to be rec-ognised by an OMR and input into a compu-ter. Full form optical mark recognition

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on-board 172on-boardon-board /�ɒn �bɔ�d/ adjective referring toa feature or circuit which is contained on amotherboard or main PCB

‘…the electronic page is converted to a printer-readable video image by the on-board raster im-age processor the key intelligence features ofthese laser printers are emulation modes and on-board memory’ [Byte]

on chipon chip /�ɒn �tʃp/ noun a circuit construct-ed on a chipon-chipon-chip /�ɒn �tʃp/ adjective referring to acircuit constructed on a chip � The processoruses on-chip bootstrap software to allow pro-grams to be loaded rapidly.one for oneone for one /�w�n fə �w�n/ noun a pro-gramming language, usually assembler, thatproduces one machine code instruction foreach instruction or command word in the lan-guage

COMMENT: Compilers and interpreters areusually used for translating high-level lan-guages that use more than one machinecode instruction for each high-level instruc-tion.

100Base-FX100Base-FX noun IEEE standard specifi-cation for running Ethernet over optical fibreat speeds up to 100Mbpsonion skin architectureonion skin architecture /��njən skn�ɑ�ktektʃə/ noun a design of a computersystem in layers, according to function or pri-ority � The onion skin architecture of thiscomputer is made up of a kernel at the centre,an operating system, a low-level languageand then the user’s program.onion skin languageonion skin language /��njən skn�l�ŋ"wd'/ noun a database manipulationlanguage that can process hierarchical datastructuresonlineonline /ɒn|�lan/ adverb, adjective referringto a terminal or device connected to and un-der the control of a central processor � Theterminal is online to the mainframe.online databaseonline database /�ɒnlan �detəbes/noun an interactive search, retrieve and up-date of database records using an online ter-minalonline editingonline editing /ɒn|�lan �edtŋ/ noun theprocess of creating a finished audio or filmsequence from original tape using editing in-structions in an EDL listonline helponline help /�ɒnlan �help/ noun a textscreen displayed from within an applicationthat explains how to use the applicationonline information retrievalonline information retrieval /�ɒnlan�nfə |�meʃ(ə)n r|�tri�vəl/ noun a systemthat allows an operator of an online terminalto access, search and display data held in amain computeronline processingonline processing /�ɒnlan �prəυsesŋ/noun processing by devices connected to andunder the control of the central computer,

during which the user remains in contact withthe central computeronline storageonline storage /�ɒnlan �stɔ�rd'/ noundata storage equipment that is directly con-trolled by a computeronline transaction processingonline transaction processing/�ɒnlan tr�n|�z�kʃən �prəυsesŋ/ noun aninteractive processing in which a user enterscommands and data on a terminal which islinked to a central computer, with results be-ing displayed on the screenOnNowOnNow /�ɒn|�naυ/ noun a standard that pro-vides a way of integrating power manage-ment and control within all types of computer(NOTE: The main benefit of OnNow is that itallows the development of a computer thatis dormant but will be ready to use almostimmediately after it has been switched on,unlike current computers that can take aminute to configure and load the operatingsystem.)on-screenon-screen /�ɒn �skri�n/ adjective referringto information that is displayed on a compu-ter screen rather than printed outon-siteon-site /�ɒn �sat/ adjective located at theplace where a particular thing is � The newmodel has an on-site upgrade facility.on the flyon the fly /�ɒn ðə �fla/ adverb (to exam-ine and modify data) during a program runwithout stopping the runOOPOOP abbr object-oriented programmingo/po/p, O/P abbr outputopacityopacity /əυ|�p�sti/ noun a measure of howopaque an optical lens is. Opposite transmit-tanceop ampop amp /�ɒp �mp/ noun a versatile elec-tronic component that provides amplifica-tion, integration, addition, subtraction andmany other functions on signals dependingon external components added. Full form op-erational amplifieropaqueopaque /əυ|�pek/ adjective will not allowlight to pass through itopaque leaderopaque leader /əυ|�pek �li�də/ noun partof a filmstrip which is used as a leader: noimage is presentopaque projectoropaque projector /əυ|�pek prə|�d'ektə/noun a device that is able to project an imageof an opaque objectop codeop code /�ɒp kəυd/ noun a part of the ma-chine code instruction that defines the actionto be performed. Also called operationcode, order codeopenopen /�əυpən/ adjective 1. called up andprepared before reading or writing actionscan occur � You cannot access the data un-less the file is open. 2. not closed � verb 1. totake the cover off something or to make adoor open � Open the disk drive door. 2. tocall up and prepare a file before accessing,

ICT.fm Page 172 Wednesday, July 14, 2004 2:53 PM

173 optical scannerediting or carrying out other transactions onstored records � You cannot access the dataunless the file has been opened.open access

open access /�əυpən ��kses/ noun a sys-tem in which many workstations are availa-ble for anyone to useopen architecture

open architecture /�əυpən �ɑ�ktektʃə/noun computer architecture with a publishedexpansion interface that has been designed toallow add-on hardware to be plugged inopen collaboration environment

open collaboration environment/�əυpən kə|�l�bə|�reʃ(ə)n n|�varənmənt/noun full form of OCEopen database connectivity

open database connectivity /�əυpən�detəbes �kɒnek |�tvti/ noun full form ofODBCopen datalink interface

open datalink interface /�əυpən�detəlŋk �ntəfes/ noun full form of ODIopen file

open file /�əυpən fal/ noun a file that canbe read from or written to (NOTE: An applica-tion opens the file which locates the file ondisk and prepares it for an operation.)open source

open source /�əυpən �sɔ�s/ adjective de-scribes a program for which the source codeis freely available and which anyone is legal-ly able to modify and improve

‘In yet another initiative, aimed at cutting the up-front costs of big IT projects, the OGC is tippingtowards a preference for open source software.’[The Guardian]

open system

open system /�əυpən �sstəm/ noun anonproprietary system that is not under thecontrol of one companyopen system interconnection

open system interconnection/�əυpən �sstəm �ntəkə|�nekʃ(ə)n/ nounfull form of OSIopen trading protocol

open trading protocol /�əυpən �tredŋ�prəυtəkɒl/ noun a standardised computerprotocol for transactions involving paymentsand for methods of payment. Abbr OTPoperand

operand /�ɒpər�nd/ noun the data in acomputer instruction which is to be operatedon by the operator � In the instruction ADD74, the operator ADD will add the operand74 to the accumulator.operate

operate /�ɒpəret/ verb to work or to makea machine work � Do you know how to oper-ate the telephone switchboard? (NOTE: oper-ates – operating – operated)operation

operation /�ɒpə|�reʃ(ə)n/ noun the work-ing of a machineoperational

operational /�ɒpə|�reʃ(ə)nəl/ adjectivewhich is workingoperational amplifier

operational amplifier /�ɒpə|�reʃ(ə)nəl��mpl |�faə/, op amp /�ɒp �mp/ noun aversatile electronic component that provides

amplification, integration, addition, subtrac-tion and many other functions on signals de-pending on external components addedoperational information

operational information /�ɒpə|

�reʃ(ə)nəl �nfə|�meʃ(ə)n/ noun informa-tion about the normal operations of a systemoperation code

operation code /�ɒpə|�reʃ(ə)n kəυd/noun same as op codeoperations manual

operations manual /�ɒpə|�reʃ(ə)nz�m�njυəl/ noun same as instruction man-ualoperator

operator /�ɒpə|�retə/ noun 1. a personwho makes a machine or process work � Theoperator was sitting at his console. 2. a char-acter, symbol or word that defines a functionor operation � x is the multiplication opera-tor.optic

optic /�ɒptk/ adjective referring to sightoptical

optical /�ɒptk(ə)l/ adjective referring to ormaking use of light � An optical reader usesa light beam to scan characters.optical bar reader

optical bar reader /�ɒptk(ə)l �bɑ��ri�də/ noun an optical device that reads datafrom a bar codeoptical character reader

optical character reader /�ɒptk(ə)l�k�rktə �ri�də/ noun full form of OCR 1optical character recognition

optical character recognition/�ɒptk(ə)l �k�rktə �rekə" |�nʃ(ə)n/ nounfull form of OCR 2optically

optically /�ɒptk(ə)li/ adverb by using anoptical device � The text is scanned optical-ly.optical mark reader

optical mark reader /�ɒptk(ə)l �mɑ�k�ri�də/ noun full form of OMR 1optical mark recognition

optical mark recognition /�ɒptk(ə)lmɑ�k �rekə"|�nʃ(ə)n/ noun full form ofOMR 2optical mouse

optical mouse /�ɒptk(ə)l maυs/ noun apointing device that is operated by moving itacross a special flat mat; (NOTE: On the matis printed a grid of lines. As the mouse ismoved, two light sensors count the numberof lines that have been passed to produce ameasure of the distance and direction oftravel. An optical mouse has fewer movingparts than a mechanical mouse and so ismore reliable, but requires an accuratelyprinted mat.)optical multiplexing

optical multiplexing /�ɒptk(ə)l�m�ltpleksŋ/ noun the process of sendingseveral light beams down a single path or fi-breoptical scanner

optical scanner /�ɒptk(ə)l �sk�nə/noun a piece of equipment that converts animage into electrical signals which can bestored in and displayed on a computeroptical scanner

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optics 174optics /�ɒptks/ noun the science of lightand sightopticsoptimisation, optimization noun theprocess of making something work as effi-ciently as possibleoptimiseoptimise /�ɒptmaz/, optimize verb tomake something work as efficiently as possi-ble (NOTE: optimises – optimising – opti-mised)optimiseroptimiser /�ɒptmazə/, optimizer noun aprogram that adapts another program to runmore efficientlyoptimising compileroptimising compiler /�ɒptmazŋ kəm |

�palə/ noun a compiler that analyses the ma-chine code it produces in order to improvethe speed or efficiency of the codeoptimumoptimum /�ɒptməm/ adjective best possi-bleopt-in mailing listopt-in mailing list /�ɒpt n �melŋ lst/noun a list of email addresses in which eachrecipient has specifically asked to receive ad-vertising email messages, usually so that heor she can keep up to date with a topic or in-dustryoptionoption /�ɒpʃən/ noun an action which canbe chosen � There are usually four optionsalong the top of the screen.optionaloptional /�ɒpʃ(ə)n(ə)l/ adjective whichcan be chosen � The system comes with op-tional 3.5 or 5.25 disk drives.optoelectricaloptoelectrical /�ɒptəυ|�lektrk(ə)l/ ad-jective which converts light to electrical sig-nals or electrical signals into lightoptoelectronicoptoelectronic /�ɒptəυ|�elek|�trɒnk/ ad-jective (microelectronic component) that hasoptoelectrical propertiesoptoelectronicsoptoelectronics /�ɒptəυ|�elek|�trɒnks/noun electronic components that can gener-ate or detect light, such as phototransistors,light-emitting diodesoptomechanical mouseoptomechanical mouse /�ɒptəυm|

�k�nk(ə)l �maυs/ noun same as mechani-cal mouseOROR noun a Boolean function that is oftenused in searches to ask the search engine tofind text that contains any of the searchwords. Compare AND (NOTE: For examplethe phrase ‘dog OR cat’ will include all doc-uments that contain the words dog or cat.)Orange BookOrange Book /�ɒrnd' bυk/ noun a set ofstandards published by Philips that define theformat for a recordable CD-ROMorbitorbit /�ɔ�bt/ noun the path in space that asatellite follows around the earth � verb tofollow a path in space around the earth � Theweather satellite orbits the earth every fourhours.orderorder /�ɔ�də/ verb to sort data according toa key

order codeorder code /�ɔ�də kəυd/ noun same as opcodeordered listordered list /�ɔ�dəd lst/ noun a list ofdata items which have been sorted into an or-derOR functionOR function /�ɔ� �f�ŋkʃən/ noun a logicalfunction that produces a true output if any in-put is true

COMMENT: The result of the OR function willbe 1 if either or both inputs are 1; if both in-puts are 0, then the result is 0.

organisationorganisation /�ɔ�"əna|�zeʃ(ə)n/, organ-ization noun a way of arranging somethingso that it works efficiently or has a logicalstructureorganisationalorganisational /�ɔ�"əna|�zeʃ(ə)n(ə)l/,organizational adjective referring to theway in which something is organisedorganiseorganise /�ɔ�"ə |�naz/, organize verb toarrange something so that it works efficientlyor has a logical structure (NOTE: organises –organising – organised)OR gateOR gate /�ɔ� "et/ noun an electronic cir-cuit that provides the OR functionorientatedorientated /�ɔ�riəntetd/ adjective aimedtowards somethingorientationorientation /�ɔ�riən|�teʃ(ə)n/ noun 1. thedirection or position of an object 2. (in word-processing or DTP software) the direction ofa page, either landscape, with long edge hor-izontal, or portrait, with long edge verticaloriginorigin /�ɒrd'n/ noun 1. the position on adisplay screen to which all coordinates arereferenced, usually the top left hand corner ofthe screen 2. a location in memory at whichthe first instruction of a program is storedoriginaloriginal /ə |�rd'ən(ə)l/ adjective used ormade first � noun 1. the master data disk,from which a copy can be made 2. the firstdocument, from which a copy is made � Didyou keep the original of the letter? � Theoriginal document is too faint to photocopywell.original equipment manufactureroriginal equipment manufacturer /ə|

�rd'ən(ə)l |�kwpmənt �m�njυ|�f�ktʃərə/noun full form of OEM � One OEM suppliesthe disk drive, another the monitor.originateoriginate /ə|�rd'net/ verb to start orcome from a place or source � The data orig-inated from the new computer. (NOTE: origi-nates – originating – originated)originationorigination /ə|�rd'|�neʃ(ə)n/ noun thework involved in creating somethingorphanorphan /�ɔ�f(ə)n/ noun the first line of aparagraph of text printed alone at the bottomof a column, with the rest of the paragraph atthe top of the next column or page. Comparewidow (NOTE: An orphan makes a pagelook ugly.)

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175 over-voltage protectionoscillatoroscillator /�ɒs|�letə/ noun an electroniccircuit that produces a pulse or signal at aparticular frequencyoscilloscopeoscilloscope /ɒ|�sləskəυp/ noun elec-tronic test equipment that displays on a CRTthe size and shape of an electrical signalOSIOSI /�əυ es �a/ noun a standard theoreticalmodel of a network that is created from sevendifferent layers each with a different func-tion. This model provides the basis of almostall networks in use. Full form open systeminterconnection. � ISO/OSIoutageoutage /�aυtd'/ noun the time duringwhich a system is not operationaloutdentoutdent /aυt |�dent/ verb to move part of aline of text into the margin. Opposite indentoutletoutlet /�aυtlet/ noun a connection or pointin a circuit or network where a signal or datacan be accessedoutlineoutline /�aυtlan/ noun the main features ofsomethingoutline flowchartoutline flowchart /�aυt(ə)lan�fləυtʃɑ�t/ noun a flowchart of the main fea-tures, steps and decisions in a program orsystemoutlineroutliner /�aυtlanə/ noun a utility programused to help a user order sections and subsec-tions of a list of things to do or parts of aprojectout of band signallingout of band signalling /�aυt əv �b�nd�s"n(ə)lŋ/ noun the transmission of signalsoutside the frequency limits of a normalvoice channelout of phaseout of phase /�aυt əv �fez/ adverb situa-tion where a waveform is delayed in compar-ison to anotherout of rangeout of range /�aυt əv �rend'/ adjectivereferring to a number or quantity that is out-side the limits of a systemout-of-syncout-of-sync /�aυt əv �sŋk/ adjective faultwhen the sound and picture are not synchro-nisedoutputoutput /�aυtpυt/ noun 1. information ordata that is transferred from a CPU or themain memory to another device such as amonitor, printer or secondary storage device2. the action of transferring information ordata from store to a user � abbr o/p, O/P �verb to transfer data from a computer to amonitor or printer � Finished documents canbe output to the laser printer.outsourceoutsource /�aυt|�sɔ�s/ verb to employ an-other company to manage and support a net-work for your companyoverflowoverflow /�əυvəfləυ/ noun 1. a mathemat-ical result that is greater than the limits of thecomputer’s number storage system 2. a situ-ation in a network when the number of trans-missions is greater than the line capacity and

they are transferred by another route � abbrOVoverheadoverhead /�əυvəhed/ noun an extra codethat has to be stored to organise the program� The line numbers in a BASIC program arean overhead.overheatoverheat /�əυvə|�hi�t/ verb to become toohot � The system may overheat if the room isnot air-conditioned.overlapoverlap /�əυvə |�l�p/ noun 1. a situation inwhich one thing covers part of another or twosections of data are placed on top of each oth-er 2. the continuation of the sound track intothe following scene for smooth continuity(film) � verb to cover part of an item with an-other (NOTE: overlapping – overlapped)overlayoverlay /�əυvəle/ noun 1. a small sectionof a program that is bigger than the mainmemory capacity of a computer, loaded intomemory when required, so that main memo-ry only contains the sections it requires 2. adevice that converts composite video or tele-vision signals into a digital format so thatthey can be displayed on a computer

‘Many packages also boast useful drawing andoverlay facilities which enable the user to anno-tate specific maps.’ [Computing]

overlay cardoverlay card /�əυvəle kɑ�d/ noun sameas video graphics cardoverlay functionoverlay function /�əυvəle �f�ŋkʃ(ə)n/noun � matte, chroma keyoverlayingoverlaying /�əυvəleŋ/ noun the processof putting an overlay into actionoverlay networkoverlay network /�əυvəle �netw��k/noun two communications networks thathave some common interconnectionsoverloadoverload /�əυvə|�ləυd/ verb to demandmore than the device is capable of � Thecomputer is overloaded with that amount ofprocessing.overmodulationovermodulation /�əυvə|�mɒdju|�leʃ(ə)n/noun a situation where an amplitude modu-lated carrier signal is reduced to zero by ex-cessive input signaloverpunchingoverpunching /�əυvə|�p�ntʃŋ/ noun theprocess of altering data on a paper tape bypunching additional holesoverscanoverscan /�əυvəsk�n/ noun 1. a faulty orbadly adjusted monitor in which the dis-played image runs off the edge of the screen2. display equipment in which the picturebeam scans past the screen boundaries to en-sure that the image fills the screenoverstrikeoverstrike /� υvəstrak/ verb to print ontop of an existing character to produce a newoneovertonesovertones /�əυvətəυnz/ noun � harmon-icover-voltage protectionover-voltage protection /�əυvə�vəυltd' prə |�tekʃ(ə)n/ noun a safety de-

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overwrite 176vice that prevents a power supply voltage ex-ceeding certain specified limitsoverwrite

overwrite /�əυvə|�rat/ verb to write data toa location, e.g. memory or disk, and, in doingso, to destroy any data already contained in

that location � The latest data input hasoverwritten the old information. (NOTE:overwriting – overwrote – overwritten)oxide

oxide /�ɒksad/ noun a chemical compoundof oxygen

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Ppp /pi�/ abbr pico-PP abbr petaPABXPABX abbr private automatic branch ex-changepackpack /p�k/ verb 1. to put things into a con-tainer for selling or sending � to pack goodsinto cartons 2. to store a quantity of data in areduced form, often by representing severalcharacters of data with one stored characterpackagepackage /�p�kd'/ noun a group of differ-ent items joined together in one dealpackage dealpackage deal /�p�kd' �di�l/ noun anagreement in which several different itemsare agreed at the same time � They agreed ona package deal, which involves the develop-ment of software, customising hardware, andtraining staff.packaged softwarepackaged software /�p�kd'd�sɒftweə/ noun same as software packagepacketpacket /�p�kt/ noun a group of data bitswhich can be transmitted as a group from onenode to another over a networkpacket Internet groperpacket Internet groper /�p�kt�ntənet �"rəυpə/ noun full form of PINGpacket switchingpacket switching /�p�kt swtʃŋ/ nouna method of sending data across a WAN insmall packets, which are then re-assembledin the correct order at the receiving end

‘The network is based on Northern Telecom DPNdata switches over which it will offer X.25 packetswitching, IBM SNA, and frame-relay transmis-sion.’ [Computing]

packet switching servicepacket switching service /�p�kt�swtʃŋ �s��vs/ noun a commercial datatransmission service that sends data over itsWAN using packet switching. Abbr PSSpackingpacking /�p�kŋ/ noun 1. the action ofputting goods into boxes and wrapping themfor shipping � What is the cost of the pack-ing? � Packing is included in the price. 2. theprocess of putting large amounts of data intoa small area of storage 3. a material used toprotect goods � packed in airtight packingpadpad /p�d/ noun a number of keys arrangedtogether � verb to fill something out andmake it bigger or the right size (NOTE: pad-ding – padded)paddingpadding /�p�dŋ/ noun a character or setof digits added to fill out a string or packetuntil it is the right lengthpagepage /ped'/ noun 1. a sheet of paper 2. anamount of text displayed on a computer mon-

itor or screen which would fill a page of pa-per if printed out or which fills the screen 3.a section of main store, which contains dataor programs � the video adapter uses page-mode RAM to speed up the display 4. oneside of a printed sheet of paper in a book ornewspaper or magazine or catalogue, etc. 5. ablank area of the screen used as a backgroundfor a multimedia book. The design of eachpage is created by pasting objects, such aswindows, buttons, graphic images and text,onto the page. � verb to make up a text intopagespage addressingpage addressing /�ped' ə|�dresŋ/ nounmain memory which has been split intoblocks, with a unique address allocated toeach block of memory which can then becalled up and accessed individually, when re-quiredpage boundarypage boundary /�ped' �baυnd(ə)ri/noun a point where one page ends and thenext startspage breakpage break /�ped' �brek/ noun 1. thepoint in continuous text at which a page endsand a new page starts 2. a marker used whenword-processing to show where a new pageshould startpaged addresspaged address /�ped'd ə|�dres/ noun (ina paged-memory scheme) the actual physi-cal memory address that is calculated from alogical address and its page addresspage description languagepage description language /�ped' d|

�skrpʃən �l�ŋ"wd'/ noun software thatcontrols a printer’s actions to print a page oftext to a particular format according to a us-er’s instructions. Abbr PDLpage description programming languagepage description programming lan-guage /�ped' d |�skrpʃ(ə)n�prəυ"r�mŋ �l�ŋ"wd'/ noun a program-ming language that accepts commands to de-fine the size, position and type style for textor graphics on a pagepage down keypage down key /�ped' �daυn �ki�/ nouna keyboard key that moves the cursor posi-tion down by the number of lines on onescreen. Abbr PgDnpage framepage frame /�ped' �frem/ noun a physi-cal address to which a page of virtual or log-ical memory can be mappedpage image bufferpage image buffer /�ped' �md' �b�fə/noun memory in a page printer that holds theimage as it is built up before it is printed

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page impression 178page impressionpage impression /�ped' m |�preʃ(ə)n/noun a measure used to count how manytimes a webpage has been displayed to a vis-itor to a websitepage layoutpage layout /�ped' �leaυt/ noun the ar-rangement of text and pictures within a pageof a document � We do all our page layoutusing desktop publishing software.page makeuppage makeup /�ped' �mek�p/ noun theaction of pasting images and text into a pageready for printingpage-mode RAMpage-mode RAM /�ped' məυd �r�m/noun dynamic RAM designed to access se-quential memory locations very quickly �The video adapter uses page-mode RAM tospeed up the display.page numberpage number /�ped' �n�mbə/ noun aunique number assigned to each page withina multimedia application, to be used withinhyperlinks and when moving between pagespage orientationpage orientation /�ped'�ɔ�riənteʃ(ə)n/ noun the direction of thelong edge of a piece of paperpage previewpage preview /�ped' �pri�vju�/ noun (inWP or DTP software) a graphical representa-tion of how a page will look when printed,with different type styles, margins and graph-ics correctly displayedpage proofspage proofs /�ped' pru�fs/ plural nounproofs which are divided into pages, but maynot have page numbers or headings insertedpage protectionpage protection /�ped' prə |�tekʃən/noun the set of software controls used to en-sure that pages are not overwritten by acci-dent or copied into a reserved section ofmemorypagerpager /�ped'ə/ noun a small device carriedby someone, which allows him to be calledfrom a central office, by using a radio signalpage requestspage requests /�ped' r|�kwests/ pluralnoun a measure of the number of pagesviewed in a day, providing an indication ofthe popularity of your websitepage setuppage setup /�ped' �set�p/ noun the setof software options that allow a user to set uphow the page will look when printed, – usu-ally setting the margins, size of paper, andscaling of a pagepages per minutepages per minute /�ped'z p�� �mnət/noun full form of ppm � This laser printercan output eight pages per minute.page tablepage table /�ped' �teb(ə)l/ noun a list ofall the pages and their locations within mainmemory, used by the operating system whenaccessing a pagepage up keypage up key /�ped' ��p �ki�/ noun a key-board key that moves the cursor position upby the number of lines in one screen. AbbrPgUp

paginationpagination /�p�d'|�neʃ(ə)n/ noun theprocess of dividing text into pagespaintpaint /pent/ noun (in a graphics program)colour and pattern used to fill an area � verb(in a graphics program) to fill an enclosedgraphics shape with a colourPaintPaint /�pantbr�ʃ �pent/ noun an applica-tion supplied with Microsoft Windows 3.1xand Windows 95 for creating or editing bit-map imagespaint objectpaint object /�pent �ɒbd'ekt/ noun a bit-map imagepaint potspaint pots /�pent pɒts/ plural noun videocontrols which are used to change the colourbalance in a camera (film)paint programpaint program /�pent �prəυ"r�m/ nounsoftware that allows a user to draw pictureson screen in different colours, with differentstyles of brush and special effects � I drew arough of our new logo with this paint pro-gram.

COMMENT: Paint programs normally oper-ate on bitmap images. Drafting or designsoftware normally works with vector-basedimages.

PALPAL /�pi� e �el/ noun a standard for televi-sion transmission and reception using a 625-line picture transmitted at 25 frames per sec-ond;. Full form phase alternation line(NOTE: PAL provides a clearer image thanNTSC and is used in most of Europe, ex-cept for France, which uses SECAM. TheUS and Japan use NTSC.)palettepalette /�p�lət/ noun 1. the range of col-ours which can be used on a printer or com-puter display 2. data structure that defines thecolours used in a bitmap image; the palettedata defines each colour, the bitmap includesreferences to the colours in the palettepalette shiftpalette shift /�p�lət ʃft/ noun an imagedisplayed using the wrong palette with theunwanted effect that the colours appear dis-tortedpalm computerpalm computer /�pɑ�m kəm|�pju�tə/noun a tiny computer that is about half thesize of a paperback book. It does not containa keyboard, but uses a touch-sensitive screenand character recognition to allow the user toenter information and control applications.Normally used for contact management, cal-endar and email. One of the most popularproducts is the 3Com Palm computer thatruns its own operating system software and arange of palm computers that can all run theWindows CE operating system software.palmtoppalmtop /�pɑ�mtɒp/ noun a personal com-puter that is small enough to be held in onehand and operated with the other � Thispalmtop has a tiny keyboard and twenty-lineLCD screen.

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179 parity bitPAMPAM noun a pulse modulation system inwhich the height of the pulse varies with theinput signal. Full form pulse amplitudemodulationpanpan /p�n/ verb 1. (in computer graphics) tosmoothly move a viewing window horizon-tally across an image that is too wide to dis-play all at once 2. (in MIDI or sound ) to ad-just the balance of a sound between the twostereo channels (NOTE: panning – panned)� noun the rotation of a camera in a horizon-tal direction in order to film action, subject orbackground; sometimes used to mean ‘fol-low the action’pan and tilt headpan and tilt head /�p�n ən �tlt �hed/noun the mount on a tripod for a film or tele-vision camera which permits camera move-ment in both horizontal and vertical direc-tions (film)panchromatic filmpanchromatic film /�p�nkrəm�tk�flm/, pan film /�p�n flm/ noun a blackand white film which is sensitive to all col-ourspanelpanel /�p�n(ə)l/ noun a flat section of acasing with control knobs or sockets � Thesocket is on the back panel.panoramapanorama /�p�nə|�rɑ�mə/ noun a wide-angle shot which reveals the whole of thescene through a pan shot (film)Pantone Matching SystemPantone Matching System /�p�ntəυn�m�tʃŋ �sstəm/ a trade name for a stand-ard method of matching ink colours onscreen and on printed output using a book ofpre-defined colours. Abbr PMSpaperpaper /�pepə/ noun a thin material used formaking books, newspapers or stationeryitemspaperbackpaperback /�pepəb�k/ noun a bookwhich has a paper cover � We are publishingthe book as a hardback and as a paperback.paperboundpaperbound /�pepəbaυnd/ adjective (ofa book) bound with a paper cover (as op-posed to hardbound)paper-fedpaper-fed /�pepə fed/ adjective referringto a device which is activated when paper isintroduced into it � a paper-fed scannerpaperlesspaperless /�pepələs/ adjective withoutusing paperpaperless officepaperless office /�pepələs �ɒfs/ nounan office which uses computers and otherelectronic devices for office tasks and avoidsthe use of paper

‘Indeed, the concept of the paperless office mayhave been a direct attack on Xerox and its closeties to the paper document. Yet, as we all know,the paperless office has so far been an emptypromise.’ [Computing]

paper-white monitorpaper-white monitor /�pepə �wat�mɒntə/ noun a monitor that normally dis-plays black text on a white background, rath-

er than the normal illuminated text on a blackbackgroundparagraphparagraph /�p�rə"rɑ�f/ noun 1. (in a doc-ument) the section of text between two car-riage return characters, with a unified subject2. (in a memory map) a 16-byte section ofmemory which starts at a hexadecimal ad-dress that can be evenly divided by 16parallelparallel /�p�rəlel/ adjective 1. referring toa computer system in which two or moreprocessors operate simultaneously on one ormore items of data 2. referring to two or morebits of a word transmitted over separate linesat the same timeparallel broadcastparallel broadcast /�p�rəlel�brɔ�dkɑ�st/ noun a broadcast that is trans-mitted simultaneously by radio or televisionand over the Internetparallel input/outputparallel input/output /�p�rəlel �npυt�aυtpυt/ noun full form of PIOparallel input/parallel outputparallel input/parallel output/�p�rəlel �npυt �p�rəlel �aυtpυt/ noun fullform of PIPOparallel input/serial outputparallel input/serial output /�p�rəlel�npυt �səriəl �aυtpυt/ noun full form ofPISOparallel runningparallel running /�p�rəlel �r�nŋ/ nounthe running of an old and a new computersystem together to allow the new system tobe checked before it becomes the only sys-tem usedparameterparameter /pə|�r�mtə/ noun an item ofinformation which defines the limits or ac-tions of something, e.g. a variable, routine orprogram � The X parameter defines thenumber of characters displayed across ascreen.parent directoryparent directory /�peərənt da |

�rekt(ə)ri/ noun (in a DOS filing system) thedirectory above a subdirectoryparent folderparent folder /�peərənt �fəυldə/ noun (inan Apple Mac filing system) one folder thatcontains other foldersparent objectparent object /�peərənt �ɒbd'ekt/ nouna page that contains the object that is beingreferencedparent programparent program /�peərənt �prəυ"r�m/noun a program that starts another program,a child program, while it is still running(NOTE: Control passes back to the parentprogram when the child program has fin-ished.)parityparity /�p�rti/ noun the fact of being equal

‘The difference between them is that RAID levelone offers mirroring, whereas level five stripesrecords in parity across the disks in the system.’[Computing]

parity bitparity bit /�p�rti bt/ noun an extra bitadded to a data word as a parity checking de-vice

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parity check 180parity checkparity check /�p�rti tʃek/ noun a meth-od of checking for errors and that transmittedbinary data has not been corrupted by addingan extra bitparkpark /pɑ�k/ verb to move the read/writehead of a hard disk drive over a point on thedisk where no data is stored � When parked,the disk head will not damage any data if ittouches the disk surface.parseparse /pɑ�z/ verb to break down high-levellanguage code into its element parts whentranslating into machine code (NOTE: parses– parsing – parsed)parsingparsing /�pɑ�zŋ/ noun an operation tobreak down high-level language code into itselement parts when translating into machinecodepartpart /pɑ�t/ noun 1. a section of something 2.one of a seriesparticleparticle /�pɑ�tk(ə)l/ noun a very smallpiece of matterpartitionpartition /pɑ� |�tʃ(ə)n/ noun an area of ahard disk that is treated as a logical drive andcan be accessed as a separate drive � I de-fined two partitions on this hard disk – calleddrive C: and D:. � verb to divide a hard diskinto two or more logical drives that can be ac-cessed as separate drivesparts per quarter noteparts per quarter note /�pɑ�ts p���kɔ�tə �nəυt/ noun full form of PPQNpascalpascal /�p�skəl/ noun a unit of pressurePASCALPASCAL /�p�sk�l/ noun a high-levelstructured programming language used bothon micros and for teaching programmingpassagepassage /�p�sd'/ noun a number of notesthat form a small section of a musical scorepasswordpassword /�pɑ�s|�w��d/ noun a word or se-ries of characters which identifies a user sothat he or she can access a system � The userhas to key in the password before he can ac-cess the database.

‘…the system’s security features let you dividethe disk into up to 256 password-protected sec-tions’ [Byte]

password protectionpassword protection /�pɑ�sw��d prə|

�tekʃ(ə)n/ noun a computer software that re-quires the user to enter a password before heor she can gain accesspastepaste /pest/ verb to insert text or graphicsthat has been copied or cut into a file � Nowthat I have cut this paragraph from the end ofthe document, I can paste it in here. (NOTE:pastes – pasting – pasted)Paste SpecialPaste Special /�pest �speʃ(ə)l/ noun afacility for inserting a special object such assound, images or data from other applica-tions into a documentpatchpatch /p�tʃ/ noun 1. a temporary correc-tion made to a program by a user, often on theinstructions of the software publisher 2. a

thin piece of translucent film which is used torepair a tear in the film 3. data that defines asound in a synthesiser; a patch is also calleda program and can be altered by issuing aprogram-change messagepatchboardpatchboard /�p�tʃbɔ�d/ noun same asplugboardpatch cordpatch cord /�p�tʃ kɔ�d/ noun a short ca-ble with a connector at each end, used tomake an electrical connection on a patch pan-elpatch panelpatch panel /�p�tʃ �p�n(ə)l/ noun a setof electrical terminals that can be intercon-nected using short patch cords, allowingquick and simple reconfiguration of a net-workpathpath /pɑ�θ/ noun 1. a route from one pointin a communications network to another 2.(in the DOS operating system) a list of sub-directories in which the operating systemshould look for a named filepathnamepathname /�pɑ�θ|�nem/ noun the locationof a file with a listing of the subdirectoriesleading to it � The pathname for the letter fileis .DOC.patternpattern /�p�t(ə)n/ noun a series of regularlines or shapes which are repeated again andagainpatternedpatterned /�p�t(ə)nd/ adjective with pat-ternspattern palettepattern palette /�p�t(ə)n �p�lət/ noun arange of predefined patterns that can be usedto fill an area of an imagepattern recognitionpattern recognition /�p�t(ə)n �rekə"|

�nʃ(ə)n/ noun algorithms or program func-tions that can identify a shape, e.g. from avideo camerapause controlpause control /�pɔ�z kən |�trəυl/ noun atape recorder control which temporarilystops the tape movement; it does not alwaysproduce a still frame picture on a video taperecorder (film)pause keypause key /�pɔ�z ki�/ noun a keyboard keythat temporarily stops a process, often ascrolling screen display, until the key ispressed a second timePAXPAX abbr private automatic exchangepaycablepaycable /�pekeb(ə)l/ noun US a form ofcable television where the viewer pays an ex-tra fee for extra channelspayment gatewaypayment gateway /�pemənt �"etwe/noun a server or organisation that acts as aninterface between the payment systems of theseller and the buyer when payments are madeover the Internetpayment gateway certificate authoritypayment gateway certificate author-ity /�pemənt �"etwe sə|�tfkət ɔ� |�θɒrti/noun an organisation that issues, renews orcancels the certificates that identify an Inter-net payment gateway. Abbr PGCA

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181 Pentiumpay TVpay TV /�pe ti� vi�/ noun a form of cabletelevision, where the viewer pays for pro-grams or channels watchedPBPB abbr petabytePBXPBX abbr private branch exchangePCPC /�pi� �si�/ noun a computer that uses anIntel 80x86 processor and is based on theIBM PC-style architecture. Full form per-sonal computer (NOTE: PC originally re-ferred to a microcomputer specification withan 8086-based low-power computer.)PC CardPC Card /�pi� �si� kɑ�d/ noun an electronicdevice, about the same size as a thick creditcard, that can be plugged into a PCMCIAadapter to provide a particular function. Alsocalled PCMCIA card. � PCMCIA (NOTE: Forexample PC Cards are available that pro-vide a modem, NIC, extra memory and harddisk drive functions.)PC-compatiblePC-compatible /�pi� �si� kəm|�p�təb(ə)l/adjective referring to a computer that is com-patible with the IBM PCp-channel metal oxide semiconductorp-channel metal oxide semiconduc-tor /�pi� �tʃ�n(ə)l �met(ə)l �ɒksad�semikən|�d�ktə/ noun full form of PMOSPCIPCI /�pi� si� �e/ noun a specification pro-duced by Intel defining a type of fast localbus that allows high-speed data transfer be-tween the processor and expansion cards.Full form peripheral component inter-connectPCMPCM /�pi� si� �em/ noun 1. a company thatproduces add-on boards which are compati-ble with another manufacturer’s computer.Full form plug-compatible manufacturer2. a way of storing sounds in an accurate,compact format that is used by high-endsound cards. Full form pulse-code modula-tionPCMCIAPCMCIA /�pi� si� em si� a �e/ noun a spec-ification for add-in expansion cards that arethe size of a credit card with a connector atone end � The extra memory is stored on thisPCMCIA card and I use it on my laptop. Fullform Personal Computer Memory CardInternational AssociationPCMCIA cardPCMCIA card /�pi� si� �em �si� a �e kɑ�d/noun add-in memory or a peripheral whichcomplies with the PCMCIA standardPCMCIA connectorPCMCIA connector /�pi� si� �em �si� a�e kə|�nektə/ noun a 68-pin connector that isinside a PCMCIA slot and on the end of aPCMCIA cardPCMCIA slotPCMCIA slot /�pi� si� �em �si� a �e slɒt/noun an expansion slot, normally on a laptop,that can accept a PCMCIA expansion cardPC/TVPC/TV /�pi� si� ti� �vi�/ noun a personalcomputer that can receive, decode and dis-play standard television images

PCUPCU /�pi� si� �ju�/ noun a device used toconvert input and output signals and instruc-tions to a form that a peripheral device willunderstand. Full form peripheral controlunitPCXPCX noun a standard file format for storingcolour graphics imagesPCX filePCX file /�pi� si� eks �fal/ noun a methodof storing a bitmap graphic image file on diskPDPD abbr public domainPDAPDA /�pi� di� �e/ noun a lightweight palm-top computer that provides the basic func-tions of a diary, notepad, address-book andto-do list together with fax or modem com-munications. Full form personal digital as-sistant (NOTE: Current PDA designs do nothave a keyboard, but use a touch-sensitivescreen with a pen and handwriting-recogni-tion to control the software.)PDFPDF /�pi� di� �ef/ noun a file format used byAdobe Acrobat. Full form portable docu-ment formatPDLPDL abbr 1. page description language 2.program design languagePDMPDM noun a pulse modulation system inwhich the pulse width varies with the magni-tude of the input signal. Full form pulse du-ration modulationPDNPDN abbr public data networkpeakpeak /pi�k/ noun the highest point � verb toreach the highest pointpeekpeek /pi�k/ noun a BASIC computer in-struction that allows the user to read the con-tents of a memory location � You need the in-struction PEEK 1452 here to examine thecontents of memory location 1452. Comparepokepeerpeer /pə/ noun each of two similar devicesoperating on the same network protocol levelpeer-to-peer networkpeer-to-peer network /�pə tə �pə�netw��k/ noun a local area network, usuallyusing NICs in each computer, that does notuse a central dedicated server, but insteadeach computer in the network shares the jobs� We have linked the four PCs in our smalloffice using a peer-to-peer network.penpen /pen/ noun same as light penpen computerpen computer /�pen kəm|�pju�tə/ noun atype of computer that uses a light pen insteadof a keyboard for input (NOTE: The computerhas a touch-sensitive screen and useshandwriting-recognition software to inter-pret the commands written on the screenusing the light pen.)pen plotterpen plotter /�pen �plɒtə/ noun a plotterthat uses removable pens to draw an image onpaperPentiumPentium /�pentiəm/ a trade name for arange of electronic processor components de-

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per 182veloped by Intel (NOTE: They are back-wards-compatible with the 80x86 familyused in IBM PCs. The processor uses a 32-bit address bus and a 64-bit data bus.)perper /p��, pə/ preposition 1. at a rate of 2. outof or for each � The rate of imperfect items isabout 25 per 1.000.per cent

per cent /pə �sent/ adjective, adverb out ofeach hundred or for each hundred � what isthe increase per cent? fifty per cent of noth-ing is still nothing � 10 per cent ten in everyhundred � what is the increase per cent? fiftyper cent of nothing is still nothingpercentagepercentage /pə|�sentd'/ noun an amountshown as part of one hundred � percentageincrease increase calculated on the basis of arate for one hundred � percentage point oneper centpercentilepercentile /pə|�sen|�tal/ noun one of a se-ries of 99 figures below which a certain per-centage of the total fallsper dayper day /pə �de/ phrase for each dayperfect

perfect /pə |�fekt/ verb to make somethingwhich is completely correct � He perfectedthe process for making high grade steel.perfect bindingperfect binding /�p��fkt �bandŋ/ nouna method of binding paperback books, wherethe pages are trimmed at the spine, and gluedto the coverperfect boundperfect bound /�p��fekt baυnd/ adjec-tive (of a book, usually a paperback) boundwithout sewing, where the pages are trimmedat the spine and glued to the cover with strongglueperfectlyperfectly /�p��fktli/ adverb with no mis-takes or correctly � She typed the letter per-fectly.perfector

perfector /pə|�fektə/ noun a printing ma-chine that prints on both sides of a sheet ofpaperperforated tapeperforated tape /�p��fə|�retd tep/noun a paper tape or long strip of tape onwhich data can be recorded in the form ofpunched holesperforationperforation /�p��fə|�reʃ(ə)n/ noun anyone of a line of very small holes in a sheet ofpaper or continuous stationery, to help whentearingperforator

perforator /�p��fəretə/ noun a machinethat punches holes in a paper tapeperformperform /pə|�fɔ�m/ verb to do well or badlyperformanceperformance /pə|�fɔ�məns/ noun the wayin which someone or something worksperigee

perigee /�perdzi�/ noun the point duringthe orbit of a satellite when it closest to theearthperiodperiod /�pəriəd/ noun 1. a length of time �for a period of time or for a period of months

or for a six-year period 2. a printing signused at the end of a piece of text, the full stopperiodicperiodic /�pəri|�ɒdk/, periodical /�pəri|

�ɒdk(ə)l/ adjective happening from time totime � a periodic review of the company’sperformanceperiodicallyperiodically /�pəri |�ɒdkli/ adverb fromtime to timeperipheralperipheral /pə|�rf(ə)rəl/ adjective whichis not essential � noun 1. a piece of computerhardware that is not part of the centralprocessing unit but is controlled by it, e.g. aprinter or scanner � Peripherals such as diskdrives or printers allow data transfer and arecontrolled by a system, but contain independ-ent circuits for their operation. Also calledauxiliary device, peripheral unit 2. anydevice that allows communication between asystem and itself but is not directly operatedby the systemperipheral component interconnectperipheral component interconnect/pə|�rf(ə)rəl kəm|�pəυnənt �ntəkənekt/noun full form of PCIperipheral control unitperipheral control unit /pə|�rf(ə)rəlkən|�trəυl �ju�nt/ noun full form of PCUperipheral interface adapterperipheral interface adapter /pə|

�rf(ə)rəl �ntəfes ə|�d�ptə/ noun full formof PIAperipheral unitperipheral unit /pə |�rf(ə)rəl �ju�nt/noun 1. an item of hardware such as a termi-nal, printer or monitor which is attached to amain computer system. Same as peripheral2. any device that allows communication be-tween a system and itself, but is not operatedonly by the systemPerlPerl /p��l/ noun an interpreted program-ming language, usually used under Unix,used to create CGI scripts that can processforms or carry out functions on a web serverto enhance a website. Full form practicalextraction and report languageperluxperlux /�p��l�ks/ noun a material used for aprojection screen which is highly reflectiveand also wide-angle (film)permanentpermanent /�p��mənənt/ adjective whichwill last for a very long time or for everpermanentlypermanently /�p��mənəntli/ adverb in away which will last for a long time or for ever� The production number is permanently en-graved on the back of the computer casing.permeabilitypermeability /�p��miə|�blti/ noun ameasure of the ratio of the magnetic flux in amaterial to the size of the generating fieldpermissionpermission /pə|�mʃ(ə)n/ noun authorisa-tion given to a particular user to access a cer-tain shared resource or area of disk � Thisuser cannot access the file on the server be-cause he does not have permission.permutationpermutation /�p��mjυ|�teʃ(ə)n/ nouneach of a number of different ways in which

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183 phono connectorsomething can be arranged � The cipher sys-tem is very secure since there are so manypossible permutations for the key.persistencepersistence /pə|�sstəns/ noun the lengthof time that a CRT will continue to display animage after the picture beam has stoppedtracing it on the screen � Slow scan ratemonitors need long persistence phosphor toprevent the image flickering.personperson /�p��s(ə)n/ noun a human beingpersonalpersonal /�p��s(ə)n(ə)l/ adjective refer-ring to one personpersonal computerpersonal computer /�p��s(ə)n(ə)l kəm |

�pju�tə/ noun full form of PCPersonal Computer Memory Card International AssociationPersonal Computer Memory CardInternational Association /�p��s(ə)nəlkəm|�pju�tə �mem(ə)ri kɑ�d�ntən�ʃ(ə)nəl ə|�səυsi|�eʃ(ə)n/ noun fullform of PCMCIApersonal digital assistantpersonal digital assistant/�p��s(ə)n(ə)l �dd't(ə)l ə|�sstənt/ nounfull form of PDApersonal identification devicepersonal identification device/�p��s(ə)n(ə)l a |�dentf|�keʃ(ə)n d|�vas/noun full form of PIDpersonal identification numberpersonal identification number/�p��s(ə)n(ə)l a|�dentf |�keʃ(ə)n �n�mbə/noun full form of PINpersonal information managerpersonal information manager/�p��s(ə)n(ə)l �nfə|�meʃ(ə)n �m�nd'ə/noun full form of PIMpersonalisepersonalise /�p��s(ə)nəlaz/, personal-ize verb to customise or adapt a product spe-cially for a certain user (NOTE: personalises– personalising – personalised)personnelpersonnel /�p��sə|�nel/ noun staff or all thepeople working in an office or factoryperspectiveperspective /pə|�spektv/ noun the ap-pearance of depth in an image in which ob-jects that are further away from the viewerappear smallerPERTPERT /p��t/ noun a definition of tasks orjobs and the time each requires, arranged inorder to achieve a goal. Full form programevaluation and review techniqueper weekper week /pə �wi�k/ adverb for each weekper yearper year /pə �jə/ adverb for each yearpetapeta /petə/ prefix one quadrillion (250).Abbr Ppetabytepetabyte /�petəbat/ noun one quadrillionbytes. Abbr PBpFpF noun the unit of measurement of capaci-tance equal to one million millionth of a far-ad. Full form picofaradPFLPFL abbr pre-fade listen (film)PgDnPgDn /�ped' �daυn/ abbr page down keyPGPPGP /�pi� d'i� �pi�/ noun an encryption sys-tem developed to allow anyone to protect thecontents of his or her email messages from

unauthorised readers. Full form pretty goodprivacy (NOTE: This system is often usedwhen sending credit card or payment de-tails over the Internet.)PgUpPgUp /�ped' ��p/ abbr page up keyphantom ROMphantom ROM /�f�ntəm rɒm/ noun aduplicate area of read-only memory that isaccessed by a special codephasephase /fez/ noun 1. one part of a largerprocess 2. the coincidence of reference signaland colour burstphase alternation linephase alternation line /�fez �ɔ�ltə|

�neʃ(ə)n �lan/ noun full form of PALphasingphasing /�fezŋ/ noun (film) 1. two sys-tems or circuits which are adjusted so thatthey operate in phase 2. a television and vid-eo tape recorder standard alignment process3. the loss of quality in transmitted soundwhen two microphones are placed too neareach otherPHIGSPHIGS /f"z/ noun a standard applicationinterface between software and a graphicsadapter that uses a set of standard commandsto draw and manipulate 2D and 3D images.Full form programmer’s hierarchical in-teractive graphics standardphonphon /fɒn/ noun a measure of sound equalto a one thousand Hertz signal at one decibel;zero is just audible to the human earphonephone /fəυn/ noun a telephone or machineused for speaking to someone over a long dis-tance � We had a new phone system installedlast week.phone backphone back /�fəυn �b�k/ verb to reply byphone � The chairman is in a meeting, canyou phone back in about half an hour? � MrSmith called while you were out and asked ifyou would phone him back.phonemephoneme /�fəυni�m/ noun one smallmeaningful sound, several of which maymake up a spoken word (NOTE: Phonemesare relevant to the analysis of voice input torecognise words and in the reproduction ofspeech.)phoneticphonetic /fə|�netk/ adjective referring tophonetics � The pronunciation is indicatedin phonetic script.phoneticsphonetics /fə|�netks/ noun written sym-bols that are used to represent the correct pro-nunciation of a wordphono connectorphono connector /�fəυnəυ kə|�nektə/noun a plug and socket standard used to con-nect audio and video devices. Also calledRCA connector (NOTE: The male plug hasa 1/8-inch metal central core that sticks outfrom within the centre of an insulated core.If you have fitted a sound card to your PCyou will see two phono connectors on theback plate. These let you connect your

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phosphor 184sound card directly to your CD player ortape recorder.)phosphorphosphor /�fɒfsə/ noun a substance thatproduces light when excited by some form ofenergy, usually an electron beam, used forcoating the inside of a cathode ray tube

COMMENT: A thin layer of phosphor is ar-ranged in a pattern of small dots on the in-side of a television screen which producesan image when scanned by the picturebeam.

phosphorescencephosphorescence /�fɒsfə|�res(ə)ns/noun the ability of a material to produce lightwhen excited by some form of energyphotocellphotocell /�fəυtəυsel/ noun an electronicdevice that produces or varies an electricalsignal according to the amount of light shin-ing on itphotocomposition

photocomposition /�fəυtəυkɒmpə|

�zʃ(ə)n/ noun the composition of typesettext direct onto filmphotoconductivityphotoconductivity /�fəυtəυkɒnd�k|

�tvti/ noun a material which varies its re-sistance according to the amount of lightstriking itphotoconductor

photoconductor /�fəυtəυkən|�d�ktə/noun a photocell whose resistance varieswith the amount of light shining on itphotocopier

photocopier /�fəυtəυkɒpiə/ noun a ma-chine which makes a copy of a document byphotographing and printing itphotocopy

photocopy /�fəυtəυkɒpi/ noun a copy ofa document made by photographing andprinting it � Make six photocopies of the con-tract. � verb to make a copy of a documentby photographing and printing it � She pho-tocopied the contract.photocopyingphotocopying /�fəυtəυkɒpiŋ/ noun theprocess of making photocopies (NOTE: noplural) � photocopying bureau office whichphotocopies documents for companies whichdo not possess their own photocopiers �there is a mass of photocopying to be donethere are many documents waiting to be pho-tocopiedphotodigital memoryphotodigital memory /fəυtəυ|

�dd't(ə)l �mem(ə)ri/ noun a computermemory system that uses a laser to write dataonto a piece of film which can then be readmany times but not written to again. Alsocalled WORMphotodiode

photodiode /�fəυtəυ|�daəυd/ noun anelectronic component displaying the electri-cal properties of a diode but whose resistancevaries with the amount of light that shines onit. � avalanchephotoelectric

photoelectric /fəυtəυ|�lektrk/ adjective(material) that generates an electrical signalwhen light shines on it � The photoelectric

cell detects the amount of light passingthrough the liquid.photoelectric cellphotoelectric cell /�fəυtəυlektrk �sel/noun a component which produces or variesan electrical signal when a light shines on it� The photoelectric cell detects the amountof light passing through the liquid.photoelectricityphotoelectricity /�fəυtəυ |�lek|�trsti/noun the production of an electrical signalfrom a material that has light shining on itphotoemissionphotoemission /�fəυtəυ|�mʃ(ə)n/ nouna material that emits electrons when lightstrikes itphotographphotograph /�fəυtə|�"rɑ�f/ noun an imageformed by light striking a light-sensitive sur-face, usually coated paper � colour photo-graph � black and white photograph � It’s aphotograph of the author. � He took six pho-tographs of the set. � We will be using a col-our photograph of the author on the back ofthe jacket.photographicphotographic /�fəυtə|�"r�fk/ adjectivereferring to photography or photographs �The copier makes a photographic reproduc-tion of the printed page.photographicallyphotographically /�fəυtə|�"r�fkli/ ad-verb using photography � The text film canbe reproduced photographically.photographic filmphotographic film /�fəυtə|�"r�fk flm/noun light-sensitive film used in a camera torecord imagesphotographic soundphotographic sound /�fəυtə|�"r�fksaυnd/ noun a method of recording and re-producing on film where the sound tracktakes the form of variations in the density orwidth of a photographic image (film)photographyphotography /fə|�tɒ"rəfi/ noun a methodof creating images by exposing light-sensi-tive paper to light, using a cameraphotolithographyphotolithography /�fəυtəυ|�l |�θɒ"rəfi/noun the process of printing using a litho-graphic printing plate formed photographi-callyphotomechanical transferphotomechanical transfer /�fəυtəυ|m|

k�nk(ə)l �tr�nsf��/ noun a system fortransferring line drawings and text onto filmbefore printing. Abbr PMTphotometerphotometer /fəυ|�tɒmtə/ noun a devicewhich measures the brightness of light (film)photometryphotometry /fəυ|�tɒmtri/ noun study andmeasurement of lightphotonphoton /�fəυtɒn/ noun a packet of electro-magnetic radiationphotoprintphotoprint /�fəυtəυprnt/ noun a finalproofphotorealisticphotorealistic /�fəυtəυriə|�lstk/ adjec-tive referring to a computer image that has al-most the same quality and clarity as a photo-graph

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185 piezoelectricphotosensitivephotosensitive /�fəυtəυ|�senstv/ ad-jective sensitive to light (film)photosensorphotosensor /�fəυtəυsensə/ noun acomponent or circuit that can produce a sig-nal related to the amount of light striking itphotostatphotostat /�fəυtəυst�t/ noun a type ofphotocopy � verb to make a photostat of adocumentphototelegraphyphototelegraphy /�fəυtətə|�le"rəfi/noun the transmission of images over a tele-phone linephototransistorphototransistor /�fəυtəυtr�n|�zstə/noun an electronic component that can detectlight and amplify the generated signal or varya supply according to light intensityphototypesetterphototypesetter /�fəυtəυ|�tapsetə/noun 1. a device that can produce very high-resolution text on photosensitive paper orfilm 2. a company which specialises in pho-totypesettingphototypesettingphototypesetting /�fəυtəυ|�tapsetŋ/noun a method of typesetting that createscharacters using a computer and exposing asensitive film in front of a mask containingthe required character shapephysicalphysical /�fzk(ə)l/ adjective real or solid,or which can be touchedphysical recordphysical record /�fzk(ə)l �rekɔ�d/ noun1. the maximum unit of data that can betransmitted in a single operation 2. all the in-formation, including control data, for onerecord stored in a computer systemPIAPIA /�pi� a �e/ noun a circuit which allowsa computer to communicate with a peripheralby providing serial and parallel ports and oth-er handshaking signals required to interfacethe peripheral. Full form peripheral inter-face adapterPICPIC /�pi� a �si�/ noun an image compressionalgorithm used in Intel’s DVI video system.Full form picture image compressionpicapica /�pakə/ noun 1. a method of measure-ment used in printing and typesetting (equalto twelve point type) 2. the width of charac-ters in a typeface, usually 12 characters to theinchPICKPICK /pk/ noun a multi-user, multitaskingoperating system that runs on mainframe,mini or PC computerspickuppickup /�pk�p/ noun 1. the arm and car-tridge used to playback music from a record2. the inserting of a shot in a film 3. a graphshowing the sensitivity of a microphone ac-cording to the direction of the source. Thetwo most common patterns are omni-direc-tional (the microphone will pick up soundfrom any direction) and uni-directional (themicrophone is focused and responds to soundfrom one direction only).

pico-

pico- /pi�kəυ/ prefix one million millionthof a unit. Abbr ppicosecondpicosecond /�pi�kəυ|�sekənd/ noun onemillion millionth of a second. Abbr pSPICSPICS /pks/ noun a file format used to im-port a sequence of PICT files on an AppleMacPICTPICT /pkt/ noun a method of storing vectorgraphic images, developed by Lotus for its 1–2–3 spreadsheet charts and graphs. Full formPICturepicturepicture /�pktʃə/ noun a printed or drawnimage of an object or scene � This pictureshows the new design. � verb to visualise anobject or scene � Try to picture the layout be-fore starting to draw it in. (NOTE: pictures –picturing – pictured)PICture

PICture /�pktʃə/ noun full form of PICTpicture beam

picture beam /�pktʃə bi�m/ noun a mov-ing electron beam in a TV that produces animage on the screen by illuminating the phos-phor coating and by varying its intensity ac-cording to the received signalpicture elementpicture element /�pktʃə �elmənt/ nounsame as pixelpicture image compressionpicture image compression /�pktʃə�md' kəm |�preʃ(ə)n/ noun full form of PICpicture level benchmarkpicture level benchmark /�pktʃə�lev(ə)l �bentʃmɑ�k/ noun full form of PLBpicture object

picture object /�pktʃə �ɒbd'ekt/ nounan image created with a vector drawing pack-age and stored as vectors rather than as a bit-mappicture processing

picture processing /�pktʃə �prə|�sesŋ/noun the analysis of information contained inan image, usually by computer or electronicmethods, providing analysis or recognitionof objects in the imagepicture transmissionpicture transmission /�pktʃə tr�nz|

�mʃ(ə)n/ noun the transmission of imagesover a telephone linePIDPID /�pi� a �di�/ noun a device such as abank card connected with or inserted into asystem to identify or provide authorisationfor a user. Full form personal identifica-tion devicepiece fractionpiece fraction /�pi�s �fr�kʃən/ noun aprinted fraction contained in one characterspacepie chartpie chart /�pa tʃɑ�t/ noun a diagram inwhich ratios are shown as slices of a circle �The memory allocation is shown on this piechart.piezoelectricpiezoelectric /�pi�zəυ |�lektrk/ adjectivebeing able to change their electrical proper-ties when a force is applied or to change theirphysical dimensions when an electrical sig-nal is applied

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PIF 186PIFPIF /�pi� a �ef/ noun a Microsoft Windowsfile that contains the environment settings fora particular program. Full form program in-formation filepiggybackpiggyback /�p"ib�k/ verb to connect twointegrated circuits in parallel, one on top ofthe other to save space � Piggyback thosetwo memory chips to boost the memory ca-pacity.piggybackingpiggybacking /�p"ib�kŋ/ noun theprocess of using transmitted messages to car-ry acknowledgements from a message whichhas been received earlierpilotpilot /�palət/ adjective used as a test, whichif successful will then be expanded into a fulloperation � The company set up a pilotproject to see if the proposed manufacturingsystem was efficient. � verb to test something� They are piloting the new system.PIMPIM /�pi� a �em/ noun a software utility thatstores and manages a user’s everyday datasuch as diary, telephone numbers, addressbook and notes. Full form personal infor-mation managerpinpin /pn/ noun 1. one of several short piecesof wire attached to an integrated circuit pack-age that allows the IC to be connected to acircuit board 2. a short piece of metal, part ofa plug which fits into a hole in a socket � Usea three-pin plug to connect the printer to themains. 3. part of a mechanism in a camera ora projector which engages in the perforationhole in order to find the framePINPIN /pn/ noun a unique sequence of digitsthat identifies a user to provide authorisationto access a system, often used on automaticcash dispensers or with a PID or password toenter a system. Full form personal identifi-cation numberpincushion distortionpincushion distortion /�pnkυʃ(ə)n d|

�stɔ�ʃ(ə)n/ noun a fault with a monitor thatcauses the distortion of an image displayed inwhich the edges curve in towards the centrepinfeedpinfeed /�pnfi�d/ noun same as tractorfeedPINGPING /pŋ/ noun a software utility that willtest all the nodes on a network or Internet toensure that they are working correctly. Fullform packet Internet groperpinoutpinout /�pnaυt/ noun a description of theposition of all the pins on an integrated cir-cuit together with their function and signalPIOPIO /�pi� a �əυ/ noun data input or outputfrom a computer in a parallel form. Full formparallel input/output. � PIPO, PISOpipepipe /pap/ noun (in DOS and UNIX) asymbol, usually (|), that tells the operatingsystem to send the output of one command toanother command, instead of displaying it

pipelinepipeline /�paplan/ verb to carry out morethan one task at a time: e.g., to compress andstore an image on disk as it is being scanned(NOTE: pipelines – pipelining – pipelined)pipeliningpipelining /�pap|�lan �mem(ə)ri/, pipe-line memory noun a method of executingseveral instructions in parallel to increaseperformance (NOTE: Some computers usepipelining to try and boost performance byexecuting several instructions at once.)PIPOPIPO /�pi� a pi� �əυ/ noun a device that canaccept and transmit parallel data. Full formparallel input/parallel outputpiracypiracy /�parəsi/ noun the process of copy-ing patented inventions or copyright workspiratepirate /�parət/ noun a person who copies apatented invention or a copyright work andsells it � The company is trying to take thesoftware pirates to court. � verb to manufac-ture copies of an original copyrighted workillegally � a pirated DVD or a pirated design(NOTE: pirates – pirating – pirated)

COMMENT: The items most frequently pirat-ed are programs on magnetic disks andtapes, which are relatively simple to copy.

pirate copypirate copy /�parət �kɒpi/ noun a copy ofsoftware or other copyrighted material whichhas been made illegally � A pirate copy of acomputer program.pirate softwarepirate software /�parət �sɒftweə/ nounan illegal copy of a software packagePISOPISO /�pi� a es �əυ/ noun a device that canaccept parallel data and transmit serial data.Full form parallel input/serial outputpitchpitch /ptʃ/ noun 1. the number of charac-ters which will fit into one inch of line, whenthe characters are typed in single spacing 2.the actual frequency of a sound 3. a satelliteor antenna movement about the horizontalaxis 4. the standard distance between theleading edges of the perforation holes on afilm which is to be used as film stockpitch scale factorpitch scale factor /�ptʃ �skel �f�ktə/noun an instruction to a waveform audio de-vice to change the pitch of the sound by a fac-torpixpix /pks/ plural noun picturespixelpixel /�pksəl/ noun the smallest single unitor point of a display whose colour or bright-ness can be controlled. Also called pictureelement

‘…adding 40 to each pixel brightens the imageand can improve the display’s appearance’ [Byte]COMMENT: In high resolution display sys-tems the colour or brightness of a singlepixel can be controlled; in low resolutionsystems a group of pixels are controlled atthe same time.

pixelatedpixelated /�pksəletd/ adjective refer-ring to an image on a computer or television

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187 PL/Mscreen that is made up of pixels, especiallyone that is unclear or distortedpixillationpixillation /�pksə|�leʃ(ə)n/ noun (film) 1.a film and video visual effect where action isshown as a sequence of stills 2. an effect invideo where the picture is reproduced as anumber of enlarged picturespix lock

pix lock /�pks lɒk/ noun the synchronisa-tion of a video playback circuit by an externalsignalPLA

PLA /�pi� el �e/ noun an integrated circuitthat can be permanently programmed to per-form logic operations on data using a matrixof links between input and output pins. Fullform programmable logic array

COMMENT: A PLA consists of a large matrixof paths between input and output pins,with logic gates and a fusible link at eachconnection point that can be broken or leftto conduct when programming to define afunction from input to output.

plain old telephone service

plain old telephone service /�plenəυld �telfəυn �s��vs/ noun full form ofPOTSplaintext

plaintext /�plen|�tekst/ noun text or infor-mation that has not been encrypted or coded� The messages were sent as plaintext by tel-ephone. Opposite ciphertextplanplan /pl�n/ noun 1. an organised way of do-ing something 2. a drawing which shows howsomething is arranged or how something willbe built � verb to organise carefully howsomething should be done (NOTE: planning– planned)PLANPLAN /pl�n/ noun a low-level program-ming languageplanar

planar /�plenə/ adjective referring to amethod of producing integrated circuits bydiffusing chemicals into a slice of silicon tocreate the different components � noun re-ferring to graphical objects or images ar-ranged on the same planeplaneplane /plen/ noun one layer of an imagethat can be manipulated independently with-in a graphics programplanetplanet /�pl�nt/ noun a large body in space(such as the earth), moving in orbit round thesunplanetary camera

planetary camera /�pl�nt(ə)ri�k�m(ə)rə/ noun a microfilm camera inwhich the film and article being photo-graphed are stationaryplannerplanner /�pl�nə/ noun a software programthat allows appointments and importantmeetings to be recorded and arranged in themost efficient wayplanning

planning /�pl�nŋ/ noun the activity of or-ganising how something should be done �long-term planning or short-term planning

plasma displayplasma display /�pl�zmə d|�sple/ nounsame as gas discharge display

COMMENT: This is a thin display usuallyused in small portable computers.

plastic bubble keyboardplastic bubble keyboard /�pl�stk�b�b(ə)l �ki�bɔ�d/ noun a keyboard whosekeys are small bubbles in a plastic sheet overa contact which when pressed completes acircuit

COMMENT: These are very solid and cheapkeyboards but are not ideal for rapid typing.

platformplatform /�pl�t|�fɔ�m/ noun a standardtype of hardware that makes up a particularrange of computers � This software will onlywork on the IBM PC platform.platform independenceplatform independence /�pl�tfɔ�m�nd|�pendəns/ noun the fact that softwareor a network can work with or connect to dif-ferent types of incompatible hardwareplatterplatter /�pl�tə/ noun one disk within a harddisk drive

COMMENT: The disks are made of metal orglass and coated with a magnetic com-pound; each platter has a read/write headthat moves across its surface to accessstored data.

play backplay back /�ple �b�k/ verb to read data ora signal from a recording � After you haverecorded the music, press this button to playit back and hear what it sounds like.playbackplayback /�pleb�k/ noun recording re-production; running a multimedia title, view-ing a video clip or listening to a recordedsoundplayback headplayback head /�ple |�b�k hed/ noun apiece of equipment that reads signals record-ed on a storage medium and usually convertsthem to an electrical signal � disk playbackheadplayback rate scale factorplayback rate scale factor /�pleb�kret skel �f�ktə/ noun 1. (in waveform au-dio) sound played back at a different rate, di-rected by another application, to create a spe-cial effect 2. (in video displayed on acomputer) the point at which video playbackis no longer smooth and appears jerky be-cause of missed framesPLBPLB /�pi� el �bi�/ noun benchmark used tomeasure the performance (not the quality) ofa graphics adapter or workstation. Full formpicture level benchmarkPLDPLD abbr programmable logic deviceplex databaseplex database /�pleks �detəbes/ noun adatabase structure in which data items can belinked togetherplex structureplex structure /�pleks �str�ktʃə/ noun anetwork structure or data structure in whicheach node is connected to all the othersPL/MPL/M /�pi� el �em/ noun a high level pro-gramming language derived for use on mi-

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plot 188croprocessors. Full form programming lan-guage for microprocessorsplotplot /plɒt/ noun a graph or map � verb todraw an image (especially a graph) based oninformation supplied as a series of coordi-natesplotterplotter /�plɒtə/ noun a computer peripheralthat draws straight lines between two coordi-nates

COMMENT: Plotters are used for graph anddiagram plotting and can plot curved linesas a number of short straight lines.

plugplug /pl�"/ noun a connector with protrud-ing pins that is inserted into a socket to pro-vide an electrical connection � The printer issupplied with a plug. � verb 1. � No wonderthe computer does nothing, you haven’tplugged it in at the mains. � plug in to makean electrical connection by pushing a pluginto a socket � No wonder the computer doesnothing, you haven’t plugged it in at themains. 2. to publicise or to advertise � Theyran six commercials plugging holidays inSpain.plug and playplug and play /�pl�" ən �ple/ noun a fa-cility in PCs that allows a user to plug a newadapter card into their PC without having toconfigure it or set any switches. Abbr PNPplugboardplugboard noun a board with a number ofsockets connected to devices into whichplugs can be inserted to connect various otherdevices. Also called patchboardplug-compatible manufacturerplug-compatible manufacturer /�pl�"kəm |�p�tb(ə)l �m�njυ|�f�ktʃərə/ nounfull form of PCMplug-inplug-in /�pl�" n/ noun a program thatworks with a web browser to increase thefunctionality of the browser. � browser,helper applicationplug-in unitplug-in unit /�pl�" n �ju�nt/ noun asmall electronic circuit that can be simplyplugged into a system to increase its powerplusplus /pl�s/, plus sign /�pl�s san/ noun aprinted or written sign (+) showing that fig-ures are added or showing a positive valuePLVPLV /�pi� el �vi�/ noun the highest-qualityvideo compression algorithm used with DVIfull-motion video sequences. Full form pro-duction level videoPMBXPMBX noun a small telephone exchange in-side a company where all calls coming in orgoing out have to be placed through theswitchboard. Full form private manualbranch exchangePMOSPMOS /�pi� mɒs/ noun a metal oxide semi-conductor transistor that conducts via a smallregion of p-type semiconductor. Full form p-channel metal oxide semiconductorPMSPMS /�pi� em �es/ abbr Pantone MatchingSystem

pointpoint /pɔnt/ noun 1. a measurement sys-tem used in typesetting (one point is equal to0.351 mm) � The text of the book is set in 9point Times. � If we increase the point size to10, will the page extent increase? (NOTE:usually written pt after figures: 10pt TimesBold) 2. the exposure increment which isused in a film printing machine; a printerpoint scale of 1 to 50 is normally used

‘…the arrow keys, the spacebar or the mouse areused for pointing, and the enter key or the leftmouse button are to pick’ [PC User]

pointer

pointer /�pɔntə/ noun 1. a variable in acomputer program that contains the addressto a data item or instruction � Increment thecontents of the pointer to the address of thenext instruction. 2. a graphical symbol usedto indicate the position of a cursor on a com-puter display � Desktop publishing on a PCis greatly helped by the use of a pointer andmouse.pointing devicepointing device /�pɔntŋ d|�vas/ nounan input device that controls the position of acursor on screen as it is moved by the user. �mousepoint of presencepoint of presence /�pɔnt əv �prezəns/noun full form of POPpoint-of-sale

point-of-sale /�pɔnt əv �sel/ noun aplace in a shop where goods are paid for.Abbr POSpoint samplingpoint sampling /�pɔnt �sɑ�mplŋ/ nouna method of adding texture and shading to athree-dimensional scene or object, in whichthe algorithm calculates the perceived depth,position and shade of each point on the imageand applies a texture map pixel, or texel, tothat pointpoint sizepoint size /�pɔnt �saz/ noun (in typogra-phy) a unit of measure equal to 1/72-inch,used to measure type or textpoint to pointpoint to point /�pɔnt tə �pɔnt/ noun 1.a direct link between two devices 2. commu-nications network in which every node is di-rectly connected to every other nodepoint-to-point tunneling protocol

point-to-point tunneling protocol/�pɔnt tə pɔnt �t�n(ə)lŋ �prəυtəkɒl/noun full form of PPTPpokepoke /pəυk/ noun a computer instructionthat modifies an entry in a memory by writ-ing a number to an address in memory �Poke 1423,74 will write the data 74 into loca-tion 1423. Compare peekPOLPOL abbr problem-orientated languagepolarpolar /�pəυlə/ adjective referring to polespolarising filterpolarising filter /�pəυlərazŋ �fltə/noun (film) 1. a lens filter which has thou-sands of tiny lines which allow light of a cer-tain polarity through, reducing glare 2. a fil-ter which is used to decrease the amount of

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189 positionalpolarised light passing through the lens bythe specific angling of the slitspolaritypolarity /pəυ|�l�rəti/ noun 1. the definitionof direction of flow of flux or current in anobject 2. negative or positive elements in ablack and white television imagePolaroid™Polaroid™ /�pəυlərɔd/ noun (film) 1. aninstant-picture photographic camera 2. trans-lucent plastic material which is able to polar-ise visible lightpolaroid filterpolaroid filter /�pəυlərɔd �fltə/ noun aphotographic filter that only allows light inone plane, vertical or horizontal, to be trans-mittedpolar orbitpolar orbit /�pəυlə �ɔ�bt/ noun a satelliteflight path that goes over the earth’s polespolicypolicy /�pɒlsi/ noun � acceptable usepolicyPolish notationPolish notation /�pəυlʃ nəυ|�teʃ(ə)n/noun � reverse Polish notationpollpoll /pəυl/ verb (of a computer) to deter-mine the state of a peripheral in a networkpollingpolling /�pəυlŋ/ noun a system of commu-nication between a controlling computer anda number of networked terminals (the com-puter checks each terminal in turn to see if itis ready to receive or transmit data, and takesthe required action)

COMMENT: The polling system differs fromother communications systems in that thecomputer asks the terminals to transmit orreceive, not the other way round.

polygonpolygon /�pɒl"ən/ noun a graphics shapewith three or more sidespolygon mesh modelpolygon mesh model /�pɒl"ən �meʃ�mɒd(ə)l/ noun same as wire frame modelpolynomial codepolynomial code /�pɒli|�nəυmiəl kəυd/noun an error detection system that uses a setof mathematical rules applied to the messagebefore it is transmitted and again when it isreceived to reproduce the original messagepoppop /pɒp/ verb to read and remove the lastpiece of data from a stackPOPPOP /pɒp/ noun telephone access numberfor a service provider that can be used to con-nect to the Internet via a modem. Full formpoint of presencePOP 2POP 2 /�pɒp tu�/ noun a high level pro-gramming language used for list processingapplicationsPOP 3POP 3 /�pɒp �θri�/ noun a system used totransfer electronic mail messages between auser’s computer and a server at an ISPpop-down menupop-down menu /�pɒp daυn �menju�/noun a menu that can be displayed on thescreen at any time by pressing the appropri-ate key, usually displayed over material al-ready on the screen. Also called pop-upmenu

pop filterpop filter /�pɒp �fltə/ noun an electroniccircuit used when recording voices to attenu-ate signals caused by wind or breathing �Every time you say a ‘p’ you overload thetape recorder, so put this pop filter in to stopit.populatepopulate /�pɒpjυlet/ verb to fill the sock-ets on a printed circuit board with compo-nentspop-up menupop-up menu /�pɒp �p �menju�/ nounsame as pop-down menupop-up windowpop-up window /�pɒp �p �wndəυ/ nouna window that can be displayed on the screenat any time on top of anything that is alreadyon the screen

‘…you can use a mouse to access pop-up menusand a keyboard for word processing’ [Byte]

portport /pɔ�t/ noun a socket or physical con-nection allowing data transfer between acomputer’s internal communications channeland another external deviceportabilityportability /�pɔ�tə |�blti/ noun an extent towhich software or hardware can be used onseveral systems

‘…although portability between machines isthere in theory, in practice it just isn’t that simple’[Personal Computer World]

portableportable /�pɔ�təb(ə)l/ noun a compactself-contained computer that can be carriedaround and used either with a battery pack ormains power supply � adjective referring toany hardware or software or data files thatcan used on a range of different computersportable document formatportable document format/�pɔ�təb(ə)l �dɒkjυmənt �fɔ�m�t/ nounfull form of PDFportable operating system interfaceportable operating system interface/�pɔ�təb(ə)l �ɒpəretŋ �sstəm �ntəfes/noun full form of POSIXportalportal /�pɔ�t(ə)l/ noun a website that pro-vides links to information and other websitesportapackportapack /�pɔ�təp�k/ noun a battery-op-erated, portable video camera and recorder(film)portraitportrait /�pɔ�trt/ adjective the orientationof a page or piece of paper in which the long-est edge is verticalport replicatorport replicator /�pɔ�t �replketə/ noun aversion of a docking station that allows a lap-top computer to be connected to duplicate theconnection ports on the back of the laptop, al-lowing a user to keep a mouse, power cable,and printer connected to the port replicatorand easily insert the laptop to use these portswithout having to plug in cables each timethe machine is usedPOSPOS /pɒz/ abbr point-of-salepositionalpositional /pə|�zʃ(ə)nəl/ adjective refer-ring to position

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positive 190positivepositive /�pɒztv/ adjective 1. meaning‘yes’ 2. referring to an image that shows ob-jects as they are seenpositive displaypositive display /�pɒztv d|�sple/ nouna display in which the text and graphics areshown as black on a white background to im-itate a printed pagepositive feedbackpositive feedback /�pɒztv �fi�db�k/noun part of an output signal that is addedinto the input of a device � Make sure the mi-crophone is not too close to the loudspeakeror positive feedback will occur and you willoverload the amplifier.positive photoresistpositive photoresist /�pɒztv�fəυtəυr |�zst/ noun a method of formingphotographic images where exposed areas ofphotoresist are removed, used in makingPCBsPOSIXPOSIX /�pɒsks/ noun the IEEE standardthat defines software that can be easily portedbetween hardware platforms. Full form port-able operating system interfacepostpost /pəυst/ verb to enter data into a recordin a fileposterposter /�pəυstə/ noun a large printed sheet,used to advertise somethingposterisationposterisation /�pəυstərazeʃ(ə)n/ nouna special effect in which an image is proc-essed to reduce the number of colours ortonespost-filteringpost-filtering /�pəυst �fltərŋ/ noun im-age processing carried out after the image hasbeen compressedpostfixpostfix /�pəυstfks/ noun a word or letterwritten after anotherpostmasterpostmaster /�pəυstmɑ�stə/ noun theemail address of the person nominally incharge of email within a companypost office protocolpost office protocol /�pəυst �ɒfs�prəυtəkɒl/ noun � POP 3postprocessorpostprocessor /�pəυst |�prəυsesə/ noun1. a microprocessor that handles semi-proc-essed data from another device 2. a programthat processes data from another program,which has already been processedpost productionpost production /�pəυst prə |�d�kʃən/noun the final editing process of a video oranimation in which titles are added and se-quences finalisedpotpot /pɒt/ abbr potentiometerpotentiometerpotentiometer /pə|�tenʃi|�ɒmtə/ noun amechanical variable resistance componentconsisting of a spindle which is turned tomove a contact across a resistance track tovary the resistance of the potentiometer. �variable resistorPOTSPOTS /pɒts/ noun the simplest, standardtelephone line without any special featuressuch as call waiting or forwarding, and with-

out high-speed digital access such as ADSL.Full form plain old telephone servicepower

power /�paυə/ noun 1. the unit of energy inelectronics equal to the product of voltageand current, measured in watts 2. a mathe-matical term describing the number of timesa number is to be multiplied by itself � 5 tothe power 2 is equal to 25. (NOTE: written assmall figures in superscript: 105: say: ‘ten tothe power five’) � verb to provide electricalor mechanical energy to a device � The mon-itor is powered from a supply in the main PC.power down

power down /�paυə daυn/ verb to turn offthe electricity supply to a computer or otherelectronic devicepowered

powered /�paυəd/ adjective driven by atype of energy or motor � a motor poweredby electricity � a solar-powered calculatorpower user

power user /�paυə �ju�zə/ noun a userwho needs the latest, fastest model of compu-ter because he or she runs complex or de-manding applicationsppm

ppm /�pi� pi� �em/ noun the number of pag-es that a printer can print in one minute, usedfor describing the speed of a printer. Fullform pages per minutePPP

PPP /�pi� pi� �pi�/ noun a protocol that sup-ports a network link over an asynchronous(modem) connection and is normally used toprovide data transfer between a user’s com-puter and a remote server on the Internet us-ing the TCP/IP network protocol. Full formpoint to point protocolPPQN

PPQN /�pi� pi� kju� �en/ noun the mostcommon time format used with standardMIDI sequences. Full form parts per quar-ter notePPS

PPS noun film or video frame speed. Fullform pictures per secondPPTP

PPTP /�pi� pi� ti� �pi�/ noun a protocol thatallows a standard local-area network proto-col (such as Novell’s IPX or Microsoft’s Net-BEUI) to be sent over the Internet in a trans-parent manner without the user or operatingsystem noticing, used by companies thatwant to use the Internet to connect servers indifferent offices. Full form point-to-pointtunneling protocolpractical extraction and report language

practical extraction and report lan-guage /�pr�ktk(ə)l k|�str�kʃ(ə)n ən r|

�pɔ�t �l�ŋ"wd'/ noun full form of Perl � Ifyou want to add a search engine to your web-site, you will need to write a Perl program.pre-

pre- /pri�/ prefix beforepre-amplifier

pre-amplifier /pri ��mpl |�faə/ noun anelectronic circuit which amplifies a signal toa particular level, before it is fed to an ampli-fier for output

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191 pre-rollprecedeprecede /pr|�si�d/ verb to come beforesomething � This instruction cancels the in-struction which precedes it.precedenceprecedence /�presd(ə)ns/ noun a set ofcomputational rules defining the order inwhich mathematical operations are calculat-edpreciseprecise /pr|�sas/ adjective very exact �The atomic clock will give the precise time ofstarting the process.precisionprecision /pr|�s'(ə)n/ noun the fact thatsomething is very accurateprecompiled codeprecompiled code /prikəm |�pald�kəυd/ noun a code that is output from acompiler, ready to be executedpredefinedpredefined /�pri�d|�fand/ adjectivewhich has been defined in advancepredesignedpredesigned /�pri�d|�zand/ adjective (ofa graphic material) provided to the customeralready designed � A wide selection of pre-designed layouts help you automatically for-mat typical business and technical docu-ments.predeterminedpredetermined /�pri�d|�t��mnd/ adjec-tive which has already been determinedpre-editpre-edit /pri �edt/ verb to change text be-fore it is run through a machine to make sureit is compatiblepre-emphasisepre-emphasise /pri� �emfəsaz/ verb toboost certain frequencies of a signal beforetransmission or processing to minimise noise(signals are de-emphasised on reception)preemptive multitaskingpreemptive multitasking /pri|�emptv�m�ltitɑ�skŋ/ noun a form of multitaskingin which the operating system executes a pro-gram for a period of time, then passes controlto the next program so preventing any oneprogram using all the processor timepre-fade listenpre-fade listen /�pri� fed �ls(ə)n/ noun asound desk device which permits channels tobe heard before fading up (film)pre-fetchpre-fetch /pri� �fetʃ/ verb CPU instruc-tions stored in a short temporary queue be-fore being processed, increasing the speed ofexecutionpre-filteringpre-filtering /pri� |�fltərŋ/ noun imageprocessing before the image is compressed(e.g., scaling the image)prefixprefix /�pri�|�fks/ noun 1. a code, instruc-tion or character at the beginning of a mes-sage or instruction 2. a word attached to thebeginning of another word to give it a specialmeaningprefix notationprefix notation /�pri�fks nəυ|�teʃ(ə)n/noun mathematical operations written in alogical way, so that the operator appears be-fore the operands, removing the need forbrackets � normal notation: (x-y) + z, but us-ing prefix notation: – xy + z

pre-flash

pre-flash, pre-fog noun the process of ex-posing film to light before filming so that ithas a higher sensitivity to light and reducescontrast (film)preformattedpreformatted /pri�|�fɔ�m�td/ adjectivewhich has been formatted already � a prefor-matted diskpre-imaging

pre-imaging /pri �md'ŋ/ noun theprocess of generating one frame of an anima-tion or video in a memory buffer before it istransferred on screen for displaypremixpremix /�pri�mks/ noun the combinationof a number of signals before they have beenprocessed in any waypreparation

preparation /�prepə|�reʃ(ə)n/ noun theprocess of getting something readypreprinted

preprinted /pri� |�prntd/ adjective al-ready printed or printed in advance � pre-printed form paper used for printing data-bases or applications programs that alreadycontain some information printed � pre-printed stationery computer stationery(such as invoices) which has already beenprinted with the company’s logo and addressas well as the blank columns, etc.preprocess

preprocess /pri� |�prəυses/ verb to carryout initial organisation and simple processingof datapreprocessor

preprocessor /pri�|�prəυsesə/ noun 1.software that partly processes or preparesdata before it is compiled or translated 2. asmall computer that carries out some initialprocessing of raw data before passing it to themain computer

‘…the C preprocessor is in the first stage of con-verting a written program into machine instruc-tions the preprocessor can be directed to read inanother file before completion, perhaps becausethe same information is needed in each module ofthe program’ [Personal Computer World]

preproduction

preproduction /�pri�prə|�d�kʃən/ nounthe organisation of the filming or recordingof a video or compact disk, taking the form ofdiagrams and scene descriptionspreprogrammed

preprogrammed /pri�|�prəυ"r�md/ ad-jective referring to a chip that has been pro-grammed in the factory to perform one func-tionprerecord

prerecord /�pri�r|�kɔ�d/ verb to recordsomething which will be played back later orto record sound effects that are added to afilm at a later date � The answerphone playsa prerecorded message. � noun a section oftext stored in a word-processor system whichwill be used as the basis for a form letterpre-roll

pre-roll /�pri� rəυl/ noun time needed afterhaving started a telecine, projector or videotape recorder in order to produce steadysound and picture (film)

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prescan 192prescan

prescan /�pri�sk�n/ noun a feature ofmany flat-bed scanners that carry out a quick,low-resolution scan to allow you to re-posi-tion the original or mark the area that is to bescanned at a higher resolutionpresentation graphics

presentation graphics/�prez(ə)nteʃ(ə)n �"r�fks/ plural noungraphics used to represent business informa-tion or data � The sales for last month lookedeven better thanks to the use of presentationgraphics.presentation layer

presentation layer /�prez(ə)n|�teʃ(ə)n�leə/ noun the sixth ISO/OSI standard net-work layer that agrees on formats, codes andrequests for the start and end of a connectionPresentation ManagerPresentation Manager /�prez(ə)n|

�teʃ(ə)n �m�nd'ə/ noun a graphical userinterface supplied with the OS/2 operatingsystempresentation software

presentation software/�prez(ə)nteʃ(ə)n �sɒftweə/ noun a soft-ware application that allows a user to create abusiness presentation with graphs, data, textand imagespreset

preset /�pri� |�set/ verb to set something inadvance � The printer was preset with newpage parameters.press

press /pres/ verb to push a key with the fin-gers � To end the program press ESCAPE.press cuttingspress cuttings /�pres �k�tŋz/ pluralnoun pieces cut from newspapers or maga-zines which refer to someone or to a compa-nypressure pad

pressure pad /�preʃə p�d/ noun a trans-ducer that converts pressure changes into anelectrical signal � The pressure pad underthe carpet will set off the burglar alarm if an-yone steps on it.prestore

prestore /pri� |�stɔ�/ verb to store data inmemory before it is processedpresynchronisationpresynchronisation, presynchroniza-tion noun the pre-recording of dialoguewhich is used in synchronisation with lipmovements in animation work (film)pretty good privacy

pretty good privacy /�prti "υd�prvəsi/ noun full form of PGPpreventprevent /pr|�vent/ verb to stop somethinghappening � We have changed the passwordsto prevent hackers getting into the database.preventative

preventative /pr|�ventətv/, preventive/pr |�ventv/ adjective which tries to stopsomething happeningprevention

prevention /pr|�venʃən/ noun the processof preventing something happeningpreventive maintenancepreventive maintenance /pr|�ventv�mentənəns/ noun a regular inspection andcleaning of a system to prevent faults occur-ring

preview

preview /�pri� |�vju�/ verb to display text orgraphics on a screen as it will appear when itis printed outpreviewer

previewer /�pri�vju�ə/ noun a feature thatallows a user to see on screen what a pagewill look like when printed � The built-inpreviewer allows the user to check for mis-takes.primarily

primarily /�pram(ə)rli/ adverb mainlyprimary

primary /�praməri/ adjective first or basicor most importantprime

prime /pram/ adjective very important �noun a number that can only be divided by it-self and by one � The number seven is aprime.primer

primer /�pramə/ noun a manual or simpleinstruction book with instructions and exam-ples to show how a new program or systemoperatesprimitive

primitive /�prmtv/ noun 1. (in program-ming) a basic routine that can be used to cre-ate more complex routines 2. (in graphics) asimple shape such as circle, square, line orcurve used to create more complex shapes ina graphics programprint

print /prnt/ noun 1. characters made in inkon paper � The print from the new printer ismuch clearer than that from old one. 2. a pos-itive photographic image in which black isblack and white is white. Compare negative3. an image produced using an etched print-ing plate � He collects 18th-century prints. �The office is decorated with Japanese prints.4. a take to be used in the finished film if it isnot cut out during the editing process � verb1. to put letters or figures in ink on paper 2.to put letters or illustrations onto sheets of pa-per so that they form a book � The book wasprinted in Hong Kong. � The book is printingat the moment, so we will have bound copiesat the end of the month. 3. to write in capitalletters � Please print your name and addresson the top of the form.printed circuit

printed circuit /�prntd �s��kt/, printedcircuit board noun a flat insulating materialthat has conducting tracks of metal printed oretched onto its surface which complete a cir-cuit when components are mounted on it.Abbr PCBprinter

printer /�prntə/ noun 1. a device that con-verts input data in an electrical form into aprinted readable form. Abbr PRN 2. a personthat prints documents or pictures for privatecustomers or other businesses 3. a companywhich prints books or newspapers � Thebook will be sent to the printer next week. �We are using Japanese printers for some ofour magazines.

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193 processprinter qualityprinter quality /�prntə �kwɒlti/ nounthe standard of printed text from a particularprinterprint formatprint format /�prnt �fɔ�m�t/ noun a wayin which text is arranged when printed out,according to embedded codes, used to setfeatures such as margins and headersprintheadprinthead /�prnthed/ noun 1. a row ofneedles in a dot-matrix printer that producecharacters as a series of dots 2. the metalform of a character that is pressed onto aninked ribbon to print the character on paperprintingprinting /�prntŋ/ noun 1. the action ofputting text and graphics onto paper 2. thenumber of copies printed at one time � Thefirst printing was 50,000 copies.printing negativeprinting negative /�prntŋ �ne"ətv/noun a negative copy of an optical soundtrack on a positive picture print which is usedto improve the quality of sound (film)Print ManagerPrint Manager /�prnt �m�nd'ə/ a soft-ware utility that is part of Microsoft Win-dows and is used to manage print queuesprintoutprintout /�prnt |�aυt/ noun the final printedpageprint previewprint preview /�prnt �pri�vju�/ noun afunction of a software product that lets theuser see how a page will appear when printedprint qualityprint quality /�prnt �kwɒlti/ noun thequality of the text or graphics printed, nor-mally measured in dots per inch � A desktopprinter with a resolution of 600 dpi providesgood print quality.printrunprintrun /�prntr�n/ noun the number ofcopies of a book which are printed at onetimePrint Screen keyPrint Screen key /�prnt �skri�n �ki�/noun a key in the top right-hand side of thekeyboard that sends the characters that aredisplayed on the screen to the printerprint serverprint server /�prnt �s��və/ noun a com-puter in a network which is dedicated to man-aging print queues and printersprint shopprint shop /�prnt ʃɒp/ noun a shop wherejobbing printing takes placeprintwheelprintwheel /�prntwi�l/ noun a daisy-wheel or the wheel made up of a number ofarms, with a character shape at the end ofeach arm, used in a daisy-wheel printerprioritypriority /pra |�ɒrti/ noun the importance ofa device or software routine in a computersystem � The operating system has priorityover the application when disk space is allo-cated.privacyprivacy /�prvəsi/ noun the right of an indi-vidual to limit the extent of and control theaccess to the data that is stored about himprivacy of dataprivacy of data /�prvəsi əv �detə/ nounthe fact that particular data is secret and must

not be accessed by users who have not beenauthorisedprivacy of informationprivacy of information /�prvəsi əv�nfə|�meʃ(ə)n/ noun the fact that unauthor-ised users must not obtain data about privateindividuals from databases, or that each indi-vidual has the right to know what informa-tion is being held about him or her on a data-baseprivacy statementprivacy statement /�prvəsi �stetmənt/noun the policy of a company, published ontheir website, that explains to visitors andcustomers what the company will or will notdo with a customer’s personal detailsprivateprivate /�pravət/ adjective belonging to anindividual or to a company, not to the publicprivate key cryptographyprivate key cryptography /�pravət ki�krp|�tɒ"rə"i/ noun a method of encryptingInternet messages that uses a single key bothto encode and decode themprivilegeprivilege /�prvld'/ noun the status of auser as regards to the type of program he orshe can run and the resources he or she canuseprivileged accountprivileged account /�prvəld'd ə|

�kaυnt/ noun a computer account that allowsspecial programs or access to sensitive sys-tem dataPRNPRN /�pi� ɑ� �en/ noun an acronym used inMS-DOS to represent the standard printerport. Full form printerproblemproblem /�prɒbləm/ noun a question towhich it is difficult to find an answerproblem definitionproblem definition /�prɒbləm�defənʃ(ə)n/ noun the clear explanation, inlogical steps, of a problem that is to be solvedproblem diagnosisproblem diagnosis /�prɒbləm�daə"nəυss/ noun the process of findingthe cause of a fault or error and finding themethod of repairing itproblem-orientated languageproblem-orientated language/�prɒbləm �ɔ�riəntetd �l�ŋ"wd'/ noun ahigh-level programming language that al-lows certain problems to be expressed easily.Abbr POLproceduralprocedural /prə|�si�d'ərəl/ adjective us-ing a procedure to solve a problemprocedureprocedure /prə|�si�d'ə/ noun 1. a smallsection of computer instruction code thatprovides a frequently used function and canbe called upon from a main program � Thisprocedure sorts all the files into alphabeticalorder. � subroutine 2. a method or routeused when solving a problem � You shoulduse this procedure to retrieve lost files.proceedproceed /prə|�si�d/ verb to move forward �After spellchecking the text, you can proceedto the printing stage.processprocess /prəυ|�ses/ noun a number of tasksthat must be carried out to achieve a goal �

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process control 194The process of setting up the computer takesa long time. � verb to carry out a number oftasks to produce a result � We processed thenew data.process controlprocess control /�prəυses kən|�trəυl/noun the automatic control of a process by acomputerprocessingprocessing /�prəυsesŋ/ noun 1. the useof a computer to solve a problem or organisedata � Page processing time depends on thecomplexity of a given page. � CPU 2. thetreatment of exposed film with chemicals inorder to make the latent image everlastinglyvisibleprocessorprocessor /�prəυ|�sesə/ noun a hardwareor software device that is able to manipulateor modify data according to instructionsproduceproduce /prə|�dju�s/ verb to make or man-ufacture somethingproducerproducer /prə |�dju�sə/ noun a person,company or country that manufactures �Country which is a producer of high qualitycomputer equipment.productproduct /�prɒd�kt/ noun 1. an item that ismade or manufactured 2. a manufactureditem for sale 3. the result after multiplicationproduct designproduct design /�prɒd�kt d|�zan/ nounthe activity of designing productsproduct engineerproduct engineer /�prɒd�kt �end' |�nə/noun an engineer in charge of the equipmentfor making a productproductionproduction /prə|�d�kʃən/ noun 1. theprocess of making or manufacturing of goodsfor sale � Production will probably be heldup by industrial action. 2. the preparation forbroadcast of a programme or advertisement3. the complete process of making a film(film)production controlproduction control /prə|�d�kʃən kən |

�trəυl/ noun the control of the manufacturingof a product (using computers)production level videoproduction level video /prə|�d�kʃən�lev(ə)l �vdiəυ/ noun full form of PLVproduction standardsproduction standards /prə|�d�kʃən�st�ndədz/ plural noun the quality of pro-ductionproduct lineproduct line /�prɒd�kt lan/, productrange /�prɒd�kt rend'/ noun a series ofdifferent products made by the same compa-ny, which form a groupproduct rangeproduct range /�prɒd�kt rend'/ nounsame as product lineprofessional publishingprofessional publishing /prə|

�feʃ(ə)n(ə)l �p�blʃŋ/ noun publishingbooks on law, accountancy, and other profes-sionsprogramprogram /�prəυ"r�m/ noun 1. a completeset of instructions which direct a computer tocarry out a particular task 2. data that defines

a sound in a synthesiser; a program is alsocalled a patch and can be altered by issuing aprogram-change message � verb to write orprepare a set of instructions that direct a com-puter to perform a certain taskprogram crashprogram crash /�prəυ"r�m kr�ʃ/ nounan unexpected failure of a program owing toa programming error or a hardware fault � Iforgot to insert an important instructionwhich caused a program to crash, erasing allthe files on the disk!program design languageprogram design language/�prəυ"r�m d|�zan �l�ŋ"wd'/ noun aprogramming language used to design thestructure of a program. Abbr PDLprogram documentationprogram documentation /�prəυ"r�m�dɒkjυmen |�teʃ(ə)n/ noun a set of instruc-tion notes, examples and tips on how to use aprogramprogram evaluation and review techniqueprogram evaluation and reviewtechnique /�prəυ"r�m |�v�ljueʃ(ə)n ənr|�vju� tek|�ni�k/ noun full form of PERTprogram iconprogram icon /�prəυ"r�m �akɒn/ noun(in a GUI) an icon that represents an executa-ble program file � To run the program, dou-ble-click on the program icon.program information fileprogram information file /�prəυ"r�m�nfə|�meʃ(ə)n �fal/ noun full form of PIFprogrammableprogrammable /�prəυ"r�məb(ə)l/ ad-jective referring to a device that can acceptand store instructions then execute themprogrammable keyprogrammable key /�prəυ"r�məb(ə)l�ki�/ noun a special key on a computer termi-nal keyboard that can be programmed withvarious functions or charactersprogrammable logic arrayprogrammable logic array/�prəυ"r�məb(ə)l �lɒd'k ə |�re/ noun fullform of PLAprogrammable logic deviceprogrammable logic device/�prəυ"r�məb(ə)l �lɒd'k d|�vas/ nounfull form of PLDprogrammable memoryprogrammable memory/�prəυ"r�məb(ə)l �mem(ə)ri/ noun fullform of PROMprogrammable read only memoryprogrammable read only memory/�prəυ"r�məb(ə)l ri�d �əυnli �mem(ə)ri/noun full form of PROMProgram ManagerProgram Manager /�prəυ"r�m�m�nd'ə/ noun (in Windows 3.x) the mainpart of Windows that the user seesprogrammerprogrammer /�prəυ|�"r�mə/ noun 1. aperson who is capable of designing and writ-ing a working program � The programmer isstill working on the new software. 2. a devicethat allows data to be written into a program-mable read only memoryprogrammer’s hierarchical interactive graphics standardprogrammer’s hierarchical interac-tive graphics standard /�prəυ"r�məzhaə|�rɑ�kk(ə)l ntər |��ktv �"r�fks�st�ndəd/ noun full form of PHIGS

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195 proxarprogrammingprogramming /�prəυ"r�mŋ/ noun theactivity of writing programs for computers

COMMENT: Programming languages aregrouped into different levels: the high-levellanguages such as BASIC and PASCALare easy to understand and use, but offerslow execution time since each instructionis made up of a number of machine codeinstructions; low-level languages such asassembler are more complex to read andprogram in but offer faster execution time.

programming in logicprogramming in logic /�prəυ"r�mŋ n�lɒd'k/ noun full form of PROLOGprogramming language for microprocessorsprogramming language for micro-processors /�prəυ"r�mŋ �l�ŋ"wd' fə�makrə|�prəυsesəz/ noun full form ofPL/Mprogram specificationprogram specification /�prəυ"r�m�spesf|�keʃ(ə)n/ noun detailed informa-tion about a program’s abilities, features andmethodsprogram testingprogram testing /�prəυ"r�m �testŋ/noun the process of testing a new programwith test data to ensure that it functions cor-rectlyprogressive scanningprogressive scanning /prəυ|�"resv�sk�nŋ/ noun a method of displaying andtransmitting video images in which each lineof the image is displayed consecutively, un-like non-interlaced image, which shows al-ternate lines. � scan conversionprojectproject noun /�prɒd'ekt/ a planned task �His latest project is computerising the salesteam. � verb /prə |�d'ekt/ to forecast futurefigures from a set of data � The projectedsales of the new PC.projectionprojection /prə |�d'ekʃən/ noun 1. theforecasting of a situation from a set of data �The projection indicates that sales will in-crease. 2. the process of showing pictures ona screenprojector leaderprojector leader /prə|�d'ektə �li�də/noun a short part of the beginning of a reel offilm which allows projectionists to make fastchangeovers from one reel to the next whenprojecting a filmPROLOGPROLOG /�prəυlɒ"/ noun a high-levelprogramming language using logical opera-tions for artificial intelligence and data re-trieval applications. Full form program-ming in logicPROMPROM /prɒm/ noun 1. read only memorythat can be programmed by the user, as dis-tinct from ROM, which is programmed bythe manufacturer. Full form programmableread only memory 2. an electronic devicein which data can be stored. Full form pro-grammable memorypromptprompt /prɒmpt/ noun a message or char-acter displayed to remind the user that an in-put is expected � The prompt READY indi-

cates that the system is available to receiveinstructions.prompterprompter /�prɒmptə/ noun the person on aset who gives cues to performers during ac-tion filming (film) � cueproofproof /pru�f/ noun printed matter from aprinter that has to be checked and corrected �verb to produce proofs of a textprooferproofer /�pru�fə/ noun a printer which pro-duces proofs, as opposed to finished printedpages � output devices such as laser proofersand typesettersproofingproofing /�pru�fŋ/ noun the process ofproducing proofs of text which have to beread and correctedproofreadproofread /�pru�fri�d/ verb to correctspelling and printing errors in a printed text �Has all the text been proofread yet?proofreaderproofreader /�pru�fri�də/ noun a personwho reads and corrects proofspropagatepropagate /�prɒpə|�"et/ verb to travel orspreadpropagation delaypropagation delay /�prɒpə|�"eʃ(ə)n d|

�le/ noun 1. the time taken for an output toappear in a logic gate after the input is ap-plied 2. the time taken for a data bit to travelover a network from the source to the desti-nationpropertiesproperties /�prɒpətiz/ noun (in Windows)the attributes of a file or objectproportionally spacedproportionally spaced /prə|�pɔ�ʃ(ə)nəli�spest/ adjective referring to a font in whicheach letter takes a space proportional to thecharacter width. Compare monospacedproprietary file formatproprietary file format /prə|�praət(ə)ri�fal �fɔ�m�t/ noun a method of storing datadevised by a company for its products and in-compatible with other products � You cannotread this spreadsheet file because my soft-ware saves it in a proprietary file format.protectprotect /prə|�tekt/ verb to stop somethingbeing damagedprotectionprotection /prə|�tekʃən/ noun the actionof protecting somethingprotectiveprotective /prə |�tektv/ adjective designedto protect something � The disks are housedin hard protective cases.protocolprotocol /�prəυtəkɒl/ noun the pre-agreedsignals, codes and rules to be used for dataexchange between systemsprototypeprototype /�prəυtə |�tap/ noun the firstworking model of a device or program,which is then tested and adapted to improve itprototypingprototyping /�prəυtətapŋ/ noun theprocess of making a prototypeproxarproxar /�prɒksɑ�/ noun an additional lenswhich is used in close-up shots to shorten thefocal length (film)

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proxy server 196proxy serverproxy server /�prɒksi �s��və/ noun acomputer that stores copies of files and datanormally held on a slow server and so allowsusers to access files and data quickly. Proxyservers are often used as a firewall betweenan intranet in a company and the public Inter-net.PrtScPrtSc /�prnt �skri�n/ noun (on an IBM PCkeyboard ) a key that sends the contents ofthe current screen to the printer. Full formprint screenpSpS /�pi� �es/ abbr picosecondPSAPSA noun US an advertisement for a publicservice or charity, which is shown on TV, butfor which the TV company is not paid. Fullform public service announcementpseudo-pseudo- /sju�dəυ/ prefix similar to some-thing, but not genuinepseudo-codepseudo-code /�sju�dəυ kəυd/ noun Eng-lish sentence structures, used to describe pro-gram instructions that are translated at a laterdate into machine codepseudo-digitalpseudo-digital /�sju�dəυ �dd't(ə)l/ ad-jective referring to modulated analog signalsthat are produced by a modem and transmit-ted over telephone linespseudo-operationpseudo-operation /�sju�dəυ �ɒpə|

�reʃ(ə)n/ noun a command in an assemblerprogram that controls the assembler ratherthan producing machine codepseudo-randompseudo-random /�sju�dəυ �r�ndəm/noun a generated sequence that appears ran-dom but is repeated over a long periodpsophometerpsophometer /sɒ|�fɒmtə/ noun a meterwhich measures noisePSSPSS abbr packet switching servicePSTNPSTN abbr public switched telephone net-workPSUPSU /�pi� es �ju�/ noun an electrical circuitthat provides certain direct current voltageand current levels from an alternating currentsource to other electrical circuits. Full formpower supply unit

COMMENT: A PSU will regulate, smooth andstep down a higher voltage supply for usein small electronic equipment.

publicpublic /�p�blk/ adjective available for an-yone to usepublicationpublication /�p�bl|�keʃ(ə)n/ noun 1. theprocess of making something public � thepublication of the report on data protection �The publication date of the book is November15th. 2. a printed book or leaflet, etc. whichis sold to the public or which is given away �Government publications can be bought atspecial shops. � The company specialises inpublications for the business reader.public data networkpublic data network /�p�blk �detə�netw��k/ noun a data transmission service

for the public, e.g. the main telephone systemin a country. Abbr PDNpublic domainpublic domain /�p�blk dəυ |�men/ nounthe status of documents, text or programs thatare not protected by copyright and can becopied by anyonepublicisepublicise /�p�blsaz/, publicize verb toattract people’s attention to a product or serv-ice � They are publicising their low pricesfor computer stationery. � The new PC hasbeen publicised in the press.publicitypublicity /p�|�blsti/ noun the process ofattracting the attention of the public to prod-ucts or services by mentioning them in themedia or by advertising thempublicity bureaupublicity bureau /p�|�blsti �bjυərəυ/noun an office which organises publicity forcompaniespublicity campaignpublicity campaign /p�|�blsti k�m|

�pen/ noun a period when planned publicitytakes placepublicity departmentpublicity department /p�|�blsti d|

�pɑ�tmənt/ noun a department in a companywhich organises the publicity for the compa-ny’s productspublicity matterpublicity matter /p�|�blsti �m�tə/ nounleaflets or posters, etc., which publicise aproduct or servicepublic key cipher systempublic key cipher system /�p�blk ki��safə �sstəm/ noun a cipher that uses apublic key to encrypt messages and a secretkey to decrypt them. Conventional ciphersystems use one secret key to encrypt and de-crypt messages.public key encryptionpublic key encryption /�p�blk ki� n |

�krpʃ(ə)n/ noun a method of encryptingdata that uses one key to encrypt the data andanother different key to decrypt the datapublishpublish /�p�blʃ/ verb 1. to produce andsell software 2. to design, edit and print a text(such as a book or newspaper or catalogue)and sell or give it to the public � The institutehas published a list of sales figures for differ-ent home computers. � The company spe-cialises in publishing reference books. 3. toshare a local resource with other users on anetwork (such as a file or folder)publisherpublisher /�p�blʃə/ noun a companywhich prints books or newspapers and sellsor gives them to the publicpublishingpublishing /�p�blʃŋ/ noun the businessof printing books or newspapers and sellingthem or giving them to the public

‘…desktop publishing or the ability to producehigh-quality publications using a minicomputer,essentially boils down to combining words andimages on pages’ [Byte]

pull-downpull-down /�pυl daυn/ verb moving filmframe to frame in a camera or projector bymeans of a claw (film)

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197 PWMpull-down menu

pull-down menu /�pυl daυn �menju�/noun a set of options that are displayed be-low the relevant entry on a menu-bar � Thepull-down menu is viewed by clicking on themenu bar at the top of the screen. Comparepop-down menupull-up

pull-up /�pυl �p/ noun a loop of film usedto keep the film flowing steadily through thepicture gate over the sound headpulse

pulse /p�ls/ noun a short period of a volt-age level � verb to apply a short-durationvoltage level to a circuit � We pulsed the in-put but it still would not work.

COMMENT: Electric pulse can be used totransmit information, as the binary digits 0and 1 correspond to ‘no pulse’ and ‘pulse’(the voltage level used to distinguish the bi-nary digits 0 and 1, is often zero and 5 or12 volts, with the pulse width depending ontransmission rate).

pulse-code modulation

pulse-code modulation /�p�ls kəυd�mɒdjυ|�leʃ(ə)n/ noun full form of PCMpulse-dialling

pulse-dialling /�p�ls �daəlŋ/ noun tele-phone dialling that dials a telephone numberby sending a series of pulses along the line �Pulse-dialling takes longer to dial than thenewer tone-dialling system.

punchpunch /p�ntʃ/ noun 1. a device for makingholes in punched cards 2. a mechanismwhich punches a cue mark in a film leader toshow when printing or editorial synchronisa-tion should start 3. a mechanism which elim-inates the splicing noises in prints which aremade from an optical sound negative � verbto make a hole in somethingpunch-down blockpunch-down block /�p�ntʃ daυn �blɒk/noun a device used in a local area network toconnect UTP cablepunctuation markpunctuation mark /�p�ŋktʃu|�eʃ(ə)nmɑ�k/ noun a printing symbol such as a com-ma or full stop, used for making the meaningof text clearpurgepurge /p��d'/ verb to remove unnecessaryor out-of-date data from a file or disk � Eachmonth, I purge the disk of all the old emailmessages.pushpush /pυʃ/ verb to press something or tomove something by pressing on itpushbuttonpushbutton /�pυʃb�t(ə)n/ adjectivewhich works by pressing on a buttonpush technologypush technology /�pυʃ tek|�nɒləd'i/noun Internet technology that allows sub-scribers to receive customised informationdirectlyPWMPWM abbr pulse width modulation

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QQAMQAM abbr quadrature amplitude modula-tionQBEQBE /�kju� bi� �i�/ noun a simple languageused to retrieve information from a databasemanagement system by, normally, entering aquery with known values, which is thenmatched with the database and used to re-trieve the correct data � In most QBE data-bases, the query form looks like the recordformat in the database – retrieving data is aseasy as filling in a form. Full form query byexampleQ ChannelQ Channel /�kju� �tʃ�n(ə)l/ noun (in a CDaudio disc) one of the eight informationchannels that holds data identifying the trackand the absolute playing timeQLQL abbr query languageqtyqty abbr quantityquadquad /kwɒd/ adjective operating at fourtimes the standard speed, or processing fourtimes the standard amount of data � noun 1.a sheet of paper four times as large as a basicsheet 2. same as quadruplexquaddingquadding /�kwɒdŋ/ noun the insertion ofspaces into text to fill out a linequadr-quadr- /kwɒdr/ prefix fourquadraphonyquadraphony /kwɒ|�drɒfəni/ noun afour-channel system of sound (film)quadraturequadrature /�kwɒdtrətʃə/ noun a videoplayback error due to the heads being wrong-ly aligned to the edge of the tapequadrature amplitude modulationquadrature amplitude modulation/�kwɒdtrətʃə ��mpltju�d mɒdju|

�leʃ(ə)n/ noun a data encoding method usedby high-speed modems (transmitting at ratesabove 2,400bps). It combines amplitudemodulation and phase modulation to increasethe data transmission rate. Abbr QAMquadrature encodingquadrature encoding /�kwɒdtrətʃə n |

�kəυdŋ/ noun a system used to determinethe direction in which a mouse is beingmoved. In a mechanical mouse, two sensorssend signals that describe its horizontal andvertical movements, these signals beingtransmitted using quadrature encoding.quadrophonicquadrophonic /�kwɒdrə|�fɒnk/ adjec-tive (of an audio music system) using fourspeakersquadruplexquadruplex /�kwɒdrυpleks/ noun 1. a setof four signals combined into a single one 2.a four unit video tape recorder which produc-

es video information in continuous almostvertical stripesquadruplicatequadruplicate /kwɒ|�dru�plkət/ noun �The statements are printed in quadruplicate.� in quadruplicate with the original andthree copies � the statements are printed inquadruplicate (NOTE: no plural)quad-speed drivequad-speed drive /�kwɒd spi�d �drav/noun a CD-ROM drive that spins the disc atfour times the speed of a single-speed drive,providing higher data throughput of 600Kbpsand shorter seek timesquality controlquality control /�kwɒlti kən|�trəυl/ nounthe process of checking that the quality of aproduct is goodquality of servicequality of service /�kwɒlti əv �s��vs/noun the degree to which a network cantransfer information without error or faultQuantelQuantel /�kwɒntel/ the hardware graphicscompany that developed Paintbox and Harryproduction graphics systemsquantifiablequantifiable /�kwɒntfaəb(ə)l/ adjectivewhich can be quantified � The effect of thechange in the pricing structure is not quanti-fiable.quantifierquantifier /�kwɒnt|�faə/ noun a sign orsymbol that indicates the quantity or range ofa predicatequantisationquantisation, quantization noun theconversion of an analog signal to a numericalrepresentationquantisequantise, quantize verb 1. to convert ananalog signal into a numerical representation� The input signal is quantised by an analogto digital converter. 2. to process a MIDI fileand align all the notes to a regular beat, so re-moving any timing errors � An analog todigital converter quantises the input signal.quantiserquantiser, quantizer noun a device usedto convert an analog input signal to a numer-ical form, that can be processed by a compu-terquantityquantity /�kwɒntti/ noun the amount ornumber of items � A small quantity of illegalcopies of the program have been imported. �adjective in large amounts � The companyoffers a discount for quantity purchases.quantumquantum /�kwɒntəm/ noun (in communi-cations) a packet of data that is the result of asignal being quantisedquarter-inch tapequarter-inch tape /�kwɔ�tər ntʃ �tep/noun a standard diameter of magnetic tape

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199 QWERTY keyboardwhich is used in tape cartridges and reel-to-reel recorders (film)quartile

quartile /�kwɔ�tal/ noun one of three fig-ures below which 25%, 50% or 75% of a totalfallsquarto

quarto /�kwɔ�təυ/ noun a paper size, madewhen a sheet is folded twice to make eightpagesquasi-

quasi- /kweza/ prefix almost, or similartoquaternary

quaternary /�kwɔ�t��nəri/ adjective exist-ing as four bits, levels or objectsquery

query /�kwəri/ noun a question � verb toask a question about something or to suggestthat something may be wrongquery by example

query by example /�kwəri ba "|

�zɑ�mpəl/ noun full form of QBEquery facility

query facility /�kwəri fə|�slti/ noun aprogram, usually a database or retrieval sys-tem, that allows the user to ask questions andreceive answers or access certain informationaccording to the queryquery language

query language /�kwəri �l�ŋ"wd'/noun a language in a database managementsystem that allows a database to be searchedand queried easily. Abbr QLquestion

question /�kwestʃ(ə)n/ noun 1. wordswhich need an answer � The managing di-rector refused to answer questions aboutfaulty keyboards. � The market researchteam prepared a series of questions to test thepublic’s reactions to colour and price. 2. aproblem � He raised the question of movingto less expensive offices. � The main questionis that of cost. � The board discussed thequestion of launching a new business compu-ter. � verb 1. to ask questions � The policequestioned the accounts staff for four hours� she questioned the chairman on the com-pany’s sales in the Far East. 2. to query or tosuggest that something may be wrong � Weall question how accurate the computerprintout is.question mark

question mark /�kweʃtʃən mɑ�k/ nounthe character ( ? ) that is often used as a wild-card to indicate that any single character inthe position will produce a match � To findall the letters, use the command DIR LET-TER?DOC which will list LETTER1.DOC,LETTER2.DOC and LETTER3.DOC. � as-teriskquestionnaire

questionnaire /�kwestʃə|�neə/ noun aprinted list of questions, especially used inmarket research � to send out a question-naire to test the opinions of users of the sys-

tem � to answer or to fill in a questionnaireabout holidays abroadqueue

queue /kju�/ noun 1. a line of people wait-ing one behind the other � to form a queue orto join a queue 2. a list of data or tasks thatare waiting to be processed, or a series ofdocuments that are dealt with in order � verbto add more data or tasks to the end of aqueuequick

quick /kwk/ adjective operating at highspeed, or taking little time � The companymade a quick recovery.QuickDraw

QuickDraw /�kwkdrɔ�/ (in an Apple Mac-intosh) a trade name for the graphics routinesbuilt into the Macintosh’s operating systemthat control displayed text and imagesquickly

quickly /�kwkli/ adverb without takingmuch timequicksort

quicksort /�kwksɔ�t/ noun a very rapidfile sorting and ordering methodQuickTime

QuickTime /�kwktam/ (in an AppleMacintosh) a trade name for the graphicsroutines built into the Macintosh’s operatingsystem that allow windows, boxes and graph-ic objects, including animation and videofiles, to be displayedquit

quit /kwt/ verb to leave a system or a pro-gram � Do not forget to save your text beforeyou quit the system.quonking

quonking /�kwɒnkŋ/ noun undesiredsounds which are picked up by a microphone(film)quotation

quotation /kwəυ|�teʃ(ə)n/ noun part of atext borrowed from another textquotation marks

quotation marks /kwəυ|�teʃ(ə)n mɑ�ks/noun punctuation marks used for enclosingtext to show that it has been quoted from an-other sourcequote

quote /kwəυt/ verb to repeat words used bysomeone elsequotient

quotient /�kwəυʃ(ə)nt/ noun the result ofone number divided by another

COMMENT: When two numbers are divided,the answer is made up of a quotient and aremainder (the fractional part). 16 dividedby 4 is equal to a quotient of 4 and zero re-mainder; 16 divided by 5 is equal to a quo-tient of 3 and a remainder of 1.

quoting

quoting /�kwəυtŋ/ noun a feature of manyelectronic mail applications that allows youto reply to a message and include the text ofthe original messageQWERTY keyboard

QWERTY keyboard /�kw��ti �ki�bɔ�d/noun a standard English language key layout.The first six letters on the top left row of keysare QWERTY.

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Rrack

rack /r�k/ noun 1. a metal supporting framefor electronic circuit boards and peripheraldevices such as disk drives 2. a frame to holditems for display � a display rack � a rackfor holding mag tapesracking

racking /�r�kŋ/ noun � framingrack mounted

rack mounted /�r�k �maυntd/ adjectivereferring to a system consisting of removablecircuit boards in a supporting frameradar

radar /�redɑ�/ noun a method of findingthe position of objects such as aircraft, bytransmitting radio waves which are reflectedback if they hit an object and are displayed ona screenradial transferradial transfer /�rediəl �tr�nsf��/ noundata transfer between two peripherals or pro-grams that are on different layers of a struc-tured system (such as an ISO/OSI system)radiantradiant /�rediənt/ adjective which radiatesradiant energy

radiant energy /�rediənt �enəd'i/ nounthe amount of energy radiated by an aerialradiate

radiate /�rediet/ verb 1. to go out in all di-rections from a central point 2. to send outrays 3. to convert electrical signals into trav-elling electromagnetic wavesradiating element

radiating element /�redietŋ �elmənt/noun a single basic unit of an antenna that ra-diates signalsradiation

radiation /�redi|�eʃ(ə)n/ noun 1. the send-ing out of waves of energy from certain sub-stances 2. the conversion of electrical signalsin an antenna into travelling electromagneticwavesradiator

radiator /�redietə/ noun the single basicunit of an antenna or any device that radiatessignalsradioradio /�rediəυ/ noun a medium used for thetransmission of speech, sound and data overlong distances by radio frequency electro-magnetic wavesradio buttonradio button /�rediəυ �b�t(ə)n/ noun (ina GUI) a circle displayed beside an optionthat, when selected, has a dark centre. Onlyone radio button can be selected at one time.radiocommunications

radiocommunications /�rediəυkə|

�mju�n |�keʃ(ə)nz/ noun the transmissionand reception of sound and data by radiowavesradio frequency

radio frequency /�rediəυ �fri�kwənsi/noun full form of RF

radixradix /�redks/ noun the value of the baseof the number system being used � The hex-adecimal number has a radix of 16.raggedragged /�r�"d/ adjective not straight, orwith an uneven edgeRAIDRAID /red/ noun a fast, fault tolerant diskdrive system that uses multiple drives whichwould, typically, each store one byte of aword of data, so allowing the data to be savedfaster. Full form redundant array of inex-pensive disks

‘A Japanese investor group led by system distrib-utor Technography has pumped $4.2 million(#2.8 million) into US disk manufacturer StorageComputer to help with the development costs ofRAID 7 hard disk technology.’ [Computing]

RAMRAM /r�m/ noun memory that allows ac-cess to any location in any order, withouthaving to access the rest first. Full form ran-dom access memory. Compare sequen-tial access

‘The HP Enterprise Desktops have hard-disk ca-pacities of between 260Mb and 1Gb, with RAMranging from 16Mb up to 128Mb.’ [Computing]‘…fast memory is RAM that does not have toshare bus access with the chip that manages thevideo display’ [Byte]COMMENT: Dynamic RAM, which uses a ca-pacitor to store a bit of data, needs to haveeach location refreshed from time to time toretain the data, but is very fast and cancontain more data per unit area than staticRAM, which uses a latch to store the stateof a bit. Static RAM, however, has the ad-vantage of not requiring to be refreshed toretain its data, and will keep data for aslong as power is supplied.

ramcorderramcorder /�r�mkɔ�də/ noun a digitalvideo recorder which stores images as digitaldata in RAM rather than on filmRAMDACRAMDAC /�r�md�k/ noun an electroniccomponent on a video graphics adapter thatconverts the digital colour signals into elec-trical signals that are sent to the monitorR & DR & D noun investigation of new products,discoveries and techniques. Full form re-search and developmentR & D departmentR & D department /�ɑ�r ən �di� d|

�pɑ�tmənt/ noun a department in a companythat investigates new products, discoveriesand techniquesrandomrandom /�r�ndəm/ adjective not arrangedor happening according to a particular orderor pattern

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201 real addressrandom accessrandom access /�r�ndəm ��kses/ nounthe ability to access immediately memory lo-cations in any order � Disk drives are ran-dom access, whereas magnetic tape is se-quential access memory.random access digital to analog converterrandom access digital to analogconverter /�r�ndəm ��kses �dd't(ə)ltə ��nəlɒ" kən|�v��tə/ noun an electroniccomponent on a video graphics adapter thatconverts the digital colour signals into elec-trical signals that are sent to the monitor.Abbr RAMDACrandom access memoryrandom access memory /�r�ndəm��kses �mem(ə)ri/ noun full form of RAMrangerange /rend'/ noun 1. a series of itemsfrom which the customer can choose � awide range of products 2. a set of allowedvalues between a maximum and minimum �verb 1. to vary or to be different � The com-pany’s products range from a cheap laptopmicro to a multistation mainframe. 2. to puttext in order to one siderankrank /r�ŋk/ verb to sort data into an order,usually according to size or importancerasterraster /�r�stə/ noun a system of scanningthe whole of a CRT screen with a picturebeam by sweeping across it horizontally,moving down one pixel or line at a timeraster graphicsraster graphics /�r�stə �"r�fks/ pluralnoun graphics in which the picture is built upin lines across the screen or pageraster image processorraster image processor /�r�stə �md'�prəυsesə/ noun raster which translates soft-ware instructions into an image or completepage which is then printed by the printer �An electronic page can be converted to aprinter-readable video image by an on-boardraster image processor. Abbr RIPraster scanraster scan /�r�stə sk�n/ noun onesweep of the picture beam horizontallyacross the front of a CRT screenraterate /ret/ noun the quantity of data or tasksthat can be processed in a set time � Theprocessor’s instruction execution rate is bet-ter than the older version. � verb to evaluatehow good something is or how large some-thing isratingsratings /�retŋz/ noun a calculation ofhow many people are watching a TV pro-grammeratings battleratings battle, ratings war noun a fightbetween two TV companies to increase theirshare of the marketratioratio /�reʃiəυ/ noun the proportion of onenumber to another � The ratio of 10 to 5 is2:1.rational numberrational number /�r�ʃ(ə)nəl �n�mbə/noun a number that can be written as the ratioof two whole numbers � 24 over 7 is a ra-tional number.

rawraw /rɔ�/ adjective in the original state or notprocessedraw dataraw data /�rɔ� �detə/ noun pieces of infor-mation which have not been input into a com-puter systemrayray /re/ noun one line of light or radiationin a beam or from a source � The rays of lightpass down the optical fibre.ray tracingray tracing /re �tresŋ/ noun (in graph-ics) a method of creating life-like computer-generated graphics which correctly showshadows and highlights on an object to sug-gest the existence of a light source � To gen-erate this picture with ray tracing will takeseveral hours on this powerful PC.RCA connectorRCA connector /�ɑ� si� �e kə|�nektə/noun same as phono connectorRDRD /�ɑ� �di�/ noun (in DOS) a command toremove an empty subdirectory. Full form re-move directoryRDBMSRDBMS abbr relational database manage-ment systemreactionreaction /ri |��kʃən/ noun an action whichtakes place because of something which hashappened earlierreaction timereaction time /ri |��kʃən tam/ noun sameas access timereadread /ri�d/ verb 1. to look at printed wordsand understand them � Conditions of saleare printed in such small characters that theyare difficult to read. 2. to retrieve data from astorage medium � This instruction reads thefirst record of a file.readablereadable /�ri�dəb(ə)l/ adjective that can beread or understood by someone or by an elec-tronic device � The electronic page is con-verted to a printer-readable video image.readerreader /�ri�də/ noun a device that reads datastored on one medium and converts it into an-other formreadingreading /�ri�dŋ/ noun a note taken of fig-ures or degrees, especially of degrees on ascalereadoutreadout /�ri�daυt/ noun a display of data �The readout displayed the time.read/write cycleread/write cycle /�ri�d �rat �sak(ə)l/noun a sequence of events used to retrieveand store datareadyready /�redi/ adjective waiting and able tobe used � The green light indicates the sys-tem is ready for another program.RealReal /rəl/ a trade name for a system used totransmit sound and video over the Internet,normally used to transmit live sound, e.g.from a radio station, over the Internet. �plug-in, streaming datareal addressreal address /�rəl ə|�dres/ noun an abso-lute address that directly accesses a memorylocation. Compare paged address

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RealAudio 202RealAudio

RealAudio /�rəl |�ɔ�diəυ/ a trade name for asystem used to transmit sound, usually live,over the Internetrealise

realise /�rəlaz/, realise the palette/�rəlaz ðə �p�lət/ verb to select a particularset of colours for a 256-colour palette and usethis palette when displaying an image, nor-mally by mapping the colours in a logicalpalette into the system palettereal memory

real memory /�rəl �mem(ə)ri/ noun theactual physical memory that can be ad-dressed by a CPU. Compare virtual memo-ryRealNames

RealNames /�rəl|�nemz/ a system of as-signing a trade name or descriptive name to awebsite addressreal number

real number /�rəl �n�mbə/ noun (in com-puting) a number that is represented with afractional part, or a number represented infloating point notationreal time

real time /�rəl tam/ noun the instant na-ture of the responses of some computer sys-tem to events, changes and other stimuli � Anavigation system needs to be able to processthe position of a ship in real time and takesuitable action before it hits a rock.

‘Quotron provides real-time quotes, news andanalysis on equity securities through a network of40,000 terminals to US brokers and investors.’[Computing]‘…define a real-time system as any system whichis expected to interact with its environment with-in certain timing constraints’ [British TelecomTechnology Journal]

real-time animation

real-time animation /�rəl tam ��n |

�meʃ(ə)n/ noun an animation in which ob-jects appear to move at the same speed asthey would in real life. Real-time animationrequires display hardware capable of display-ing a sequence with tens of different imagesevery second.real-time authorisation

real-time authorisation /�rəl tam�ɔ�θəra|�zeʃ(ə)n/, real-time authentica-tion /�rəl tam �ɔ�θent|�keʃ(ə)n/ noun anonline system that can check the authenticityand validity of a customer’s credit card with-in a few seconds, allowing the Internet shopto deliver goods or confirm an order immedi-atelyreal-time input

real-time input /�rəl tam �npυt/ noundata input to a system as it happens or is re-quiredreal-time system

real-time system /�rəl tam �sstəm/noun a computer system that responds in-stantly to events, changes and other stimuli �In a real-time system, as you move the joy-stick left, the image on the screen moves left.If there is a pause for processing it is not atrue real-time system.

real-time videoreal-time video /�rəl tam �vdiəυ/ nounfull form of RTVrear projectionrear projection /�rə prə|�d'ekʃən/ noun� back projectionrebootreboot /ri� |�bu�t/ verb to reload an operatingsystem during a computing session � We re-booted and the files reappeared. � bootrecallrecall /r|�kɔ�l/ noun the process of bringingback text or files from store � verb /r |�kɔ�l/to bring back text or files from store for edit-ingreceipt notificationreceipt notification /r|�si�t�nəυtfkeʃ(ə)n/ noun a feature of manyelectronic mail applications that will send anautomatic message to confirm that the recip-ient has received the messagereceivereceive /r|�si�v/ verb to accept data from acommunications link � The computer re-ceived data via the telephone line.receive onlyreceive only /r|�si�v �əυnli/ noun fullform of ROreceiverreceiver /r|�si�və/ noun an electronic de-vice that can detect transmitted signals andpresent them in a suitable formreceptionreception /r|�sepʃən/ noun the quality of aradio or TV signal received � Signal recep-tion is bad with that aerial.re-chargeablere-chargeable /ri� �tʃɑ�d'əb(ə)l/ adjec-tive (of a battery) which can be charged againwith electricity when it is flatreciprocal linkreciprocal link /r|�sprək(ə)l �lŋk/ nouna link connecting two websites and workingin both directions so that each site is effec-tively providing advertising space for the oth-errecoderecode /ri� |�kəυd/ verb to code a programwhich has been coded for one system, so thatit will work on anotherrecognisablerecognisable /�rekə"nazəb(ə)l/, recog-nizable adjective which can be recognisedrecogniserecognise /�rekə"|�naz/, recognize verbto see something and remember that it hasbeen seen before � The scanner will recog-nise most character fonts.recognitionrecognition /�rekə" |�nʃ(ə)n/ noun 1. be-ing able to recognise something 2. a processthat allows something such as letters on aprinted text or bars on bar codes to be recog-nised,recompilerecompile /�ri�kəm |�pal/ verb to compile asource program again, usually after changesor debuggingreconfigurationreconfiguration /�ri�kənf"ə|�reʃ(ə)n/noun the process of altering the structure ofdata in a systemreconfigurereconfigure /�ri�kən|�f"ə/ verb to alter thestructure of data in a system � I reconfiguredthe field structure in the file. � configure,set up

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203 redundantreconnect

reconnect /�ri�kə|�nekt/ verb to connectagain � The telephone engineers are tryingto reconnect the telephone.record

record noun /�rekɔ�d/ a set of items of re-lated data � Your record contains severalfields that have been grouped together underthe one heading. � verb /r|�kɔ�d/ to storedata or signals � Record the results in thiscolumn.recordable CDrecordable CD /r|�kɔ�dəb(ə)l si� �di�/noun full form of CD-Rrecorder

recorder /r|�kɔ�də/ noun equipment ableto transfer input signals onto a storage medi-um

COMMENT: The signal recorded is not al-ways in the same form as the input signal.Many recorders record a modulated carriersignal for better quality. A recorder is usu-ally combined with a suitable playback cir-cuit since the read and write heads are of-ten the same physical device.

recordingrecording /r|�kɔ�dŋ/ noun 1. the action ofstoring signals or data 2. a signal (especiallymusic) which has been recorded on tape ordisk � a new recording of Beethoven’s quar-tetsrecordsetrecordset /�rekɔ�dset/ noun a group ofrecords selected from a main database by afilter, search or queryrecoverrecover /r|�k�və/ verb to get back some-thing which has been lost � It is possible torecover the data but it can take a long time.recoverable errorrecoverable error /r |�k�v(ə)rəb(ə)l�erə/ noun an error type that allows programexecution to be continued after it has oc-curredrecovery

recovery /r|�k�v(ə)ri/ noun 1. the processof returning to normal operating after a fault2. the process of getting back something thathas been lost � The recovery of lost files canbe carried out using the recovery procedure.recovery procedurerecovery procedure /r |�k�v(ə)ri prə|

�si�d'ə/ noun the processes required to re-turn a system to normal operation after an er-rorrectangular waveguide

rectangular waveguide /�rekt�ŋ"jυlə�wev"ad/ noun a microwave channel thatis rectangular in cross sectionrectifier

rectifier /�rektfaə/ noun an electroniccircuit that converts an alternating currentsupply into a direct current supplyrectify

rectify /�rekt|�fa/ verb 1. to correct some-thing or to make something right � They hadto rectify the error at the printout stage. 2. toremove the positive or negative sections of asignal so that it is unipolarrecursion

recursion /r|�k��'(ə)n/ noun a subroutinein a program that calls itself during execu-tion. Also called recursive routine

recursive filteringrecursive filtering /r |�k��sv �flərŋ/noun a technique which reduces video noiseand defects (film)recursive routinerecursive routine /r|�k��sv �ru�ti�n/noun same as recursionRecycle BinRecycle Bin /ri�|�sak(ə)l bn/ noun a fold-er in Windows 95 where deleted files are au-tomatically stored, with an icon on the Desk-top that looks like a wastepaper bin � If youwant to delete a file or folder, drag it onto theRecycle Bin icon or press the Delete key.red, green, bluered, green, blue /�red "ri�n �blu�/ nounthe three colour picture beams used in a col-our TV

COMMENT: There are three colour guns pro-ducing red, green, and blue beams actingon groups of three phosphor dots at eachpixel location.

red, green, blue displayred, green, blue display /�red "ri�n�blu� d|�sple/ noun full form of RGB dis-playred book audiored book audio /�red bυk �ɔ�diəυ/ noun� compact disc-digital audioredefinableredefinable /�ri�d |�fanəb(ə)l/ adjectivewhich can be redefinedredefineredefine /�ri�d |�fan/ verb to change thefunction or value assigned to a variable or ob-ject � I have redefined this key to display thefigure five when pressed.

‘…one especially useful command lets you rede-fine the printer’s character-translation table’[Byte]

redirectredirect /�ri�da |�rekt/ verb 1. to send amessage to its destination by another route 2.(in DOS and UNIX operating systems) totreat the output of one program as input foranother programredirectionredirection /�ri�da |�rekʃən/ noun theprocess of sending a message to its destina-tion by another route � Call forwarding isautomatic redirection of calls.redlinerredliner /�redlanə/ noun a feature ofworkgroup or word-processor software thatallows a user to highlight text in a differentcolourredoredo /ri�|�du�/ verb to do something againredrawredraw /ri�|�drɔ�/ verb to draw somethingagain � Can the computer redraw the graph-ics showing the product from the top view?reducereduce /r|�dju�s/ verb to make somethingsmallerreduced instruction set computerreduced instruction set computer /r|

�dju�st n|�str�kʃən set kəm|�pju�tə/ nounfull form of RISCredundancyredundancy /r|�d�ndənsi/ noun the proc-ess of providing extra components in a sys-tem in case there is a breakdownredundantredundant /r |�d�ndənt/ adjective 1. refer-ring to data that can be removed without los-ing any information � The parity bits on the

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redundant array of inexpensive disks204received data are redundant and can be re-moved. 2. referring to an extra piece of equip-ment kept ready for a task in case of faultsredundant array of inexpensive disksredundant array of inexpensivedisks /r |�d�ndənt ə |�re əv �nkspensv�dsks/ noun full form of RAIDre-entrant programre-entrant program /ri� �entrənt�prəυ"r�m/, re-entrant code /kəυd/, re-entrant routine /ru�|�ti�n/ noun one programor code shared by many users in a multi-usersystem. It can be interrupted or called againby another user before it has finished its pre-vious run, and will return to the point atwhich it was interrupted when it has finishedthat run.referencereference /�ref(ə)rəns/ noun 1. a valueused as a starting point for other values, oftenzero 2. the act of mentioning or dealing withsomething � verb to access a location inmemory � The access time taken to referencean item in memory is short.reflectreflect /r|�flekt/ verb to send back (light orimage) from a surface � In a reflex camera,the image is reflected by an inbuilt mirror.reflectancereflectance /r |�flektəns/ noun the differ-ence between the amount of light or signal in-cident and the amount that is reflected backfrom a surface. Opposite absorptancereflectionreflection /r |�flekʃən/ noun light or an im-age which is reflectedreflective diskreflective disk /r|�flektv dsk/ noun avideodisc that uses a reflected laser beam toread the data etched into the surfacereformatreformat /�ri� |�fɔ�m�t/ verb to format adisk that already contains data, and erasingthe data by doing so � Do not reformat yourhard disk unless you can’t do anything else.reformattingreformatting /ri� |�fɔ�m�tŋ/ noun the actof formatting a disk which already containsdata � Reformatting destroys all the data ona disk. � formatrefractrefract /r |�fr�kt/ verb to change the direc-tion of light as it passes through a material(such as water or glass)refractionrefraction /r|�fr�kʃən/ noun the apparentbending of light or sound that occurs when ittravels through a materialrefractive indexrefractive index /r|�fr�ktv �ndeks/noun a measure of the angle that light is re-fracted by, as it passes through a materialrefreshrefresh /r |�freʃ/ verb to update regularlythe contents of dynamic RAM by reading andrewriting stored data to ensure data is re-tained � memory refresh signalrefresh raterefresh rate /r |�freʃ ret/ noun thenumber of times every second that the imageon a CRT is redrawn

‘Philips autoscan colour monitor, the 4CM6099,has SVGA refresh rates of 72Hz (800 x 600) and

EVGA refresh rates of 70Hz (1,024 x 768).’[Computing]

regenerateregenerate /r |�d'enə|�ret/ verb 1. to re-draw an image on a screen many times a sec-ond so that it remains visible 2. to receive dis-torted signals, process and error check them,then retransmit the same dataregenerationregeneration /r |�"enə|�reʃ(ə)n/ noun theprocess of regenerating a signalregeneratorregenerator /ri� |�d'enəretə/ noun a de-vice used in communications that amplifiesor regenerates a received signal and transmitsit on. Regenerators are often used to extendthe range of a network.regionregion /�ri�d'ən/ noun a special or reservedarea of memory or program or screenregion fillregion fill /�ri�d'(ə)n fl/ noun the processof filling an area of the screen or a graphicsshape with a particular colourregisterregister /�red'stə/ noun 1. a special loca-tion within a CPU that is used to hold dataand addresses to be processed in a machinecode operation 2. a reserved memory loca-tion used for special storage purposes � verb1. to react to a stimulus 2. to correctly super-impose two imagesRegistryRegistry /�red'stri/ noun a database ofinformation about configuration and pro-gram settings that forms the basis of Win-dowsregulateregulate /�re"jυlet/ verb to control aprocess, usually using sensors and a feedbackmechanismregulationregulation /�re"jυ|�leʃ(ə)n/ noun a law orrule, which most people have to obeyregulation lineregulation line /�re"jυleʃ(ə)n �lan/noun the ability of a power supply to preventinput line changes affecting output suppliesregulation loadregulation load /�re"jυleʃ(ə)n �ləυd/noun the ability of a power supply to preventoutput load changes affecting output suppliesrehyphenationrehyphenation /ri�|�hafə|�neʃ(ə)n/ nounthe process of changing the hyphenation ofwords in a text after it has been put into a newpage format or line widthrejectreject /r|�d'ekt/ verb to refuse to acceptsomething � The computer rejects all incom-ing data from incompatible sources.rejectionrejection /r|�d'ekʃən/ noun the process orfact of refusing to accept somethingrelational databaserelational database /r |�leʃ(ə)n(ə)l�detəbes/, relational database manage-ment system /r|�leʃn(ə)l �detəbes�m�nd'mənt �sstəm/ noun a database inwhich all the items of data can be intercon-nected. Data is retrieved by using one item ofdata to search for a related field. � If yousearch the relational database for the sur-name, you can pull out his salary from the re-lated accounts database. Abbr RDBMS

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205 repetitive strain injuryrelationship

relationship /r|�leʃ(ə)nʃp/ noun a wayin which two similar things are connectedrelative

relative /�relətv/ adjective compared tosomething elserelay

relay /�ri�le/ noun an electromagneticallycontrolled switch � There is a relay in thecircuit. � verb to receive data from onesource and then retransmit it to another point� All messages are relayed through thissmall micro.release

release /r|�li�s/ noun 1. a version of a prod-uct � The latest software is release 5. 2. theprocess of putting a new product on the mar-ket � verb to put a new product on the marketreliability

reliability /r|�laə|�blti/ noun the abilityof a device to function as intended, efficientlyand without failure � It has an excellent reli-ability record.reliable

reliable /r|�laəb(ə)l/ adjective which canbe trusted to work properly � The early ver-sions of the software were not completely re-liable.relief printing

relief printing /r |�li�f �prntŋ/ noun aprinting process in which the ink is held on araised imagereload

reload /ri�|�ləυd/ verb to load somethingagain � We reloaded the program after thecrash. � loadrelocatable

relocatable /�ri�ləυ|�ketəb(ə)l/ adjectivewhich can be moved to another area of mem-ory without affecting its operationrelocate

relocate /�ri�ləυ|�ket/ verb to move datafrom one area of storage to another � Thedata is relocated during execution.relocation

relocation /�ri�ləυ|�keʃ(ə)n/ noun theprocess of moving to another area in memoryREM

REM /rem/ noun a statement in a BASICprogram that is ignored by the interpreter, al-lowing the programmer to write explanatorynotes. Full form remarkremainder

remainder /r |�mendə/ noun a numberequal to the dividend minus the product ofthe quotient and divider � 7 divided by 3 isequal to 2 remainder 1. Compare quotientremark

remark /r |�mɑ�k/ noun full form of REMremedial maintenance

remedial maintenance /r|�mi�diəl�mentənəns/ noun maintenance to repairfaults which have developed in a systemremote

remote /r |�məυt/ adjective referring tocommunications with a computer at a dis-tance from the systems centre � Users canprint reports on remote printers.remote job entry

remote job entry /r |�məυt d'ɒb �entri/noun full form of RJEremovable

removable /r |�mu�vəb(ə)l/ adjectivewhich can be removed � a removable harddisk

removalremoval /r|�mu�v(ə)l/ noun the act of tak-ing something away � The removal of this in-struction could solve the problem.removeremove /r|�mu�v/ verb to take somethingaway or to move something to another place� The file entry was removed from the floppydisk directory.remove directoryremove directory /r |�mu�v da|

�rekt(ə)ri/ noun full form of RDrenamerename /ri� |�nem/ verb to give a new nameto a filerenderingrendering /�rend(ə)rŋ/ noun the processof colouring and shading a (normally wire-frame or vector object) graphic object so thatit looks solid and realrenumberrenumber /�ri�n�mbə/ noun a feature ofsome computer languages which allows theprogrammer to allocate new values to all orsome of a program’s line numbersreorganisereorganise /ri�|�ɔ�"ənaz/, reorganizeverb to organise something again or in a dif-ferent way � Wait while the spelling checkerdatabase is being reorganised.repaginaterepaginate /ri� |�p�d'net/ verb to changethe lengths of pages of text before they areprinted � The text was repaginated with anew line width.repaginationrepagination /ri�|�p�d'|�neʃ(ə)n/ nounthe action of changing pages lengths � Thedtp package allows simple repagination.repeatrepeat /r|�pi�t/ verb to do an action againrepeaterrepeater /r|�pi�tə/ noun a device used incommunications that amplifies or regener-ates a received signal and transmits it on. Re-generators are often used to extend the rangeof a network, while the repeater works at thephysical layer of the OSI network model. �bridge, OSI, routerrepeating grouprepeating group /r|�pi�tŋ "ru�p/ noun apattern of data that is duplicated in a bitstreamreperforatorreperforator /ri� |�p��fəretə/ noun a ma-chine that punches paper tape according toreceived signalsrepertoirerepertoire /�repə|�twɑ�/ noun the range offunctions of a device or software � The man-ual describes the full repertoire.repetitive letterrepetitive letter /r |�petətv �letə/ noun aform letter or standard letter into which thedetails of each addressee are insertedrepetitive strain injuryrepetitive strain injury /r|�pettv�stren �nd'əri/, repetitive stress injury/r |�pettv stres �nd'əri/ noun pain in thearm, wrist or hands felt by someone who per-forms the same movement many times over acertain period, as when operating a computer� RSI can be avoided by adjusting your chairso that you do not excessively flex your wristswhen typing. Abbr RSI

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replace 206replace

replace /r|�ples/ verb 1. to put somethingback where it was before 2. to find a certainitem of data and put another in its place. �search and replacereplayreplay noun /�ri�ple/ 1. the playing back orreading back of data or a signal from a re-cording 2. the process of repeating a shortsection of filmed action, usually in slow mo-tion � The replay clearly showed the winner.� This video recorder has a replay feature. �verb /ri�|�ple/ to play back something thathas been recordedreplenishreplenish /r|�plenʃ/ verb to charge a bat-tery with electricity againreplicate

replicate /�repl |�ket/ verb to copy some-thing � The routine will replicate your re-sults with very little effort.report program generator

report program generator /r|�pɔ�t�prəυ"r�m �d'enəretə/ noun a program-ming language used mainly on personal com-puters for the preparation of business reports,allowing data in files, databases, etc., to beincluded. Abbr RPGrepresentrepresent /�repr|�zent/ verb 1. to act as asymbol for something � The hash sign isused to represent a number in a series. 2. toact as a salesperson for a productrepresentation

representation /�reprzen|�teʃ(ə)n/noun the action of representing somethingrepresentativerepresentative /�repr|�zentətv/ adjec-tive typical example of something � nounsalesman who represents a company � Therepresentative called yesterday about the or-der.reprintreprint /�ri�prnt/ verb 1. to print more cop-ies of a document or book 2. to create a pos-itive film print from a negative � noun theprinting of copies of a book after the firstprinting � We ordered a 10,000 copy reprint.repro

repro /�ri�prəυ/ noun finished artwork orcamera-ready copy, ready for filming andprinting (informal)reproducereproduce /�ri�prə|�dju�s/ verb to copydata or text from one material or medium toanother similar onereproductionreproduction /�ri�prə|�d�kʃ(ə)n/ noun theaction of copyingreprogram

reprogram /ri�|�prəυ"r�m/ verb to alter aprogram so that it can be run on another typeof computerrepro proof

repro proof /�ri�prəυ pru�f/ noun a perfectproof ready to be reproducedrequest

request /r |�kwest/ noun something thatsomeone asks for � verb to ask for some-thingrequire

require /r |�kwaə/ verb to need somethingor to demand something � Delicate compu-ter systems require careful handling.

required hyphenrequired hyphen /r|�kwaəd �haf(ə)n/noun hyphen which is always in a word, evenif the word is not split (as in co-administra-tor)requirementsrequirements /r|�kwaəmənts/ pluralnoun things which are needed � Memory re-quirements depend on the application soft-ware in use.re-routere-route /�ri� �ru�t/ verb to send somethingby a different routererunrerun /�ri� |�r�n/ verb to run a program or aprinting job againresres /rez/ noun same as resolutionresampleresample /ri� |�sɑ�mp(ə)l/ verb to changethe number of pixels used to make up an im-ageresaveresave /ri�|�sev/ verb to save a document orfile again � It automatically resaves the text.rescue dumprescue dump /�reskju� d�mp/ noun dataautomatically saved on disk when a computerfault occurs. The rescue dump describes thestate of the system at that time, and is used tohelp in debugging.researchresearch /r|�s��tʃ/ noun scientific investi-gation carried out in order to learn new factsabout a field of studyresearch and developmentresearch and development /r |�s��tʃən d|�veləpmənt/ noun full form of R & D� The company has spent millions of dollarson R & D.reserved characterreserved character /r|�z��vd �k�rktə/noun a special character which is used by theoperating system or which has a particularfunction to control an operating system andcannot be used for other usesreserved sectorreserved sector /r|�z��vd �sektə/ nounthe area of disk space that is used only forcontrol data storageresetreset /�ri� |�set/ verb 1. to return a system toits initial state, in order to allow a program orprocess to be started again 2. to set a registeror counter to its initial state � When it reach-es 999 this counter resets to zero. 3. to setdata equal to zero

COMMENT: Hard reset is similar to soft resetbut with a few important differences. Hardreset is a switch that directly signals theCPU, while soft reset signals the operatingsystem; hard reset clears all memory con-tents, while a soft reset does not affectmemory contents; hard reset should al-ways reset the system, while a soft resetdoes not always work if the operating sys-tem has been upset in a significant way.

reset-set flip-flopreset-set flip-flop /�ri�set set �flp �flɒp/noun full form of RS-flip-flopreshape handlereshape handle /�ri�ʃep �h�nd(ə)l/noun (in a GUI) a small square displayed ona frame around an object or image that a usercan select and drag to change the shape of theframe or graphical object

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207 returnresident

resident /�rezd(ə)nt/ adjective referringto data or a program that is always in a com-puterresident fontsresident fonts /�rezd(ə)nt �fɒnts/ pluralnoun font data which is always present in aprinter or device and which does not have tobe downloadedresident softwareresident software /�rezd(ə)nt�sɒftweə/ noun a program that is held per-manently in memory (whilst the machine ison)residual

residual /r |�zdjuəl/ adjective remainingafter the rest or the others have disappearedor have been dealt withresistresist /r|�zst/ verb to fight against some-thing or to refuse to do something � noun asubstance used to protect a pattern of trackson a PCB, which is not affected by etchingchemicalsresistanceresistance /r|�zstəns/ noun a measure ofthe voltage drop across a component with acurrent flowing through it. � Ohm’s Lawresistor

resistor /r|�zstə/ noun an electronic com-ponent that provides a known resistance.Abbr RTLresistor transistor logicresistor transistor logic /r|�zstə tr�n|

�zstə �lɒd'k/ noun a circuit design methodusing transistors and resistors. Abbr RTLresolutionresolution /�rezə |�lu�ʃ(ə)n/ noun 1. thenumber of pixels that a screen or printer candisplay per unit area � The resolution of mostpersonal computer screens is not much morethan 70 dpi (dots per inch). Also called res 2.the difference between two levels that can bedifferentiated in a digitised signal 3. the de-gree of accuracy with which something canbe measured or timed

‘Group IV fax devices can send a grey or colourA4 page in about four seconds, at a maximumresolution of 15.7 lines per millimetre over an In-tegrated Services Digital Network circuit.’ [Com-puting]

resolverresolver /r |�zɒlvə/ noun a system whichregulates the speed of a magnetic film record-er or a tape playback machine (film)resolving power

resolving power /r|�zɒlvŋ �paυə/ nouna measurement of the ability of an opticalsystem to detect fine black lines on a whitebackground, given as the number of lines permillimetreresonanceresonance /�rez(ə)nəns/ noun a situationin which a body oscillates with a very largeamplitude because the frequency applied to itis the same as its natural frequencyresource

resource /r |�zɔ�s/ noun a useful device,product, program or graphic objectresource interchange file format

resource interchange file format /r |

�zɔ�s �ntətʃend' �fal �fɔ�m�t/ noun fullform of RIFF

resource sharingresource sharing /r|�zɔ�s �ʃeərŋ/ nounthe use of one resource in a network or sys-tem by several usersrespondrespond /r|�spɒnd/ verb to reply or to re-act because of somethingresponseresponse /r |�spɒns/ noun a reactioncaused by somethingrestartrestart /r|�stɑ�t/ verb to start somethingagain � First try to restart your system.rest in proportionrest in proportion /�rest n prə|

�pɔ�ʃ(ə)n/ noun full form of RIPrestorerestore /r|�stɔ�/ verb to put something backinto an earlier state

‘…first you have to restore the directory that con-tains the list of deleted files’ [PersonalComputer World]

restrictrestrict /r |�strkt/ verb to keep somethingwithin a certain limitrestrictionrestriction /r|�strkʃ(ə)n/ noun somethingthat restricts data flow or accessresult coderesult code /r |�z�lt kəυd/ noun a messagesent from a modem to the local computer in-dicating the state of the modemretainretain /r |�ten/ verb to keep somethingretentionretention /r|�tenʃ(ə)n/ noun the act ofkeeping somethingretouchretouch /ri� |�t�tʃ/ verb to change a print orphotograph slightly by hand, to make it clear-er or to remove any blemishes � I retouchedthe scratch mark on the last print. � The art-work for the line drawings needs retouchingin places.retrainretrain /�ri� |�tren/ verb to re-establish a bet-ter quality connection when the quality of aline is very badretransmissionretransmission /�ri�tr�nz|�mʃ(ə)n/noun a signal or data that has been retrans-mittedretransmitretransmit /�ri�tr�nz |�mt/ verb to trans-mit again (a received signal)retrievalretrieval /r|�tri�v(ə)l/ noun the process ofsearching, locating and recovering informa-tion from a file or storage deviceretrieveretrieve /r|�tri�v/ verb to extract informa-tion from a file or storage device � These arethe records retrieved in that search.retro-retro- /retrəυ/ prefix relating to an earliertime, state, or stage of developmentretrospective parallel runningretrospective parallel running/�retrəυspektv �p�rəlel �r�nŋ/ noun run-ning a new computer system with old data tocheck if it is accurateretrospective searchretrospective search /�retrəυspektv�s��tʃ/ noun a search of documents on a cer-tain subject since a certain datereturnreturn /r|�t��n/ noun 1. an instruction thatcauses program execution to return to themain program from a subroutine � The pro-gram is not working because you missed out

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return to zero signal 208the return instruction at the end of the sub-routine. 2. a key on a keyboard used to indi-cate that all the required data has been en-tered � You type in your name and codenumber then press return. 3. the indication ofan end of line (in printing)return to zero signalreturn to zero signal /r|�t��n tə �zərəυ�s"n(ə)l/ noun a recording reference marktaken as the level of unmagnetised taperevealreveal /r|�vi�l/ verb to display previouslyhidden information once a condition hasbeen metreversereverse /r|�v��s/ adjective going in the op-posite direction � verb to go or travel in theopposite direction

‘…the options are listed on the left side of thescreen, with active options shown at the top leftin reverse video’ [PC User]

reverse engineeringreverse engineering /r|�v��s �end' |

�nərŋ/ noun a method of product design inwhich the finished item is analysed to deter-mine how it should be constructedreverse Polish notationreverse Polish notation /r |�v��s�pəυlʃ nəυ |�teʃ(ə)n/ noun mathematicaloperations written in a logical way, so thatthe operator appears after the numbers to beacted upon, removing the need for brackets �Three plus four, minus two is written in RPNas 3 4 + 2 – = 5. Abbr RPNreverse videoreverse video /r |�v��s �vdiəυ/ noun ascreen display mode in which white andblack are reversed and colours are comple-mentedrevertrevert /r|�v��t/ verb to return to a normalstate � After the rush order, we reverted backto our normal speed.reviewreview /r |�vju�/ verb to see somethingagain, usually in order to check it � The pro-gram allows the user to review all wronglyspelled words.reviserevise /r |�vaz/ verb to update or correct aversion of a document or file � The revisedversion has no mistakes.rewindrewind /�ri� |�wand/ verb to return a tape orfilm or counter to its starting point � The taperewinds onto the spool automatically.rewriterewrite verb /ri�|�rat/ to write somethingagain. � regenerate � noun /�ri�rat/ the actof writing something again � The program isin its second rewrite.RFRF, R/F noun the electromagnetic spectrumthat lies between the frequency range 10KHzand 3000GHz. Full form radio frequencyRFCRFC /�ɑ� ef �si�/ noun a document that con-tains information about a proposed newstandard and asks users to look at the docu-ment and make any comments. Full form re-quest for commentRGBRGB /�ɑ� d'i� �bi�/ noun a high-definitionmonitor system that uses three separate input

signals controlling red, green and blue colourpicture beams. Full form red, green, blue

COMMENT: There are three colour guns pro-ducing red, green, and blue beams actingon groups of three phosphor dots at eachpixel location.

RGB displayRGB display /�ɑ� d'i� �bi� d|�sple/, RGBmonitor /�mɒntə/ noun a monitor that usesRGBRIRI abbr ring indicatorRIAA curveRIAA curve noun standards for recordingand equalisation set by the RIAA – Record-ing Industries Association of America (film)ribbonribbon /�rbən/ noun a long thin flat pieceof materialrich text formatrich text format /�rtʃ �tekst �fɔ�m�t/noun a way of storing a document that in-cludes all the commands that describe thepage, type, font and formatting. Abbr RTFRIFFRIFF /rf/ noun a multimedia data formatjointly introduced by IBM and Microsoft thatuses tags to identify parts of a multimedia filestructure and allows the file to be exchangedbetween platforms. Full form resource in-terchange file formatRIFF chunkRIFF chunk /�rf tʃ�ŋk/ noun a chunkwith the ID RIFFRIFF fileRIFF file /�rf fal/ noun a file that containstagged information that complies with theRIFF file formatrifle microphonerifle microphone /�raf(ə)l �makrəfəυn/noun a long, highly directional microphonewhich can pick up sound over a great dis-tance (film)right-clickright-click /�rat �klk/ verb to press andrelease the right-hand button of a computermouseright-click menuright-click menu /�rat �klk �menju�/noun a small pop-up menu that appears whenyou click on the right-hand button of a two-button mouseright-hand buttonright-hand button /�rat h�nd �b�t(ə)n/noun a button on the right-hand side of a twoor three-button mouseright justificationright justification /�rat �d'�stf|

�keʃ(ə)n/ noun the process of aligning thetext and spacing characters so that the rightmargin is straightright justifyright justify /�rat �d'�st|�fa/ verb toalign the right margin so that the text isstraightrightsizingrightsizing /�rat �sazŋ/ noun the proc-ess of moving a company’s information tech-nology structure to the most cost-effectivehardware platform, which in practice oftenmeans moving from a mainframe-based net-work to a PC-based networkrigidrigid /�rd'd/ adjective which cannot easilybend

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209 roll in/roll outringring /rŋ/ noun 1. a data list whose last entrypoints back to the first entry 2. the topologyof a network in which the wiring sequentiallyconnects one workstation to another � verbto telephonering counterring counter /�rŋ �kaυntə/ noun an elec-tronic counter in which any overflow fromthe last digit is fed into the inputringingringing /�rŋŋ/ noun (film) 1. interferencein a television picture 2. noise caused by analternating or pulsating currentring topology networkring topology network /�rŋ tə|�pɒləd'i�netw��k/ noun a type of network in whicheach terminal is connected one after the otherin a circleRIPRIP abbr 1. raster image processor 2. rout-ing information protocolrippleripple /�rp(ə)l/ noun 1. a small alternatingcurrent voltage apparent on a badly regulateddirect current output supply 2. a visual effectwhich creates wavy images during film dis-solvesripple-through effectripple-through effect /�rp(ə)l θru� |

�fekt/ noun (in a spreadsheet) the results,changes or errors appearing in a spreadsheetas a result of the value in one cell beingchangedRISCRISC /�ɑ� a es �si�/ noun a CPU designwhose instruction set contains a smallnumber of simple fast-executing instructions,which makes program writing more complexbut increases speed. Full form reduced in-struction set computer. � WISCrise timerise time /�raz tam/ noun the time takenfor a voltage to increase its amplitude (from10 to 90 per cent or zero to RMS value of itsfinal amplitude) � the circuit has a fast risetime electronic circuit that is able to handlerapidly changing signals such as very highfrequency signalsRJ11 connectorRJ11 connector noun a popular standardof four-wire modular connectorRJ45 connectorRJ45 connector noun a popular name foran eight-pin modular connector used in10BaseT networks to connect UTP cablesRJERJE /�ɑ� d'e �i�/ noun a batch processingsystem in which instructions are transmittedto the computer from a remote terminal. Fullform remote job entryRLERLE /�ɑ� el �i�/ noun a data compressiontechnique that stores any sequence of bits ofdata with the same value to a single value.Full form run-length encodingRLL encodingRLL encoding /�ɑ� el el n|�kəυdŋ/ nouna fast and efficient method of storing dataonto a disk in which the changes in a run ofdata bits is stored. Full form run-length lim-ited encodingrmrm /�ɑ� �em/ noun (in UNIX) a command toremove an empty subdirectory

RMDIR

RMDIR abbr remove directory. Same as RDRMS line current

RMS line current /�ɑ� em es �lan�k�rənt/ noun the root mean square of theelectrical current on a lineRORO /�ɑ� �əυ/ noun a computer terminal thatcan only accept and display data, not trans-mit. Full form receive onlyroamroam /rəυm/ verb (in wireless communica-tions) to move around freely and still be incontact with a wireless communicationstransmitterrobotrobot /�rəυ|�bɒt/ noun 1. a device that canbe programmed to carry out certain manufac-turing tasks which are similar to tasks carriedout by people 2. same as botroboticsrobotics /rəυ|�bɒtks/ noun the study of ar-tificial intelligence, programming and build-ing involved with robot constructionrobust

robust /rəυ|�b�st/ adjective referring to asystem which can resume working after afaultrobustnessrobustness /rəυ|�b�stnəs/ noun 1. thestrength of a system’s casing and its ability tobe knocked or dropped � This hard disk isnot very robust. 2. a system’s ability to con-tinue functioning even with errors or faultsduring a program executionrock and rollrock and roll /�rɒk ən �rəυl/ verb to movebackwards and forwards in synchronizationduring editingrogue indicator

rogue indicator /rəυ" �nd|�ketə/ nouna special code used only for control applica-tions, e.g. an end of file markerrogue valuerogue value /�rəυ" �v�lju�/ noun an itemin a list of data which shows that the list isterminated. Also called terminatorrole indicatorrole indicator /�rəυl �nd|�ketə/ noun asymbol used to show the role of a index entryin its particular contextroll

roll /rəυl/ noun 1. a length of film or tapewound around itself � He put a new roll offilm into the camera. 2. unwanted verticalmovement in a picture � verb 1. to rotate adevice about its axis 2. to start filmingrollbackrollback /�rəυlb�k/ noun reloading soft-ware after the master software has been cor-ruptedrolling headers

rolling headers /�rəυlŋ �hedəs/ noun ti-tles or headers of (teletext) pages displayedas they are receivedrolling titlerolling title /�rəυlŋ �tat(ə)l/ noun titleswhich move vertically up a picture area. �crawling titleroll in/roll outroll in/roll out /�rəυl n �rəυl �aυt/ nounthe transfer of one process (in a multipro-gramming system) from storage to processorthen back once it has had its allocatedprocessing time

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rollover 210rolloverrollover /�rəυləυvə/ noun a keyboard witha small temporary buffer so that it can stilltransmit correct data when several keys arepressed at onceroll scrollroll scroll /�rəυl skrəυl/ noun displayedtext that moves up or down the computerscreen one line at a timeROMROM /rɒm/ abbr read only memoryromanroman /�rəυmən/ noun ordinary typeface,neither italic nor bold � The text is set inTimes Roman.Roman numeralsRoman numerals /�rəυmən�nju�mərəlz/ plural noun numbers repre-sented using the symbols I, V, X, L, C, D andMromwareromware /�rɒmweə/ noun software whichis stored in ROMrootroot /ru�t/ noun a fractional power of anumberrotaryrotary /�rəυtəri/ adjective which works byturningrotary camerarotary camera /�rəυtəri �k�m(ə)rə/ nouna camera able to photograph microfilm as it ismoved in front of the lens by moving the filmat the same timerotary erase headrotary erase head /�rəυtəri |�rez �hed/noun a video tape recorder’s erase headrotary movementrotary movement /�rəυtəri �mu�vmənt/noun the effect of spinning images on filmcreated by an optical-spin device in an opticalprinterrotary pressrotary press /�rəυtəri pres/ noun a print-ing press whose printing plate is cylindricalrotary printerrotary printer /�rəυtəri �prntə/ noun aconstant contact printing machine where thetwo films at the time of exposure are trans-ported on a revolving sprocketrotary shutterrotary shutter, rotating shutter noun arotating camera or projector shutter which in-termittently blocks the passage of light as itmoves throughrotaterotate /rəυ|�tet/ verb to move data within astorage location in a circular mannerrotating helical aperture scannerrotating helical aperture scanner/rəυ|�tetŋ �helk(ə)l ��pətʃə �sk�nə/noun a type of scanner in which the originalimage is lit and the reflection sent, through alens and mirror, through a rotating spiral slitand finally onto a photodetector cell; as thespiral slit turns, it has the effect of moving upthe imagerotationrotation /rəυ|�teʃ(ə)n/ noun the degree towhich an object has been rotatedrough copyrough copy /�r�f �kɒpi/ noun a draft of aprogram which, it is expected, will havechanges made to it before it is completeroundround /raυnd/ adjective in the form of a cir-cle or curve

rounding

rounding /�raυndŋ/ noun 1. an approxi-mation of a number to a slightly larger orsmaller one of lower precision 2. the processof giving graphics a smoother lookroute

route /ru�t/ noun the path taken by a mes-sage between a transmitter and receiver in anetwork � The route taken was not the mostdirect since a lot of nodes were busy.router

router /�ru�td/ noun 1. a communicationsdevice that receives data packets in a particu-lar protocol and forwards them to their cor-rect location via the most efficient route 2. (ina LAN) a device that connect two or moreLANs that use the same protocol and allowsdata to be transmitted between each network.The router works at the network-layer levelof the OSI model. � bridge, OSIroutine

routine /ru�|�ti�n/ noun a number of instruc-tions that perform a particular task, but arenot a complete program. They are included aspart of a program. � The routine copies thescreen display onto a printer.

‘Hewlett-Packard has announced software whichaims to reduce PC-network downtime and cutsupport costs by automating housekeeping rou-tines such as issuing alerts about potential prob-lems.’ [Computing]COMMENT: Routines are usually called froma main program to perform a task. Controlis then returned to the part of the main pro-gram from which the routine was calledonce that task is complete.

routingrouting /�ru�tŋ/ noun the process of deter-mining a suitable route for a message througha network � There is a new way of routingdata to the central computer.routing information protocolrouting information protocol /�ru�tŋ�nfəmeʃ(ə)n �prəυtəkɒl/ noun a protocolused on the Internet to calculate the best routeby which to transfer information over the In-ternet. RIP bases its selection on the distancethat each route takes. Abbr RIProwrow /raυ/ noun 1. a line of printed or dis-played characters � The figures are present-ed in rows, not in columns. 2. a horizontalline on a punched card � Each entry is sepa-rated by a row of dots. 3. a horizontal set ofdata elements in an array or matrixRPGRPG abbr report program generatorRS-232C

RS-232C noun an EIA approved standardused in serial data transmission, coveringvoltage and control signalsRS-422RS-422 noun an EIA approved standardthat extends the RS-232’s 50ft limitRS-423

RS-423 noun an EIA approved standardthat extends the RS-232’s 50ft limit, intro-duced at the same time as the RS-422 stand-ard, but less widely used

COMMENT: The RS232C has now been su-perseded by the RS423 and RS422 inter-

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211 R/W headface standards, which are similar to theRS232 but allow higher transmission rates.

RSA cipher system

RSA cipher system /�ɑ�r es e �safə�sstəm/ noun the Rivest, Shamir and Adle-man public key cipher systemRS-flip-flop

RS-flip-flop /�ɑ�r es �flp �flɒp/ noun elec-tronic bistable device whose output can bechanged according to the Reset and Set in-puts. Full form reset-set flip-flop. � flip-flopRTF

RTF abbr rich text formatRTL

RTL abbr resistor transistor logicRTV

RTV /�ɑ� ti� �vi�/ noun real-time video com-pression used within DVI software to provideusable, but lower-quality, images that arecompressed in real-time at 10 frames per sec-ond. Full form real-time videorubber banding

rubber banding /�r�bə �b�ndŋ/ noun �elastic bandingrubber numbers

rubber numbers /�r�bə �n�mbəs/ pluralnoun identification numbers which are im-printed on developed rush prints and soundrecords during film editing (film)rubric

rubric /�ru�brk/ noun printed headings of abook chapter or sectionrule

rule /ru�l/ noun 1. a set of conditions thatdescribe a function � The rule states that youwait for the clear signal before transmitting.2. in printing, a thin lineruler

ruler /�ru�lə/ noun a bar displayed on screenthat indicates a unit of measurement, oftenused in DTP or word-processor software tohelp with layoutrun

run /r�n/ verb to operate, or to make a de-vice operate � The computer has been run-ning ten hours a day.

rundownrundown /�r�ndaυn/ noun the order inwhich programme events will be broadcast(film)run-durationrun-duration /�r�n djυ|�reʃ(ə)n/ noun,adjective same as run-timerun-length encodingrun-length encoding /�r�n leŋθ en|

�kəυdŋ/ noun full form of RLErun-length limited encodingrun-length limited encoding /�r�nleŋθ �lmtd en|�kəυdŋ/ noun full form ofRLL encodingrunning headrunning head /�r�nŋ hed/ noun the titleline of each page in a documentrun offrun off /�r�n �ɒf/ noun an error in position-ing of film which causes it to move over asprocket’s teeth and be damaged (film)run onrun on /�r�n �ɒn/ verb 1. to make text con-tinue without a break � The line can run onto the next without any space. 2. to print morecopies to add to a print run � We decided torun on 3,000 copies to the first printing.run-timerun-time /�r�n tam/, run duration /�r�ndjυ|�reʃ(ə)n/ noun 1. the period of a timethat a program takes to run 2. the time duringwhich a computer is executing a program �also called run-duration � adjective refer-ring to an operation carried out only when aprogram is runningrushesrushes /�r�ʃz/ plural noun (film) 1. the in-itial prints made from a picture or sound neg-ative in order to check the quality 2. uneditedvideo tapeR/WR/W abbr read/writeR/W cycleR/W cycle /�ɑ� �d�b(ə)l ju� �sa(ə)l/ abbrread/write cycleR/W headR/W head /�ɑ� �d�b(ə)l ju� �hed/ noun anelectromagnetic device that allows data to beread from or written to a storage medium.Full form read/write head

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SS100 bus

S100 bus, S-100 bus noun an IEEE-696standard bus, a popular 8– and 16-bit micro-computer bus using 100 lines and a 100-pinconnector. � bus (NOTE: say ‘S one hundredbus’)SAA

SAA a trade name for a standard developedby IBM which defines the look and feel of anapplication regardless of the hardware plat-form. SAA defines which keystrokes carryout standard functions, the application’s dis-play and how the application interacts withthe operating system. Full form SystemsApplication ArchitectureSAFE

SAFE a signature validation technique. Fullform signature analysis using functionalanalysissafe area

safe area /�sef �eəriə/ noun the area of aTV image that will be seen on a standard tel-evision setsafe format

safe format /�sef �fɔ�m�t/ noun a formatoperation that does not destroy the existingdata and allows the data to be recovered incase the wrong disk was formattedsafe mode

safe mode /�sef �məυd/ noun a specialoperating mode of Windows 95 that is auto-matically selected if Windows 95 detects thatthere is a problem when startingsafety margin

safety margin /�sefti �mɑ�d'n/ noun anextra amount of time or space provided sothat errors can be absorbedsafety measures

safety measures /�sefti �me'əz/ pluralnoun actions taken to make sure that some-thing is safesafety net

safety net /�sefti net/ noun a software orhardware device that protects the system orfiles from excessive damage in the event of asystem crash � If there is a power failure, wehave a safety net in the form of a UPS.salami technique

salami technique /sə|�lɑ�mi tek|�ni�k/noun computer fraud involving many sepa-rate small transactions that are difficult to de-tect and traceSAM

SAM /�es e �em/ noun a type of storage inwhich a particular data item can only be ac-cessed by reading through all the previousitems in the list. Full form serial-accessmemory

COMMENT: Magnetic tape is a form of SAM.You have to go through the whole tape toaccess one item, while disks provide ran-dom access to stored data.

samplesample /�sɑ�mpəl/ noun a measurement ofa signal at a point in time � The sample atthree seconds showed an increase. � verb toobtain a number of measurements of a signalwhich can be used to provide informationabout the signalsamplersampler /�sɑ�mplə/ noun 1. an electroniccircuit that takes many samples of a signaland stores them for future analysis 2. an elec-tronic circuit used to record audio signals indigital form and store them to allow futureplaybacksample ratesample rate /�sɑ�mpəl ret/ noun anumber of measurements of a signal that arerecorded every second. A PC sound card nor-mally supports one of the following threestandard rates: 11,025, 22,050 and 44,100samples per second, normally written as11.025KHz, 22.05KHz and 44.1KHz.sample sizesample size /�sɑ�mpəl saz/ noun the sizeof the word used to measure the level of thesignal when it is sampledsans serifsans serif /�s�nz �serf/ noun a typefacewhose letters have no serifssapphiresapphire /�s�faə/ noun a blue-colouredprecious stone used as a substrate for certainchipsSASSAS abbr single attachment stationsatellitesatellite /�s�tə|�lat/ noun 1. a small sys-tem that is part of a larger system 2. a devicethat orbits the earth receiving, processing andtransmitting signals or generating images ordata to be transmitted back to earth, such asweather pictures

COMMENT: In a network the floppy disk unitsare called ‘satellites’ and the hard disk unitthe ‘server’. In a star network each satelliteis linked individually to a central server.

satellite computersatellite computer /�s�təlat kəm|

�pju�tə/ noun a computer doing varioustasks under the control of another computersaturated coloursaturated colour /�s�tʃəretd �k�lə/noun bright colours such as red and orangethat do not reproduce well on video and cancause distortion or can spread over the screensaturationsaturation /�s�tʃə|�reʃ(ə)n/ noun a pointwhere a material cannot be further magnet-isedsavesave /sev/ verb to store data or a programon an auxiliary storage device � This WPsaves the text every 15 minutes in case of afault.

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213 scatter proofssave assave as /�sev əz/ noun an option in an ap-plication that allows the user to save the cur-rent work in a file with a different nameSBCSBC /�es bi� �si�/ noun a computer whosemain components such as processor, in-put/output and memory are all contained onone PCB. Full form single board computerSBMSBM /�es bi� �em/ noun an extension to theRed Book CD-Audio specification in whichstudio-quality 20-bit sound samples arestored in the 16-bit data format used by CD-Audio. Full form super bit mappingscalablescalable /�skeləb(ə)l/ adjective referringto fonts used for computer graphics that canbe made to appear in a wide range of sizesscalable fontscalable font /�skeləb(ə)l �fɒnt/ noun amethod of describing a font so that it can pro-duce characters of different sizesscalable softwarescalable software /�skeləb(ə)l�sɒftweə/ noun a groupware application thatcan easily accommodate more users on a net-work without the need for investment in newsoftwarescalarscalar /�skelə/ noun a variable that has asingle value assigned to it � A scalar has asingle magnitude value, a vector has two ormore positional values.scalescale /skel/ noun the ratio of two valuesscanscan /sk�n/ noun an examination of an im-age or object or list of items to obtain data de-scribing it � The heat scan of the computerquickly showed which component was over-heating. � verb 1. to examine and producedata from the shape or state of an object ordrawing or file or list of items � The facsim-ile machine scans the picture and convertsthis to digital form before transmission. 2. toconvert a printed image or photograph into adigital bitmap form (optical) 3. to move apicture beam across a screen, one line at atime, to refresh the image on the CRT 4. toconvert an optical image (from a video cam-era) into a digital form by examining eachpixel on one line of a frame, then movingdown one line � The fax machine scans thepicture and converts this to digital form be-fore transmission. � The machine scans at upto 300 dpi resolution.scan conversionscan conversion /�sk�n kən|�v��ʃ(ə)n/noun the process of converting an interlacedvideo signal to a non-interlaced signal or acomposite to a separated RGB signalscan linescan line /�sk�n �lan/ noun one of thehorizontal lines of phosphor, or phosphordots, on the inside of a CRT or monitor. Themonitor’s picture beam sweeps along eachscan line to create the image on the screen.scannerscanner /�sk�nə/ noun 1. a device whichscans � A scanner reads the bar-code on theproduct label using a laser beam and photo-

diode. 2. a device that converts an image ordocument into graphical data which can bemanipulated by a computer

‘Ricoh’s Fax 300L Computer Link is connectedto a PC via a RS232C serial interface, and enablesusers to send faxes from within Dos and Win-dows applications without printing a hard copy: Itcan also act as a scanner for graphics, and a print-er for documents.’ [Computing]

scanner memoryscanner memory /�sk�nə �mem(ə)ri/noun the memory area allocated to store im-ages which have been scannedscanningscanning /�sk�nŋ/ noun 1. the action ofexamining and producing data from theshape of an object or drawing 2. a methodwhich examines an area line-by-line throughthe use of an electron beam, and is particular-ly used in television

COMMENT: A modem with auto-baud scan-ning can automatically sense which baudrate to operate on and switches automati-cally to that baud rate.

scanning linescanning line /�sk�nŋ lan/ noun a pathtraced on a CRT screen by the picture beamscanning ratescanning rate /�sk�nŋ ret/ noun thetime taken to scan one line of a CRT imagescanning resolutionscanning resolution /�sk�nŋ rezə|

�lu�ʃ(ə)n/ noun the ability of a scanner to dis-tinguish between small points. The usual res-olution is 300 dpi.scanning softwarescanning software /�sk�nŋ�sɒf(t)weə/ noun a dedicated program thatcontrols a scanner and allows certain opera-tions, e.g. rotate, edit or store, to be per-formed on a scanned imagescanning spotscanning spot /�sk�nŋ spɒt/ noun 1. asmall area of an image that is being read by afacsimile machine that moves over the wholeimage 2. a small area covered by the picturebeam on a TV screen that moves to follow ascanning line to write the whole of an imageonto the screen

‘…scanning time per page ranged from about 30seconds to three minutes’ [PC Business World]

scanning spot beamscanning spot beam /�sk�nŋ �spɒt�bi�m/ noun a satellite transmission to anumber of areas, as the satellite passes overthemSCART connectorSCART connector /�skɑ�t kə|�nektə/noun a special connector normally used tocarry video or audio signals between videoequipmentscatterscatter /�sk�tə/ noun part of a beam that isdeflected or refracted. � backscatterscatter graphscatter graph /�sk�tə "rɑ�f/ noun indi-vidual points or values plotted on a two axisgraphscatter proofsscatter proofs /�sk�tə pru�fs/ pluralnoun proofs not arranged in any order priorto PMT. � backscatter

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scavenging 214scavengingscavenging /�sk�vnd'ŋ/ noun the actof searching through and accessing databasematerial without permissionscenescene /si�n/ noun (film) 1. a group of inter-related shots combined into a continuous ac-tion 2. a location for a specific shot or a groupof shotsscene syncscene sync /�si�n sŋk/ noun a systemwhich allows both movement of the fore-ground camera to be synchronised with themask camera in chroma key, and colour sep-aration overlay special effects (film)scheduleschedule /�ʃedju�l/ noun the order inwhich tasks are to be done, or the order inwhich CPU time will be allocated to process-es in a multi-user systemscheduled circuitsscheduled circuits /�ʃed'u�ld �s��ktz/noun telephone lines for data communica-tions onlyschedulerscheduler /�ʃedju�lə/ noun a program thatorganises the use of a CPU or of peripheralswhich are shared by several usersschedulingscheduling /�ʃedju�lŋ/ noun a method ofworking that allows several users to share theuse of a CPUschemaschema /�ski�mə/ noun a graphical de-scription of a process or database structureschematicschematic /ski|�m�tk/ adjective a dia-gram showing system components and howthey are connectedscissorscissor /�szə/ verb 1. to define an area ofan image and then cut out this part of the im-age so it can then be pasted into another im-age 2. to define an area of an image and de-lete any information that is outside this areascissoringscissoring /�szərŋ/ noun 1. the processof defining an area of an image and then cut-ting out this part of the image so that it canthen be pasted into another image 2. the proc-ess of defining an area of an image and delet-ing any information that is outside this areascopescope /skəυp/ noun 1. the range of valuesthat a variable can contain 2. electronic testequipment that displays on a CRT the sizeand shape of an electrical signal (informal)Also called oscilloscopescorescore /skɔ�/ noun 1. a list of actions thatcontrol how objects or cast members movewith time within a presentation 2. the de-scription of a piece of music using musicalnotesscramblescramble /�skr�mb(ə)l/ verb to codespeech or data which is transmitted in such away that it cannot be understood unless it isdecodedscramblerscrambler /�skr�mblə/ noun 1. a devicethat codes a data stream into a pseudo-ran-dom form before transmission to eliminateany series of ones or zeros or alternate onesand zeros that would cause synchronisation

problems at the receiver 2. a device thatcodes speech or other signals prior to trans-mission so that someone who is listening inwithout authorisation cannot understandwhat is being transmitted (the scrambled sig-nals are de-scrambled on reception to providethe original signals) � He called the Presi-dent on the scrambler telephone.scrapbookscrapbook /�skr�p|�bυk/ noun a utility onan Apple Macintosh that stores frequentlyused graphic images � We store our logo inthe scrapbook.scrape flutterscrape flutter /�skrep �fl�tə/ noun an er-ror in magnetic recording which is caused bythe recording tape sticking which producesflutter (film)scratchscratch /skr�tʃ/ noun 1. an area of mem-ory or of a file used for the temporary storageof data 2. a mark on the surface of a disk �This scratch makes the disk unreadable. �verb to delete or move an area of memory toprovide room for other datascratch filescratch file /�skr�tʃ fal/ noun same aswork filescratchpadscratchpad /�skr�tʃp�d/ noun a work-space or area of high speed memory used fortemporary storage of data currently in use

‘Mathcad is described as an easy-to-use ‘handyscratch pad for quick number crunching’, whichis positioned as an alternative to popular spread-sheets.’ [Computing]

screenscreen /skri�n/ noun 1. a display device ca-pable of showing a quantity of information,such as a CRT or VDU. � readout 2. a gridof dots or lines placed between the cameraand the artwork, which has the effect of di-viding the picture up into small dots, creatingan image which can be used for printing 3.something which protects � verb 1. to pro-tect something with a screen � The PSU isscreened against interference. 2. to select 3.to display or show information � The film isnow being screened.screen anglescreen angle /�skri�n ��ŋ"(ə)l/ noun theangle at which a screen is set before the pho-tograph is takenscreen attributescreen attribute /�skri�n ��trbju�t/noun a set of attribute bits which define howeach character will be displayed on screen.They set background and foreground colourand bold, italic or underline.screen bufferscreen buffer /�skri�n �b�fə/ noun a tem-porary storage area for characters or graphicsbefore they are displayedscreen capturescreen capture /�skri�n �k�ptʃə/ verb tostore the image currently displayed on screenin a filescreen cleaning kitscreen cleaning kit /�skri�n �kli�nŋ�kt/ noun the liquids and cloth which re-move any static and dirt from a VDU screen

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215 search enginescreen dumpscreen dump /�skri�n �d�mp/ noun theprocess of outputting the text or graphics dis-played on a screen to a printerscreen editorscreen editor /�skri�n �edtə/ noun soft-ware which allows the user to edit text on-screen, with one complete screen of informa-tion being displayed at a timescreen formatscreen format /�skri�n �fɔ�m�t/ noun away in which a screen is laid outscreenfulscreenful /�skri�nfυl/ noun a completeframe of information displayed on a screenscreen grabscreen grab /�skri�n �"r�b/ noun 1. theprocess of digitising a single frame from adisplay or television 2. the process of captur-ing what is displayed on a monitor and stor-ing it as a graphics filescreen refreshscreen refresh /�skri�n r|�freʃ/ verb toupdate regularly the images on a CRT screenby scanning each pixel with a picture beam tomake sure the image is still visiblescreen saverscreen saver /�skri�n �sevə/ noun soft-ware which, after a pre-determined period ofuser inactivity, replaces the existing image onscreen and displays moving objects to protectagainst screen burnscreen shotscreen shot /�skri�n �ʃɒt/ noun � screencapturescriptscript /skrpt/ noun 1. a set of instructionswhich carry out a function, normally usedwith a macro language or batch language � Ilog in automatically using this script with mycommunications software. 2. text which willbe spoken by actors in a film or TV pro-grammescripting languagescripting language /�skrptŋ�l�ŋ"wd'/ noun a simple programminglanguage (normally proprietary to an applica-tion) that allows a user to automate the appli-cation’s functions � This communicationssoftware has a scripting language that letsme dial and log in automatically.scriptwriterscriptwriter /�skrptratə/ noun a personwho writes film or TV scriptsscrollscroll /skrəυl/ verb to move displayed textvertically up or down the screen, one line orpixel at a timescroll arrowsscroll arrows /�skrəυl ��rəυz/ pluralnoun (in a GUI) arrows that when clicked,move the contents of the window up or downor sidewaysscroll barscroll bar /�skrəυl bɑ�/ noun (in a GUI) abar displayed along the side of a windowwith a marker which indicates how far youhave scrolled � The marker is in the middleof the scroll bar so I know I am in the middleof the document.scrubscrub /skr�b/ verb to wipe information offa disk or remove data from store � Scrub allfiles with the .BAK extension.

SCSISCSI /�sk�zi/ noun a standard high-speedparallel interface used to connect computersto peripheral devices (such as disk drives andscanners). Full form small computer sys-tem interface

‘…the system uses SCSI for connecting to thehost and ESDI for interconnecting among driveswithin a multidrive system’ [Byte]COMMENT: SCSI is the current standardused to interface high-capacity, high-per-formance disk drives to computers. Small-er disk drives are connected with an IDE in-terface, which is slower, but cheaper. SCSIreplaced the older ESDI interface and al-lows several (usually eight) peripherals tobe connected, in a daisy-chain, to one con-troller.

SDSD abbr single densitySD cardSD card /�es �di� �kɑ�d/ noun same asMMCSDLCSDLC /�es di� el �si�/ noun data transmis-sion protocol most often used in IBM’s Sys-tems Network Architecture (SNA). It defineshow synchronous data is transmitted. Fullform synchronous data link controlsealseal /si�l/ verb to close something tightly sothat it cannot be opened � The hard disk is ina sealed case.seamless integrationseamless integration /�si�mləs �nt |

�"reʃ(ə)n/ noun the process of including anew device or software into a system withoutany problems � It took a lot of careful plan-ning, but we succeeded in a seamless integra-tion of the new application.searchsearch /s��tʃ/ noun the process of lookingfor and identifying a character or word orsection of data in a document or file � verb1. to look for an item of data 2. to movequickly backwards and forwards to differentparts of a programme without losing the syn-chronisation of the sound and picture (film)

‘…a linear search of 1,000 items takes 500 com-parisons to find the target, and 1,000 to report thatit isn’t present. A binary search of the same set ofitems takes roughly ten divisions either to find ornot to find the target’ [Personal ComputerWorld]

searchablesearchable /�s��tʃəb(ə)l/ adjective able tobe accessed by a search facilitysearch and replacesearch and replace /�s��tʃ ənd r|�ples/noun a feature on word-processors which al-lows the user to find certain words or phrases,then replace them with another word orphrasesearch directorysearch directory /�s��tʃ da|�rekt(ə)ri/noun a website in which links to informationare listed in categories or in alphabetical or-dersearch enginesearch engine /�s��tʃ �end'n/ noun 1.(on the Internet) software that searches a da-tabase. � agent 2. (on the Internet) a websitethat compiles a list of websites and allows a

ICT.fm Page 215 Wednesday, July 14, 2004 2:53 PM

searching storage 216visitor to find a website by searching forwordssearching storagesearching storage /�s��tʃŋ �stɔ�rd'/noun a method of data retrieval that uses partof the data rather than an address to locate thedataSECAMSECAM /�es i� si� e �em/ noun a standardfor television transmission and receptionsimilar to PAL except that SECAM uses fre-quency modulation to transmit the chromasignal. SECAM is used in France and EasternEurope. Full form Système ElectroniqueCouleur Avec Mémoiresecondsecond /�sekənd/ adjective (thing) whichcomes after the first � We have two comput-ers, the second one being used if the first isbeing repaired.secondarysecondary /�sekənd(ə)ri/ adjective sec-ond in importance or less important than thefirstsectorsector /�sektə/ noun the smallest area on amagnetic disk which can be addressed by acomputer; the disk is divided into concentrictracks, and each track is divided into sectorswhich, typically, can store 512 bytes of data� verb to divide a disk into a series of sectors

COMMENT: A disk is divided into manytracks, each of which is then divided into anumber of sectors which can hold a certainnumber of bits.

securedsecured /s|�kjυəd/ adjective (of a file) pro-tected against accidental writing or deletionor against unauthorised accessSecure Digital CardSecure Digital Card /s|�kjυə �dd't(ə)l�kɑ�d/ noun same as MMCsecure electronic transactionssecure electronic transactions /s|

�kjυə �elektrɒnk tr�nz|��kʃənz/ pluralnoun full form of SETsecure encryption payment protocolsecure encryption payment proto-col /s|�kjυə n|�krpʃən �pemənt�prəυtəkɒl/ noun full form of SEPPsecure hypertext transfer protocolsecure hypertext transfer protocol/s |�kjυə �hapətekst �tr�nsf�� �prəυtəkɒl/noun full form of S-HTTPsecure serversecure server /s|�kjυə �s��və/ noun anInternet server that allows data to be encrypt-ed and thus is suitable for use in e-commercesecure sitesecure site /s|�kjυə �sat/ noun a websitethat includes features to ensure that any in-formation transferred between the user andthe website is encrypted and cannot be readby a hacker. Also called secure website

COMMENT: A secure website is usually usedin a shopping site to allow a customer totype in their personal details (such as theircredit-card number) without risk. Securewebsites almost always use a systemcalled SSL (secure sockets layer) that cre-ates a secure channel when you visit thesite; when you visit a secure site, the smallpadlock icon in the status bar at the bottom

of your web browser is locked. If the pad-lock icon is open, this is not a secure siteand you should not type in sensitive infor-mation, such as a credit-card number.

secure sockets layer

secure sockets layer /s|�kjυə �sɒkts�leə/ noun full form of SSLsecure systemsecure system /s|�kjυə �sstəm/ noun asystem that cannot be accessed without au-thorisationsecure transaction technologysecure transaction technology /s|

�kjυə tr�n|�z�kʃən tek|�nɒləd'i/ noun fullform of STTsecure websitesecure website /s |�kjυə �websat/ nounsame as secure sitesecuritysecurity /s|�kjυərti/ noun the state of be-ing protected or being secret � The systemhas been designed to assure the security ofthe stored data.security backupsecurity backup /s |�kjυərti �b�k�p/noun a copy of a disk, tape or file kept in asafe place in case the working copy is lost ordamagedsecurity checksecurity check /s |�kjυərti tʃek/ nounidentification of authorised users (by a pass-word) before granting accessSega™

Sega™ /�se"ə/ noun a videogame compa-ny that develops software and hardware forthe console games market; developed theMega-Drive consolesegment

segment /�se"mənt/ noun a section of amain program which can be executed in itsown right, without the rest of the main pro-gram being required � verb to divide a longprogram into shorter sections which can thenbe called up when required. � overlay

‘…you can also write in smaller program seg-ments. This simplifies debugging and testing’[Personal Computer World]

selectselect /s|�lekt/ verb 1. to find and retrievespecific information from a database 2. to po-sition a pointer over an object (such as a but-ton or menu option) and click on the mouse-buttonselectableselectable /s|�lektəb(ə)l/ adjective whichcan be selectedselectable attributes

selectable attributes /s |�lektəb(ə)l��trbju�tz/ plural noun the attributes of adevice which can be chosen by the userselectionselection /s |�lekʃən/ noun 1. the action orprocess of selecting � Selection of informa-tion from a large database may take sometime. 2. the process of defining an area of animage (often used to cut out an area of the im-age, or to limit a special effect to an area)selection toolselection tool /s|�lekʃən tu�l/ noun (in apaint or drawing program) an icon in a tool-bar that allows a user to select an area of animage which can then be cut, copied or proc-essed in some way

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217 serialselectiveselective /s|�lektv/ adjective whichchooses certain itemsselective sortselective sort /s |�lektv sɔ�t/ noun theprocess of sorting a section of data items intoorderselectivityselectivity /s |�lek|�tvti/ noun the abilityof a radio receiver to distinguish between twonearby carrier frequenciesselectorselector /s |�lektə/ noun a mechanical de-vice which allows a user to choose an optionor functionself-self- /self/ prefix oneself or itselfself-correcting codesself-correcting codes /�self kə|�rektŋ�kəυdz/ plural noun a character coding sys-tem which is able to detect and correct an er-ror or bad characterself extracting archiveself extracting archive /�self k|

�str�ktŋ �ɑ�kav/ noun a compressed filethat includes the program to de-compress thecontentssemi-semi- /semi/ prefix half or partlysemicolonsemicolon /�semi |�kəυlɒn/ noun a printedsign (;) which marks the end of a programline or statement in some languages (such asC and Pascal)semiconductorsemiconductor /�semikən|�d�ktə/ nouna material with conductive properties be-tween those of a conductor (such as a metal)and an insulator

COMMENT: Semiconductor material such assilicon is used as a base for manufacturingintegrated circuits and other solid-statecomponents, usually by depositing varioustypes of doping substances on or into itssurface.

sendersender /�sendə/ noun a person who sends amessageSend To commandSend To command /�send tυ kə|�mɑ�nd/noun a menu command, available from theFile menu of Windows applications, that al-lows a user to send the file or data currentlyopen in the application to another applicationsensesense /sens/ verb to examine the state of adevice or electronic component � The condi-tion of the switch was sensed by the program.sensitivesensitive /�senstv/ adjective which cansense even small changes � The computer issensitive even to very slight changes in cur-rent.sensorsensor /�sensə/ noun an electronic devicewhich produces an output dependent uponthe condition or physical state of a process �The sensor’s output varies with temperature.� transducersentinelsentinel /�sentn(ə)l/ noun a marker orpointer to a special section of dataseparateseparate adjective /�sep(ə)rət/ not togeth-er � verb /�sepəret/ to divideseparated graphicsseparated graphics /�sepəretd�"r�fks/ plural noun displayed characters

that do not take up the whole of a charactermatrix, resulting in spaces between themseparatorseparator /�sepə|�retə/ noun a symbolused to distinguish parts of an instruction linein a program, such as command and argu-ment. � delimiterSEPPSEPP /�es i� pi� �pi�/ noun a system devel-oped to provide a secure link between a us-er’s browser and a vendor’s Website to allowthe user to pay for goods over the Internet.Full form secure encryption paymentprotocol. � PGP, S-HTTP, SSL, STTsequencesequence /�si�kwəns/ noun 1. a numberof items or data arranged as a logical, orderedlist 2. a series of musical notes that define atune 3. a series of video framessequence control registersequence control register /�si�kwənskən|�trəυl �red'stə/, sequence counter/�si�kwəns �kaυntə/ noun a CPU registerwhich contains the address of the next in-struction to be processed. Abbr SCR. Alsocalled sequence register, instruction ad-dress register, instruction countersequenced packet exchangesequenced packet exchange/�si�kwənsd �p�kt ks|�tʃend'/ noun fullform of SPXsequencersequencer /�si�kwənsə/ noun 1. softwarethat allows a user to compose tunes for MIDIinstruments, record notes from instrumentsand mix together multiple tracks 2. a hard-ware device that can record or playback a se-quence of MIDI notessequence registersequence register /�si�kwəns�red'stə/ noun same as sequence controlregistersequence shotsequence shot /�si�kwəns ʃɒt/ noun along shot in which both cameras and actorsmove about; used to remove the necessity ofshooting close-ups when the action is veryintense (film)sequentialsequential /s |�kwenʃ(ə)l/ adjective ar-ranged in an ordered mannersequential accesssequential access /s|�kwenʃ(ə)l��kses/ noun a method of retrieving datafrom a storage device by starting at the begin-ning of the medium and reading each recorduntil the required data is found

COMMENT: A tape storage system uses se-quential access, since the tape has to beplayed through until the section required isfound. The access time of sequential ac-cess storage is dependent on the positionin the file of the data, compared with ran-dom access which has the same accesstime for any piece of data in a list.

sequentiallysequentially /s|�kwenʃəli/ adverb (done)one after the other, in sequenceserialserial /�səriəl/ adjective referring to dataor instructions which are ordered sequential-ly (one after the other) and not in parallel

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serial-access memory 218serial-access memoryserial-access memory /�səriəl ��kses�mem(ə)ri/ noun full form of SAMserial data transmissionserial data transmission /�səriəl�detə tr�nz|�mʃ(ə)n/ noun the transmis-sion of the separate bits that make up datawords, one at a time down a single lineserial input/outputserial input/output /�səriəl �npυt�aυtpυt/ noun full form of SIOserial input/parallel outputserial input/parallel output /�səriəl�npυt �p�rəlel �aυtpυt/ noun a devicewhich can accept serial data and transmit par-allel data. Abbr SIPO. Also called serial toparallel converterserial input/serial outputserial input/serial output /�səriəl�npυt �səriəl �aυtpυt/ noun full form ofSISOseriallyserially /�səriəli/ adverb one after the oth-er or in a series � Their transmission rate is64,000 bits per second through a parallelconnection or 19,200 serially.seriesseries /�səri�z/ noun a group of relateditems ordered sequentiallyserifserif /�serf/ noun a small decorative line at-tached to parts of characters in certain type-facesserverserver /�s��və/ noun a dedicated computerwhich provides a function to a network

‘Sequent Computer Systems’ Platform divisionwill focus on hardware and software manufac-ture, procurement and marketing, with the Enter-prise division concentrating on services and serv-er implementation.’ [Computing]COMMENT: In a network the hard disk ma-chine is called the ‘server’ and the floppydisk units the ‘satellites’. In a star networkeach satellite is linked individually to a cen-tral server.

server access logsserver access logs /�s��və ��kses lɒ"s/plural noun � access logserver farmserver farm /�s��və fɑ�m/ noun a businessconsisting of a group of Internet servers, allof which are linked to one another and are en-gaged in web hostingserver message blockserver message block /�s��və �mesd'blɒk/ noun full form of SMBserviceservice /�s��vs/ verb to check or repair ormaintain a system � The disk drives wereserviced yesterday and are working well.service contractservice contract /�s��vs �kɒntr�kt/noun an agreement that an engineer willservice equipment if it goes wrongservice providerservice provider /�s��vs prə |�vadə/noun a company that offers users a connec-tion to the Internet; the service provider has acomputer that acts as a domain name serverand has a high-speed link to the Internet. Itprovides modem access to the Internet viapoint-of-presence telephone numbers. Youconnect to the Internet by setting up an ac-count with the service provider then dialling

into its point-of-presence telephone numberwith a modem.servicesservices /�s��vsz/ plural noun 1. a set offunctions provided by a device 2. (in an OSInetwork model) a set of functions providedby one OSI layer for use by a higher layersessionsession /�seʃ(ə)n/ noun 1. a period ofwork 2. the time during which a program orprocess is running or active 3. a separate oc-casion when image data is recorded onto adiscsetset /set/ noun 1. a number of related dataitems 2. the width of a printed typeface 3. aradio or television receiver 4. the physicallayout of a stage or filming studio includingprops and background � verb 1. to make onevariable equal to a value � We set the right-hand margin at 80 characters. 2. to define aparameter value 3. to give a binary data bitthe value of one 4. to compose a text intotypeset characters � The page is set in 12point Times Roman. � typesetSETSET /set/ plural noun the standards createdby a group of banks and Internet companiesthat allow users to buy goods over the Inter-net without risk of hackers. Full form secureelectronic transactions. Same as SSLsettingsetting /�setŋ/ noun 1. the action of fixingor arranging something � tab settings presetpoints along a line, where the printing heador cursor will stop for each tabulation com-mand 2. the action of composing text intotypeset charactersset upset up /�set �p/ verb to configure, initialise,define or start an application or system � Thenew computer worked well as soon as the en-gineer had set it up.sex changersex changer /�seks �tʃend'ə/ noun a de-vice for changing a female connection to amale or vice versasf signallingsf signalling /�es ef �s"n(ə)lŋ/ nounsame as single-frequency signallingSGMLSGML /�es d'i� em|�el/ noun a hardware-in-dependent standard which defines how docu-ments should be marked up to indicate bolds,italics, margins and so on. Full form Stand-ard Generalized Markup Languageshadeshade /ʃed/ noun 1. a variation in a printedcolour due to added black 2. the quantity ofblack added to a colour to make it darkershadingshading /�ʃedŋ/ noun 1. the process ofshowing darker sections of a line drawing byadding dark colour or by drawing criss-crosslines 2. the adjustment of contrast in a televi-sion pictureshadowshadow /�ʃ�dəυ/ noun the area wherebroadcast signals cannot be received becauseof an obstacle that blocks the transmissionmedium � The mountain casts a shadow

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219 shortcutover those houses, so they cannot receive anyradio broadcasts.shadowmaskshadowmask /�ʃ�dəυmɑ�sk/ noun asheet with holes placed just behind the frontof a colour monitor screen to separate thethree-colour picture beamsshadow memoryshadow memory /�ʃ�dəυ �mem(ə)ri/,shadow page /�ʃ�dəυ ped'/ noun dupli-cate memory locations accessed by a specialcodeshadow ROMshadow ROM /�ʃ�dəυ rɒm/ noun read-only shadow memoryshannonshannon /�ʃ�nən/ noun a measure of theinformation content of a transmissionShannon’s LawShannon’s Law /�ʃ�nənz lɔ�/ noun a lawdefining the maximum information-carryingcapacity of a transmission line

COMMENT: Shannon’s Law is defined as Blg(1 + S/N) where B = Bandwidth, lg is log-arithm to the base two and S/N is Signal toNoise ratio.

shareshare /ʃeə/ verb to own or use somethingtogether with someone else � The facility isshared by several independent companies.shared accessshared access /�ʃeəd ��kses/ noun theuse of a computer or peripheral by more thanone person or systemshared fileshared file /�ʃeəd �fal/ noun a stored filewhich can be accessed by more than one useror systemshared foldershared folder /�ʃeəd �fəυldə/ noun afolder of files stored on a computer’s localhard disk drive that can be used (or shared)by other users on the networksharewareshareware /�ʃeə|�weə/ noun softwarewhich is available free to try, but if kept theuser is expected to pay a fee to the writer (of-ten confused with public domain softwarewhich is completely free)

‘Bulletin board users know the dangers of ‘flam-ing’ (receiving hostile comments following a na-ive or ridiculous assertion) and of being seen‘troughing’ (grabbing every bit of shareware onthe network).’ [Computing]

sheetsheet /ʃi�t/ noun a large piece of papershelf lifeshelf life /�ʃelf laf/ noun the maximumstorage time of a product before it is no long-er guaranteed good to use � The developerhas a shelf life of one year.shellshell /ʃel/ noun software which operates be-tween the user and the operating system, of-ten to try and make the operating systemmore friendly or easier to useshell outshell out /�ʃel �aυt/ verb (when running anapplication) to exit to the operating system,whilst the original application is still in mem-ory; the user then returns to the application �I shelled out from the word-processor tocheck which files were on the floppy, thenwent back to the program.

shell scriptshell script /�ʃel �skrpt/ noun a scriptinglanguage (such as Perl) that is used to createprograms that can enhance a website, e.g. tosearch a site for a key wordshell sortshell sort /�ʃel �sɔ�t/ noun an algorithm forsorting data items, in which items can bemoved more than one position per sort actionSHFSHF abbr super high frequencyshieldshield /ʃi�ld/ noun a metal screen connect-ed to earth, used to prevent harmful voltagesor interference reaching sensitive electronicequipment � verb to protect a signal or de-vice from external interference or harmfulvoltagesshiftshift /ʃft/ verb 1. to move a bit or word ofdata left or right by a certain amount (usuallyone bit) 2. to change from one character setto another, allowing other characters (such ascapitals) to be usedShift keyShift key /�ʃft ki�/ noun the key on a key-board which switches on secondary functionsfor keys, such as another character set, bychanging the output to upper caseShockwaveShockwave /�ʃɒkwev/ a trade name for asystem developed by Macromedia that al-lows web browsers to display complex multi-media effectsshootshoot /ʃu�t/ verb to take a picture or recorda video sequence with a camerashopping agentshopping agent /�ʃɒpŋ �ed'ənt/ nouna computer program used to browse websitessearching for a product or serviceshopping basketshopping basket /�ʃɒpŋ �bɑ�skt/,shopping cart /�ʃɒpŋ kɑ�t/ noun softwarethat runs on a web server and provides anelectronic version of a real shopping basket;the software allows a visitor to the website toview items in the catalogue, add items totheir shopping basket and then pay for thegoods at an electronic checkout. � real-timeauthorisation, secure siteshort circuitshort circuit /�ʃɔ�t �s��kt/ noun an elec-trical connection of very low resistance be-tween two points � verb to connect twopoints together with a (very low resistance)linkshort-circuitedshort-circuited /�ʃɔ�t �s��kt/ adjectiveused to describe two points that are electri-cally connected, usually accidentallyshortcutshortcut /�ʃɔ�t |�k�t/ noun a feature of Win-dows that allows a user to define an icon thatlinks to another file or application, e.g., youcould place shortcut icons on the WindowsDesktop to allow you to start an applicationwithout using the menu commands. Theshortcut has the same icon as the original filebut has a tiny arrow in the bottom left-handcorner. It is not a duplicate of the original,rather it is a pointer to the original file.

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short message service 220short message serviceshort message service /�ʃɔ�t �mesd'�s��vs/ noun a system that allows short textmessages to be sent between and to mobiletelephones; the service depends upon the tel-ephone company. Abbr SMSshort-runshort-run /�ʃɔ�t r�n/ adjective with aprintrun of only a few hundred copies � aprinter specialising in short-run printing �The laser printer is good for short-run leaf-lets.short waveshort wave /�ʃɔ�t wev/ noun radio com-munications frequency below 60 metresshort-wave receivershort-wave receiver /�ʃɔ�t wev r |

�si�və/ noun a radio receiver able to pick upbroadcasts on the short wave bandsshotshot /ʃɒt/ noun the continuous recording ofaction or images by a film camera in a smallnumber of framesshow copyshow copy /�ʃəυ �kɒpi/ noun a selectedcopy of a finished film, video or programmewhich is to be shown to an audienceshow-throughshow-through /�ʃəυ θru�/ noun text print-ed on one side of a piece of paper that can beseen from the othershrinkshrink /ʃrŋk/ verb to become smaller �The drawing was shrunk to fit the space.(NOTE: shrinks – shrank – has shrunk)S-HTTPS-HTTP /�es �etʃ ti� ti� �pi�/ noun a systemdeveloped to provide a secure link between auser’s browser and a vendor’s Website to al-low the user to pay for goods over the Inter-net. Full form secure hypertext transferprotocol. � PGP, SEPP, SET, SSL, STTshut downshut down /�ʃ�t �daυn/ verb to switch offand stop the functions of a machine or systemshut-off mechanismshut-off mechanism /�ʃ�t ɒf�mekənz(ə)m/ noun a device which stops aprocess in case of fault

COMMENT: Most hard disks have an auto-matic shut-off mechanism to pull the headback from the read position when the pow-er is turned off.

shuttershutter /�ʃ�tə/ noun 1. a revolving devicewhich protects a film from light at the aper-ture in a camera and diminishes the projec-tion light in a projector while the film is mov-ing at the aperture 2. a device to control in-tensity of a spotlightshutter controlshutter control /�ʃ�tə kən|�trəυl/ noun 1.a device on a camera which diminishes expo-sure by partly closing the shutter 2. a cameradevice which slowly opens and closes theshutter in order to attain fade-in and fade-outeffectsshutter speedshutter speed /�ʃ�tə spi�d/ noun the timespan for which a shutter is open during the re-quired frame exposureshuttle searchshuttle search /�ʃ�t(ə)l s��tʃ/ noun thecapacity to play back a film, video and audio

tape in both directions and to duplicate thepicture over a large range of speedssidebandsideband /�sadb�nd/ noun the frequencyband of a modulated signal, a little above orbelow the carrier frequencyside lobeside lobe /�sad ləυb/ noun the side sec-tions of an aerial’s response patternsideways ROMsideways ROM /�sadwez rɒm/ nounsoftware which allows selection of a particu-lar memory bank or ROM deviceSIGSIG /s"/ noun a group within a larger clubwhich is interested in a particular aspect ofsoftware or hardware � Our local computerclub has a SIG for comms and networking.Full form special interest groupsignsign /san/ noun polarity of a number orsignal (whether it is positive or negative) �verb to identify oneself to a computer using apersonalised signaturesignalsignal /�s"n(ə)l/ noun 1. a generated ana-log or digital waveform used to carry infor-mation � The signal received from the com-puter contained the answer. 2. a short mes-sage used to carry control codes � verb tosend a message to a computer � Signal to thenetwork that we are busy.signallingsignalling /�s"n(ə)lŋ/ noun 1. a methodused by a transmitter to warn a receiver that amessage is to be sent 2. a communication tothe transmitter about the state of the receiversignal reflectionsignal reflection /�s"n(ə)l r|�flekʃ(ə)n/noun the amount of transmitted signal that isreflected at the receiver due to an impedancemismatch or faultsignal to noise ratiosignal to noise ratio /�s"n(ə)l tə �nɔz�reʃiəυ/ noun the difference between thepower of the transmitted signal and the noiseon the line. Abbr S/Nsignaturesignature /�s"ntʃə/ noun 1. a special au-thentication code, such as a password, whicha user gives prior to access to a system or pri-or to the execution of a task (to prove identi-ty) 2. the name written in a special way bysomeone � Do you recognise the signatureon the cheque? 3. a series of printed and fold-ed pages in a book (usually 8, 16 or 32 pages)significancesignificance /s"|�nfkəns/ noun a spe-cial meaningsignificantsignificant /s"|�nfkənt/ adjective whichhas a special meaningsignifysignify /�s"n |�fa/ verb to mean � A car-riage return code signifies the end of an inputline.siliconsilicon /�slkən/ noun an element withsemiconductor properties, used in crystalform as a base for IC manufacture

COMMENT: Silicon is used in the electronicsindustry as a base material for integratedcircuits. It is grown as a long crystal whichis then sliced into wafers before being

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221 single-sided disketched or treated, producing several hun-dred chips per wafer. Other materials, suchas germanium or gallium arsenide, are alsoused as a base for ICs.

Silicon ValleySilicon Valley /�slkən �v�li/ noun anarea in California where many US semicon-ductor device manufacturers are basedSIMDSIMD /�es a em �di�/ noun the architectureof a parallel computer which has a number ofALUs and data buses with one control unit.Full form single instruction stream multi-ple data streamSIMMSIMM /�es a em �em/ noun a small, com-pact circuit board with an edge connectoralong one edge that carries densely-packedmemory chips � You can expand the mainmemory of your PC by plugging in two moreSIMMs. Full form single in-line memorymodulesimple device

simple device /�smp(ə)l d|�vas/ noun amultimedia device that does not require adata file for playback, such as a CD driveused to play audio CDssimple mail transfer protocolsimple mail transfer protocol/�smpəl mel �tr�nsf�� �prəυtəkɒl/ nounfull form of SMTPsimple network management protocolsimple network management proto-col /�smpəl �netw��k �m�nd'mənt�prəυtəkɒl/ noun a network managementsystem which defines how status data is sentfrom monitored nodes back to a control sta-tion; SNMP is able to work with virtually anytype of network hardware and software. AbbrSNMPsimplexsimplex /�smpleks/ noun full form ofSPX. opposite duplexsimplifysimplify /�smpl |�fa/ verb to make some-thing simpler � Function keys simplify pro-gram operation.simulatesimulate /�smjυ|�let/ verb to copy the be-haviour of a system or device with another �This software simulates the action of an air-craft.simulationsimulation /�smjυ|�leʃ(ə)n/ noun an op-eration where a computer is made to imitatea real life situation or a machine, and showshow something works or will work in the fu-ture � Simulation techniques have reached ahigh degree of sophistication.simulatorsimulator /�smjυ|�letə/ noun a devicewhich simulates another systemsimulcastsimulcast /�sməlkɑ�st/ noun to broadcasta programme at the same time on both televi-sion and radiosimultaneoussimultaneous /�sm(ə)l |�teniəs/ adjec-tive which takes place at the same time assomething elsesimultaneouslysimultaneously /�sm(ə)l |�teniəsli/ ad-verb at the same time

simultaneous transmissionsimultaneous transmission/�sm(ə)lteniəs tr�nz|�mʃ(ə)n/ noun thetransmission of data or control codes in twodirections at the same time. Same as duplexsinsin /sn/, sine noun a mathematical func-tion defined as: the sine of an angle (in aright-angled triangle) is equal to the ratio ofopposite to hypotenuse sidessine wavesine wave /�san wev/ noun a waveformthat is the sine function with time (classicwave shape, changing between a maximumand minimum with a value of zero at zerotime)singlesingle /�sŋ"(ə)l/ adjective only onesingle attachment stationsingle attachment station /�sŋ"(ə)l ə|

�t�tʃmənt �steʃ(ə)n/ noun (in an FDDInetwork) a station with only one port throughwhich to attach to the network; SAS stationsare connected to the FDDI ring through aconcentrator. Abbr SASsingle board computersingle board computer /�sŋ"(ə)l bɔ�dkəm |�pju�tə/ noun full form of SBCsingle-frequency signallingsingle-frequency signalling /�sŋ"(ə)l�fri�kwənsi �s"n(ə)lŋ/ noun the use of var-ious frequency signals to represent differentcontrol codes. Also called sf signallingsingle function softwaresingle function software /�sŋ"(ə)l�f�ŋkʃən �sɒftweə/ noun an applicationsprogram used for one kind of task onlysingle in-line memory modulesingle in-line memory module/�sŋ"(ə)l n lan �mem(ə)ri �mɒdju�l/ nounfull form of SIMMsingle in-line packagesingle in-line package /�sŋ"(ə)l n lan�p�kd'/ noun an electronic componentwhich has all its leads on one side of its pack-age. Abbr SIPsingle instruction stream multiple data streamsingle instruction stream multipledata stream /�sŋ"(ə)l n|�str�kʃənstri�m �m�ltp(ə)l �detə �stri�m/ noun fullform of SIMDsingle instruction stream single data streamsingle instruction stream singledata stream /�sŋ"(ə)l n|�str�kʃənstri�m �sŋ"(ə)l �detə stri�m/ noun fullform of SISDsingle mode fibresingle mode fibre /�sŋ"(ə)l məυd�fabə/ noun an optic fibre that has a verynarrow diameter (of 10 microns or less) andis designed to transmit a single light signalover a long distance; this type of fibre has abandwidth of 5Gbits/second and is normallyused for long distance telephone networkssingle sidebandsingle sideband /�sŋ"(ə)l �sadb�nd/noun a modulated signal filtered to leave justone sideband, usually the upper (this is veryeconomical on bandwidth but requires morecomplex circuitry)single-sided disksingle-sided disk /�sŋ"(ə)l �sadd�dsk/ noun a floppy disk that can only storedata on one side, because of the way it ismanufactured or formatted. Abbr SSD

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single-user system 222single-user systemsingle-user system /�sŋ"(ə)l �ju�zə�sstəm/ noun a computer system which canonly be used by a single user at a time (as op-posed to a multi-user system)sinksink /sŋk/ noun the receiving end of a com-munications line. Opposite sourcesinusoidalsinusoidal /�sanə|�sɔd(ə)l/ adjectivewaveform or motion that is similar to a sinewave � The carrier has a sinusoidal wave-form.SIOSIO abbr serial input/outputSIPSIP abbr single in-line packagesiphoningsiphoning /�safənŋ/ noun the transmis-sion of a direct broadcast TV programmeover a cable networkSISDSISD /�es a es �di�/ noun the architecture ofa serial computer, which has one ALU anddata bus, with one control unit. Full form sin-gle instruction stream single datastreamSISOSISO abbr serial input/serial outputsitesite /sat/ noun a place where something isbasedsite licencesite licence /�sat �las(ə)ns/ noun a li-cence between a software publisher and auser which allows any number of users in thatsite to use the software � We have negotiateda good deal for the site licence for the 1200employees in our HQ.site pollsite poll /�sat �pəυl/ verb to poll all the ter-minals or devices in a particular location orarea. � pollingSI unitsSI units /�es �a �ju�nts/ plural noun inter-national measurement units such as candela,lumen, and ampere. Full form Système In-ternational units. � MKSsixteen-bitsixteen-bit /�sks|�ti�n bt/ adjective (of amicrocomputer system or CPU) which han-dles data in sixteen bit words, providingmuch faster operation than older eight-bitsystems16-bit sample16-bit sample /�sksti�n bt �sɑ�mp(ə)l/noun a single sample of an analog signalwhich is stored as a 16-bit number, meaningthat there are 65,536 possible levels. A ‘16-bit sound card’ can sometimes mean that thecard generates 16-bit samples, but it can alsomean that it generates 8-bit samples, but fitsinto a 16-bit expansion slot. � 8-bit sample,24-bit sample64-bit64-bit /�sksti �fɔ� bt/ data that is trans-ferred sixty-four bits at a time along sixty-four parallel conductors; in a processor thisrefers to its ability to manipulate numbersthat are sixty-four bits longsizesize /saz/ noun the physical dimensions ofan image, object or page � verb to calculatethe resources available, and those required, tocarry out a particular job

sizingsizing /�sazŋ/ noun the process of reduc-ing or enlarging a picture to fit � Photo-graphs can be edited by cropping, sizing, etc.sketchsketch /sketʃ/ noun a rough drawing maderapidly � verb to make a rough rapid drawingskewskew /skju�/ noun 1. the amount by whichsomething is not correctly aligned 2. a televi-sion picture distortion in a zig zag shapewhich can be caused by a mechanical fault inthe video tape motion or tension � verb toalign something incorrectly � This page isbadly skewed.skipskip /skp/ verb 1. to ignore an instructionin a sequence of instructions � The printerskipped the next three lines of text. 2. to trans-mit radio waves over an abnormally long dis-tance due to the reflective properties of theatmosphereslashed zeroslashed zero /�sl�ʃd �zərəυ/ noun aprinted or written sign (Ø)slaveslave /slev/ noun 1. a remote secondarycomputer or terminal controlled by a centralcomputer 2. a recorder which dubs playbacksfrom a master tape; the video tape used forthis dubbing processsleepsleep /sli�p/ noun the state of a system thatis waiting for a signal (log-on) before doinganything. � wakesleevesleeve /sli�v/ noun a paper or plastic coverfor a magnetic diskslewslew /slu�/ noun a rapid movement of paperin a printer, ignoring the normal line advanceslicingslicing /�slasŋ/ noun the process of cut-ting thin round wafers from a bar of siliconcrystalslideslide /slad/ noun 1. one image in a presen-tation or a single frame of positive photo-graphic film 2. a transparency which is to beprojected by transmitted light � verb to movesmoothly across a surface � The disk coverslides on and off easily.slide showslide show /�slad ʃəυ/ noun a feature of apresentation graphics software in whichslides (static images) are displayed in a se-quence under the control of the presenterslip pagesslip pages /�slp �ped'z/, slip proofs/�slp pru�fs/ noun proofs, where each pageof text is printed on a separate piece of paperslotslot /slɒt/ noun a long thin hole � The sys-tem disk should be inserted into the left-handslot on the front of the computer. � verb to in-sert an object into a hole � The disk slots intoone of the floppy drive apertures.slow motionslow motion /�sləυ �məυʃ(ə)n/ noun 1.the playing back of a video tape or disk se-quence slower than recorded � The filmswitched to slow motion. � Play the filmagain in slow motion. 2. the process of film-ing with a motion picture camera with thefilm moving at a more accelerated speed than

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223 snownormal so that when the film is projected at anormal rate, the action seems to be sloweddownslow scanslow scan /�sləυ sk�n/ noun a televisiontransmission and scanning at a slower framerate than usualslow scan TVslow scan TV /�sləυ sk�n ti� �vi�/ noun asystem used to transmit still video framesover a telephone lineSLSISLSI abbr super large scale integrationslurslur /sl��/ noun 1. a printed image which isblurred because of movement during printing2. distortion of voice during transmissionsmallsmall /smɔ�l/ adjective not largesmall computer system interfacesmall computer system interface/�smɔ�l kəm |�pju�tə �sstəm �ntəfes/ nounfull form of SCSIsmall-scalesmall-scale /�smɔ�l skel/ adjective work-ing with small amounts of data. Comparelarge-scalesmall scale integrationsmall scale integration /�smɔ�l skel�nt|�"reʃ(ə)n/ noun an integrated circuitwith 1 to 10 components. Abbr SSIsmartsmart /smɑ�t/ adjective intelligentsmart cardsmart card /�smɑ�t kɑ�d/ noun a plasticcard with a memory and microprocessor de-vice embedded in it, so that it can be used forelectronic funds transfer or for identificationof the usersmart terminalsmart terminal /�smɑ�t �t��mn(ə)l/noun a computer terminal which can processinformation. Compare dumb terminalSMATVSMATV noun a distributor of cable or mi-crowave satellite broadcasts to separateviewers from a central antenna. Full formsatellite master antenna televisionSMBSMB /�es em �bi�/ noun a system developedby Microsoft which allows a user to accessanother computer’s files and peripherals overa network as if they were local resources. Fullform server message blocksmileysmiley /�smali/ noun a face created withtext characters, used to provide the realmeaning to an email message; e.g., :-) meanslaughter or a joke, and :-( means sadsmooth scrollsmooth scroll /�smu�ð �skrəυl/ noun textwhich is moved up a screen pixel by pixelrather than line by line, which gives asmoother movementSMPTESMPTE /�es em pi� ti� �i�/ noun an organi-sation that defines standards for televisionproduction systems; e.g., the SMPTE timecode standard is widely used to synchroniseaudio and video equipment using hours, min-utes, seconds, frame data that is stored in an80-bit word. Full form Society for MotionPicture and TV EngineersSMPTE division typeSMPTE division type /�es em pi� ti� �i�d|�v'(ə)n �tap/ noun a timing format

which specifies the number of frames persecond used, and in which time is shown ashours, minutes, seconds, frames; standardSMPTE division types are 24, 25 and 30frames per secondSMPTE offsetSMPTE offset /�es em pi� ti� i� �ɒfset/noun a MIDI event that defines when a MIDIfile is to be played backSMPTE time codeSMPTE time code /�es em pi� ti� i� �tam�kəυd/ noun a method of assigning a uniqueidentifying number to each frame in a videosequenceSMSSMS abbr short message serviceSMTSMT /�es em �ti�/ noun a method of manu-facturing circuit boards in which the elec-tronic components are bonded directly ontothe surface of the board rather than being in-serted into holes and soldered into place �Surface-mount technology is faster and morespace-efficient than soldering. Full form sur-face-mount technologySMTPSMTP /�es em ti� �pi�/ noun a standard pro-tocol which allows electronic mail messagesto be transferred from one system to another,normally used as the method of transferringmail from one Internet server to another or tosend mail from a computer to a server. Fullform simple mail transfer protocol. Com-pare POP 3S/NS/N abbr signal to noise ratioSNASNA /�es en �e/ noun design methods de-veloped by IBM which define how communi-cations in a network should occur and allowdifferent hardware to communicate. Fullform Systems Network Architecturesnail mailsnail mail /�snel mel/ noun a term usedto refer to the usually slow postal delivery asopposed to nearly instant electronic mail de-livery (slang)snapshotsnapshot /�sn�p|�ʃɒt/ noun 1. a recordingof all the states of a computer at a particularinstant 2. the process of storing in mainmemory the contents of a screen full of infor-mation at an instant 3. a personal photographtaken quicklysnapshot dumpsnapshot dump /�sn�p|�ʃɒt d�mp/ nouna printout of all the registers and a section ofmemory at a particular instant, used when de-bugging a programsndsnd /saυnd/ noun a filename extension usedto indicate a file that contains digitised sounddata. Full form SouNDSNMPSNMP abbr simple network managementprotocolSNOBOLSNOBOL /�snəυbɒl/ noun a high-levelprogramming language which uses stringprocessing methods. Full form string orien-tated symbolic languagesnowsnow /snəυ/ noun interference displayed asflickering white flecks on a monitor

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s/n ratio 224s/n ratio

s/n ratio /�es �en �reʃiəυ/ noun the ratio ofthe amplitude of the transmitted signal to thenoise on the received signal. Full form sig-nal to noise ratiosoak

soak /səυk/ verb to run a program or devicecontinuously for a period of time to makesure it functions correctlySociety for Motion Picture and TV Engineers

Society for Motion Picture and TVEngineers /sə |�saəti fə �məυʃ(ə)n�pktʃə ən �ti� �vi�/ noun full form ofSMPTEsocket

socket /�sɒkt/ noun a device with a set ofholes, into which a plug fitssocket driver

socket driver /�sɒkt �dravə/ noun sameas WinsockSOCKS

SOCKS /sɒks/ noun a network protocol de-veloped to support the transfer of TCP/IP (In-ternet) traffic through a proxy server. It iscommonly used to provide a way for users ona local area network to access the Internet viaa single shared connection.SOF

SOF /�es əυ �ef/ noun an indication of syn-chronised picture and sound on film. Fullform sound-on-filmsoft

soft /sɒft/ adjective 1. referring to materialwhich loses its magnetic effects when re-moved from a magnetic field 2. referring todata which is not permanently stored in hard-ware. Soft usually refers to data stored onmagnetic medium. Compare hard error 3.one shape that gradually changes to anothersoft copy

soft copy /�sɒft �kɒpi/ noun text listed onscreen (as opposed to hard copy on paper). �hard copysoft error

soft error /�sɒft �erə/ noun a random errorcaused by software or data errors which isvery difficult to trace and identify since itonly appears under certain conditionssoft-fail

soft-fail /�sɒft �fel/ adjective referring to asystem which is still partly operational evenafter a part of the system has failedsoft font

soft font /�sɒft �fɒnt/ noun fonts or type-faces stored on a disk, which can be down-loaded or sent to a printer and stored in tem-porary memory or RAMsoft goods

soft goods /�sɒft "υdz/ plural noun soft-ware that can be purchased and paid for in anonline shop, and which is then downloadeddirectly onto a computer instead of receivinga CD-ROM sent by postsoft hyphen

soft hyphen /�sɒft �haf(ə)n/ noun sameas discretionary hyphensoft keyboard

soft keyboard /�sɒft �ki�bɔ�d/ noun akeyboard where the functions of the keys canbe changed by programssoft keys

soft keys /�sɒft �ki�z/ plural noun keyswhich can be changed by means of a program

soft resetsoft reset /�sɒft �ri�set/ noun an instruc-tion that terminates any program executionand returns the user to the monitor or BIOSsoft-sectored disksoft-sectored disk /�sɒft �sektəd �dsk/noun a disk where the sectors are describedby an address and start code data written ontoit when the disk is formattedsoftwaresoftware /�sɒftweə/ noun 1. any programor group of programs which instructs thehardware on how it should perform, includ-ing operating systems, word processors andapplications programs 2. films, audio tapesand audio disks that are commercially acces-sible (NOTE: no plural for software. For theplural say pieces of software.) 3. pro-grammes for broadcast which are presentedon electronic equipmentsoftware compatiblesoftware compatible /�sɒftweə kəm|

�p�tb(ə)l/ adjective referring to a computerwhich will load and run programs written foranother computersoftware developersoftware developer /�sɒftweə d|

�veləpə/ noun a person or company whichwrites softwaresoftware developmentsoftware development /�sɒftweə d|

�veləpmənt/ noun the processes required toproduce working programs from an initialideasoftware documentationsoftware documentation /�sɒftweə�dɒkjυmen |�teʃ(ə)n/ noun information,notes and diagrams describing the function,use and operation of a piece of softwaresoftware engineersoftware engineer /�sɒftweə �end'nə/noun a person who can write working soft-ware to fit an applicationsoftware engineeringsoftware engineering /�sɒftweə�end'nərŋ/ noun a field of study coveringall software-related subjectssoftware housesoftware house /�sɒftweə haυs/ noun acompany which develops and sells computerprogramssoftware librarysoftware library /�sɒftweə �labrəri/noun a number of specially written routines,stored in a library file which can be insertedinto a program, saving time and effort. AbbrHsoftware licencesoftware licence /�sɒftweə �las(ə)ns/noun an agreement between a user and a soft-ware house, giving details of the rights of theuser to use or copy the softwaresoftware life cyclesoftware life cycle /�sɒftweə �laf�sak(ə)l/ noun the period of time when apiece of software exists, from its initial de-sign to the moment when it becomes out ofdatesoftware maintenancesoftware maintenance /�sɒftweə�mentənəns/ noun the process of carryingout updates and modifications to a softwarepackage to make sure the program is up todate

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225 Sound Recordersoftware-only video playback

software-only video playback/�sɒftweə �əυnli �vdiəυ �pleb�k/ nounthe ability to display full-motion video stand-ard on any multimedia computer, without re-quiring special hardwaresoftware packagesoftware package /�sɒftweə �p�kd'/noun computer programs and manuals de-signed for a special purposesoftware piracy

software piracy /�sɒftweə �parəsi/noun the illegal copying of software for salesoftware quality assurancesoftware quality assurance /�sɒftweə�kwɒlti ə|�ʃυərəns/ noun the process ofmaking sure that software will perform as in-tended. Abbr SQAsoftware reliabilitysoftware reliability /�sɒftweə r |�laə|

�blti/ noun the ability of a piece of softwareto perform the task required correctlysoftware specification

software specification /�sɒftweə�spesf|�keʃ(ə)n/ noun detailed informa-tion about a piece of software’s abilities,functions and methodssoftware system

software system /�sɒftweə �sstəm/noun all the programs required for one ormore taskssoft zonesoft zone /�sɒft �zəυn/ noun a text area tothe left of the right margin in a word-proc-essed document, where if a word does not fitcompletely, a hyphen is automatically insert-edsolar

solar /�səυlə/ adjective referring to the sunsolar cell

solar cell /�səυlə sel/ noun a componentthat converts the light of the sun into electri-cal energySolaris™Solaris™ /səυ|�lɑ�rs/ a multi-tasking,multiprocessing operating system and sys-tem utilities developed by SunSoft forSPARC computers and PCs with a 80386solarisationsolarisation /səυləra|�zeʃ(ə)n/, solari-zation noun 1. a flare in a film image due tothe film having been struck by light duringprocessing 2. a photographic effect where thepicture image colours or tones are reversed,such as normally light areas becoming darkerand vice versa; an almost identical effect canbe created by video techniquessolar power

solar power /�səυlə �paυə/ noun (electri-cal) power derived from the sunsolenoidsolenoid /�sɒlənɔd/ noun a mechanicaldevice operated by an electromagnetic fieldsolid modellingsolid modelling /�sɒld �mɒd(ə)lŋ/noun a function in a graphics program thatcreates three-dimensional solid-looking ob-jects by shadingsolid-statesolid-state /�sɒld stet/ adjective refer-ring to semiconductor devicessolution

solution /sə |�lu�ʃ(ə)n/ noun 1. the answerto a problem 2. a liquid in which certainchemicals have been dissolved

solvesolve /sɒlv/ verb to find the answer to aproblemsonarsonar /�səυnɑ�/ noun a device that usessound waves to determine the state and depthof waterson fileson file /�s�n fal/ noun the latest workingversion of a file. Compare father file,grandfather filesongsong /sɒŋ/ noun a complete musical tunesong keysong key /�sɒŋ ki�/ noun a musical keyused to play a MIDI songsonicsonic /�sɒnk/ adjective referring to sound;(sound signals) within the human hearingrange (20 – 20,000Hz)sophisticatedsophisticated /sə|�fstketd/ adjectivetechnically advanced � A sophisticated desk-top publishing program.sophisticationsophistication /sə|�fst|�keʃ(ə)n/ nounthe state of being technically advanced � Thesophistication of the new package is remark-able.sortsort /sɔ�t/ verb to put data in order, accord-ing to a system, on the instructions of the user� To sort addresses into alphabetical order.sortkeysortkey /�sɔ�tki�/, sort field /�sɔ�t fi�ld/noun a field in a stored file which is used tosort the file � The orders were sorted accord-ing to dates by assigning the date field as thesortkey.soundsound /saυnd/ noun a noiseSound BlasterSound Blaster /�saυnd �blɑ�stə/ a tradename for a type of sound card for PC compat-ibles developed by Creative Labs that allowssounds to be recorded to disk (using a micro-phone) and played backsound capturesound capture /�saυnd �k�ptʃə/ nounthe conversion of an analog sound into a dig-ital form that can be used by a computersound cardsound card /�saυnd �kɑ�d/ noun an ex-pansion card which produces analog soundsignals under the control of a computer �This software lets you create almost anysound – but you can only hear them if youhave a sound card fitted.sound chipsound chip /�saυnd �tʃp/ noun a devicethat will generate a sound or tunesound filesound file /�saυnd �fal/ noun a file storedon disk that contains sound datasound pressure levelsound pressure level /�saυnd �preʃə�lev(ə)l/ noun full form of SPLsoundproofsoundproof /�saυndpru�f/ adjectivewhich does not allow sound to pass through� The telephone is installed in a soundproofbooth.Sound RecorderSound Recorder /�saυnd r |�kɔ�də/ autility included with Microsoft Windows thatallows a user to play back digitised soundfiles or record sound onto disk and carry outvery basic editing

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source 226sourcesource /sɔ�s/ noun 1. a point where a trans-mitted signal enters a network. Oppositesink 2. an original or initial point 3. the nameof a terminal on an FET devicesource documentsource document /�sɔ�s �dɒkjυmənt/noun a form or document from which data isextracted prior to entering it into a databasesource filesource file /�sɔ�s �fal/ noun a programwritten in source language, which is thenconverted to machine code by a compilersource languagesource language /�sɔ�s �l�ŋ"wd'/noun 1. a language in which a program isoriginally written 2. a language of a programprior to translation. Opposite object lan-guage, target languagespacespace /spes/ noun 1. a gap between char-acters or lines 2. a transmitted signal repre-senting a binary zero. Opposite mark � verbto spread out text � The line of characterswas evenly spaced out across the page.space barspace bar /�spes bɑ�/ noun a long bar atthe bottom of a keyboard, which inserts aspace into the text when pressedspacingspacing /�spesŋ/ noun the process ofputting spaces between characters or lines ofprinted text � The spacing on some lines isvery uneven.spamspam /sp�m/ noun an article that has beenposted to more than one newsgroup, so islikely to contain commercial messages(slang)spam killerspam killer /�sp�m �klə/ noun a piece ofsoftware that automatically identifies anddeals with spam in incoming e-mailspanning treespanning tree /�sp�nŋ tri�/ noun amethod of creating a network topology thatdoes not contain any loops and provides re-dundancy in case of a network fault or prob-lemspark printerspark printer /�spɑ�k �prntə/ noun athermal printer which produces characters onthermal paper by electric sparkssparse arraysparse array /�spɑ�s ə|�re/ noun a datamatrix structure containing mainly zero ornull entriesspatial measurementspatial measurement /�speʃ(ə)l�me'əmənt/ noun a method of allowing acomputer to determine the position of apointer within three dimensions (often usinga sensitive glove)speakerspeaker /�spi�kə/ noun � loudspeakerspecspec /spek/ noun same as specifications(informal)specialspecial /�speʃ(ə)l/ adjective which is dif-ferent or not usualspecial characterspecial character /�speʃ(ə)l �k�rktə/noun a character which is not a standard onein a certain font (such as a certain accent or asymbol)

special interest groupspecial interest group /�speʃ(ə)l�ntrəst �"ru�p/ noun full form of SIGspecialisespecialise /�speʃəlaz/ verb to study andbe an expert in a subject � He specialises inthe design of CAD systems.specialistspecialist /�speʃəlst/ noun an expert in acertain field of study � You need a specialistprogrammer to help devise a new word-processing program.specificationsspecifications /�spesf |�keʃ(ə)nz/ noundetailed information about what is to be sup-plied or about a job to be done � high speccabling needs to be very carefully handled �to work to standard specifications to workto specifications which are accepted any-where in the same industry � the work is notup to specification, does not meet the cus-tomer’s specifications the product was notmanufactured in the way which was detailedin the specificationsspecific codespecific code /spə|�sfk �kəυd/ noun abinary code which directly operates the cen-tral processing unit, using only absolute ad-dresses and valuesspecificityspecificity /�spes|�fsəti/ noun the ratio ofnon-relevant entries not retrieved to the totalnumber of non-relevant entries contained in afile, database or libraryspecifyspecify /�spes |�fa/ verb to state clearlywhat is neededspectrumspectrum /�spektrəm/ noun a range offrequencies; range of coloursspectrum analyserspectrum analyser /�spektrəm��nəlazə/ noun electronic test equipmentthat displays the amplitudes of a number offrequencies in a signalspeechspeech /spi�tʃ/ noun the act of speaking ormaking words with the voice

‘…speech conveys information, and the primarytask of computer speech processing is the trans-mission and reception of that information’[Personal Computer World]

speech recognitionspeech recognition /�spi�tʃ �rekə"|

�nʃ(ə)n/ noun the process of analysing spo-ken words in such a way that a computer canrecognise spoken words and commandsspeech synthesisspeech synthesis /�spi�tʃ �snθəss/noun the production of spoken words by aspeech synthesiserspeech synthesiserspeech synthesiser /�spi�tʃ�snθəsazə/ noun a device which takes datafrom a computer and outputs it as spokenwordsspellcheckspellcheck /�speltʃek/ verb to check thespelling in a text by comparing it with a dic-tionary held in the computerspellcheckerspellchecker /�speltʃekə/, spellingchecker /�spelŋ �tʃekə/ noun a dictionaryof correctly spelled words, held in a compu-ter, and used to check the spelling of a text �

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227 sprocket holesThe program will be upgraded with a word-processor and a spelling checker.spherical aberration

spherical aberration /�sferk(ə)l ��bə|

�reʃ(ə)n/, spherical distortion noun opti-cal distortion causing lines to appear curvedspherical optics

spherical optics /�sferk(ə)l �ɒptks/plural noun camera or spotlight lenses whichhave surfaces with different curvatures whichare used to create changes in the paths fol-lowed by light raysspherisation

spherisation /�sfəra |�zeʃ(ə)n/ noun aspecial effect provided by a computer graph-ics program that converts an image into asphere, or ‘wraps’ the image over a sphericalshapespider

spider /�spadə/ noun a program thatsearches through the millions of pages thatmake up the world wide web for new infor-mation, changes or pages that have been de-leted. These changes are then added to asearch engine index to ensure that it is alwaysup to date.spike

spike /spak/ noun a very short durationvoltage pulsespill

spill /spl/, spill light /�spl lat/ noun un-wanted light created by a diffusion of lightalong the principal beam of a light sourcespillage

spillage /�spld'/ noun a situation whentoo much data is being processed and cannotbe contained in a bufferspin

spin /spn/ verb to turn round fast � Thedisk was spun by the drive.spindle

spindle /�spnd(ə)l/ noun an object whichgrips and spins a disk in the centre holespindling

spindling /�spndlŋ/ noun the process ofturning a disk by handspine

spine /span/ noun the back edge of thebook which is covered by the binding � Theauthor’s name and the title usually are shownon the spine as well as on the front cover.spirit duplicator

spirit duplicator /�sprt �dju�plketə/noun a short-run printing method using spiritto transfer ink onto the paperSPL

SPL /�es pi� �el/ noun a measure of loud-ness, in decibels (dB). Full form soundpressure levelsplash screen

splash screen /�spl�ʃ skri�n/ noun theinitial screen that is displayed for a few sec-onds when a program is started � The splashscreen normally displays the product logoand gives basic copyright information.splice

splice /splas/ verb to join two lengths ofmagnetic tape, forming a continuous lengthsplit-field lens

split-field lens /�splt fi�ld �lenz/, split-focus lens /�splt �fəυkəs �lenz/ noun acamera lens which is able to achieve perfectfocus at two different planes

split-focus shot

split-focus shot /�splt �fəυkəs �ʃɒt/noun a shot where the focus of the camera isaltered from one plane to anothersplit screensplit screen /�splt skri�n/ noun 1. soft-ware which can divide the display into two ormore independent areas, to display two textfiles or a graph and a text file � We use splitscreen mode to show the text being worked onand another text from memory for compari-son. 2. a shot where two or more images arevisible in different areas of the same picturesplittersplitter /�spltə/ noun a device which al-lows a number of other a devices to beplugged into one supply or linespoofspoof /spu�f/ verb to send e-mail using afalse name or e-mail addressspool

spool /spu�l/ noun a reel on which a tape orprinter ribbon is wound � verb to transferdata from a disk to a tapespoolerspooler noun a device which holds a tapeand which receives information from a diskfor storagespoolingspooling /�spu�lŋ/ noun the process oftransferring data to a disk from which it canbe printed at the normal speed of the printer,leaving the computer available to do some-thing elsespooling devicespooling device /�spu�lŋ d|�vas/ nounsame as spoolerspot

spot /spɒt/ noun a point on a CRT screenthat is illuminated by the electron beamspot beamspot beam /�spɒt bi�m/ noun narrow (sat-ellite) antenna coverage of a select region (onearth)spotting

spotting /�spu�lŋ/ noun the retouching,with an opaque substance, of undesirablemarks on film which appeared during the de-veloping processspot wobble

spot wobble /�spɒt �wɒb(ə)l/ noun verti-cal fluctuation of a television display’s scan-ning beam in order to make the raster spacingless obviousspreadsheet

spreadsheet /�spredʃi�t/ noun a programwhich allows calculations to be carried outon several columns of numbersspritesprite /sprat/ noun an object which movesround the screen in computer graphicssprocket

sprocket noun a wheel with teeth round itwhich fit into holes in continuous stationeryor punched tapesprocket feedsprocket feed /�sprɒkt fi�d/ noun a pa-per feed where the printer pulls the paper byturning sprocket wheels which fit into a se-ries of holes along each edge of the sheet. �tractor feedsprocket holes

sprocket holes /�sprɒkt həυlz/ pluralnoun 1. a series of small holes on each edgeof continuous stationery, which allow the

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sprocket wheel 228sheet to be pulled through the printer 2. per-forations in the edges of a strip of filmsprocket wheelsprocket wheel /�sprɒkt wi�l/ nounsame as sprocketspurspur /sp��/ noun a connection point into anetworkspurious dataspurious data /�spjυəriəs �detə/ noununexpected or unwanted data or an error in asignal, often due to noiseSPXSPX /�es pi� �eks/ a trade name for a net-work transport protocol developed by Novelland used to carry IPX network traffic. Fullform sequenced packet exchange �noun data transmission in only one direction.Full form simplex. Opposite duplexspywarespyware /�spaweə/ noun a type of soft-ware that can be installed on someone’s harddisk without that person’s knowledge. It isdesigned to send back encoded informationabout the computer owner’s identity and theway he or she uses the Internet to the personwho installed it.SQASQA abbr software quality assuranceSQLSQL /�es kju� �el/ noun a simple, commonlyused standard, database programming lan-guage that is only used to create queries to re-trieve data from the database. Full formstructured query languagesquare wavesquare wave /�skweə �wev/ noun apulse that rises vertically, levels off, thendrops vertically; the ideal shape for a digitalsignalsqueezesqueeze /skwi�z/ noun the horizontalcompression of film images by using an an-amorphic lenssqueeze roomsqueeze room /�skwi�z ru�m/ noun asystem which alters the shape of a televisionimage for an artistic effectSSDSSD abbr single-sided diskSSISSI abbr small scale integrationSSLSSL /�es es �el/ noun a protocol designed byNetscape that provides secure communica-tions over the Internet. Full form securesockets layer. � PGP, SEPP, SET, STTSTST noun a range of personal computers de-veloped by Atari that use the Motorola 68000series CPUstabiliserstabiliser /�steblazə/, stabilizer noun amount which holds the camera steadystabilitystability /stə|�blti/ noun the condition ofbeing stablestablestable /�steb(ə)l/ adjective not moving ornot changingstackstack /st�k/ noun temporary storage fordata, registers or tasks where items are addedand retrieved from the same end of the list. �LIFOstackable hubstackable hub /�st�kəb(ə)l �h�b/ noun ahub device that has an external connector to

allow several devices to be connected togeth-er so that network information can pass fromone network ring to anotherstagestage /sted'/ noun one of several points ina process � The text is ready for the printingstage.stagedstaged /sted'd/ adjective carried out instages, one after the otherstage windowstage window /�sted' �wndəυ/ noun awindow in which a video or animation se-quence is viewed (normally refers to a win-dow in which a Movie Player sequence isplayed)stand-alonestand-alone /�st�nd ə|�əυn/, standaloneadjective referring to a device or system thatcan operate without the need of any other de-vices � The workstations have been net-worked together rather than used as stand-alone systems. � noun such a device or sys-temstandardstandard /�st�ndəd/ adjective normal orusualstandard documentstandard document /�st�ndəd�dɒkjυmənt/, standard form /�st�ndədfɔ�m/ noun a printed document or formwhich is used many times (with differentnames and addresses often inserted – as in aform letter)standard functionstandard function /�st�ndəd �f�ŋkʃən/noun a special feature included as normal ina computer systemStandard Generalized Markup LanguageStandard Generalized Markup Lan-guage /�st�ndəd �d'en(ə)rəlazd�mɑ�k�p �l�ŋ"wd'/ noun full form ofSGMLstandardisestandardise /�st�ndədaz/ verb to makea series of things conform to a standard � tostandardise control of transmission linksstandard letterstandard letter /�st�ndəd �letə/ noun aletter which is sent without any change to themain text, but which is personalised by in-serting the names and addresses of differentpeoplestandard paragraphstandard paragraph /�st�ndəd�p�rə"rɑ�f/ noun a printed paragraph whichis used many times (with different names andaddresses often inserted – as in a form letter)standardsstandards /�st�ndədz/ plural noun nor-mal quality or normal conditions which areused to judge other things � this batch ofdisks is not up to standard � up to standardof an acceptable quality � this batch of disksis not up to standardstandards converterstandards converter /�st�ndədz kən |

�v��tə/ noun a device to convert received sig-nals conforming to one standard into a differ-ent standardstandard textstandard text /�st�ndəd �tekst/ noun aprinted text which is used many times (with

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229 step framedifferent names and addresses often inserted– as in a form letter)standbystandby /�st�ndba/ adjective referring toa device or program that is ready for use incase of failure � noun such a device or pro-gramstandby equipmentstandby equipment /�st�ndba |

�kwpmənt/ noun a secondary system iden-tical to the main system, to be used if themain system breaks downstaplestaple /�step(ə)l/ noun a bent metal pinwhich attaches pages together � verb to at-tach papers together with a bent metal pin �The booklet is stapled together. � The colla-tor gathers signatures together before sta-pling.star filterstar filter /�stɑ� �fltə/ noun a filter with anengraved design which creates star effects onstrong light sourcesstar networkstar network /�stɑ� �netw��k/ noun a net-work of several machines where each node islinked individually to a central hub. Comparebus network, ring topology networkstartstart /stɑ�t/ noun the beginning or first partstart bitstart bit /�stɑ�t �bt/ noun a transmitted bitused (in asynchronous communications) toindicate the start of a character. Oppositestop bitStart buttonStart button /�stɑ�t �b�t(ə)n/ noun a but-ton that is normally in the bottom left-handcorner of a Windows 95 Desktop screen andprovides a convenient route to the programsand files on the computerstart of textstart of text /�stɑ�t əv �tekst/ noun atransmitted code indicating the end of controlor address information and the start of themessage. Abbr SOT, STXstart pagestart page /�stɑ�t ped'/ noun the web-page to which a visitor to a website is auto-matically taken firststartup diskstartup disk /�stɑ�t�p dsk/ noun a flop-py disk which holds the operating system andsystem configuration files which can, in caseof hard disk failure, be used to boot the com-puterStartup folderStartup folder /�stɑ�t�p �fəυldə/ noun aspecial folder on a hard disk that containsprograms that will be run automatically whenthe user next starts Windowsstartup screenstartup screen /�stɑ�t�p skri�n/ nountext or graphics displayed when an applica-tion or multimedia book is runstatementstatement /�stetmənt/ noun 1. an expres-sion used to convey an instruction or define aprocess 2. an instruction in a source languagewhich is translated into several machine codeinstructionsstate-of-the-artstate-of-the-art /�stet əv ði �ɑ�t/ adjec-tive very modern or technically as advancedas possible

‘…the main PCB is decidedly non-state-of-the-art’ [Personal Computer World]

staticstatic /�st�tk/ adjective 1. referring todata that does not change with time 2. refer-ring to a system that is not dynamic

COMMENT: Static RAM uses bistable devic-es such as flip-flops to store data; thesetake up more space on a chip than the ca-pacitative storage method of dynamic RAMbut do not require refreshing.

static objectstatic object /�st�tk �ɒbd'ekt/ noun anobject in an animation or video that does notmove within the framestationstation /�steʃ(ə)n/ noun a point in a net-work or communications system which con-tains devices to control the input and outputof messages, allowing it to be used as a sinkor sourcestationarystationary /�steʃ(ə)n(ə)ri/ adjective notmovingstationerystationery /�steʃ(ə)n(ə)ri/ noun officesupplies for writing, especially paper, enve-lopes, labels, etc.statisticalstatistical /stə|�tstk(ə)l/ adjective basedon statisticsstatisticianstatistician /�st�t|�stʃ(ə)n/ noun a per-son who analyses statisticsstatisticsstatistics /stə |�tstks/ noun the study offacts in the form of figures � plural noun acollection of numerical datastatusstatus /�stetəs/ noun importance or posi-tion of somethingstatus barstatus bar /�stetəs bɑ�/ noun a line at thetop or bottom of a screen which gives infor-mation about the task currently being workedon, e.g. position of cursor, number of lines,filename, timestatus linestatus line /�stetəs lan/ noun same asstatus barST connectorST connector /�es ti� kə|�nektə/ noun aconnector used to terminate optical fibresSTDSTD abbr subscriber trunk diallingSTDMSTDM abbr statistical time division multi-plexingsteadicamsteadicam /�stedik�m/ noun a devicewhich prevents camera shake and providessmooth action with a hand-held camerasteep learning curvesteep learning curve /�sti�p �l��nŋ�k��v/ noun 1. referring to a product that isvery difficult to use 2. such a productsteg analysissteg analysis /�ste" ə |�n�ləss/ noun theprocess of searching through computerisedgraphics or music files to find slight changesin the normal patterns that may show thepresence of hidden messagesstepstep /step/ noun a single unitstep framestep frame /�step frem/ verb to capture avideo sequence one frame at a time, usedwhen the computer is not powerful or fast

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stepper motor 230enough to capture real-time full-motion vid-eostepper motorstepper motor, stepping motor noun amotor which turns in small steps as instructedby a computer (used in printers, disk drivesand robots)step printingstep printing /�step �prntŋ/ noun aprinting process where the film is exposedone frame at a timestep throughstep through /�step θru�/ noun a functionof a debugger that allows a developer to exe-cute a program one instruction at a time tosee where the fault liessteradionsteradion /stə|�rediɒn/ noun a unit of sol-id anglestereostereo /�steriəυ/, stereophonic /�steriə|

�fɒnk/ adjective referring to sound recordedonto two separate channels from two separatemicrophone elements and played backthrough a pair of headphones or two speakersstereophonystereophony /�steri |�ɒfəni/ noun soundreproduction using two or more channels toproduce a three dimensional effect of soundstereoscopystereoscopy /�steri |�ɒskəpi/ noun a pho-tography system which provides a three di-mensional effectstickinessstickiness /�stkinəs/ noun the ability of awebsite to attract visitors and to keep theminterested for a long timestickysticky /�stki/ adjective used to describe anInternet site that attracts visitors, especiallyone that keeps them interested for a long timestillstill /stl/ noun a single image or framewithin a video or film sequencestill framestill frame /�stl frem/ noun an individualfilm or video tape frame which is continuous-ly reproducedstochastic modelstochastic model /stə|�k�stk �mɒd(ə)l/noun a mathematical representation of a sys-tem which includes the effects of random ac-tionsstock control programstock control program /�stɒk kən|

�trəυl �prəυ"r�m/ noun software designedto help manage stock in a businessstopstop /stɒp/ verb to cease doing somethingstop-action photosstop-action photos /�stɒp ��kʃən�fəυtəυz/ noun images in which objectshave been intermittently filmed one frame ata time so that when they are projected at anormal speed the changes that occur to theseobjects will be apparentstop and wait protocolstop and wait protocol /�stɒp ən �wet�prəυtəkɑl/ noun communications protocolin which the transmitter waits for a signalfrom the receiver that the message was cor-rectly received before transmitting furtherdatastop bitstop bit /�stɒp bt/ noun a transmitted bitused in asynchronous communications to in-

dicate the end of a character. Opposite startbitstop downstop down /�stɒp �daυn/ verb to decreasethe width of a lens aperture by altering the di-aphragm of the irisstop elementstop element /�stɒp �elmənt/ noun sameas stop bitstop framestop frame /�stɒp frem/ noun � stillframestop motionstop motion /�stɒp �məυʃ(ə)n/ noun thefilming, projecting or printing of one frame ata timestoragestorage /�stɔ�rd'/ noun memory or thepart of a computer system in which data orprograms are kept for further usestorage devicestorage device /�stɔ�rd' d|�vas/ nounany device which can store data and then al-low it to retrieved when requiredstorage mediumstorage medium /�stɔ�rd' �mi�diəm/noun any physical material that can be usedto store data for a computer applicationstorage tubestorage tube /�stɔ�rd' tju�b/ noun aspecial CRT used for computer graphics,which retains an image on screen without theneed for refresh actionsstorestore /stɔ�/ noun memory or the part of acomputer system in which data or programsare kept for further use � verb to save data,which can then be used again as necessary �Storing a page of high resolution graphicscan require 3Mb.

COMMENT: Storage devices include hardand floppy disk, RAM, punched paper tapeand magnetic tape.

store and forwardstore and forward /�stɔ� ən �fəɔwəd/noun an electronic mail communicationssystem which stores a number of messagesbefore retransmitting themstory boardstory board /�stɔ�ri bɔ�d/ noun a series ofpictures or drawings that show how a videoor animation progressesstraight cutstraight cut /�stret k�t/ noun the cuttingfrom one shot to another with no interveningvisual effectstraystray /stre/ adjective referring to some-thing that has avoided being stopped � Themetal screen protects the CPU against strayelectromagnetic effects from the PSU.streakingstreaking /�stri�kŋ/ noun 1. verticalstripes on a camera pick-up tube which candivide an image light into red-blue-greencomponents without using dichroic mirrors2. horizontal television picture distortionstreamstream /stri�m/ noun a long flow of serialdatastreamingstreaming /�stri�mŋ/ noun the process ofreading data from a storage device in onecontinuous operation, without processor in-tervention

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231 sub-‘…the product has 16Mb of memory, 45Mb ofWinchester disk storage and 95Mb streamingtape storage’ [Minicomputer News]

streaming audiostreaming audio /�stri�mŋ �ɔ�diəυ/noun digital audio data that is continuouslytransmitted (normally over the Internet) us-ing a streaming protocol to provide stereosoundstreaming datastreaming data /�stri�mŋ �detə/,streaming protocol noun a method ofsending a continuous stream of data over theInternet to provide live video or sound trans-mission

COMMENT: Older methods of sending con-tinuous live data used a standard webserver (an HTTP server) to transmit the da-ta. However, an HTTP server is designedto send data when it is ready rather thansending a regular stream of data that is re-quired by multimedia. If you have ever triedto view a video clip over the Internet, youmay have encountered this burst-transmis-sion problem: when traffic or server loadlightens, you can watch 20 frames per sec-ond, when the server is busy, you canwatch one frame per minute. To provide agood multimedia server, the data deliverymust be regulated and ideally synchro-nised. There are many different standardsused to deliver sound and video over theInternet including Progressive Network’sRealAudio, Microsoft’s NetShow server,with supports both audio and video, andNetscape’s MediaServer. Each of thesestreaming data technologies allows theuser or publisher to limit the delivery ofdata to a maximum data rate. There areseveral standard formats used includingMicrosoft’s multimedia delivery format,ASF (active streaming format) and otherstandards developed by Macromedia,VDOnet, Vivo, and VXtreme.

streaming videostreaming video /�stri�mŋ �vdiəυ/noun video image data that is continuouslytransmitted (normally over the Internet) us-ing a streaming protocol to provide smoothmoving imagesstrikethroughstrikethrough /�strakθru�/ noun a hori-zontal line used for indicating deleted textstringstring /strŋ/ noun any series of consecu-tive alphanumeric characters or words thatare manipulated and treated as a single unitby the computerstring orientated symbolic languagestring orientated symbolic lan-guage /�strŋ �ɔ�riəntetd sm |�bɒlk�l�ŋ"wd'/ noun full form of SNOBOLstringy floppystringy floppy /�strŋi �flɒpi/ noun sameas tape streamerstripstrip /strp/ noun a long thin piece of mate-rial � verb to remove the control data from areceived message, leaving only the relevantinformationstripestripe /strap/ noun a long thin line of col-our

stripingstriping /�strapŋ/ noun the process ofadding longitudinal time-code to video rush-esstrobestrobe /strəυb/ verb to send a pulse, usual-ly on the selection line, of an electronic cir-cuit � noun the pulse of an electric circuitstrobe lightingstrobe lighting /�strəυb �latŋ/ nounelectronic flash lighting working at the samerate as a motion picture camera frame, creat-ing sharp images of fast-moving objectsstroboscopestroboscope /strəυb/, strobe noun alight source which produces flashes of lightstrokestroke /strəυk/ noun 1. the width (in pix-els) of a pen or brush used to draw on-screen2. a basic curved or straight line that makesup a characterstructurestructure /�str�ktʃə/ noun a way in whichsomething is organised or formed � verb toorganise or to arrange in a certain waystructured designstructured design /�str�ktʃəd d |�zan/noun a number of interconnected moduleswhich are intended to solve problemsstructured query languagestructured query language/�str�ktʃəd �kwəri �l�ŋ"wd'/ noun fullform of SQLSTTSTT /�es ti� �ti�/ noun a system developed toprovide a secure link between a user’s brows-er and a vendor’s Website to allow the user topay for goods over the Internet. Full form se-cure transaction technology. � PGP,SEPP, SET, S-HTTP, SSLstubstub /st�b/ noun a short program routinewhich contains comments to describe the ex-ecutable code that will, eventually, be insert-ed into the routinestudiostudio /�stju�diəυ/ noun a place where adesigner draws; a place where recordingstake a place; a place where films are madeSTXSTX abbr start of textstylestyle /stal/ noun the typeface, font, pointsize, colour, spacing and margins of text in aformatted documentstyle sheetstyle sheet /�stal ʃi�t/ noun 1. a templatewhich can be preformatted to generate auto-matically the style or layout of a documentsuch as a manual, book or newsletter 2. asheet giving the style which should be fol-lowed by an editorstylusstylus /�staləs/ noun 1. a pen-like devicewhich is used in computer graphics systemsto dictate cursor position on the screen 2. (ina transducer ) a needle which converts sig-nals on an audio record into electrical signals3. a transducer that detects data stored on avideodiscstylus printerstylus printer /�staləs �prntə/ noun �dot-matrix printersub-sub- /s�b/ prefix less than, less importantthan or lower than

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subdirectory 232subdirectory

subdirectory /�s�bd|�rekt(ə)ri/ noun adirectory of disk or tape contents containedwithin the main directory

‘…if you delete a file and then delete the subdi-rectory where it was located, you cannot restorethe file because the directory does not exist’[Personal Computer World]

sub-domainsub-domain /�s�b dəυ|�men/ noun a sec-ond level of addressing on the Internet thatnormally refers to a department name withina larger organisationsubdomain name

subdomain name /�s�bdə|�men �nem/noun an organisational name consisting oftwo or three letters, e.g. ac or .com, that pre-cedes the two-letter country domain name inan Internet address, as in ‘.com.au’, the ad-dress for Australian commercial sites.subjective camera

subjective camera /səb|�d'ektv�k�m(ə)rə/ noun scenes shot from the pointof view of the camera in order to intensify au-dience reactionsubmenusubmenu /�s�bmenju�/ noun a secondarymenu displayed as a choice from a menusubmit buttonsubmit button /səb|�mt �b�t(ə)n/ noun abutton displayed on a webpage that sends in-formation entered by a user on a web form toa program running on a web server forprocessing, e.g., the submit button could beused to start a search querysubnetsubnet /�s�bnet/ noun a self-containedpart of a large network, normally referring toone, independently-managed part of the In-ternetsubnet address

subnet address /�s�bnet ə|�dres/, sub-net number /�s�bnet �n�mbə/ noun thepart of an IP address that identifies a subnetthat is connected to a larger network. Thefirst part of the IP address identifies the net-work, the next part of the IP address identi-fies the subnet and the last part of the IP ad-dress identifies a single host server.subnet mask

subnet mask /�s�bnet mɑ�sk/ noun a fil-ter that is used to select the portion of an IPaddress that contains the subnet addresssubnotebooksubnotebook /s�b|�nəυtbυk/ noun a verysmall portable computer, smaller and lighterthan a standard full-size notebook or laptopcomputer. A subnotebook often has a smallerkeyboard and display and often only includesa hard disk drive with any floppy disk driveor CD-ROM drive in a separate, external unitthat can be plugged in when needed.subprogramsubprogram /�s�bprəυ"r�m/ noun 1. asubroutine in a program 2. a program calledup by a main programsubroutinesubroutine /�s�bru�|�ti�n/ noun a sectionof a program which performs a requiredfunction and can be called upon at any timefrom inside the main program

COMMENT: A subroutine is executed by acall instruction which directs the processorto its address; when finished it returns tothe instruction after the call instruction inthe main program.

subscribersubscriber /səb|�skrabə/ noun 1. a per-son who has a telephone 2. a person whopays for access to a service such as a BBSsubscriptsubscript /�s�bskrpt/ noun a small char-acter which is printed below the line of othercharacters. � superscript (NOTE: used inchemical formulae: CO2)subsetsubset /�s�b|�set/ noun a small set of dataitems which forms part of a another larger setsubstancesubstance /�s�bstəns/ noun any matterwhose properties can be describedsubstitutesubstitute /�s�bsttju�t/ verb to putsomething in the place of something else(NOTE: you substitute one thing for another)substitutionsubstitution /�s�bst |�tju�ʃ(ə)n/ noun theact of replacing something by something elsesubstratesubstrate /�s�bstret/ noun a base materi-al on which an integrated circuit is construct-ed. � integrated circuitsubsystemsubsystem /�s�bsstəm/ noun one small-er part of a large systemsubtitlesubtitle /�s�btat(ə)l/ noun a captionwhich is inserted over the filmed action, gen-erally at the bottom of the screen, to provideinformation, to give a direct translation of di-alogue in a foreign language, or as an aid tothe hard of hearingsubtotalsubtotal /�s�b|�təυt(ə)l/ noun the total atthe end of a column, which when added toothers makes the grand totalsubtractive primariessubtractive primaries /səb|�tr�ktv�praməriz/ plural noun the colours cyan,magenta and yellowsubtrahendsubtrahend /�s�btrəhend/ noun in a sub-traction operation, the number to be subtract-ed from the minuendsubvoice grade channelsubvoice grade channel /�s�bvɔs"red �tʃ�n(ə)l/ noun a communicationschannel using frequencies (240 – 300Hz) be-low a voice channel, used for low speed datatransmissionsuccessivesuccessive /sək|�sesv/ adjective whichfollow one after the other � Each successiveoperation adds further characters to thestring.suffix notationsuffix notation /�s�fks nəυ|�teʃ(ə)n/noun mathematical operations written in alogical way, so that the symbol appears afterthe numbers to be acted uponsuitcasesuitcase /�su�tkes/ noun (in the AppleMacintosh environment) an icon which con-tains a screen font and allows fonts to be eas-ily installed onto the systemsuite of programssuite of programs /�swi�t əv�prəυ"r�mz/ noun 1. a group of programs

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233 SVGAwhich run one after the other � The word-processing system uses a suite of three pro-grams, editor, spelling checker and printingcontroller. 2. a number of programs used fora particular tasksummation checksummation check /s�|�meʃ(ə)n tʃek/noun an error detection check performed byadding together the characters received andcomparing with the required totalsun outagesun outage /�s�n �aυtd'/ noun the lengthof time during which a satellite does not op-erate due to the position of the moon or earth,causing a shadow over the satellite’s solarcellssuper-super- /su�pə/ prefix very good or verypowerfulsuper bit mappingsuper bit mapping /�su�pə �bt �m�pŋ/noun full form of SBMsupercomputersupercomputer /�su�pəkəm |�pju�tə/noun a very powerful mainframe computerused for high speed mathematical taskssuper high frequencysuper high frequency /�su�pə ha�fri�kwənsi/ noun the frequency range be-tween 3 – 30GHz. Abbr SHFsuperimposesuperimpose /�su�pərm|�pəυz/ verb 1. tolay one picture over another so that they bothremain visible 2. to add a graphic or a captionover a picturesuperior numbersuperior number /sυ|�pəriə �n�mbə/noun a superscript figuresuper large scale integrationsuper large scale integration /�su�pə�lɑ�d' skel �nt|�"reʃ(ə)n/ noun an inte-grated circuit with more than 100,000 com-ponents. Abbr SLSIsuper master groupsuper master group /�su�pə �mɑ�stə"ru�p/ noun a collection of 900 voice chan-nelssuperscriptsuperscript /�su�pə|�skrpt/ noun a smallcharacter printed higher than the normal lineof characters. Compare subscript (NOTE:used often in mathematics: 105 say: ten tothe power five)supersedesupersede /�su�pə|�si�d/ verb to take theplace of something which is older or less use-ful � The new program supersedes the earli-er one, and is much faster.superstationsuperstation /�su�pə|�steʃ(ə)n/ noun USa TV system, where a single TV stationbroadcasts many programmes simultaneous-ly via satellite and cablesuperusersuperuser /�su�pə|�ju�zə/ noun a UNIXuser with all access rights, equivalent to anadministrator under the Windows systemsuper VGAsuper VGA /�su�pə vi� d'i� �e/ noun fullform of SVGAsuper VHSsuper VHS /�su�pə �vi� etʃ �es/ noun fullform of S-VHSsupervisesupervise /�su�pə|�vaz/ verb to watchcarefully to see if work is well done

supervisionsupervision /�su�pə|�v'(ə)n/ noun the actof supervisingsupervisorsupervisor /�su�pə|�vazə/ noun 1. a per-son who makes sure that equipment is alwaysworking correctly 2. a section of a computeroperating system that regulates the use of pe-ripherals and the operations undertaken bythe CPUsupervisorysupervisory /�su�pəvazəri/ adjective asa supervisorsuppliersupplier /sə |�plaə/ noun a company whichsupplies something � a supplier of computerpartssupplysupply /sə|�pla/ noun the process of pro-viding goods, products or services � Theelectricity supply has failed. � verb to pro-vide something which is needed and forwhich someone will pay � The computer wassupplied by a recognised dealer.supportsupport /sə|�pɔ�t/ verb to give help to or tohelp to run � The main computer supports sixworkstations.suppresssuppress /sə|�pres/ verb to remove � Thefilter is used to suppress the noise due to stat-ic interference.suppressionsuppression /sə|�preʃ(ə)n/ noun the actof suppressingsuppressorsuppressor /sə|�presə/ noun a devicewhich suppresses interferencesurfsurf /s��f/ verb to explore a website lookingat the webpages in no particular order, butsimply moving between pages using the linkssurface-mount technologysurface-mount technology /�s��fsmaυnt tek|�nɒləd'i/ noun full form of SMTsurgesurge /s��d'/ noun a sudden increase inelectrical power in a system, due to a fault,noise or component failure

COMMENT: Power surges can burn out cir-cuits before you have time to pull the plug.A surge protector between your computerand the wall outlet will help prevent dam-age.

surge protectorsurge protector /�s��d' prə |�tektə/ nounan electronic device which cuts off the powersupply to sensitive equipment if it detects apower surge that could cause damagesuspendsuspend /sə|�spend/ noun a command thatis used when running Windows on a battery-powered laptop computer to shut down al-most all of the electronic components of thelaptopsustainsustain /sə|�sten/ verb to keep a voltage ata certain level for a period of time � noun thebody of a sound signal. Compare attack, de-caySVGASVGA /�es vi� d'i� �e/ noun an enhance-ment to the standard VGA graphics displaysystem which allows resolutions of up to800x600pixels with 16million colours. Fullform super VGA

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S-VHS 234S-VHSS-VHS /�es vi� etʃ �es/ noun a high-resolu-tion version of the standard VHS video cas-sette standard which can record 400 lines ofa video signal rather than the usual 260 linesof VHS. Full form super VHSS-VideoS-Video /�es �vdiəυ/ noun a method oftransmitting a video signal in which the lumi-nance and colour components (the luma, Y,and chroma, C) are transmitted over separatewires to improve the quality of the video,used in Hi8, S-VHS and other video formatsto provide better quality than composite vid-eo. Also called Y/C videoSWSW abbr short waveswapswap /swɒp/ noun same as swapping �verb to stop using one program, put it intostore temporarily, run another program, andwhen that is finished, return to the first oneswap fileswap file /�swɒp fal/ noun a file stored onthe hard disk used as a temporary storagearea for data held in RAM, to provide virtualmemoryswappingswapping /�swɒpŋ/ noun (in a virtualmemory system) an activity in which pro-gram data is moved from main memory todisk, while another program is loaded or run.� virtual memory. Also called swapsweepsweep /swi�p/ noun the movement of theelectron beam over the area of a televisionscreen in regular horizontal and verticalsteps, producing the imagesweeteningsweetening /�swi�t(ə)nŋ/ noun 1. the ad-dition of new sound to a voice track 2. the ad-dition of sound effects to the visual images 3.the improvement of the quality of image, col-our, etc., through electronic modificationswimswim /swm/ noun computer graphicswhich move slightly due to a faulty displayunitswitchswitch /swtʃ/ noun 1. (in some com-mand-line operating systems) an additionalcharacter entered on the same line as the pro-gram command, which affects how the pro-gram runs 2. a point in a computer programwhere control can be passed to one of anumber of choices 3. a mechanical or solidstate device that can electrically connect orisolate two or more lines � verb to connect ordisconnect two lines by activating a switchswitchboardswitchboard /�swtʃbɔ�d/ noun a centralpoint in a telephone system, where the linesfrom various telephone handsets meet, wherecalls can be directed to any other telephoneswitchboard operatorswitchboard operator /�swtʃbɔ�d�ɒpəretə/ noun a person who works a cen-tral telephone switchboard, by connecting in-coming and outgoing calls to various linesswitchingswitching /�swtʃŋ/ noun a constant up-date of connections between changing sinksand sources in a network

symbolsymbol /�smbəl/ noun a sign or picturewhich represents something � This languageuses the symbol ? to represent the print com-mand.symbolicsymbolic /sm|�bɒlk/ adjective which actsas a symbol or which uses a symbol name orlabelsyncsync /sŋk/ noun 1. two events or timingsignals which happen at the same time 2. theexact aligning of the sound and picture com-ponents of a film so that they coincidesynchronisationsynchronisation /�sŋkrəna |�zeʃ(ə)n/noun the action of synchronising two or moredevicessynchronisesynchronise /�sŋkrə|�naz/ verb to makesure that two or more devices or processesare coordinated in time or actionsynchronisersynchroniser /�sŋkrənazə/ noun 1. adevice that will perform a function when itreceives a signal from another device 2. a ma-chine used to edit the sound track and the filmat the same timesynchronoussynchronous /�sŋkrənəs/ adjectivewhich runs in sync with something else (suchas a main clock)synchronous data link controlsynchronous data link control/�sŋkrənəs �detə lŋk kən|�trəυl/ noun fullform of SDLCsynonymsynonym /�snənm/ noun a word whichmeans the same thing as another wordsynonymoussynonymous /s |�nɒnməs/ adjectivemeaning the same � The words ‘error’ and‘mistake’ are synonymous.syntactic errorsyntactic error /sn|�t�ktk �erə/ noun aprogramming error in which the programstatement does not follow the syntax of thelanguagesyntaxsyntax /�snt�ks/ noun grammatical ruleswhich apply to a programming languagesynthesissynthesis /�snθəss/ noun the process ofproducing something artificially from anumber of smaller elementssynthesisesynthesise /�snθəsaz/ verb to producesomething artificially from a number ofsmaller elements

‘…despite the fact that speech can now be syn-thesized with very acceptable quality, all it con-veys is linguistic information’ [Personal Compu-ter World]

synthesisersynthesiser /�snθəsazə/ noun a devicewhich generates signals, sound or speechSyQuestSyQuest /�sakwest/ a manufacturer ofstorage devices, including a range of remov-able hard disk drives and backup units. � Zipdisksystemsystem /�sstəm/ noun any group of hard-ware or software or peripherals, etc., whichwork togetherSystem 7™System 7™ /�sstəm �sev(ə)n/ a versionof the operating system for the Apple Macin-

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235 system traytosh personal computer that introduces mul-titasking, virtual memory and peer-to-peerfile sharingsystem administrator

system administrator /�sstəm əd|

�mnstretə/ noun � network administra-torsystem backup

system backup /�sstəm �b�k�p/ noun acopy of all the data stored on a computer,server or networksystem colours

system colours /�sstəm �k�ləz/ pluralnoun same as default palettesystem crash

system crash /�sstəm kr�ʃ/ noun a sit-uation where the operating system stopsworking and has to be restartedsystem design

system design /�sstəm d|�zan/ nounthe process of identifying and investigatingpossible solutions to a problem, and decidingupon the most appropriate system to solvethe problemSystème Electronique Couleur Avec Mémoire

Système Electronique CouleurAvec Mémoire noun full form of SECAMsystem life cycle

system life cycle /�sstəm �laf�sak(ə)l/ noun the time when a system ex-ists, between its initial design and its becom-ing out of datesystem manager

system manager /�sstəm �m�nd'ə/noun a person responsible for the computersor network in a companySystem Monitor

System Monitor /�sstəm �mɒntə/ nouna Windows utility that allows a user to viewhow the resources on their PC are performingand, if they have shared the device, who elseon the network is using the resourcessystem operator

system operator /�sstəm �ɒpəretə/noun a person who manages an online bulle-tin board or maintains a computer network

system palettesystem palette /�sstəm �p�lət/ noun therange of colours that are available on a partic-ular operating system and can be shared byall applicationssystems analysissystems analysis /�sstəmz ə |�n�ləss/noun 1. the process of analysing a process orsystem to see if it could be more efficientlycarried out by a computer 2. the process ofexamining an existing system with the aim ofimproving or replacing itSystems Application ArchitectureSystems Application Architecture/�sstəmz ��plkeʃ(ə)n �ɑ�ktektʃə/ nounfull form of SAAsystem securitysystem security /�sstəm s|�kjυərti/noun measures, such as password, priorityprotection, authorisation codes, designed tostop browsers and hackersSystems Network ArchitectureSystems Network Architecture/�sstəmz �netw��k �ɑ�ktektʃə/ noun fullform of SNAsystem softwaresystem software /�sstəm �sɒftweə/noun programs which direct the basic func-tions, input-output control, etc., of a compu-tersystem specificationssystem specifications /�sstəm�spesf|�keʃ(ə)nz/ plural noun details ofhardware and software required to performcertain taskssystem supportsystem support /�sstəm sə|�pɔ�t/ nouna group of people who maintain and operatea systemsystem traysystem tray /�sstəm tre/ noun (in Win-dows) an area of the taskbar normally in thebottom right-hand corner next to the clock.The system tray displays tiny icons that showwhich system software programs were runautomatically when Windows started and arenow running in the background.

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TT

T abbr tera-T1 committee

T1 committee /�ti� �w�n kə|�mti/ nounan ANSI committee which sets digital com-munications standards for the US, particular-ly ISDN servicesT1 link

T1 link /�ti� �w�n �lŋk/ noun (in the US) ahigh speed, long distance data transmissionlink not related to the T1 committee, that cancarry data at 1.544Mbits per secondtab

tab /t�b/ verb 1. to tabulate or to arrangetext in columns with the cursor automaticallyrunning from one column to the next in key-boarding � The list was neatly lined up bytabbing to column 10 at the start of each newline. 2. in a GUI, method of moving from onebutton or field to another without using themouse, but by pressing the tab key to movethe focustabbing

tabbing /�t�bŋ/ noun the movement of thecursor in a word-processing program fromone tab stop to the next � Tabbing can bedone from inside the program.table

table /�teb(ə)l/ noun a list of data in col-umns and rows on a printed page or on thescreentable of contents

table of contents /�teb(ə)l əv�kɒntents/ noun 1. a list of the contents of abook, usually printed at the beginning 2. dataat the start of a disc that describes how manytracks are on the CD, their position andlength 3. a page with a list of the headings ofall the other main pages in the title and linksso that a user can move to themtablet

tablet /�t�blət/ noun a graphics pad or flatdevice which allows a user to input graphicalinformation into a computer by drawing onits surfacetab settings

tab settings /�t�b �setŋz/, tab stops/�t�b stɒps/ plural noun preset points alonga line, where the printing head or cursor willstop for each tabulation commandtabulate

tabulate /�t�bjυ|�let/ verb to arrange textin columns, with the cursor moving to eachnew column automatically as the text is key-boardedtabulating

tabulating /�t�bjυletŋ/ noun the actionof processing punched cards, such as a sort-ing operationtabulation

tabulation /�t�bjυ|�leʃ(ə)n/ noun 1. ar-rangement of a table of figures 2. the process

of moving a printing head or cursor a presetdistance along a linetabulatortabulator /�t�bjυletə/ noun part of aword-processor which automatically setswords or figures into columnsTACSTACS noun a UK standard for cellular radiosystems. Full form total access communi-cation systemtactiletactile /�t�ktal/ adjective using the senseof touchtagtag /t�"/ noun 1. one section of a computerinstruction 2. a set of identifying charactersattached to a file or item (of data) � Each filehas a three letter tag for rapid identification.tag image file formattag image file format /�t�" �md' �fal�fɔ�m�t/ noun full form of TIFFtailtail /tel/ noun 1. data recognised as the endof a list of data 2. a control code used to sig-nal the end of a messagetaketake /tek/ noun a camera shot of an indi-vidual piece of actiontake-uptake-up /�tek �p/ noun a device such as areel on which film or tape is wound from aprojector, camera gate or editing machinetake-up reeltake-up reel /�tek �p �ri�l/ noun a reelonto which magnetic tape is collectedtalktalk /tɔ�k/ verb to speak or to communicate

‘…a variety of technologies exist which allowcomputers to talk to one another’ [Which PC?]

talkbacktalkback /�tɔ�kb�k/ noun speech commu-nications between a control room and a stu-dio

‘…a variety of technologies exist which allowcomputers to talk to one another’ [Which PC?]

tapetape /tep/ noun a long thin flat piece of ma-terial

COMMENT: Cassettes or reels of tape areeasy to use and cheaper than disks, thecassette casing usually conforming to astandard size. They are less adaptable andonly provide sequential access, usually be-ing used for master copies or making back-ups.

tape backuptape backup /�tep �b�k�p/ noun theprocess of using (usually magnetic) tape as amedium for storing back-ups from fastermain or secondary storage, such as RAM orhard disktape drivetape drive /�tep drav/ noun a mecha-nism which controls magnetic tape move-ment over the tape heads � Our new producthas a 96MB streaming tape drive.

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237 technical supporttape formattape format /�tep �fɔ�m�t/ noun a way inwhich blocks of data, control codes and loca-tion data is stored on tapetape streamertape streamer /�tep �stri�mə/ noun a de-vice containing a continuous loop of tape,used as backing storage. Also called stringyfloppyTargaTarga /�tɑ�"ə/ noun a graphics file formatwhich uses the .TGA extension on a PC, de-veloped by Truevision to store raster graphicimages in 16–, 24– and 32-bit colour.targettarget /�tɑ�"t/ noun a goal which you aimto achievetargetcasttargetcast /�tɑ�"tkɑ�st/ verb to broadcasta website only to a group of people who areknown to be potentially interested in it, andnot to everyone on the Internettarget computertarget computer /�tɑ�"t kəm |�pju�tə/noun a computer on which software is to beruntarget disktarget disk /�tɑ�"t dsk/ noun a disk ontowhich a file is to be copiedtarget languagetarget language /�tɑ�"t �l�ŋ"wd'/noun a language into which a language willbe translated from its source language � Thetarget language for this PASCAL program ismachine code. Opposite source languagetarget programtarget program /�tɑ�"t �prəυ"r�m/noun an object program or computer pro-gram in object code form, produced by acompilertarget windowtarget window /�tɑ�"t �wndəυ/ noun awindow in which text or graphics will be dis-playedtarifftariff /�t�rf/ noun a charge incurred by auser of a communications or computer sys-tem � There is a set tariff for logging on, thena rate for every minute of computer timeused.TASITASI noun a method of using a voice chan-nel for other signals during the gaps andpauses in a normal conversation. Full formtime assigned speech interpolationtasktask /tɑ�sk/ noun a job which is to carriedout by a computertaskbartaskbar /�tɑ�skbɑ�/ noun a bar that nor-mally runs along the bottom of the screen inWindows and displays the Start button and alist of other programs or windows that arecurrently activetask managementtask management /�tɑ�sk�m�nd'mənt/ noun system software whichcontrols the use and allocation of resources toprogramstask swappingtask swapping /�tɑ�sk �swɒpŋ/ noun theprocess of exchanging one program in mem-ory for another which is temporarily storedon disk. Task switching is not the same asmultitasking which can execute several pro-grams at once.

task switching

task switching /�tɑ�sk �swtʃŋ/ nounsame as task swappingTAT

TAT abbr turnaround timeTBC

TBC abbr time-base correctorT carrierT carrier /�ti� �k�riə/ noun a US standardfor digital data transmission lines, such asT1, T1C, and corresponding signal standardsDS1, DS1CTCIP

TCIP noun discernable time-code numeralsin video-tape editing. Full form time code inpictureTCM

TCM abbr thermal control moduleT-commerce

T-commerce /�ti� �kɒm��s/ noun a busi-ness conducted by means of interactive tele-visionT connectorT connector /�ti� kə|�nektə/ noun a coaxi-al connector, shaped like the letter ‘T’, whichconnects two thin coaxial cables using BNCplugs and provides a third connection for an-other cable or network interface cardTCP

TCP /�ti� si� �pi�/ noun standard data trans-mission protocol that provides full duplextransmission, bundles data into packets andchecks for errors. Full form transmissioncontrol protocolTCP/IP

TCP/IP /�ti� si� pi� a �pi�/ noun a datatransfer protocol used in networks and com-munications systems, often used in Unix-based networks. This protocol is used for allcommunications over the internet. Full formtransmission control protocol/interfaceprogramTDMTDM /�ti� di� �em/ noun a method of com-bining several signals into one high-speedtransmission carrier, each input signal beingsampled in turn and the result transmitted toa the receiver which re-constructs the signals.Full form time division multiplexingTDRTDR /�ti� di� �ɑ�/ noun a test that identifieswhere cable faults lie by sending a signaldown the cable and measuring how long ittakes for the reflection to come back. Fullform time domain reflectometryTDSTDS /�ti� di� �es/ noun a computer systemthat will normally run batch processing tasksuntil interrupted by a new transaction, atwhich point it allocates resources to the newtransaction. Full form transaction-drivensystemtechnical

technical /�teknk(ə)l/ adjective referringto a particular machine or process � The doc-ument gives all the technical details on thenew computer.technically

technically /�teknkli/ adverb in a techni-cal way � Their system is technically farmore advanced than ours.technical supporttechnical support /�teknk(ə)l sə|�pɔ�t/noun a person who provides such advice

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technician 238techniciantechnician /tek|�nʃ(ə)n/ noun a personwho is specialised in industrial worktechniquetechnique /tek|�ni�k/ noun a skilled way ofdoing a job � The company has developed anew technique for processing customers’disks.technologicaltechnological /�teknə|�lɒd'k(ə)l/ adjec-tive referring to technologytechnologytechnology /tek|�nɒləd'i/ noun the proc-ess of applying scientific knowledge to in-dustrial processesteltel abbr telephonetele-tele- /teli/ prefix long distancetelebankingtelebanking /�teli|�b�ŋkŋ/ noun a systemby which an account holder can carry outtransactions with his bank via a terminal andcommunications networktelecommunicationstelecommunications /�telikə|�mju�n |

�keʃ(ə)nz/ noun the technology of passingand receiving messages over a distance, as inradio, telephone, telegram, satellite broad-cast, etc.telecommutingtelecommuting /�telikəmju�tŋ/ nounthe practice of working on a computer in oneplace (normally from home) that is linked bymodem to the company’s central office al-lowing messages and data to be transferredteleconferenceteleconference /�teli |�kɒnf(ə)rəns/ nouna meeting held among people in different lo-cations by means of telecommunicationsequipmentteleconferencingteleconferencing /�teli|�kɒnf(ə)rənsŋ/noun 1. the process of linking video, audioand computer signals from different loca-tions so that distant people can talk and seeeach other, as if in a conference room 2. partof video-conferencing where the image is re-newed only at intervals in order to decreasethe transmission bandwidth requiredtelecontroltelecontrol /�telikən |�trəυl/ noun the con-trol of a remote device by a telecommunica-tions linktelegramtelegram /�tel"r�m/ noun a message sentto another country by telegraph � to send aninternational telegramtelegraphtelegraph /�tel"rɑ�f/ noun a messagetransmitted using a telegraphy system � verbto send a telegram to another person; to sendprinted or written or drawn material by long-distance telegraphy � They telegraphed theiragreement. � The photographs were tele-graphed to New York.telegraphictelegraphic /�tel |�"r�fk/ adjective refer-ring to a telegraph systemtelegraphic addresstelegraphic address /�tel |�"r�fk ə|

�dres/ noun a short address to which a tele-gram is senttelegraph officetelegraph office /�tel"rɑ�f �ɒfs/ nounan office from which telegrams can be sent

telegraphytelegraphy /tə |�le"rəfi/ noun a system ofsending messages along wires using directcurrent pulsesteleinformatic servicesteleinformatic services /telin|

�fɔ�mətk �s��vsz/ plural noun any of var-ious data only services, such as telex, facsim-ile, which use telecommunicationstelematicstelematics /�tel|�m�tks/ noun the inter-action of all data processing and communica-tions devicestelemessagetelemessage /�telmesd'/ noun a mes-sage sent by telephone, and delivered as acardtelemetrytelemetry /tə|�lemtri/ noun data from re-mote measuring devices transmitted over atelecommunications linkteleorderingteleordering /�teli |�ɔ�dərŋ/ noun a bookordering system, in which the bookseller’sorders are entered into a computer whichthen puts the order through to the distributorat the end of the daytelephonetelephone /�telfəυn/ noun a machineused for speaking to someone or communi-cating with another computer (using mo-dems) over a long distancetelephone linetelephone line /�telfəυn lan/ noun a ca-ble used to connect a telephone handset witha central exchangetelephonisttelephonist /tə|�lefənst/ noun a personwho works a telephone switchboardtelephonytelephony /tə|�lefəni/ noun a series ofstandards that define the way in which com-puters can work with a telephone system toprovide voice-mail, telephone answering,and fax servicestelephony application programming interfacetelephony application programminginterface /tə|�lefəni ��plkeʃ(ə)n�prəυ"r�mŋ �ntəfes/ noun a system de-veloped by Microsoft and Intel that allows aPC to control a single telephone. Abbr TAPItelephony services application programming interfacetelephony services application pro-gramming interface /tə|�lefəni �s��vsz��plkeʃ(ə)n �prəυ"r�mŋ �ntəfes/noun a system developed by Novell andAT&T that allows a PC to control a PBX tel-ephone exchange. Abbr TSAPItelephoto distortiontelephoto distortion /�telfəυtəυ ds|

�tɔ�ʃ(ə)n/ noun the compression resultwhich occurs in shots filmed with a telephotolens; objects far away from the camera seemto be closer, and a performer’s movement to-wards or away from the camera seems to beslowertelephoto lenstelephoto lens /�telfəυtəυ �lenz/ noun acamera objective lens with long focal lengthand short back focus. This type of lens givesthe impression that an object is closer than itreally .is.teleprinterteleprinter /�teli |�prntə/ noun a devicethat is capable of sending and receiving data

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239 10Base2from a distant point by means of a telegraphiccircuit, and printing out the message on aprinter � You can drive a teleprinter from thismodified serial port.teleprinter interface

teleprinter interface /�teliprntə�ntəfes/ noun a terminal interface or hard-ware and software combination required tocontrol the functions of a terminalteleprinter rollteleprinter roll /�teliprntə �rəυl/ noun aroll of paper onto which messages are printedteleprocessing

teleprocessing /�teli|�prəυsesŋ/ nounthe processing of data at a distance (as on acentral computer from outside terminals).Abbr TPtelerecordingtelerecording /�telr |�kɔ�dŋ/ noun thetransferral of a television or video pro-gramme to motion picture filmtelesalestelesales /�teli|�selz/ noun sales made bytelephoneteleshoppingteleshopping /�tel |�ʃɒpŋ/ noun the useof a telephone-based data service such asviewdata to order products from a shoptelesoftwaretelesoftware /�teli |�sɒftweə/ noun soft-ware which is received from a viewdata orteletext service. Abbr TSWteletextteletext /�teli|�tekst/ noun a method oftransmitting text and information with a nor-mal television signal, usually as a serial bitstream which can be displayed using a spe-cial decoderteletypeteletype

teletype /�telitap/ noun a term used forteleprinter equipment. Abbr TTYteletypesettingteletypesetting /�tel |�tapsetŋ/ noun atypesetter operated from a punched papertapeteletypewriterteletypewriter /�tel|�tapratə/ noun akeyboard and printer attached to a computersystem which can input data either direct orby making punched paper tapetelevision

television /�tel|�v'(ə)n/ noun 1. a devicewhich can receive (modulated) video signalsfrom a computer or broadcast signals with anaerial and display images on a CRT screenwith sound 2. a system for broadcasting pic-tures and sound using high-frequency radiowaves, captured by a receiver and shown on ascreen 3. the actual broadcasts themselves, orthe set on which they are seen � abbr TVtelevision monitortelevision monitor /�tel|�v'(ə)n�mɒntə/ noun a device able to display sig-nals from a computer without sound, but isnot able to broadcast signals, usually becausethere is no demodulatortelevision receiver/monitor

television receiver/monitor/�telv'(ə)n r |�si�və �mɒntə/ noun a de-vice able to act as a TV receiver or monitortelevision scantelevision scan /�tel|�v'(ə)n sk�n/noun a horizontal movement of the picture

beam over the screen, producing one line ofan imagetelevision tubetelevision tube /�tel|�v'(ə)n tju�b/noun a CRT with electronic devices whichprovide the line by line horizontal and verti-cal scanning movement of the picture beamtelextelex /�teleks/ noun a system for sendingmessages using telephone lines, which areprinted out at the receiving end on a specialprinter � to send information by telex � Theorder came by telex. � verb to send a mes-sage using a teleprinter � Can you telex theCanadian office before they open? � He tel-exed the details of the contract to New York.� a telex 1. a machine for sending and re-ceiving telex messages � he sent a telex to hishead office 2. a message sent by telex � wereceived his telex this morningtelnettelnet /�telnet/ noun a TCP/IP protocol thatallows a user to connect to and control via theInternet a remote computer as if they werethere and type in commands as if they weresitting in front of the computertemplatetemplate /�tem|�plet/ noun 1. a plastic ormetal sheet with cut-out symbols to help inthe drawing of flowcharts and circuit dia-grams 2. (in text processing) standard text,such as a standard letter or invoice, intowhich specific details can be added � a tem-plate paragraph command enables the userto specify the number of spaces each para-graph should be indented 3. an opaque sheetwhich is placed in a spotlight and which hasbeen cut into a certain shape in order to pro-duce a patterned shadowtemplate commandtemplate command /�templet kə|

�mɑ�nd/ noun a command which allowsfunctions or other commands to be easily set� A template paragraph command enablesthe user to specify the number of spaces eachparagraph should be indented.tempotempo /�tempəυ/ noun 1. (in MIDI or mu-sic) the speed at which the notes are played,measured in beats per minute � A typicalMIDI tempo is 120 beats per minute. 2. (in amultimedia title) the speed at which framesare displayedtemporarytemporary /�temp(ə)rəri/ adjective notpermanenttemporary storagetemporary storage /�temp(ə)rəri�stɔ�rd'/ noun storage which is not perma-nenttemporary swap filetemporary swap file /�temp(ə)rəri�swɒp �fal/ noun a file on a hard disk whichis used by software to store data temporarilyor for software that implements virtual mem-ory, such as Microsoft’s Windows10Base210Base2 /�ten bes �tu�/ noun IEEE stand-ard specification for running Ethernet overthin coaxial cable

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10Base5 24010Base5

10Base5 /�ten bes �fav/ IEEE standardspecification for running Ethernet over thickcoaxial cable10Base-FX

10Base-FX noun IEEE standard specifica-tion for running Ethernet over optical fibre atspeeds up to 10Mbps10BaseT

10BaseT /�ten bes �ti�/ noun IEEE stand-ard specification for running Ethernet overunshielded twisted pair cabletera-tera- /terə/ prefix 1012; one million million.Abbr Tterabyte

terabyte /�terəbat/ noun one thousand gi-gabytes or one million megabytes of dataterahertzterahertz /�terəh��ts/ noun a frequency ofone million million hertzterminalterminal /�t��mn(ə)l/ noun 1. a deviceusually made up of a display unit and a key-board which allows entry and display of in-formation when on-line to a central computersystem � The new intelligent terminal has abuilt-in text editor. 2. an electrical connectionpoint 3. a point in a network where a messagecan be transmitted or received. � source,sinkterminal character setterminal character set /�t��mn(ə)l�k�rktə �set/ noun the range of charactersavailable for a particular type of terminal,which might include graphics or customisedcharactersterminateterminate /�t��m|�net/ verb to endterminate and stay resident program

terminate and stay resident pro-gram /�t��mnet ən ste �rezd(ə)nt�prəυ"r�m/ noun a program which loads it-self into main memory and carries out a func-tion when activated � When you hit Ctrl-F5,you will activate the TSR program and it willdisplay your day’s diary. Also called TSRprogramtermination

termination /�t��m|�neʃ(ə)n/ noun theprocess of ending or stoppingterminatorterminator /�t��mnetə/ noun 1. (in aLAN) a resistor that fits onto each end of a co-axial cable in a bus network to create an elec-trical circuit 2. (in an SCSI installation) a re-sistor that fits onto the last SCSI device in thedaisy-chain, creating an electrical circuit 3.same as rogue valueternary

ternary /�t��nəri/ adjective referring to anumber system with three possible statestest

test /test/ verb to carry out an examinationof a device or program to see if it is workingcorrectlytest data

test data /�test �detə/ noun data withknown results prepared to allow a new pro-gram to be testedtest equipment

test equipment /�test |�kwpmənt/ nounspecial equipment which tests hardware orsoftware

texttext /tekst/ noun a set of alphanumericcharacters that convey informationtext-editing facilitiestext-editing facilities /�tekst �edtŋ fə|

�sltiz/ plural noun a word-processing sys-tem which allows the user to add, delete,move, insert and correct sections of texttext editortext editor /�tekst �edtə/ noun same asscreen editortext filetext file /�tekst fal/ noun a file that con-tains text rather than digits or datatext messagetext message /�tekst �mesd'/ noun amessage sent in the form of text, especiallyone that appears on the viewing screen of amobile phone or pagertext processingtext processing /�tekst �prəυsesŋ/noun the use of a computer to create, store,edit and print or display texttext retrievaltext retrieval /�tekst r|�tri�v(ə)l/ noun aninformation retrieval system that allows theuser to examine complete documents ratherthan just a reference to a documenttextualtextual /�tekstʃuəl/ adjective referring totext � The editors made several textualchanges before the proofs were sent back forcorrection.texture mappingtexture mapping /�tekstʃə �m�pŋ/noun 1. a special computer graphics effectusing algorithms to produce an image thatlooks like the surface of something such asmarble, brick, stone or water 2. the process ofcovering one image with another to give thefirst a texturetext windowtext window /�tekst �wndəυ/ noun awindow in a graphics system, where the textis held in a small space on the screen beforebeing allocated to a final areaTFTTFT adjective a technology used in high-res-olution LCD flat-panel screens, in whicheach pixel is controlled by one or more tran-sistors. Full form thin film transistorTFT displayTFT display noun a computer display thatuses TFT technology. Also called active ma-trix displayTFTPTFTP /�ti� ef ti� �pi�/ noun a simple form ofthe standard FTP (file transfer protocol) sys-tem, commonly used to load the operatingsystem software onto a diskless workstationfrom a server when the workstation boots upwhen it is switched on. Full form trivial filetransfer protocol. � FTPTFT screenTFT screen /�ti� ef �ti� �skri�n/ noun sameas TFT displaythawthaw /θɔ�/ noun a special effect in which ac-tion starts again after a freeze frame effect,especially in a videowall presentation (film)thermalthermal /�θ��m(ə)l/ adjective referring toheatthermal printingthermal printing /�θ��m(ə)l �prntŋ/noun 1. a printing system which has a print

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241 tildehead with a number of quick-heating ele-ments which work with heat-sensitive paper,or with ordinary paper when using a specialribbon 2. an imaging system which uses en-closed bubbles in an emulsionthermal transferthermal transfer /�θ��m(ə)l tr�ns |�f��/,thermal wax /�θ��m(ə)l w�ks/, thermalwax transfer printer /�θ��m(ə)l w�ks�tr�nsf�� �prntə/ noun a method of print-ing where the colours are produced by melt-ing coloured wax onto the paper � Thermalwax transfer technology still provides thebest colour representation on paper for PCoutput.thermistorthermistor /θ��|�mstə/ noun an electronicdevice whose resistance changes with tem-peraturethermo-sensitivethermo-sensitive /�θ��məυ �senstv/adjective which is sensitive to heatthesaurusthesaurus /θ|�sɔ�rəs/ noun a file whichcontains synonyms that are displayed as al-ternatives to a misspelt word during a spell-checkthick-Ethernetthick-Ethernet /�θk �i�θənet/ noun a net-work implemented using thick coaxial cableand transceivers to connect branch cables. �Ethernet, thin-Ethernetthimble printerthimble printer /�θmb(ə)l �prntə/ nouna computer printer using a printing head sim-ilar to a daisy wheel but shaped like a thimblethinthin /θn/ adjective with only a small dis-tance between two surfacesthin-Ethernetthin-Ethernet /�θn �i�θənet/ noun themost popular type of Ethernet network im-plemented using thin coaxial cable and BNCconnectors. � Ethernet, thick-Ethernet(NOTE: It is limited to distances of around1000 m)thin-film transistorthin-film transistor /�θn flm tr�n|

�zstə/ noun full form of TFT32-bit32-bit /�θ��ti� tu� �bt/ data that is trans-ferred thirty-two bits at a time along thirty-two parallel conductors; in a processor thisrefers to its ability to manipulate numbersthat are thirty-two bits longthirty-two bit systemthirty-two bit system /�θ��ti tu� �bt�sstəm/, 32-bit system noun a microcom-puter system or CPU that handles data in 32bit wordsthrashingthrashing /�θr�ʃŋ/ noun 1. excessive diskactivity 2. a configuration or program fault ina virtual memory system that results in aCPU wasting time moving pages of data be-tween main memory and disk or backingstorethreadthread /θred/ noun 1. a program whichconsists of many independent smaller sec-tions or beads 2. the accurate positioning offilm or tape in the path of a projector, or an-other film mechanism for take-up (NOTE:

‘thread up’ also used in the context of defi-nition (ii))

‘WigWam makes it easier for a user to follow athread in a bulletin-board conference topic by or-dering responses using a hierarchical indent sim-ilar to that found in outline processor.’ [Comput-ing]

threaded filethreaded file /�θredd �fal/ noun a file inwhich an entry contains data and an addressto the next entry that contains the same data,allowing rapid retrieval of all identical entriesthreaded languagethreaded language /�θredd�l�ŋ"wd'/ noun a programming languagewhich allows many small sections of code tobe written then used by a main programthreaded treethreaded tree /�θredd �tri�/ noun a struc-ture in which each node contains a pointer toother nodesthree-colour process

three-colour process /�θri� �k�lə�prəυses/ noun a process used to convert acolour image into three separate colours (red,blue and yellow)3D3D /�θri� �di�/ adjective referring to an imagewhich has three dimensions (width, breadthand depth), and therefore gives the impres-sion of being solid. Full form three-dimen-sionalthree-dimensionalthree-dimensional /�θri� da|

�menʃ(ə)nəl/ adjective full form of 3Dthree input adderthree input adder /�θri� �npυt ��də/noun � full adderthresholdthreshold /�θreʃhəυld/ noun a preset levelwhich causes an action if a signal exceeds ordrops below itthreshold howlthreshold howl /�θreʃhəυld haυl/ nounacoustic feedback which is created by soundfrom the loudspeakers re-entering the micro-phonethroughput

throughput /�θru� |�pυt/ noun the rate ofproduction by a machine or system, meas-ured as total useful information processed ina set period of time � For this machinethroughput is 1.3 inches per second scanningspeed.through-the-lens focusthrough-the-lens focus /�θru� ðə �lenz�fəυkəs/ noun a camera viewfinder whichcan focus through the camera lens withoutparallaxthumbnailthumbnail /�θ�m|�nel/ noun a miniaturegraphical representation of an image, used asa quick and convenient method of viewingthe contents of graphics or DTP files beforethey are retrievedTIFFTIFF /tf/ noun standard file format used tostore graphic images. Full form tag imagefile formattildetilde /�tldə/ noun a printed accent ( ~ ),commonly used over the letter ‘n’ in Spanish,vowels in Portuguese, etc.

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tile 242tiletile /tal/ verb (in a GUI) to arrange a groupof windows so that they are displayed side byside without overlapping (NOTE: tiles – tiling– tiled)tilttilt /tlt/ verb 1. to sweep a video camera upand down. Compare pan 2. to alter the slopeof the frequency response in a sound repro-ducertilt and swiveltilt and swivel /�tlt ən �swv(ə)l/ adjec-tive referring to a monitor which is mountedon a pivot so that it can be moved to point inthe most convenient direction for the opera-tortimetime /tam/ noun a period expressed inhours, minutes, seconds and related units �verb to measure the time taken by an opera-tion � If you do not answer this questionwithin one minute, the program times out andmoves onto the next question. (NOTE: times –timing – timed) � to time out (of an eventor option) to become no longer valid after aperiod of time � If you do not answer thisquestion within one minute, the programtimes out and moves onto the next question.time bombtime bomb /�tam bɒm/ noun a computervirus that is designed to take effect on a par-ticular date or when a computer application isused for a particular length of timetime codetime code /�tam kəυd/ noun a sequenceof timing information recorded on an audiotrack in a videotapetime division multiplexingtime division multiplexing /�tam d|

�v'(ə)n �m�ltpleksŋ/ noun full form ofTDMtime domain reflectometrytime domain reflectometry /�tam dəυ |

�men �r�flek|�tɒmətri/ noun full form ofTDRtime of peak demandtime of peak demand /�tam əv �pi�k d|

�mɑ�nd/ noun the time when something isbeing used mosttime outtime out /�tam �aυt/ verb (of an event oroption) to become no longer valid after a pe-riod of time � If you do not answer this ques-tion within one minute, the program times outand moves onto the next question.timeouttimeout /�tamaυt/ noun 1. a logoff proce-dure carried out if no data is entered on an on-line terminal 2. a period of time reserved foran operationtimertimer /�tamə/ noun a device which recordsthe time taken for an operation to be complet-edtime-sharingtime-sharing /�tam �ʃeərŋ/ noun an ar-rangement which allows several independentusers to use a computer system or be onlineat the same time

COMMENT: In time-sharing, each user ap-pears to be using the computer all the time,when in fact each is using the CPU for ashort time slice only. The CPU processes

one user for a short time then moves on tothe next.

time slicetime slice /�tam slas/ noun the amountof time allowed for a single task in a time-sharing system or in multiprogrammingtiny modeltiny model /�tani �mɒd(ə)l/ noun a mem-ory model of the Intel 80x86 processor fami-ly that allows a combined total of 64 Kb fordata and codetitletitle /�tat(ə)l/ noun an identification namegiven to a file or program or disktitle bartitle bar /�tat(ə)l bɑ�/ noun a horizontalbar at the top of a window which displays thetitle of the window or applicationT junctionT junction /�ti� �d'�ŋkʃ(ə)n/ noun a con-nection at right angles to a cable carrying themain signal or powerTKTK abbr telecineTMPTMP noun the high-speed duplication of avideotape from a master tape. Full form ther-mal magnetic duplicationTMSF time formatTMSF time format /�ti� em es ef �tam�fɔ�m�t/ noun a time format used mainly byaudio CD devices to measure time in framesand tracks. Full form tracks, minutes, sec-onds, frames time formatT networkT network /�ti� �netw��k/ noun a simplecircuit network with three electronic compo-nents connected in the shape of a letter TT-numberT-number /�ti� �n�mbə/ noun � T-stoptoggletoggle /�tɒ"(ə)l/ verb to switch somethingbetween two states (NOTE: toggles – tog-gling – toggled)tokentoken /�təυkən/ noun 1. an internal codewhich replaces a reserved word or programstatement in a high-level language 2. (in a lo-cal area network) a control packet which ispassed between workstations to control ac-cess to the networktoken bus networktoken bus network /�təυkən �b�s�netw��k/ noun an IEEE 802.4 standard fora local area network formed with a bus-topol-ogy cable, in which workstations transferdata by passing a tokentoken-passingtoken-passing /�təυkən �pɑ�sŋ/ noun amethod of controlling access to a local areanetwork by using a token (NOTE: A worksta-tion cannot transmit data until it receives thetoken.)Token Ring networkToken Ring network /�təυkən rŋ�netw��k/ noun an IEEE 802.5 standard thatuses a token passed from one workstation tothe next in a ring network � Token Ring net-works are very democratic and retain per-formance against increasing load. (NOTE: Aworkstation can only transmit data if it cap-tures the token. Token Ring networks, al-though logically rings, are often physicallywired in a star topology.)

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243 tracingtonetone /təυn/ noun 1. sound at one single fre-quency 2. a shade of a colour � The graphicspackage can give several tones of blue.tone diallingtone dialling /�təυn �daəlŋ/ noun amethod of dialling a telephone number usingsounds to represent the digits of the number(NOTE: This method of dialling is the currentstandard method of dialling numbers andhas generally replaced the older pulse dial-ling system. A Hayes-compatible modemcan dial the number ‘123’ using tone diallingwith the AT command ‘ATDT123’ or usingpulse dialling with the AT command‘ATDP123’)tonertoner /�təυnə/ noun a finely powdered ink,usually black, that is used in laser printers �If you get toner on your hands, you can onlywash it off with cold water. (NOTE: The toneris transferred onto the paper by electricalcharge, then fixed permanently to the paperby heating.)tone signallingtone signalling /�təυn �s"n(ə)lŋ/ nountones used in a telephone network to conveycontrol or address signalstooltool /tu�l/ noun (in a graphical front end ) afunction accessed from an icon in a toolbar,e.g. a circle-draw optiontoolbartoolbar /�tu�lbɑ�/ noun a window that con-tains a range of icons that access toolsToolbookToolbook /�tu�lbυk/ noun a multimediaauthoring tool developed by Asymetrixwhich uses the OpenScript script language tocontrol objects and actionstoolboxtoolbox /�tu�lbɒks/ noun a set of prede-fined routines or functions that are used whenwriting a programToolboxToolbox /�tu�lbɒks/ noun (in an AppleMac) a set of utility programs stored in ROMto provide graphic functionstoolkittoolkit /�tu�lkt/ noun a series of functionswhich help a programmer to write or debugprogramstoolstools /tu�lz/ noun a set of utility programssuch as backup and format in a computer sys-temtoptop /tɒp/ noun a part which is the highestpoint of somethingtop-level domaintop-level domain /�tɒp �lev(ə)l dəυ|

�men/ noun the part of an Internet addressthat identifies an Internet domain, e.g. a two-letter country code or a three-letter code suchas .edu for education or .com for commercialwhen used without a country code.topologytopology /tɒ|�pɒləd'i/ noun a way inwhich the various elements in a network areinterconnected (NOTE: The plural is topolo-gies.)total access communication systemtotal access communication sys-tem /�təυt(ə)l ��kses kə|�mju�n |�keʃ(ə)n�sstəm/ noun full form of TACS

touchtouch /t�tʃ/ verb to make contact withsomething with the fingerstouch padtouch pad /�t�tʃ p�d/ noun a flat devicewhich can sense where on its surface andwhen it is touched, used to control a cursorposition or switch a device on or offtouch screentouch screen /�t�tʃ skri�n/ noun a com-puter display which has a grid of infraredtransmitters and receivers, positioned on ei-ther side of the screen used to control a cursorposition (NOTE: When a user wants to makea selection or move the cursor, he or shepoints to the screen, breaking two of thebeams, which gives the position of thepointing finger.)touch uptouch up /�t�tʃ ��p/ verb to removescratches or other marks from a photographor imageTPTP abbr 1. teleprocessing 2. transactionprocessingTPITPI abbr tracks per inchtracetrace /tres/ noun 1. a method of verifyingthat a program is functioning correctly, inwhich the current status and contents of theregisters and variables used are displayed af-ter each instruction step 2. a cathode ray tubeimage which is produced by a flowing elec-tronic stream 3. a function that can take a bit-map image and process it to find the edges ofthe shapes and so convert these into a vectorline imagetrace programtrace program /�tres �prəυ"r�m/ nouna diagnostic program which executes a pro-gram that is being debugged, one instructionat a time, displaying the states and registerstraceroutetraceroute /�tresru�t/ noun a softwareutility that finds and displays the route takenfor data travelling between a computer and adistant server on the Internet

COMMENT: The display shows the differentservers that the data travels through, to-gether with the time taken to travel be-tween each server (called a hop). Tracer-oute works by sending out a time-to-live(TTL) query data packet to the distant serv-er. It starts by sending out packets with avery low time-to-live, then gradually in-creases the length of time that the packetcan survive until one is returned by the host– this then provides the shortest time it willtake to reach the host. If you are trying toview a website you can use traceroute tocheck which section of the link to the web-site’s server is the slowest. Windows in-cludes a traceroute utility ‘tracert’. Click theStart button and select the Run option thentype in ‘tracert’ followed by the domainname of the distant web server, e.g. tracert‘www.bloomsbury.com’’

tracingtracing /�tresŋ/ noun a function of agraphics program that takes a bitmap imageand processes it to find the edges of the

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tracing function 244shapes and so convert these into a vector lineimage that can be more easily manipulatedtracing functiontracing function /�tresŋ �f�ŋkʃən/noun the function of a graphics program thattakes a bitmap image and processes it to findthe edges of the shapes and so convert theseinto a vector line image that can be more eas-ily manipulatedtracktrack /tr�k/ noun 1. any one of a series ofthin concentric rings on a magnetic diskwhich the read/write head accesses and alongwhich the data is stored in separate sectors 2.a song 3. a method of separating the noteswithin a tune either by channel or by part orinstrument 4. a series of instructions that de-fine how an object moves with time � verb 1.to follow a path or track correctly � The readhead is not tracking the recorded track cor-rectly. 2. to move a camera and its mount to-wards or away from the action, or to follow amoving subject

COMMENT: The first track on a tape is alongthe edge and the tape may have up to ninedifferent tracks on it, while a disk has manyconcentric tracks around the central hub.The track and sector addresses are set upduring formatting.

trackballtrackball /�tr�kbɔ�l/ noun a device used tomove a cursor on-screen which is controlledby turning a ball contained in a casetrackingtracking /�tr�kŋ/ noun 1. the correctalignment of a read head and the tape in atape player 2. degradation of a video clip be-cause the action moves too fast to be accu-rately captured by the cameratracks per inchtracks per inch /�tr�ks p��r �ntʃ/ nouna measure of the number of concentric datatracks on a disk surface per inch. Abbr TPItractor feedtractor feed /�tr�ktə fi�d/ noun a methodof feeding paper into a printer, in whichsprocket wheels on the printer connect withthe sprocket holes on either edge of the paperto pull the paper throughtraffictraffic /�tr�fk/ noun the totality of mes-sages and other signals processed by a sys-tem or carried by a communications link �Our Ethernet network begins to slow down ifthe traffic reaches 60 per cent of the band-width.trailtrail /trel/ noun a line or route followed bysomethingtrailertrailer /�trelə/ noun 1. the final byte of afile containing control or file characteristics2. a brief film which advertises a motion pic-ture that is about to be released 3. a leader orpiece of non magnetic tape to the start of areel of magnetic tape to make loading easiertransactiontransaction /tr�n|�z�kʃən/ noun a singleaction which affects a database, e.g. a sale, achange of address or a new customer

transaction processing

transaction processing /tr�n|�z�kʃən�prəυsesŋ/ noun interactive processing inwhich a user enters commands and data on aterminal which is linked to a central compu-ter, with results being displayed on-screen.Abbr TP

‘At present, users implementing client-serverstrategies are focusing on decision support sys-tems before implementing online transactionprocessing and other mission-critical applica-tions.’ [Computing]

transborder data flowtransborder data flow /�tr�nzbɔ�də�detə �fləυ/ noun the passing of data fromone country to another using communica-tions links such as satellites or land linestransceivertransceiver /tr�n|�si�və/ noun a transmit-ter and receiver, or a device which can bothtransmit and receive signals, e.g. a terminalor modemtranscoder

transcoder /tr�ns|�kəυdə/ noun an elec-tronic device used to convert television signalstandards � Use the transcoder to convertPAL to SECAM.transcribetranscribe /tr�n|�skrab/ verb to copydata from one backing storage unit or medi-um to another (NOTE: transcribes – tran-scribing – transcribed)transcriptiontranscription /tr�n|�skrpʃən/ noun theaction of transcribing datatransducer

transducer /tr�nz |�dju�sə/ noun an elec-tronic device which converts signals in oneform into signals in another � the pressuretransducer converts physical pressure sig-nals into electrical signalstransfertransfer /�tr�nsf��/ verb 1. to change com-mand or control of something � All process-ing activities have been transferred to themainframe. 2. to copy a section of memory toanother location (NOTE: transferring –transferred) � noun the process of chang-ing command or controltransfer rate

transfer rate /�tr�nsf�� ret/ noun thespeed at which data is transferred from back-ing store to main memory or from one deviceto another � With a good telephone line, thispair of modems can achieve a transfer rate of14.4Kbps.transform

transform /tr�ns|�fɔ�m/ verb to changesomething from one state to anothertransformationtransformation /�tr�nsfə|�meʃ(ə)n/noun the action of changing, or changingsomething, from one state to anothertransformational rulestransformational rules /tr�nzfə|

�meʃ(ə)n(ə)l ru�lz/ noun a set of rules ap-plied to data which is to be transformed intocoded formtransformer

transformer /tr�ns |�fɔ�mə/ noun a devicewhich changes the voltage or current ampli-tude of an AC signal

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245 trapezoidal distortiontransient

transient /�tr�nziənt/ adjective referringto a state or signal which is present for a shortperiod of timetransistor

transistor /tr�n|�zstə/ noun an electronicsemiconductor device which can control thecurrent flow in a circuit (NOTE: There are twomain types of transistor, bipolar and unipo-lar.)transition

transition /tr�n|�zʃ(ə)n/ noun 1. a shortperiod of time between two events 2. the pe-riod between two frames in a slide show oranimation. The user can normally define howone frame changes to the next.translate

translate /tr�ns|�let/ verb 1. to convertdata from one form into another (NOTE:translates – translating – translated) 2. tomove an image on screen without rotating it(graphics)translation tables

translation tables /tr�ns |�leʃ(ə)n�teb(ə)lz/ plural noun same as conversiontablestranslator

translator /tr�ns|�letə/, translator pro-gram /tr�ns|�letə �prəυ"r�m/ noun a pro-gram which translates a high level languageprogram into another language, usually ma-chine code. � interpreter, compilertranslucenttranslucent /tr�ns|�lu�s(ə)nt/ adjectivematerial which allows light to pass throughtransmission

transmission /tr�nz|�mʃ(ə)n/ noun theprocess of sending signals from one device toanothertransmission channel

transmission channel /tr�nz|�mʃ(ə)n�tʃ�n(ə)l/ noun a physical connection be-tween two points which allows data to betransmitted, e.g. a link between a CPU and aperipheraltransmission control protocoltransmission control protocol /tr�nz|

�mʃ(ə)n kən |�trəυl �prəυtəkɒl/ noun fullform of TCPtransmission control protocol/interface program

transmission control protocol/inter-face program /tr�nz|�mʃ(ə)n kən|�trəυl�prəυtəυkɒl �ntəfes �prəυ"r�m/ nounfull form of TCP/IPtransmissive disk

transmissive disk /tr�nz |�msv dsk/noun an optical data storage disk in whichthe reading laser beam shines through thedisk to a detector belowtransmit

transmit /tr�nz|�mt/ verb to send infor-mation from one device to another, using anymedium such as radio, cable or wire link(NOTE: transmitting – transmitted)transmittance

transmittance /tr�nz |�mtəns/ noun theamount of light transmitted through a materi-al in ratio to the total light incident on the sur-face of the materialtransmitter

transmitter /tr�nz|�mtə/ noun a devicewhich will take an input signal, process it,e.g. to modulate or convert it to sound, then

transmit it by a medium such as radio or light.Abbr TXtransparencytransparency /tr�ns |�p�rənsi/ noun 1.transparent positive film, which can be pro-jected onto a screen or to make film for print-ing 2. the amount one image shows of anoth-er image beneath ittransparenttransparent /tr�ns|�p�rənt/ adjective 1.referring to an image that shows another im-age beneath it 2. referring to a computer pro-gram which is not obvious to the user orwhich cannot be seen by the user when it isrunning � noun a device or network that al-lows signals to pass through it without beingaltered in any waytransparent GIFtransparent GIF /tr�ns|�p�rənt �d'i� a�ef/ noun a graphic image stored in the GIFfile format with one colour from the paletteassigned as a transparent colour (NOTE:When the image is displayed, any part ofthe image in this colour will be transparentto allow any image beneath to showthrough. This feature is used a lot in web-pages to place images on a patterned back-ground.)transphasortransphasor /tr�nz|�fezə/ noun an opti-cal transistor constructed from a crystalwhich is able to switch a main beam of lightaccording to a smaller input signal

COMMENT: This is used in the latest re-search for an optical computer that couldrun at the speed of light.

transpondertransponder /tr�n|�spɒndə/ noun a com-munications device that receives and retrans-mits signalstransporttransport /tr�ns|�pɔ�t/ verb to carry some-thing from one place to another, often in a ve-hicletransportabletransportable /tr�ns |�pɔ�təb(ə)l/ adjec-tive which can be carried, though perhaps re-quiring a vehicle � A transportable computeris not as small as a portable or a laptop.transpositiontransposition /�tr�nspə|�zʃ(ə)n/ nounthe process of changing the order of a seriesof characters (as ‘comupter’ for ‘computer’or ‘1898’ for ‘1988’) � A series of transposi-tion errors caused faulty results.transverse mode noisetransverse mode noise /�tr�nz|�v��sməυd nɔz/ noun interference which is ap-parent between power supply linestraptrap /tr�p/ noun a device or piece of soft-ware or hardware that will catch somethingsuch as a variable, fault or valuetrapezium distortiontrapezium distortion /trə|�pi�ziəm d|

�stɔ�ʃ(ə)n/ noun in a visual or video system,image distortion which produces a rectangu-lar shapetrapezoidal distortiontrapezoidal distortion /�tr�pzɔdəlds |�tɔ�ʃ(ə)n/ noun same as keystone dis-tortion

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trashcan 246trashcan

trashcan /�tr�ʃk�n/ noun (in a GUI) anicon which looks like a dustbin that deletesany file that is dragged onto ittree of folderstree of folders /�tri� əv �fəυldəz/ noun aview of all the folders stored on a disk ar-ranged to show folders and subfolderstremendously high frequencytremendously high frequency /tr|

�mendəsli ha �fri�kwənsi/ noun the radiofrequency between 300GHz and 3000GHz.Abbr THFtriadtriad /�tra�d/ noun a triangular shapedgrouping of the red, green and blue colourphosphor spots at each pixel location on thescreen of a colour RGB monitortrialtrial /�traəl/ noun a test for new equipmentto see if it workstrials engineertrials engineer /�traəlz �end'nə/ nouna person who designs, runs and analyses tri-als of new equipmenttriangletriangle /�tra�ŋ"əl/ noun a spreader withthree sides for tripod legs (film)triaxtriax /�tra�ks/ noun a coaxial cable withan additional screen which conveys powerand coded commands to a television camera,and also receives the video signal from thecamera (film) � Triax is used when the cam-era is far away from the control unit.tributary stationtributary station /�trbjυt(ə)ri�steʃ(ə)n/ noun any station on a multilinknetwork other than the main control stationtrim

trim /trm/ verb to cut off the edge of some-thing � The printed pages are trimmed to 198x 129mm. � You will need to trim the top partof the photograph to make it fit.triniscope

triniscope /�trnskəυp/ noun a colourvideo display system which uses three differ-ent cathode ray tubes to produce the red,green and blue imagesTrinitron™

Trinitron™ /�trntrɒn/ noun a colour tel-evision cathode ray tube which uses stripedphosphors and aperture grilletriple standardtriple standard /�trp(ə)l �st�ndəd/ nouna video tape recorder, television monitor orother apparatus which can receive NTSC,PAL or SECAM standard video signalstrivial file transfer protocoltrivial file transfer protocol /�trviəl�fal �tr�nsf�� �prəυtəkɒl/ noun full formof TFTPTRLTRL abbr transistor-resistor logicTrojan HorseTrojan Horse /�trəυd'(ə)n hɔ�s/ noun aprogram inserted into a system by a hackerthat will perform a harmless function whilecopying information held in a classified fileinto a file with a low priority, which the hack-er can then access without the authorised us-er’s knowledgetropospheretroposphere /�trɒpəsfiə/ noun a region ofspace extending up to six miles above the

earth’s surface, causing radio wave scatter. �ionospheretroubleshoottroubleshoot /�tr�b(ə)lʃu�t/ verb 1. todebug computer software 2. to locate and re-pair faults in hardwaretroubleshootertroubleshooter /�tr�b(ə)lʃu�tə/ noun aperson who troubleshoots hardware or soft-ware (NOTE: troubleshot)troughtrough /trɒf/ noun the lowest point in awaveform. Compare peaktruetrue /tru�/ adjective referring to a logicalcondition representing a non-zero valueTrueTypeTrueType /�tru�tap/ a trade name for anoutline font technology introduced by Appleand Microsoft as a means of printing exactlywhat is displayed on screentruncatetruncate /tr�ŋ|�ket/ verb 1. to cut some-thing short 2. to give an approximate value toa number by reducing it to a certain numberof digits � 3.5678 truncated to 3.56 (NOTE:truncates – truncating – truncated)truncationtruncation /tr�ŋ|�keʃ(ə)n/ noun removalof digits from a number so that it is a partic-ular lengthtrunktrunk /tr�ŋk/ noun a bus or communicationlink consisting of wires or leads which con-nect different parts of a hardware systemtrunk calltrunk call /�tr�ŋk kɔ�l/ noun a long-dis-tance telephone calltrunk exchangetrunk exchange /�tr�ŋk ks|�tʃend'/noun a telephone exchange that only handlestrunk callstruth tabletruth table /�tru�θ �teb(ə)l/ noun a meth-od of defining a logic function as the outputstate for all possible inputsTseng LabsTseng Labs /�seŋ l�bz/ a manufacturer ofchipsets used in graphics adaptersTSRTSR abbr terminate and stay residentT-stopT-stop /�ti� stɒp/ noun a lens setting whichshows the actual light transmission throughthe lens after being absorbed and reflected(film)TSWTSW abbr telesoftwareTTLTTL /�ti� ti� �el/ noun the most commonfamily of logic gates and high-speed transis-tor circuit designs in which the bipolar tran-sistors are directly connected, usually collec-tor to base. Full form transistor-transistorlogictunetune /tju�n/ verb 1. to set a system at its op-timum point by careful adjustment (NOTE:tunes – tuning – tuned) 2. to adjust a trans-mitter to the correct frequency 3. to adjust aradio receiver’s frequency until the requiredstation is received clearlytunertuner /�tju�nə/ noun an electronic circuitthat detects a transmitted television carriersignal at a particular frequency and removes

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247 twisted-pair cablethe audio or video information to display ona CRTtunnellingtunnelling /�t�n(ə)lŋ/ noun a method ofenclosing a packet of data from one type ofnetwork within another packet so that it canbe sent over a different, incompatible net-workTuring machineTuring machine /�tjυrŋ mə|�ʃi�n/ noun amathematical model of a device which couldread and write data to a controllable tape stor-age while altering its internal statesTuring testTuring test /�tjυrŋ test/ noun a test to de-cide if a computer is ‘intelligent’turnturn /t��n/ verb � Turn off the power beforeunplugging the monitor. � turn off to switchoff or disconnect the power supply to a ma-chine � Turn off the power before unplug-ging the monitor. � turn on to switch on orconnect the power supply to a machine �Turn on the computer and get to work.turnaround documentturnaround document /�t��nə|�raυnd�dɒkjυmənt/ noun a document which isprinted out from a computer, sent to a userand returned by the user with new notes or in-formation written on it, which can be read bya document readerturnaround timeturnaround time /�t��nəraυnd �tam/noun 1. the length of time it takes to switchdata flow direction in a half duplex system 2.the time taken to activate a program and pro-duce the result which the user has asked for� abbr TATturnkey systemturnkey system /�t��nki� �sstəm/ nouna complete system which is designed to acustomer’s needs and is ready to use (NOTE:To operate it, the user only has to switch iton or turn a key.)turn offturn off /�t��n �ɒf/ verb to switch off or todisconnect the power supply to a machine �Turn off the power before unplugging themonitor.turn onturn on /�t��n �ɒn/ verb to switch on or toconnect the power supply to a machineturtleturtle /�t��t(ə)l/ noun a device whose move-ments and position are controllable, used todraw graphics with instructions in the com-puter language LOGO (NOTE: It is either adevice which works on a flat surface (floorturtle) or one which draws on a VDU screen(screen turtle), and is often used as a teach-ing aid.)turtle graphicsturtle graphics /�t��t(ə)l �"r�fks/ pluralnoun graphic images created using a turtleand a series of commands � The charts wereprepared using turtle graphics.TVTV /�ti� �vi�/ abbr televisionTV-outTV-out /�ti� �vi� aυt/ noun a connector on acomputer or graphics adapter that provides amodulated signal that can be displayed on a

standard television or recorded on a video re-corderTVROTVRO noun equipment for reception anddisplay without transmission. Full form tele-vision receive onlyTWAINTWAIN /twen/ noun an application pro-gramming interface standard developed byHewlett-Packard, Logitech, Eastman Kodak,Aldus, and Caere that allows software to con-trol image hardwaretweaktweak /twi�k/ verb to make small adjust-ments to a program or hardware to improveperformancetweeningtweening /�twi�nŋ/ noun (in computergraphics) the process of calculating the inter-mediate images that lead from a starting im-age to a different finished image � Usingtweening, we can show how a frog turns intoa princess in five steps.tweetertweeter /�twi�tə/ noun a small loudspeakerused for high frequency sounds only(informal) Compare woofer24/9624/96 /�twenti fɔ� �nanti �sks/ a popularstandard for high-performance digital audioequipment that provides 24-bit samples and asample rate of 96KHz24-bit sample24-bit sample /�twenti fɔ� bt�sɑ�mp(ə)l/ noun a single sample of an ana-logue signal which is stored as three bytes (a24-bit digital number), meaning that there are16,777,216 possible levels. � 8-bit sample,16-bit sampletwisted-pair cabletwisted-pair cable /�twstd peə�keb(ə)l/ noun a cable which consists of twoinsulated copper wires twisted around eachother, to reduce induction and so interference

COMMENT: The EIA specifies five levels ofcable for different purposes. The Category1 standard defines an older-style unshield-ed twisted-pair cable that is formed byloosely twisting two insulated wires togeth-er to reduce noise and interference; thistype of cable is not suitable for data trans-mission. The Category 2 (part of theEIA/TIA 568 specification) standard de-fines a type of unshielded twisted-pair ca-ble that can be used to transmit data atrates up to 4MHz. The Category 3 (part ofthe EIA/TIA 568 specification) standard de-fines a type of unshielded twisted-pair ca-ble that can be used to transmit data atrates up to 10MHz; this type of cable is theminimum standard of cable required for a10BaseT network. The standard suggeststhat the cable should have three twists perfoot of cable. The Category 4 (part of theEIA/TIA 568 specification) standard de-fines a type of unshielded twisted-pair ca-ble that is the minimum standard of cablerequired for data transmission rates up to16Mbs on a Token Ring network. The Cat-egory 5 (part of the EIA/TIA 568 specifica-tion) standard defines a type of cable that

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twisted-pair Ethernet 248can carry data transmitted at up to 100MHzand is suitable for FDDI over copper wire,100BaseT or other high-speed networks.

twisted-pair Ethernettwisted-pair Ethernet /�twstd peə�i�θənet/ noun a star-topology network thatuses twisted-pair cable and transmits data at10 Mbps;. Also called 10BaseTtwittertwitter /�twtə/ noun video picture distor-tion which produces a flicker at the horizon-tal edges of objects2D2D /�tu� �di�/ an object in a graphic imagethat has only the appearance of width andheight, not depth, so does not look like a solidobjecttwo-dimensionaltwo-dimensional /�tu� da |�menʃən(ə)l/adjective which has two dimensions, i.e. flat,with no depthtwo-parttwo-part /�tu� |�pɑ�t/ adjective referring topaper with a top sheet for the original and asecond sheet for a copy � two-part invoicestwo-way cabletwo-way cable /�tu� we �keb(ə)l/ nounUS a system of cable TV, where the viewercan take which programmes he wants by se-lecting them or where the viewer can respondto broadcast questions by sending his re-sponse down the cabletwo-way radiotwo-way radio /�tu� we �rediəυ/ noun aradio transmitted and receiver in a singlehousing, allowing duplex communicationwith another usertwo-wire circuittwo-wire circuit /�tu� �waə �s��kt/ nountwo insulated wires used to carry transmittedand received messages independentlyTXTX abbr transmittertypetype /tap/ noun 1. a sort or category ofsomething 2. printed characters on a page �they switched to italic type for the heading 3.the definition of the processes or sorts of datawhich a variable in a computer can contain 4.same as font 5. a metal bars with a raisedcharacter used for printing � verb to enter in-formation via a keyboard � I typed in thecommand again, but it still didn’t work.(NOTE: types – typing – typed)typefacetypeface /�tapfes/ noun a set of charac-ters in a particular design and particularweight � Most of this book is set in the Timestypeface.

typescripttypescript /�tapskrpt/ noun a copy of atext written by an author on a typewritertypesettypeset /�tapset/ verb to set text in typefor printing � In desktop publishing, the fin-ished work should look almost as if it hadbeen typeset.typesettertypesetter /�tapsetə/ noun 1. a machinewhich produces very high-quality text outputusing a laser to create an image on photosen-sitive paper, usually at a resolution of 1275 or2450 dpi 2. a person who typesets � the textis ready to be sent to the typesettertypesettingtypesetting /�tapsetŋ/ noun the actionof setting text in type � Typesetting costs canbe reduced by supplying the typesetter withprekeyed disks. � phototypesettingtype sizetype size /�tap saz/ noun the size of afont, measured in pointstype styletype style /�tap stal/ noun the weightand angle of a font, e.g. bold or italictypewritertypewriter /�tapratə/ noun a machinewhich prints letters or figures on a piece ofpaper when a key is pressed by striking aninked ribbon onto the paper with a charactertypetypewriter facestypewriter faces /�tapratə �fesz/ plu-ral noun the spacing, size and font of charac-ters available on a typewritertypewrittentypewritten /�taprt(ə)n/ adjective writ-ten on a typewriter � He sent in a typewrittenjob application.typingtyping /�tapŋ/ noun the process of writingletters with a typewriter (NOTE: no plural)typing errortyping error /�tapŋ �erə/ noun a mistakemade when using a typewritertypotypo /�tapəυ/ noun a typographical errorwhich is made while typesetting (informal)typographertypographer /ta |�pɒ"rəfə/ noun a personwho designs a section of art or text to beprintedtypographictypographic /�tapə|�"r�fk/, typo-graphical /�tapə|�"r�fk(ə)l/ adjective re-ferring to typography or to typesetting � Notypographical skills are required for this job.� A typographical error made while typeset-ting is called a ‘typo’.typographytypography /ta|�pɒ"rəfi/ noun the art andmethods used in working with type

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UUARTUART /�ju�ɑ�t/ noun a chip which convertsasynchronous serial bit streams to a parallelform or parallel data to a serial bit stream.Full form universal asynchronous receiv-er/transmitterU-format cassetteU-format cassette /ju� �fɔ�m�t kə|�set/noun a standard size videocassette whichuses a three-quarter inch tape for use with theU-Matic systemUHFUHF /�ju� etʃ �ef/ noun a range of frequen-cies normally used to transmit television sig-nals. Full form ultra high frequencyULAULA /�ju� el �e/ noun a chip containing anumber of unconnected logic circuits andgates which can then be connected by a cus-tomer to provide a required function. Fullform uncommitted logic arrayUltimediaUltimedia /��lti |�midiə/ a trade name for amultimedia concept developed by IBM thatcombines sound, video, images and text, anddefines the hardware required to run itultra-ultra- /�ltrə/ prefix 1. very large 2. furtherthanUltra ATAUltra ATA /��ltrə e ti� �e/ noun a versionof the AT Attachment hard disk drive inter-face standard that can support a data transferrate of up to 33 MBps (NOTE: To manage thishigh-speed data transfer from the hard diskinterface to the rest of your PC, it needs tohave a high-speed version of DMA)ultra high frequencyultra high frequency /��ltrə ha�fri�kwənsi/ noun full form of UHFultrasonicultrasonic /��ltrə|�sɒnk/ adjective (soundpressure waves) at a frequency above the au-dio band (above 20kHz)U-MaticU-Matic /ju� �m�tk/ noun a video tapeformat, 3/4-inch wide, used for professionalvideo recordingU-Matic SPU-Matic SP noun an enhanced format ofthe U-Matic tape standard that offers betterqualityUMTSUMTS /�ju� em ti� �es/ noun a third genera-tion mobile communication system that sup-ports voice data, and video signals to thehandset. Full form universal mobile tele-communications systemun-un- /�n/ prefix meaning not � the use of apassword is to prevent unauthorised accessto the dataunallowable digitunallowable digit /�nə|�laυəb(ə)l�dd't/ noun an illegal combination of bitsin a word, according to predefined rules

unary operationunary operation /�ju�nəri �ɒpə|�reʃ(ə)n/noun a computing operation on only one op-erand, e.g. the logical NOT operationunattended operationunattended operation /��nətendd�ɒpə|�reʃ(ə)n/ noun an operation that canproceed without the need for a person to su-perviseunauthorisedunauthorised /�n|�ɔ�θərazd/, unauthor-ized adjective which has not been authorised� The use of a password is to prevent unau-thorised access to the data.unbundled softwareunbundled software /�n|�b�nd(ə)ld�sɒftweə/ noun software which is not in-cluded in the price of the equipmentunclockedunclocked /�n|�klɒkd/ adjective referringto an electronic circuit or flip-flop whichchanges state as soon as an input changes, notwith a clock signaluncommitted logic arrayuncommitted logic array /��nkəmtd�lɒd'k ə |�re/ noun full form of ULAunconditionalunconditional /��nkən|�dʃ(ə)nəl/ adjec-tive which does not depend on any conditionbeing metundeleteundelete /��ndi�t/ verb to restore deletedinformation or a deleted file � Don’t worry,this function will undelete your cuts to the let-ter. (NOTE: undeletes – undeleting – unde-leted)underflowunderflow /��ndəfləυ/ noun the result of anumerical operation that is too small to berepresented with the given accuracy of acomputerunderlineunderline /��ndəlan/ noun a line drawnor printed under a piece of text. Also calledunderscore � verb to print or write a lineunder a piece of text (NOTE: underlines –underlining – underlined)underscoreunderscore /��ndəskɔ�/ verb same as un-derline (NOTE: underscores – underscor-ing – underscored)undertakeundertake /��ndə|�tek/ verb to agree to dosomething � He has undertaken to repro-gram the whole system. (NOTE: undertakes– undertaking – undertook – undertak-en)undetectedundetected /��nd|�tektd/ adjectivewhich has not been detected � The program-ming error remained undetected for sometime.undetected errorundetected error /��ndtektd �erə/noun an error which is not detected by a cod-ing system

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undo 250undo

undo /�n|�du�/ verb to reverse the previousaction, normally an editing command �You’ve just deleted the paragraph, but youcan undo it from the option in the Edit menu.(NOTE: undoes – undoing – undid)unedited

unedited /�n|�edtd/ adjective which hasnot been editedunformattedunformatted /�n|�fɔ�m�td/ adjective 1.referring to a text file which contains no for-matting commands, margins or typographi-cal commands � It is impossible to copy toan unformatted disk. 2. referring to a diskwhich has not been formatted � The car-tridge drive provides 12.7Mbyte of unformat-ted storage.ungroupungroup /�n|�"ru�p/ verb to convert a sin-gle complex object back into a series of sep-arate objectsuni-uni- /ju�ni/ prefix one or singleunidirectional microphone

unidirectional microphone/�ju�nidarekʃən(ə)l �makrəfəυn/ noun amicrophone that is most sensitive in one di-rection only. Compare omnidirectionaluniform resource locatoruniform resource locator /�ju�nfɔ�mr |�zɔ�s ləυ|�keitə/ noun full form of URLuninstall

uninstall /��nn|�stɑ�l/ verb to remove apiece of software from a computeruninterruptible power supply

uninterruptible power supply/��nntər�ptb(ə)l �paυə sə|�pla/ noun fullform of UPSunipolar

unipolar /�ju�ni|�pəυlə/ adjective 1. (refer-ring to a transistor ) which can act as a varia-ble current flow control (NOTE: An externalsignal varies the resistance of the device.)2. referring to a transmission system in whicha positive voltage pulse and zero volts repre-sents the binary bits 1 and 0uniqueunique /ju�|�ni�k/ adjective which is differ-ent from everything else � Each separatememory byte has its own unique address.unique identifierunique identifier /ju� |�ni�k a|�dentfaə/noun a set of characters used to distinguishbetween different resources in a multimediabookunit

unit /�ju�nt/ noun 1. the smallest element2. a single machine, possibly with many dif-ferent partsuniversal

universal /�ju�n|�v��s(ə)l/ adjective whichapplies everywhere or which can be usedeverywhere or used for a number of tasksuniversal asynchronous receiver/transmitter

universal asynchronous receiv-er/transmitter /�ju�nv��səl�esŋkrənəs r|�si�və tr�nz|�mtə/ nounfull form of UARTuniversal mobile telecommunications systemuniversal mobile telecommunica-tions system /�ju�nv��s(ə)l �məυbal�telikəmju�n|�keʃ(ə)nz �sstəm/ noun fullform of UMTS

universal product code

universal product code /�ju�nv��s(ə)l�prɒd�kt �kəυd/ noun a standard printed barcoding system used to identify products in ashop using a bar code reader or at a EPOS.Abbr UPCuniversal resource locator

universal resource locator/�ju�nv��s(ə)l r |�zɔ�s ləυ|�keitə/ noun fullform of URLuniversal serial bus

universal serial bus /�ju�nv��s(ə)l�səriəl �b�s/ noun full form of USBuniversal synchronous asynchronous receiver/transmitter

universal synchronous asynchro-nous receiver/transmitter/�ju�nv��səl �sŋkrənəs �esŋkrənəs r|

�si�və tr�nz|�mtə/ noun full form of US-ARTUNIX

UNIX /�ju�nks/ noun a popular multiuser,multitasking operating system developed byAT&T Bell Laboratories to run on almost anycomputer, from PCs to minicomputers andlarge mainframes

‘Hampshire fire brigade is investing £2 million ina command and control system based on the newSeriesFT fault-tolerant Unix machine from Mo-torola.’ [Computing]

unjustified

unjustified /�n|�d'�stfad/ adjective re-ferring to text which has not been justifiedunlock

unlock /�n|�lɒk/ verb to make it possible forother users to write to a file or access a sys-temunmoderated list

unmoderated list /�n |�mɒdəretd �lst/noun a mailing list that sends any materialsubmitted to the listserv on to all the sub-scribers without a person reading or checkingthe contentunmodulated

unmodulated /�n|�mɒdjυletd/ adjec-tive referring to a signal which has not beenmodulatedunmount

unmount /�n|�maυnt/ verb 1. to remove adisk from a disk drive 2. to inform the oper-ating system that a disk drive is no longer inactive useunpack

unpack /�n|�p�k/ verb to remove packeddata from storage and expand it to its formerstate � This routine unpacks the archived file.unplug

unplug /�n|�pl�"/ verb to take a plug out ofa socket � Do not move the system withoutunplugging it. (NOTE: unplugging – un-plugged)unpopulated

unpopulated /�n|�pɒpjυletd/ adjectivereferring to a printed circuit board whichdoes not yet contain any components orwhose sockets are emptyunprotected

unprotected /��nprə |�tektd/ adjective re-ferring to data which can be modified and isnot protected by a security measureunrecoverable error

unrecoverable error /�nr|�k�vərəb(ə)l�erə/ noun a computer hardware or softwareerror which causes a program to crash

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251 URLunshielded twisted-pair cable

unshielded twisted-pair cable/��nʃi�ldd �twstd �peə �keb(ə)l/ nounfull form of UTP cableunsigned

unsigned /�n |�sand/ adjective referring toa number system which does not representnegative numbersunsolicited mail

unsolicited mail /��nsə|�lstd mel/noun an advertising email message that hasnot been requested. � spam (NOTE: Do notsend out unsolicited mail to unknown emailaddresses unless you want to annoy the re-cipients and damage your company’s repu-tation)unsortedunsorted /�n|�sɔ�td/ adjective referring todata which has not been sorted � It took fourtimes as long to search the unsorted file.unsqueezed

unsqueezed /�n|�swi�zd/ adjective (filmprint) where the compressed picture of an an-amorphic negative has been altered for nor-mal projectionunsubscribeunsubscribe /��nsəb|�skrab/ verb to can-cel a subscription to or registration withsomething, especially an email mailing list(NOTE: unsubscribes – unsubscribing –unsubscribed)

‘All commercial messages will have to includefull details of the sender’s name and physical ad-dress, as well as an unsubscribe option allowingrecipients to stop any further messages.’[The Guardian]

unsupportedunsupported /��nsə |�pɔ�td/ adjectivehaving no technical support systemunwanted

unwanted /�n|�wɒntd/ adjective which isnot needed � Use the global delete commandto remove large areas of unwanted text.unzip

unzip /�n|�zp/ verb to restore a compressedcomputer file to its original size (NOTE: un-zipping – unzipped)up

up /�p/ adverb referring to a computer orprogram that is working or running � Theymust have found the fault – the computer is fi-nally up and running.up and down propagation time

up and down propagation time /��pən daυn �prɒpə|�"eʃ(ə)n �tam/ noun thetotal length of time that a transmission takesto travel from earth to a satellite and back toan earth stationUPCUPC abbr universal product codeupdate

update /��pdet/ noun 1. a master filewhich has been made up -to date by addingnew material 2. a piece of printed informa-tion which is an up-to-date revision of earlierinformation 3. a new version of a systemwhich is sent to users of the existing system� verb /�p|�det/ to change or add to specificdata in a master file so as to make the infor-mation up -to date � He has the original andupdated documents on disks. (NOTE: up-dates – updating – updated)

up/down counterup/down counter /��p �daυn �kaυntə/noun an electronic counter which can incre-ment or decrement a counter with each inputpulseupgradeupgrade /�p|�"red/ verb to make a systemmore powerful or more up -to date by addingnew equipment or facilities � They can up-grade the printer. (NOTE: upgrades – up-grading – upgraded)upkeepupkeep /��pki�p/ noun 1. the process ofkeeping data up-to-date � The upkeep of thefiles means reviewing them every six months.2. the process of keeping devices in workingorderuplinkuplink /��plŋk/ noun a transmission linkfrom an earth station to a satelliteuploadupload /��p|�ləυd/ verb to transfer data filesor programs from a small computer to a mainCPU � The user can upload PC data to up-date mainframe applications. Oppositedownloaduploadinguploading /��pləυdŋ/ noun the action oftransferring files to a main CPUuppercaseuppercase /��pə|�kes/ noun the style ofcapital letters and other symbols on a key-board which are accessed by pressing theshift keyupper memoryupper memory /��pə �mem(ə)ri/ noun(in an IBM PC) 384 Kb of memory locatedbetween the 640 Kb and 1 Mb limits, after the640 Kb conventional memory but before thehigh memory areas above the 1 Mb rangeUPSUPS /�ju� pi� �es/ noun a power supplywhich can continue to provide a regulatedsupply to equipment even after a mains pow-er failure, using a battery. Full form uninter-ruptible power supply

‘Magnum Power Systems has launched a newUPS for PCs. The BI-UPS prevents loss of datadue to power dips or ‘brown-outs’ – voltagedrops because of circuit overload.’ [Computing]

uptimeuptime, up time noun the time duringwhich a device is operational and error-free.Opposite downtimeupward compatibleupward compatible /��pwəd kəm |

�p�tb(ə)l/, upwards compatible/��pwədz kəm|�p�tb(ə)l/ adjective refer-ring to hardware or software designed to becompatible either with earlier models or withfuture models which have not yet been devel-opedURLURL /�ju� ɑ� �el/ noun an Internet systemused to standardise the way in which WorldWide Web addresses are written. Full formuniform resource locator

COMMENT: It is made up of three parts: thefirst is the protocol, e.g. HTTP or FTP, thenthe domain name of the service and finallythe directory or file name – ‘ht-tp://www.bloomsbury.com/index.html’

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usability 252usability

usability /�ju�zə|�blti/ noun the ease withwhich hardware or software can be used �We have studied usability tests and found thata GUI is easier for new users than a com-mand line.usable

usable /�ju�zəb(ə)l/ adjective which can beused or which is available for use � The PChas 512K of usable memory.USARTUSART /�ju�zɑ�t/ noun a chip which can beinstructed by a CPU to communicate withasynchronous or synchronous bit streams orparallel data lines. Full form universal syn-chronous asynchronous receiver/trans-mitterUSASCIIUSASCII /�ju� es ��ski�/ abbr USA stand-ard code for information interchange. � AS-CIIUSB

USB /�ju� es �bi�/ noun a standard defininga high-speed serial interface that transfersdata at up to 12Mbps and allows up to 127compatible peripherals to be connected to acomputer. Full form universal serial bus. �Firewireuse

use noun 1. the state or fact of being em-ployed for a particular purpose � Sorry, theprinter is already in use � in use already inoperation � Sorry, the printer is already inuse 2. the purpose, value or usefulness ofsomething � What use is an extra disk drive?� It’s no use, I cannot find the error. � verb1. to operate something or employ somethingfor a particular purpose � If you use the com-puter for processing the labels, it will bemuch quicker. 2. to consume a resource suchas heat or light � It’s using too much electric-ity.used

used /ju�zd/ adjective which is not new �special offer on used terminalsUsenet

Usenet /�ju�z|�net/ noun a section of the In-ternet that provides forums, called news-groups, in which any user can add a messageor comment on any other messageuser

user /�ju�zə/ noun 1. a person who uses acomputer, machine or software 2. a keyboardoperator

‘…the user’s guides are designed for people whohave never seen a computer, but some sectionshave been spoiled by careless checking’[PC User]

user-definableuser-definable /�ju�zə d|�fanəb(ə)l/ ad-jective referring to a feature or section of aprogram that a user can customise as required� The style sheet contains 125 user-definablesymbols.user documentation

user documentation /�ju�zə�dɒkjυmen |�teʃ(ə)n/ noun documentationprovided with a program which helps theuser run it � Using the package was easywith the excellent user documentation.

user-friendly

user-friendly /�ju�zə �frendli/ adjectivereferring to a language, system or programwhich is easy to use and interact with

‘ModelMaker saves researchers a great deal oftime and effort, and provides a highly user-friendly environment using menus and ‘buttons’,instant output, and instant access to a wide varie-ty of mathematical techniques built into the sys-tem.’ [Computing]

user-friendly software

user-friendly software /�ju�zə �frendli�sɒftweə/ noun a program which is easy fora nonexpert to use and interact withuser group

user group /�ju�zə "ru�p/ noun an associ-ation or club of users of a particular system orcomputer � I found how to solve the problemby asking people at the user group meeting.user guide

user guide /�ju�zə "ad/ noun a manualdescribing how to use a software package orsystemuser ID

user ID /�ju�zə a �di�/ noun a unique iden-tification code which allows a computer torecognise a user � If you forget your user ID,you will not be able to log on.user interface

user interface /�ju�zə �ntəfes/ nounhardware or software designed to make iteasier for a user to communicate with a ma-chineuser level

user level /�ju�zə �lev(ə)l/ noun (in au-thoring software) one of two modes that al-lows a user to run and interact with a multi-media application but not to modify it in anywayuser name

user name /�ju�zə nem/ noun (in a net-work or multi-user system) a name by whicha user is known to the system and whichopens the correct user accountuser-selectable

user-selectable /�ju�zə s |�lektəb(ə)l/adjective which can be chosen or selected bythe useruser’s manual

user’s manual /�ju�zəz �m�njυəl/ nouna booklet showing how a device or systemshould be usedutility program

utility program /ju� |�tlti �prəυ"r�m/noun a program which is concerned withsuch routine activities as file searching, cop-ying files, file directories, sorting and debug-ging and various mathematical functionsUTP cable

UTP cable /�ju� ti� �pi� �keb(ə)l/ noun acable consisting of two insulated copperwires twisted around each other, to reduce in-duction and so interference. Full form un-shielded twisted-pair cable

COMMENT: UTP is normally used for tele-phone cabling, but is also the cabling usedin the IEEE 802.3 (10BaseT) standard thatdefines Ethernet running over UTP at ratesof up to 10 Mbits per second. Unlike STPcable, the pair of wires are not wrapped inany other layer.

Uuencoding

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253 UuencodingUuencoding /�ju� ju� n|�kəυdŋ/ noun amethod of converting documents and files toa pseudo-text format that allows them to betransmitted as an email message

COMMENT: This gets around the Internet’sinability to transfer messages that are nottext. It has now been largely replaced byMIME.

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VVV /vi�/ abbr voltageV20V20 noun a range of processor chips madeby NEC, which are compatible with the Intel8088 and 8086. Also called V30V30V30 noun � V20V.34V.34 noun an outdated full-duplex modemcommunication standard that can transferdata at up to 28,800 bps. Like V.32, the V.34standard allows the modem to automaticallyadjust its speed based on the quality of thetelephone line to avoid errors.vaccinevaccine /�v�ksi�n/ noun a software utilityused to check a system to see if any virusesare present, and remove any that are foundvacuumvacuum /�v�kjuəm/ noun a state with noairvacuum tubevacuum tube /�v�kjυəm tju�b/ noun anelectronic current flow control device con-sisting of a heated cathode and an anode in asealed glass tube with a vacuum inside itvalidvalid /�v�ld/ adjective correct, accordingto a set of rulesvalidatevalidate /�v�l|�det/ verb to check that aninput or data is correct according to a set ofrules (NOTE: validates – validating – vali-dated)validationvalidation /�v�l|�deʃ(ə)n/ noun a checkperformed to validate data. � verificationvalidityvalidity /və|�ldti/ noun the correctness ofan instruction or passwordvaluevalue /�v�lju�/ noun what something isworth, either in money or as a quantityvalue-addedvalue-added /�v�lju� ��dd/ adjective(with extra benefit for a uservalue-added networkvalue-added network1 /�v�lju� ��dd�netw��k/ noun a commercial networkwhich offers information services, e.g. stockprices, weather, email or advice, as well asbasic file transfer. Abbr VANvalue-added networkvalue-added network2 /�v�lju� ��dd�netw��k/ noun a network where the trans-mission lines are leased from a public utilitysuch as the telephone service, but where theuser can add on private equipment. AbbrVANvalue-added resellervalue-added reseller1 /�v�lju� �dd�ri�selə/ noun a company that buys hardwareor software and adds another feature, cus-tomises or offers an extra service to attractcustomers. Abbr VARvalue-added resellervalue-added reseller2 /�v�lju� �dd�ri�selə/ noun a retailer who sells equipment

and systems which are specially tailored tocertain types of operation. Abbr VARvalvevalve /v�lv/ noun an electronic currentflow control device consisting of a heatedcathode and an anode in a sealed glass vacu-um tubeVANVAN /v�n/ abbr value-added networkV & VV & V /�vi� ənd �vi�/ noun the process oftesting a system to check that it is functioningcorrectly and that it is suitable for the tasksintended. Full form verification and valida-tionvanishing point perspectivevanishing point perspective/�v�nʃŋ pɔnt pə|�spektv/ noun graphicsdisplayed in two dimensions that have the ap-pearance of depth as all lines converge at avanishing point and objects appear smaller asthey are further from the uservapourwarevapourware /�vepəweə/ noun productswhich exist in name only (informal)

‘Rivals dismissed the initiative as IBM vapour-ware, designed to protect its installed base of ma-chines running under widely differing operatingsystems.’ [Computing]

VARVAR abbr value-added resellervariablevariable /�veəriəb(ə)l/ adjective which isable to change � noun 1. a register or storagelocation which can contain any number orcharacters and which may vary during theprogram run. Opposite constant 2. a com-puter program identifier for a variablevariable data rate videovariable data rate video /�veəriəb(ə)l�detə ret �vdiəυ/ noun full form of VDRVvariable resistorvariable resistor /�veəriəb(ə)l r|�zstə/noun a component whose resistance can bechanged by turning a knobvarifocal lensvarifocal lens /�veərifəυk(ə)l �lenz/noun same as zoom lens (see)varispeedvarispeed /�veərispi�d/ noun a variablespeed control on magnetic audio recorderswhich generally provide a large range; canalso be a pitch controlvaryvary /�veəri/ verb to change, or to changesomething � The clarity of the signal canvary with the power supply.VBVB abbr Visual BasicVboxVbox /�vi�bɒks/ noun a device that allowsseveral VCRs, videodiscs and camcorders tobe attached and controlled by one unit, devel-oped by Sony. Full form video boxVBScriptVBScript /�vi� �bi� �skrpt/ abbr Visual Ba-sic Script. Compare JavaScript

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255 vertical format unitVBXVBX abbr Visual Basic Extension (NOTE:Originally developed as a way of adding ex-tra programming features to the MicrosoftVB programming language, it is now astandard that can be used by many Win-dows programming tools; a VBX can beused in 16-bit or 32-bit Windows (versions3.x or 95) whereas an OCX control will onlywork with 32-bit Windows (version 95 andlater).)VCPSVCPS abbr Video Copyright Protection So-cietyVCRVCR /�vi� si� �ɑ�/ noun a machine that canrecord analog video signals onto a magneticcassette tape and play back the tape to displayvideo on a monitor. Full form video cas-sette recorder

COMMENT: The most popular formats are:1-inch tape, used for studio-quality master-ing; 3/4-inch tape, which was widely usedbut has now been mostly replaced by 1/2-inch tape; 1/2-inch VHS format tape, whichwas first used only in the home but has nowmostly replaced 3/4-inch tape; 1/2-inchBeta format tape, which was the first homeVCR format but is no longer used. SomeVCRs can be used to store digital data fordata backup.

VDRVVDRV /�vi� di� ɑ� �vi�/ noun a digital videosystem that can adjust the amount of dataused to represent each different frame and soadjust image quality or stay within band-width limits. Full form variable data ratevideoVDTVDT /�vi� di� �ju�/ abbr visual display termi-nalVDUVDU abbr visual display unit

‘…it normally consists of a keyboard to input in-formation and either a printing terminal or a VDUscreen to display messages and results’[Practical Computing]‘…a VDU is a device used with a computer thatdisplays information in the form of charactersand drawings on a screen’ [Electronics & Power]

vectorvector /�vektə/ noun 1. the address whichdirects a computer to a new memory location2. a coordinate that consists of a magnitudeand direction 3. a line which connect pointson a cathode ray tubevectored interruptvectored interrupt /�vektəd �ntər�pt/noun an interrupt signal which directs theprocessor to a routine at a particular addressvector fontvector font /�vektə fɒnt/ noun the shapeof characters within a font that are drawnvector graphics, allowing the characters to bescaled to almost any size without changingthe qualityvector graphicsvector graphics /�vektə �"r�fks/, vec-tor image /�vektə �md'/ noun a system ofdrawing objects using curves and lines. Alsocalled vector scan. Compare bit-mappedgraphics

COMMENT: The images are described byline length and direction from an origin toplot lines and so build up an image ratherthan a description of each pixel, as in a bit-map. A vector image can be easily and ac-curately resized with no loss of detail.

vector processorvector processor /�vektə �prəυsesə/noun a coprocessor that operates on one rowor column of an array at a timevector scanvector scan /�vektə sk�n/ noun same asvector graphicsvectorscopevectorscope /�vektəskəυp/ noun in tele-vision, an oscilloscope to show the form ofthe chroma signals in colour television sys-tems

‘…the great advantage of the vector-scan displayis that it requires little memory to store a picture’[Electronics & Power]

velocityvelocity /və|�lɒsti/ noun speed � The diskdrive motor spins at a constant velocity.vendorvendor /�vendə/ noun a person who manu-factures, sells or supplies hardware or soft-ware productsvendor-independentvendor-independent /�vendə �nd|

�pendənt/ adjective referring to hardware orsoftware that will work with hardware andsoftware manufactured by other vendorsVenn diagramVenn diagram /�ven �daə"r�m/ noun agraphical representation of the relationshipsbetween the states in a system or circuitverificationverification /�verf|�keʃ(ə)n/ noun theprocess of checking that data has been key-boarded correctly or that data transferredfrom one medium to another has been trans-ferred correctlyverification and validation

verification and validation/�verfkeʃ(ə)n ən �v�l|�deʃ(ə)n/ nounfull form of V & Vverifierverifier /�verfaə/ noun a special devicefor verifying input dataverifyverify /�ver |�fa/ verb to check that data re-corded or entered is correct (NOTE: verifies –verifying – verifies)versamodule eurocard busversamodule eurocard bus/�v��səmɒdju�l �jυərəυkɑ�d �b�s/ noun fullform of VME busversionversion /�v��ʃ(ə)n/ noun a copy or pro-gram or statement which is slightly differentfrom others � The latest version of the soft-ware includes an improved graphics routine.versoverso /�v��səυ/ noun the left hand page ofa book (usually given an even number)verticalvertical /�v��tk(ə)l/ adjective at right an-gles to the horizontalvertical format unitvertical format unit /�v��tk(ə)l �fɔ�m�t�ju�nt/ noun a part of the control system ofa printer which governs the vertical format ofthe document to be printed, e.g. vertical spac-ing or page length. Abbr VFU

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vertical interval time code 256vertical interval time codevertical interval time code /�v��tk(ə)l�ntəv(ə)l �tam �kəυd/ noun full form ofVITCverticallyvertically /�v��tkli/ adverb from top tobottom or going up and down at right anglesto the horizontal � The page has been justi-fied vertically.vertical portalvertical portal /�v��tk(ə)l �pɔ�t(ə)l/noun full form of VORTALvertical scan frequencyvertical scan frequency /�v��tk(ə)l�sk�n �fri�kwənsi/ noun the number oftimes a picture beam in a monitor movesfrom the last line back up to the firstvertical scrollingvertical scrolling /�v��tk(ə)l �skrəυlŋ/noun displayed text which moves up or downthe computer screen one line at a timevery high frequencyvery high frequency /�veri ha�fri�kwənsi/ noun the range of radio fre-quencies between 30–300 MHz. Abbr VHFvery large scale integrationvery large scale integration /�verilɑ�d' skel �nt |�"reʃ(ə)n/ noun full formof VLSIvery low frequencyvery low frequency /�veri ləυ�fri�kwənsi/ noun the range of radio fre-quencies between 3–30 KHz. Abbr VLFVESAVESA abbr Video Electronics StandardsAssociationVESA local busVESA local bus /�vi� i� es e �ləυk(ə)lb�s/ noun full form of VL-busvestigial side bandvestigial side band /ves|�td'iəl �sad�b�nd/ noun full form of VSBVFUVFU abbr vertical format unitVFWVFW abbr Video for WindowsVGAVGA /�vi� d'i� �e/ noun (in an IBM PC) astandard of video adapter developed by IBMthat can support a display with a resolutionup to 640 x 480 pixels in up to 256 colours,superseded by SVGAVHFVHF noun radio frequency between 30MHzand 300MHZ (used for broadcasting radioand TV programmes). Full form very highfrequencyVHSVHS noun a video cassette tape format, us-ing 1/2-inch wide tape, developed by JVCand now the standard for home and consumermarkets. Full form video home systemVHS-CVHS-C /�vi� etʃ �es si�/ noun a video cas-sette system which uses the VHS formatviavia /�vaə/ preposition going through some-thing or using something to get to a destina-tion � The signals have reached us via satel-lite.VIBGYORVIBGYOR noun the colours in the visiblespectrum: violet, indigo, blue, green, yellow,orange and redVidCapVidCap /�vdk�p/ noun a utility programused in the Microsoft VFW system to capturea video sequence

videovideo /�vdiəυ/ noun 1. text or images orgraphics viewed on television or a monitor 2.an electronic system which records, storesand reproduces visual imagesvideo adaptervideo adapter /�vdiəυ ə|�d�ptə/ noun anadd-in board which converts data into electri-cal signals to drive a monitor and display textand graphics. Also called video board, vid-eo controllervideo bandwidthvideo bandwidth /�vdiəυ �b�ndwdθ/noun the maximum display resolution, meas-ured in MHz, and calculated by horizontal xvertical resolution x refreshes/sec (NOTE: TVstudio recording is limited to 5 MHz; TVbroadcasting is limited to 3.58 MHz)video boardvideo board /�vdiəυ bɔ�d/ noun same asvideo adaptervideo boxvideo box /�vdiəυ bɒks/ noun full formof Vboxvideo buffervideo buffer /�vdiəυ �b�fə/ noun memo-ry in a video adapter that is used to store thebitmap of the image being displayedvideo capture boardvideo capture board /�vdiəυ �k�ptʃə�bɔ�d/ noun a board that plugs into an expan-sion socket inside a PC and lets a user capturea TV picture and store it in memory so that itcan then be processed by a computervideo cassette recordervideo cassette recorder /�vdiəυ kə|

�set r|�kɔ�də/ noun full form of VCRvideo-CDvideo-CD /�vdiəυ �si� �di�/ noun a CD-ROM that stores digital video data conform-ing to the Philips White Book standard anduses MPEG compression for the full-motionvideo datavideo clipvideo clip /�vdiəυ|�klp/ noun a short vid-eo sequencevideo codecvideo codec /�vdiəυ �kəυdek/ noun anelectronic device to convert a video signal toor from a digital formvideo compressionvideo compression /�vdiəυ kəm|

�preʃ(ə)n/ noun algorithms used to compressanalog television signals so that they can beefficiently broadcast over a digital channelvideo conferencingvideo conferencing /�vdiəυ�kɒnf(ə)rənsŋ/ noun the linking of video,audio and computer signals from different lo-cations so that distant people can talk and seeeach other, as if in a conference roomvideo controllervideo controller /�vdiəυ kən|�trəυlə/noun same as video adaptervideo digitiservideo digitiser /�vdiəυ �dd'tazə/noun a high-speed digital sampling circuitwhich stores a TV picture in memory so thatit can then be processed by a computervideodiscvideodisc /�vdiəυdsk/ noun a read-onlyoptical disc that can store up to two hours ofvideo data, usually used either to store a com-plete film, as a rival to video cassette, or touse in an interactive system with text, videoand still images (NOTE: For interactive use, a

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257 viewdatavideodisc can store 54,000 frames of infor-mation. If the videodisc contains a completefilm, the data is recorded using a constantlinear velocity format; if it is used to store in-teractive data, it is stored in a constant an-gular velocity format.)video display

video display /�vdiəυ d|�sple/ noun adevice which can display text or graphical in-formation, e.g. a CRTvideo editing

video editing /�vdiəυ �edtŋ/ noun amethod of editing a video sequence in whichthe video is digitised and stored in a compu-tervideo editor

video editor /�vdiəυ �edtə/ noun a com-puter that controls two videotape recorders toallow an operator to play back sequencesfrom one and record these on the second ma-chineVideo Electronics Standards Association

Video Electronics Standards Asso-ciation /�vdiəυ elek|�trɒnks �st�ndədz ə|

�səυsieʃ(ə)n/ noun full form of VESAVideo for Windows

Video for Windows /�vdiəυ fə�wndəυz/ a trade name for a set of softwaredrivers and utilities for Microsoft Windows3.1, developed by Microsoft, that allowsAVI-format video files to be played back in awindow. Abbr VFWvideo game

video game /�vdiəυ "em/ noun a gameplayed on a computer, with action shown ona video displayvideo graphics array

video graphics array /�vdiəυ �"r�fksə|�re/ noun (in an IBM PC) a standard of vid-eo adapter developed by IBM that can sup-port a display with a resolution up to 640 x480 pixels in up to 256 colours, supersededby SVGA. Abbr VGAvideo graphics card

video graphics card /�vdiəυ �"r�fks�kɑ�d/ noun an expansion card that fits intoan expansion slot inside a PC and that allowsa computer to display both generated text andgraphics and moving video images from anexternal camera or VCR. Also called over-lay cardvideo home system

video home system /�vdiəυ �həυm�sstəm/ noun full form of VHSvideo interface chip

video interface chip /�vdiəυ �ntəfes�tʃp/ noun a chip which controls a video dis-play allowing information such as text orgraphics stored in a computer to be displayedvideo lookup table

video lookup table /�vdiəυ �lυk�p�teb(ə)l/ noun a collection of precalculatedvalues of the different colours that are storedin memory and can be examined very quicklyto produce an answer without the need to re-calculatevideo memory

video memory /�vdiəυ �mem(ə)ri/ nouna high speed random access memory used tostore computer-generated or digitised images

video monitorvideo monitor /�vdiəυ �mɒntə/ noun adevice able to display, without sound, signalsfrom a computervideo RAMvideo RAM /�vdiəυ �r�m/ noun full formof VRAMvideo random access memoryvideo random access memory/�vdiəυ �r�ndəm ��kses �mem(ə)ri/, vid-eo RAM /�vdiəυ �r�m/ noun full form ofVRAM. same as video memoryvideo scannervideo scanner /�vdiəυ �sk�nə/ noun adevice which allows images of objects or pic-tures to be entered into a computer � Newvideo scanners are designed to scan three-di-mensional objects.video servervideo server /�vdiəυ �s��və/ noun a ded-icated computer on a network used to storevideo sequencesvideo signalvideo signal /�vdiəυ �s"n(ə)l/ noun asignal which provides line picture informa-tion and synchronisation pulses (informal)video system control architecturevideo system control architecture/�vdiəυ �sstəm kən|�trəυl �ɑ�ktektʃə/noun full form of ViSCAvideo tapevideo tape /�vdiəυ tep/ noun a magnetictape on which pictures and sound can be re-cordedvideo tape recordervideo tape recorder /�vdiəυ �tep r|

�kɔ�də/ noun full form of VTRvideo teleconferencingvideo teleconferencing /�vdiəυ �teli |

�kɒnf(ə)rənsŋ/ noun the linking of comput-ers that can capture and display video so thatdistant people can talk to and see each other,as if in a conference roomvideo terminalvideo terminal /�vdiəυ �t��mn(ə)l/noun a keyboard with a monitorvideotextvideotext /�vdiəυtekst/, videotex/�vdiəυteks/ noun a system for transmittingtext and displaying it on a screen

COMMENT: This covers information trans-mitted either by TV signals (teletext) or bysignals sent down telephone lines (viewda-ta).

video windowvideo window /�vdiəυ �wndəυ/ noun awindow that displays a moving video image,independent of other displayed materialviewview /vju�/ verb to look at something, espe-cially something displayed on a screen � Theuser has to pay a charge for viewing pages ona bulletin board.viewdataviewdata /�vju�detə/ noun an interactivesystem for transmitting text or graphics froma database to a user’s terminal by telephonelines, providing facilities for information re-trieval, transactions, education, games andrecreation

COMMENT: The user calls up the page of in-formation required, using the telephoneand a modem, as opposed to teletext,where the pages of information are repeat-ed one after the other automatically.

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viewer 258viewerviewer /�vju�ə/ noun 1. a utility that allowsa user to see what is contained in an image orformatted document file without having tostart the program that created it 2. a devicewith an eyepiece through which a person canlook at film or transparencies 3. a person whowatches televisionviewfinderviewfinder /�vju�fandə/ noun the eye-piece in a camera that allows a user to seewhat is being filmedviewfinder objectiveviewfinder objective, objective lensnoun the lens of a visual monitoring view-finder, in which the picture is formedvignettingvignetting /v |�njetŋ/ noun the shading ofthe borders of a picture (film)viralviral /�varəl/ adjective referring to unsolic-ited emails that automatically forward them-selves from one user to another, or to activi-ties that use such emailsviral marketingviral marketing /�varəl �mɑ�ktŋ/ nouna form of marketing in which an organisa-tion’s customers act as advertisers for itsproducts by spreading knowledge of them toother people, especially over the Internetvirginvirgin /�v��d'n/ adjective referring to amedium that has not been recorded on beforevirtualvirtual /�v��tʃuəl/ adjective referring to afeature or device which does not actually ex-ist but which is simulated by a computer andcan be used by a user as if it did existvirtual assistantvirtual assistant /�v��tʃuəl ə|�sst(ə)nt/noun an employee who works as a personalassistant to somebody but does the job fromanother place solely by using computer andphone linksvirtual communityvirtual community /�v��tʃuəl kə|

�mju�nti/ noun a group of people who com-municate with each other via the Internetvirtual desktopvirtual desktop /�v��tʃυəl �desktɒp/noun an area that is bigger than the physicallimits of the monitor, and which can containtext, images, windows and other facilities.Also called virtual screenvirtual device drivervirtual device driver /�v��tʃuəl d |�vas�dravə/ noun full form of VxDvirtual machinevirtual machine /�v��tʃuəl mə|�ʃi�n/noun a piece of software that allows a Javaapplication to run on a computer. Abbr VM

COMMENT: When a developer writes a pro-gram in Java, it is compiled to a file formatcalled bytecode (or pseudocode). This filecan then be run using another application(the virtual machine) that is specific to theparticular computer platform – there arevirtual machine applications for PCs, AppleMacs and Sun computers, and each canrun the same Java bytecode file, makingJava a platform-independent language.

virtual memoryvirtual memory /�v��tʃuəl �mem(ə)ri/noun a system of providing extra main mem-

ory by using a disk drive as if it were RAM.Also called virtual storagevirtual realityvirtual reality /�v��tʃυəl ri|��lti/ nounfull form of VR � This new virtual realitysoftware can create a three-dimensionalroom that you can navigate around.

‘Autodesk suggests that anyone wishing to buildVirtual Reality applications with the CyberspaceDeveloper’s Kit should have solid knowledge ofprogramming in C++ along with general knowl-edge of computer graphics.’ [Computing]

virtual reality modelling languagevirtual reality modelling language/�v��tʃuəl ri |��lti �mɒd(ə)lŋ �l�ŋ"wd'/noun full form of VRMLvirtual storagevirtual storage /�v��tʃuəl �stɔ�rd'/noun abbr VS. same as virtual memoryvirusvirus /�varəs/ noun a program which addsitself to an executable file and copies itself toother executable files each time an infectedfile is run � If your PC is infected with a vi-rus, your data is at risk.

COMMENT: Viruses can corrupt data, dis-play a message, or do nothing. They arespread by downloading unchecked filesfrom a bulletin board system or via unregu-lated networks or by inserting an un-checked floppy disk into your PC – alwaysuse a virus detector.

virus checkervirus checker /�varəs �tʃekə/ noun apiece of software that is used to try and detectand remove unwanted virus programs fromthe hard disk of a computervirus detectorvirus detector /�varəs d|�tektə/ noun autility software which checks executable filesto see if they contain a known virusViSCAViSCA /�vskə/ noun a protocol used tosynchronise multiple video devices, devel-oped by Sony. Full form video system con-trol architecturevisiblevisible /�vzb(ə)l/ adjective which can beseenvisualvisual /�v'υəl/ adjective which can beseen or which is used by sightVisual BasicVisual Basic /�v'υəl �besk/ a tradename for a programming tool, developed byMicrosoft, that allows users to create Win-dows applications very easily. Abbr VBVisual Basic ExtensionVisual Basic Extension /�v'υəl�besk k|�stenʃ(ə)n/ a trade name for aWindows custom software module that addsfunctionality to another application, similarto the OCX control. Abbr VBXVisual Basic for ApplicationsVisual Basic for Applications /�v'υəl�besk fər ��pl|�keʃ(ə)nz/ a trade namefor a complex macro language developed byMicrosoft from its VB programming tool.Abbr VBAVisual Basic ScriptVisual Basic Script /�v'υəl �besk�skrpt/ a trade name for a set of program-ming commands that can be included within

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259 VORTALa normal webpage, written using HTMLcommands. Abbr VBScriptvisual display terminalvisual display terminal /�vzjυəl d |

�sple �t��minəl/, visual display unit/�v'υəl d|�sple �ju�nt/ noun full form ofVDT, VDUvisualisationvisualisation /�v'uəla |�zeʃ(ə)n/, visu-alization noun the conversion of numbers ordata into a graphical format that can be moreeasily understoodvisualizevisualize /�v'υə|�laz/ verb to imaginehow something will appear, even before ithas been createdVITCVITC /�vi� a ti� �si�/ noun a time code re-corded onto tape between video frames. Fullform vertical interval time code

COMMENT: This is preferred to LTC be-cause it does not use the audio track andcan be read at slow playback speeds.

VL-busVL-bus, VL local bus noun a standard de-fined by the Video Electronics Standards As-sociation which allows up to three special ex-pansion slots that provide direct, bus-mastercontrol of the central processor and allowvery high speed data transfers between mainmemory and the expansion card without us-ing the processor � For a high-performancePC, choose one with a VL-bus. Full formVESA local busVLFVLF noun radio frequency between 30Hzand 30KHz. Full form very low frequencyVLSIVLSI /�vi� el es �a/ noun a system with be-tween 10,000 and 100,000 components on asingle IC. Full form very large scale inte-grationVMVM abbr virtual machinev-mailv-mail /�vi� �mel/ noun an email messagewith a video clip as an attachmentVME busVME bus /�vi� em �i� b�s/ noun an expan-sion bus standard that supports 32-bit datatransfer, mostly used in industrial and testequipment. Full form versamodule euro-card busvoicevoice /vɔs/ noun 1. the sound of humanspeech 2. another name for a note or soundeffect (such as a whistle) � Instruments thatare multi-voice can play several notes at thesame time.voice data entryvoice data entry /�vɔs �detə �entri/,voice data input /�vɔs �detə �npυt/ nounthe input of information into a computer us-ing a speech recognition system and the us-er’s voicevoicemailvoicemail /�vɔsmel/ noun a computerlinked to a telephone exchange that answersa person’s telephone when no one is there andallows messages to be recorded, in digitalform � I checked my voice mail to see if any-one had left me a message.

voice-overvoice-over /�vɔs |�əυvə/ noun spokencommentary by an actor who does not appearon the screen (as the text of a TV commer-cial)voice over Internet protocolvoice over Internet protocol /�vɔsəυvə �ntənet �prəυtəkɒl/ noun full form ofVoIPvoice-over-the-Netvoice-over-the-Net /�vɔs əυvə ðə �net/adjective used to describe voice communica-tion using VoIP technologyvoice recognitionvoice recognition /�vɔs �rekə" |�nʃ(ə)n/noun the ability of a computer to recognisecertain words in a human voice and provide asuitable responsevoice synthesisvoice synthesis /�vɔs �snθəss/ nounthe reproduction of sounds similar to those ofthe human voicevoice synthesiservoice synthesiser /�vɔs �snθəsazə/noun a device which generates sounds whichare similar to the human voicevoice unitvoice unit /�vɔs �ju�nt/ noun a unit ofsignal measurement equal to a one millivoltsignal across a 600 ohm resistance

‘…the technology of voice output is reasonablydifficult, but the technology of voice recognitionis much more complex’ [Personal ComputerWorld]

VoIPVoIP /vɔp/ noun a technology that enablesvoice messages to be sent over the Internet,often at the same time as data in text or otherforms. Full form voice over Internet proto-colvolatile memoryvolatile memory /�vɒlə|�tal �mem(ə)ri/,volatile store /�vɒlətal stɔ�/, volatile dy-namic storage /�vɒlə|�tal da|�n�mk�stɔ�rd'/ noun memory or storage mediumwhich loses data stored in it when the powersupply is switched offvolatilityvolatility /�vɒlə|�tlti/ noun the number ofrecords that are added or deleted from a com-puter system compared to the total number instorevoltvolt /vəυlt/ noun an SI unit of electrical po-tential, defined as voltage across a one ohmresistance when one amp is flowingvoltagevoltage /�vəυltd'/ noun an electromotiveforce expressed in volts. Abbr V

COMMENT: Electricity supply can havepeaks and troughs of current, dependingon the users in the area. Fluctuations involtage can affect computers; a voltageregulator will provide a steady supply ofelectricity.

volumevolume /�vɒlju�m/ noun 1. a disk or stor-age device 2. the total space occupied by datain a storage systemVORTALVORTAL /�vɔ�təl/ noun a portal websitethat contains information for just one partic-ular industry or interest group. Full form ver-tical portal

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VR 260COMMENT: General-interest portals such asAOL, Yahoo!, and Excite provide a wholerange of general-interest information forusers, including news, weather, sports andfinancial information. An example of a ver-tical portal is Buzzsaw (www.buzz-saw.com), which provides news and re-sources for the construction industry.

VR

VR /�vi� �ɑ�/ noun a simulation of a real-lifescene or environment by computer. Full formvirtual realityVRAM

VRAM /�vi� r�m/ noun high speed randomaccess memory used to store computer-gen-erated or digitised images. Full form videorandom access memory. Also called vid-eo RAMVRML

VRML /�vi� ɑ�r em �el/ noun a system thatallows developers to create three-dimension-al worlds within a webpage. Full form virtu-al reality modelling languageVS

VS abbr virtual storageVSB

VSB /�vi� es �bi�/ noun a method of transfer-ring data over coaxial cable, used to modu-late and transmit digital television signals.Full form vestigial side band

V seriesV series /�vi� �səri�z/ noun a series ofCCITT standards for data transmission usinga modem, used in the UK and EuropeVTVT abbr videotapeVT-52VT-52 /�vi� ti� �ffti �tu�/ noun a popularstandard of a terminal that defines the codesused to display text and graphicsVTRVTR /�vi� ti� �ɑ�/ noun a machine used torecord and play back video signals that arestored on open reels of magnetic tape ratherthan on the sealed, enclosed cassette used bya VCR. Full form video tape recorderVT-terminal emulationVT-terminal emulation /�vi� ti��t��mn(ə)l emju|�leʃ(ə)n/ noun a standardset of codes developed by Digital EquipmentCorporation to control how text and graphicsare displayed on its range of terminalsVUVU abbr voice unitVxDVxD /�vi� eks �di�/ noun a device driver usedto control one part of the Windows operatingsystem or to link a peripheral to the Windowsoperating system. Full form virtual devicedriverVxtremeVxtreme /�vi� eks|�tri�m/ noun a formatused to deliver streaming video sequencesover the Internet

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WWW abbr WattW3CW3C /�d�b(ə)l ju� θri� �si�/ noun a group ofinternational industry members that work to-gether to develop common standards for theWorld Wide Web. Full form World WideWeb Consortium

COMMENT: Visit the www.w3.org website fornew standards and developments.

waferwafer /�wefə/ noun a thin round slice of alarge single crystal of silicon onto whichhundreds of individual integrated circuits areconstructed, before being cut into individualchipswafer scale integrationwafer scale integration /�wefə skel�nt|�"reʃ(ə)n/ noun one large chip, the sizeof a wafer, made up of smaller integrated cir-cuits connected together (NOTE: These arestill in the research stage.)wait condition

wait condition /�wet kən|�dʃ(ə)n/ noun1. a state in which a processor is not active,but waiting for input from peripherals 2. anull instruction which is used to slow down aprocessor so that slower memory or a periph-eral can keep up � also called wait statewait loopwait loop /�wet lu�p/ noun a processorthat repeats one loop of program until someaction occurswait statewait state /�wet stet/ noun same as waitconditionwake

wake /wek/ verb � to wake up to switchon a device or start or initiate a processwallpaper

wallpaper /�wɔ�l|�pepə/ noun (in a GUI)an image or pattern used as a background ina windowWANWAN /w�n/ noun a network in which thevarious terminals are far apart and linked byradio or satellite. Full form wide area net-work. Opposite LANwand

wand /wɒnd/ noun a bar-code reader or op-tical device which is held in the hand to readbar codes on products in a storeWAPWAP /w�p/ noun 1. a system that allows auser to access information on an Internetserver using a wireless handheld device suchas a mobile telephone. Full form WirelessApplication Protocol 2. a device that con-nects to a LAN and allows a computer to ac-cess the network using a wireless data trans-mission � The WAP has an aerial and abuilt-in hub. Full form wireless accesspoint

COMMENT: WAP can be used over almostall of the current wireless networks, includ-ing the popular GSM mobile telephonestandard, and can run on almost any oper-ating system or hardware device. A devicethat supports WAP provides a very simplebrowser that can display basic graphicsand text-based pages of information on asmall, monochrome, 6–10 line display,similar to a tiny, simple web page. The usercan navigate between pages using two orthree buttons on the handheld device ormobile telephone. The arrival of WAP al-lows users to access email and news-based websites from a mobile telephone,but users have been put off by the veryslow speed (no more than 9,600bps) atwhich data can be transferred over currentwireless telephone systems.

WAP markup languageWAP markup language /�w�p�mɑ�k�p �l�ŋ"wd'/ noun full form ofWMLWAP markup language scriptWAP markup language script /�w�p�mɑ�k�p �l�ŋ"wd' �skrpt/ noun same asWMLScriptwarmwarm /wɔ�m/ verb � to warm up to allowa machine to stand idle for a time afterswitching on, to reach the optimum operatingconditionswarm bootwarm boot /�wɔ�m �bu�t/ noun the act ofrestarting a computer without switching itoff. Compare cold bootwarmbootwarmboot /�wɔ�mbu�t/ verb to restart acomputer without switching it off. Comparecoldbootwarm standbywarm standby /�wɔ�m �st�ndba/ nouna secondary backup device which can beswitched into action a short time after themain system fails. Compare cold standby,hot standbywarm startwarm start /�wɔ�m �stɑ�t/ noun the proc-ess of restarting a program which hasstopped, without losing any data. Comparecold startwarnwarn /wɔ�n/ verb to say that something dan-gerous is about to happen or that there is apossible danger � He warned the keyboard-ers that the system might become overloaded.(NOTE: You warn someone of something, orthat something may happen)warningwarning /�wɔ�nŋ/ noun a notice of possi-ble danger � to issue a warningwarning lightwarning light /�wɔ�nŋ lat/ noun a smalllight which lights up to show that something

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warrant 262dangerous may happen � When the warninglight on the front panel comes on, switch offthe system.warrantwarrant /�wɒrənt/ verb to guarantee � Allthe spare parts are warranted.warranteewarrantee /�wɒrən|�ti�/ noun a person whois given a warrantywarrantorwarrantor /�wɒrən|�tɔ�/ noun a person whogives a warrantywarrantywarranty /�wɒrənti/ noun 1. a guarantee orlegal document which promises that a ma-chine will work properly or that an item is ofgood quality � The printer is sold with atwelve-month warranty. � The warranty cov-ers spare parts but not labour costs. 2. apromise in a contractwatermarkwatermark /�wɔ�təmɑ�k/ noun a patternof bits that is digitally embedded in a data filein order to make it possible to detect unau-thorised copieswattwatt /wɒt/ noun an SI unit of measurementof electrical power, defined as power pro-duced when one amp of current flowsthrough a load that has one volt of voltageacross itwavewave /wev/ noun a signal motion whichrises and falls periodically as it travelsthrough a mediumWAVE

WAVE /wev/ noun a standard method ofstoring an analog signal in digital form underMicrosoft Windows. Also called WAV file(NOTE: Files have the .WAV extension.)waveformwaveform /�wevfɔ�m/ noun the shape ofa wavewaveguidewaveguide /�wev"ad/ noun a physicalsystem used to direct waves in a particular di-rection, usually metal tubes for microwavesignals or optical fibres for light signalswavelengthwavelength /�wev|�leŋθ/ noun the dis-tance between two adjacent peaks of a wave,equal to the speed divided by the frequencyWAV fileWAV file /�wev fal/ noun same as WAVEWBFMWBFM abbr wideband frequency modula-tionwearable computer

wearable computer /�weərəb(ə)l kəm |

�pju�tə/ noun a battery-powered computersmall enough to be worn on the bodywebweb /web/ noun same as World Wide Webweb application

web application /�web ��plkeʃ(ə)n/noun a software program that works behindthe scenes at a website, runs on a web serverand uses the HTTP protocol to deliver infor-mation to a user (NOTE: An example is a da-tabase of information that can be searchedfrom a webpage or a method of orderingand paying for a product using a webpage.)WebBotWebBot /�webbɒt/ a trade name for a util-ity used in Microsoft Internet software that

helps a user create a particular function in awebpageweb browser

web browser /�web �braυzə/ noun sameas browserweb cam

web cam /�web k�m/ noun a video cam-era linked to a website that allows visitors tosee live video images of a scene

COMMENT: These devices have becomevery popular and have been used to dis-play the inside of an office, the view over acity, an office coffee machine, the inside ofa bedroom and many other scenes.

webcast

webcast /�webkɑ�st/ noun a broadcastmade on the World Wide Web

‘It is spending $450m on a community supportprogramme for developers: webcasts, free on-sitetraining, seminars, roadshows and 125 newbooks.’ [The Guardian]

web crawler

web crawler /�web �krɔ�lə/ noun softwarethat moves over every new webpage on theInternet and produces an index based on thecontent of the webpagesweb designer

web designer /�web ði |�zanə/ noun aperson who designs websitesweber

weber /�vebə/ noun a unit of magnetic flux(film)weblog

weblog /�weblɒ"/ noun a frequently updat-ed personal journal on a website, intended forpublic viewingwebmaster

webmaster /�webmɑ�stə/ noun a personin charge of a websitewebpage

webpage /�webped'/ noun a single filestored on a web server that contains format-ted text, graphics and hypertext links to otherpages on the Internet or within a websitewebpage design software

webpage design software /�webped'd |�zan �sɒftweə/ noun software that pro-vides features that make it easier for a user tocreate webpages

COMMENT: The design software is similar todesktop publishing software and allowsyou to drag text and images onto a page,create tables and change the style of textfrom menu options, without having to editcomplex HTML commands.

web portal

web portal /�web �pɔ�t(ə)l/ noun a web-site that provides a wide range of informationand resources that include everything a par-ticular user might want from the Internet, onone site

COMMENT: The biggest web portals includeAOL, MSN, Yahoo! and Excite, which offera wide range of general services includingnews, sports, email, weather, shoppingand a search engine.

web ring

web ring /�web rŋ/ noun a series of linkedwebsites that are designed to be visited oneafter the other until the visitor reaches thefirst website again

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263 windowweb serverweb server /�web �s��və/ noun a compu-ter that stores the collection of webpages thatmake up a websitewebsitewebsite /�websat/ noun a collection ofwebpages that are linked and related and canbe accessed by a user with a web browser �The Bloomsbury website, ht-tp://www.bloomsbury.com, contains infor-mation about all the books Bloomsbury pub-lish.WebTVWebTV /�web ti� �vi�/ a trade name for a tel-evision that also lets a user view webpages

COMMENT: Some TVs include a computerand modem, other systems use an externalbox that links to the TV and a telephonesocket. Some interactive television and ca-ble television installations do not use a tel-ephone socket but instead download anddisplay webpages via the television cable.

webzinewebzine /�webzi�n/ noun same as e-zineweighweigh /we/ verb to have a certain weight �The packet weighs twenty-five grams.weighted averageweighted average /�wetd ��v(ə)rd'/noun an average which is calculated takingseveral factors into account, giving somemore value than othersweightingweighting /�wetŋ/ noun the sorting ofusers, programs or data by their importanceor prioritywetwarewetware /�wetweə/ noun US the humanbrain, intelligence which writes software tobe used with hardware (informal)What-You-See-Is-All-You-GetWhat-You-See-Is-All-You-Get /�wɒtju� si� z �ɔ�l ju� �"et/ noun full form of WY-SIAYGWhat-You-See-Is-What-You-GetWhat-You-See-Is-What-You-Get/�wɒt ju� si� z �wɒt ju� �"et/ noun full formof WYSIWYGwhitewhite /wat/ adjective, noun the colour ofsnow

COMMENT: With a white writer, the black ar-eas are printed evenly but edges and bor-ders are not so sharp.

White BookWhite Book /�wat bυk/ noun a formalvideo-CD standard published by Philips andJVC that defines how digital video can bestored on a CD-ROMwhite pageswhite pages /�wat �ped'z/ plural noun adatabase of users and their email addressstored on the Internet to help other users findan email addresswhite writerwhite writer /�wat �ratə/ noun a laserprinter which directs its laser beam on thepoints that are not printed. Opposite blackwriter

COMMENT: With a white writer, the black ar-eas are printed evenly but edges and bor-ders are not so sharp.

whoiswhois /�hu� z/ noun an Internet utility thatdisplays information about the owner of aparticular domain name

wholesalewholesale /�həυlsel/ noun, adverb buy-ing goods from manufacturers and selling inlarge quantities to traders who then sell insmaller quantities to the general public(NOTE: no plural) � he buys wholesale andsells retail he buys goods in bulk at a whole-sale discount and then sells in small quanti-ties to the publicwholesale dealerwholesale dealer /�həυlsel �di�lə/ nouna person who buys in bulk from manufactur-ers and sells to retailerswholesalerwholesaler /�həυlselə/ noun a personwho buys goods in bulk from manufacturersand sells them to retailerswide area networkwide area network /�wad �eəriə�netw��k/ noun full form of WANwidebandwideband /�wadb�nd/ noun same asbroadbandwidescreenwidescreen /�wadskri�n/ adjective pic-tures presented with a larger aspect ratio than1.4:1widescreen displaywidescreen display /�wadskri�n d|

�sple/ noun a film, video or TV display withan aspect ratio greater than 1.37, or the sameas the full size of a 35 mm film imagewidowwidow /�wdəυ/ noun the first line of a par-agraph which is printed by itself at the bot-tom of a column. Compare orphanwidthwidth /wdθ/ noun the size of somethingfrom side to sidewild cardwild card /�waldkɑ�d/ noun a symbolused when searching for files or data that rep-resents all files � A wild card can be used tofind all files names beginning DIC.wild trackwild track /�wald tr�k/ noun sound re-corded without a synchronised pictureWIMPWIMP /wmp/ noun a program displaywhich uses graphics or icons to control thesoftware and make it easier to use. Full formwindow, icon, mouse, pointer. � environ-ment, GUI. Compare command line inter-face

COMMENT: WIMPs normally use a combina-tion of windows, icons and a mouse to con-trol the operating system. In many GUIs,such as Microsoft Windows, Apple MacSystem 7 and DR-GEM, you can control allthe functions of the operating system justusing the mouse. Icons represent pro-grams and files; instead of entering the filename, you select it by moving a pointerwith a mouse.

Winchester diskWinchester disk /drav/, Winchesterdrive noun a compact high-capacity harddisk which is usually built into a computersystem and cannot be removedwindowwindow /�wndəυ/ noun 1. a reserved sec-tion of screen used to display special infor-mation, which can be selected and looked atat any time and which overwrites informationalready on the screen � Several remote sta-

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window, icon, mouse, pointer 264tions are connected to the network and eachhas its own window onto the hard disk. 2. apart of a document currently displayed on ascreen � The operating system will allowother programs to be displayed on-screen atthe same time in different windows. 3. an areaof memory or access to a storage device �verb to set up a section of screen by definingthe coordinates of its corners, allowing infor-mation to be temporarily displayed and over-writing previous information without alter-ing information in the workspace

‘…when an output window overlaps another, theinterpreter does not save the contents of the ob-scured window’ [Personal Computer World]

window, icon, mouse, pointerwindow, icon, mouse, pointer/�wndəυ �akɒn �maυs �pɔntə/ noun fullform of WIMPwindowingwindowing /�wndəυŋ/ noun 1. the ac-tion of setting up a window to show informa-tion on the screen � The network system usesthe latest windowing techniques. 2. the proc-ess of displaying or accessing informationvia a window

‘…windowing facilities make use of virtualscreens as well as physical screens’ [Byte]‘…the network system uses the latest windowingtechniques’ [Desktop Publishing]‘…the functions are integrated via a windowingsystem with pull-down menus used to select dif-ferent operations’ [Byte]

WindowsWindows /�wndəυz/ a trade name for afamily of operating systems developed byMicrosoft that interacts with users through aGraphical User Interface. Windows is the op-erating system used by most of the world’sPCs. Also called Microsoft Windows, MS-WindowsWindows ExplorerWindows Explorer /�wndəυz k |

�splɔ�rə/ a trade name for a software utilityincluded with Windows that lets a user viewthe folders and files on the hard disk, floppydisk, CD-ROM and any shared networkdrivesWindows Internet Naming ServiceWindows Internet Naming Service/�wndəυz �ntənet �nemŋ �s��vs/ fullform of WINSWindows NTWindows NT /�wndəυz en �ti�/ a tradename for a high-performance GUI derivedfrom Windows that does not use DOS as anoperating system and features 32-bit codeWindows XPWindows XP /�wndəυz eks �pi�/ a tradename for a version of the Windows operatingsystem designed for home and business usersthat provides a 32-bit multitasking operatingsystem with the standard Windows graphicaluser interface together with improved net-work and Internet connectivitywindshieldwindshield /�wndʃi�ld/ noun a devicewhich is attached to a microphone in order toreduce wind noise (film)

WINS

WINS /wns/ noun a system that works witha network of computers running Windowsand provides a database of the IP addresses ofeach computer on the network. Full formWindows Internet Naming Service

COMMENT: This is more difficult than itsounds, since a computer is usually givena different IP address every time it isswitched on. The WINS service provides’name resolution’ for Windows networks,DNS provides a similar service for net-works with fixed IP addresses, includingthe public Internet.

Winsock

Winsock /�wnsɒk/ noun a utility softwarethat is required to control the modem whenconnecting to the Internet and allows thecomputer to communicate using the TCP/IPprotocol. Also called socket driverwipe

wipe /wap/ verb to clean data from a disk� By reformatting you will wipe the diskclean. (NOTE: wipes – wiping – wiped)wire

wire /�waə/ noun a thin metal conductor �verb to install wiring in something (NOTE:wires – wiring – wired)wire frame model

wire frame model /�waə frem�mɒd(ə)l/ noun (in graphics and CAD) amethod of displaying objects using lines andarcs rather than filled areas. Also called wiremesh model, stick modelwireless

wireless /�waələs/ noun a device that canreceive radio broadcasts (old use) � adjec-tive communication system that does not re-quire wires to carry signalswireless access point

wireless access point /�waələs��kses �pɔnt/ noun full form of WAP 2Wireless Application Protocol

Wireless Application Protocol/�waələs ��pl |�keʃ(ə)n �prəυtəυkɒl/noun full form of WAP 1wireless LAN

wireless LAN /�waələs �l�n/ noun sameas wireless networkwireless microphone

wireless microphone /�waələs�makrəfəυn/ noun an audio microphonewith a small transmitter attached allowing thetransmission of signals without interconnect-ing wireswireless modem

wireless modem /�waələs �məυdem/noun a modem that can be used with a wire-less mobile telephone system (NOTE: A wire-less modem normally includes the tele-phone hardware and an aerial, so does notneed to be plugged into a separate mobiletelephone.)wireless network

wireless network /�waələs �netw��k/,wireless LAN /�waələs �l�n/ noun a net-work that does not use cable to transmit databetween computers, but instead uses radiosignals to transmit signals, normally usingthe 802.11b or 802.11a transmission proto-col. Also called wireless LAN

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265 World Wide Webwire tapwire tap /�waə t�p/ noun an unauthorisedconnection to a private communications linein order to listen to conversations or obtainprivate datawiringwiring /�waərŋ/ noun a series of wires �The wiring in the system had to be replaced.WISCWISC /wsk/ noun a CPU design that al-lows a programmer to add extra machinecode instructions using microcode, to cus-tomise the instruction set. Full form writableinstruction set computerwizardwizard /�wzəd/ noun a software utility thathelps you create somethingWMLWML /�d�b(ə)l ju� em �el/ noun a webpageformatting language that is similar to a verysimple version of the standard HTML web-page coding system, but does not includemany of the extra features that cannot be dis-played on the small screen of a WAP hand-held device or navigated with two or threebuttons. Full form WAP markup languageWMLScriptWMLScript /�d�b(ə)l ju� em �el �skrpt/noun a scripting language similar to a verysimple version of JavaScript that allowsWML webpages to include scripting func-tions. Full form WAP markup languagescriptwooferwoofer /�wυfə/ noun a large loudspeakerused to produce low frequency sounds(informal)wordword /w��d/ noun 1. a separate item of lan-guage, which is used with others to formspeech or writing which can be understood 2.a separate item of data on a computer, formedof a group of bits, stored in a single locationin a memoryword countword count /�w��d kaυnt/ noun thenumber of words in a file or textWordPadWordPad /�w��dp�d/ a software utility in-cluded with versions of Microsoft Windowslater than Windows 95 that provides the basicfunctions of Microsoft Word 6word-processword-process /�w��d �prəυses/ verb toedit, store and manipulate text using a com-puter � It is quite easy to read word-proc-essed files.word-processingword-processing /�w��d �prəυsesŋ/noun the process of using a computer to key-board, edit and output text, in forms such asletters, labels and address lists � Load theword-processing program before you startkeyboarding. Abbr WPword-processorword-processor /�w��d �prəυ|�sesə/noun 1. a small computer used for word-processing text and documents 2. a word-processing package or program for a compu-ter which allows the editing and manipula-tion and output of text, in forms such as let-ters, labels and address lists

word wrapword wrap /�w��d r�p/ noun a system inword-processing in which the operator doesnot have to indicate the line endings, but cankeyboard continuously, leaving the programto insert word breaks and to continue the texton the next line. Also called wraparoundwork filework file /�w��k fal/ noun a temporarywork area which is being used for currentwork. Also called scratch fileworkflowworkflow /�w��kfləυ/ noun software de-signed to improve the flow of electronic doc-uments around an office network, from userto userworkgroupworkgroup /�w��k"ru�p/ noun a smallgroup of users who are working on a projector connected with a local area networkworkgroup softwareworkgroup software /�w��k"ru�p�sɒftweə/ noun an application designed tobe used by many users in a group to improveproductivity, e.g. a diary or schedulerworkingworking /�w��kŋ/ adjective operating cor-rectlyworkloadworkload /�w��k|�ləυd/ noun the amount ofwork which a person or computer has to do �He has difficulty in dealing with his heavyworkload.workplaceworkplace /�w��kples/ noun a placewhere you workwork printwork print /�w��k prnt/ noun a positiveprint of a film scene which has been selectedby the editor (film)work-sharingwork-sharing /�w��k �ʃeərŋ/ noun a sys-tem where two part-timers share one jobworksheetworksheet /�w��k|�ʃi�t/ noun (in a spread-sheet program) a two-dimensional matrix ofrows and columns that contains cells whichcan, themselves, contain equationsworkspaceworkspace /�w��kspes/ noun a space onmemory which is available for use or is beingused currently by an operatorworkstationworkstation /�w��k|�steʃ(ə)n/ noun aplace where a computer user works, withequipment such as a terminal, VDU, printerand modem � The system includes five work-stations linked together in a ring topologynetwork.

‘…an image processing workstation must pro-vide three basic facilities: the means to digitize,display and manipulate the image data’ [Byte]

worldworld /w��ld/ noun a three-dimensionalscene that is displayed on a website and al-lows a user to move around the scene explor-ing the objects visible. � VRMLWorld Wide WebWorld Wide Web /�w��ld �wad �web/noun a collection of the millions of websitesand webpages that together form the part ofthe Internet that is most often seen by users.Abbr www, W3. Also called web

COMMENT: Each website is a collection ofwebpages containing text, graphics and

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World Wide Web Consortium 266links to other websites. Each page is creat-ed using the HTML language and is viewedby a user with a web browser. Navigatingbetween webpages and websites is calledsurfing; this requires a computer with a linkto the Internet and a web browser to viewthe webpages stored on the remote webservers. The Internet itself includes email,Usenet and newsgroups as well as web-sites and webpages.

World Wide Web ConsortiumWorld Wide Web Consortium /�w��ldwad �web kən|�sɔ�tiəm/ noun full form ofW3CWORMWORM /w��m/ noun an optical disk storagesystem that allows the user to write data tothe disk once, but the user can then read thedata from the disk many times. Full formwrite once, read many times memorywowwow /waυ/ noun the fluctuation of the fre-quency of a recorded signal at playback (usu-ally caused by uneven tape movement)WPWP abbr word-processingwraparoundwraparound /�r�pə|�raυnd/ noun same asword wrapwritable instruction set computerwritable instruction set computer/�ratəb(ə)l n|�str�kʃən set kə, |�pju�tə/noun full form of WISCwritewrite /rat/ verb 1. to put words or figuresonto paper � She wrote a letter of complaintto the manager. 2. to put text or data onto adisk � Access time is the time taken to readfrom or write to a location in memory. (NOTE:writes – writing – wrote – written. Youwrite data to a file.)

write black printer

write black printer /�rat �bl�k �prntə/noun a printer in which toner sticks to thepoints hit by the laser beam when the imagedrum is scanned. Compare white writer

COMMENT: A write black printer producessharp edges and graphics, but large areasof black are muddy.

write once, read many times memory

write once, read many times memo-ry /�rat �w�ns ri�d �meni �tamz�mem(ə)ri/ noun full form of WORMwrite-on slides

write-on slides /�rat ɒn �sladz/ pluralnoun during a film’s production, slides witha matte covering are used, on which informa-tion is hand drawn to show the final imagewrite-permit ring

write-permit ring /�rat pə|�mt rŋ/ nouna ring on a reel of magnetic tape which allowsthe tape to be overwritten or erasedwrite protect

write protect /�rat prə|�tekt/ verb tomake it impossible to write to a floppy diskor tape by moving a special write-protect tabwriting

writing /�ratŋ/ noun something which hasbeen writtenWYSIAYG

WYSIAYG /�wzi�e"/ noun a program inwhich the output on screen cannot be printedout in any other form, as it contains no hiddenprint or formatting commands. Full formWhat-You-See-Is-All-You-GetWYSIWYG

WYSIWYG /�wzi�w"/ noun a program inwhich the output on the screen is exactly thesame as the output on printout, includinggraphics and special fonts. Full form What-You-See-Is-What-You-Get

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XXX1 /eks/ noun same as X-Window System

‘X is the underlying technology which allowsUnix applications to run under a multi-user, mul-titasking GUI. It has been adopted as the standardfor the Common Open Software Environment,proposed recently by top Unix vendors includingDigital, IBM and Sun.’ [Computing]

XX2 /eks/ abbr extensionX2X2 noun a communications standard devel-oped by US Robotics for its range of high-speed modems that can transfer data at56,000 bits per second. � V seriesX.25X.25 noun a CCITT standard that definesthe connection between a terminal and apacket-switching networkX.400X.400 noun a CCITT standard that definesan email transfer methodX.500X.500 noun a CCITT standard that defines amethod of global naming that allows everyuser to have a unique identity and allows anyuser to address an email message to any otheruser. � directory servicesXAXA � CD-ROM Extended Architecturex-axisx-axis /�eks �aυt ��kss/ noun the horizon-tal axis of a graphx-coordinatex-coordinate /�eks kəυ|�ɔ�dnət/ noun ahorizontal axis position coordinatex directionx direction /�eks �aυt d |�rekʃ(ə)n/ noun amovement horizontallyx distancex distance /�eks �aυt �dstəns/ noun thedistance along an x-axis from an originxerographicxerographic /�zərəυ|�"r�fk/ adjectivereferring to xerographyxerographic printerxerographic printer /�zərə"r�fk�prntə/ noun a printer such as a photocopierin which charged ink is attracted to areas of acharged picturexerographyxerography /zə|�rɒ"rəfi/ noun a copyingmethod that relies on ink being attracted todark regions of a charged pictureXerox Network SystemXerox Network System /�zərɒks�netw��k �sstəm/ a network protocol devel-oped by Xerox that has provided the basis forthe Novell IPX network protocols. Abbr XNSXerox PARCXerox PARC a Xerox development centrethat has developed a wide range of importantproducts including the mouse and GUIXGAXGA /�eks d'i� �e/ noun a standard for col-our video graphics adapter for PCs, devel-oped by IBM, which has a resolution of 1,024x 768 pixels with 256 colours on an inter-

laced display. Full form extended graphicsarrayXHTMLXHTML /�eks etʃ ti� em �el/ noun a com-bination of the HTML and XML webpagemarkup languages. Full form extensible hy-pertext markup language

COMMENT: XHTML is actually written usingthe XML language and provides a simplerway of creating webpages that will be dis-played in the same way over a wide rangeof web browser platforms.

XMLXML /�eks em �el/ noun a webpage markuplanguage that is a simplified version of theSGML system and allows a designer to cre-ate his or her own customised markup tags toimprove flexibility. Full form extensiblemarkup languageXMODEMXMODEM /�eks �məυdem/ noun a stand-ard file transfer and error-detecting protocolused in asynchronous, modem data transmis-sionsXMSXMS /�eks em �es/ noun a set of rules thatdefine how an MS-DOS program should ac-cess extended memory fitted in a PC. Fullform extended memory specificationXNSXNS abbr Xerox Network SystemXON/XOFF

XON/XOFF /�eks ɒn eks �ɒf/ noun anasynchronous transmission protocol in whicheach end can regulate the data flow by trans-mitting special codesX/OPENX/OPEN /�eks �əυpən/ noun a group ofvendors that are responsible for promotingopen systemsXPXP abbr 1. Athlon XP 2. Windows XPX-rayX-ray /�eks �re/ noun 1. a ray with a veryshort length, which is invisible, but can gothrough soft tissue and register as a photo-graph on a film 2. a photograph taken usingX-rays � The medical text is illustrated withX-ray photographs. 3. a lighting unit thathangs above the set (film)X-ray imagingX-ray imaging /�eks re �md'ŋ/ nounthe process of showing images of the insideof a body using X-raysX-seriesX-series /�eks �aυt �səri�z/ noun a set ofrecommendations for data communicationsover public data networksX-sheetX-sheet /�eks ʃi�t/ noun written orders forthe exposure of animation filmXTXT /�eks �ti�/ noun a trade name for a versionof the original IBM PC, developed by IBM,

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X-Window System 268that used an 8088 processor and included ahard diskX-Window SystemX-Window System /�eks �wndəυ�sstəm/, X-Windows a graphical interface,usually used on Unix workstation computers,made up of a set of API commands and dis-play handling routines that provide a hard-ware-independent programming interface forapplications

‘X is the underlying technology which allowsUnix applications to run under a multi-user, mul-titasking GUI. It has been adopted as the standard

for the Common Open Software Environment,proposed recently by top Unix vendors includingDigital, IBM and Sun.’ [Computing]COMMENT: Originally developed for UNIXworkstations, it can also run on a PC orminicomputer terminals. The Open Soft-ware Foundation has a version of X-Win-dows called Motif; Sun and Hewlett Pack-ard have a version called OpenLook.

x-y

x-y /�eks �aυt wa/ noun the set of coordi-nates for drawing a graph, where x is the hor-izontal and y the vertical value

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YY

Y noun the luminance part of a video imageyawyaw /jɔ�/ noun the rotation of satellite abouta vertical axis with the earthy-axis

y-axis /�wa ��kss/ noun the vertical axisof a graphY/CY/C /�wa �si�/ noun two parts of a video sig-nal representing the luminance (Y) and thechrominance (C) parts of the imageY/C delay

Y/C delay /�wa �si� d|�le/ noun an errorcaused by wrong synchronisation betweenthe luma and chroma signals in a video trans-mission, seen as a colour halo around objectson the screeny-coordinatey-coordinate /�wa kəυ |�ɔ�dnət/ nounthe vertical axis position coordinateY/C videoY/C video /�wa si� �vdiəυ/ noun same asS-Videoy-direction

y-direction /�wa da|�rekʃən/ noun a ver-tical movementy-distancey-distance /�wa �dstəns/ noun the dis-tance along a y-axis from an origin

Yellow BookYellow Book /�jeləυ bυk/ noun a formalspecification for CD-ROM published byPhilips, which includes data storage formatsand has an extension to cover the CD-ROMXA standardyellow-magenta-cyan-blackyellow-magenta-cyan-black /�jeləυmə|�d'entə �saən bl�k/ noun full form ofYMCKYMCKYMCK /�wa em si� �ke/ noun colour defi-nition based on the four colours used in DTPsoftware when creating separate colour filmto use for printing. Full form yellow-magen-ta-cyan-blackYMODEMYMODEM /�wa �məυdem/ noun a varia-tion of the XMODEM file transfer protocolthat uses 1024-byte blocks and can send mul-tiple filesYUV encodingYUV encoding /�wa ju� vi� n|�kaəυdŋ/noun a video encoding system in which thevideo luminance (Y) signal is recorded at fullbandwidth but the chrominance signals(U&V) are recorded at half their bandwidth

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ZZ

Z symbol impedanceZ80

Z80 /�zed �eti/ noun an 8-bit processor de-veloped by Zilog, used in many early popularcomputerszap

zap /z�p/ verb to wipe off all data currentlyin the workspace � He pressed CONTROL Zand zapped all the text. (NOTE: zapping –zapped)z-axis

z-axis /�zed ��kss/ noun an axis for depthin a three-dimensional graph or plotz buffer

z buffer /�zed �b�fə/ noun an area of mem-ory used to store the z-axis information for agraphics object displayed on screenzero

zero /�zərəυ/ noun 1. the digit 0 � Thecode for international calls is zero one zero(010). 2. the equivalent of logical off or falsestate (NOTE: The plural is zeros or zeroes.)� verb to erase or clear a file or the contentsof a programmable devicezero insertion force socket

zero insertion force socket /�zərəυ n|

�s��ʃ(ə)n fɔ�s �sɒkt/ noun a chip socket thathas movable connection terminals, allowingthe chip to be inserted without using anyforce, then a small lever is turned to grip thelegs of the chip. Also called ZIF socketzero slot LAN

zero slot LAN /�zərəυ slɒt �l�n/ noun alocal area network that does not use internalexpansion adapters, but instead the serial portor, sometimes, an external pocket networkadapters connected to the printer portzero wait state

zero wait state /�zərəυ �wet �stet/noun the state of a device (normally proces-sor or memory chips) that is fast enough torun at the same speed as the other compo-nents in a computer, so does not have to be ar-tificially slowed down by inserting waitstatesZIF socket

ZIF socket /�zf �sɒkt/ noun same as zeroinsertion force socketzine

zine /zi�n/ noun a paper, Internet magazineor other periodical published by its author, is-sued at irregular intervals and usually aimedat specialist readersZIP

ZIP /zp/ noun a filename extension given tofiles that contain compressed data, usuallygenerated by the PKZIP shareware utilityprogramzip code

zip code /�zp �kəυd/ noun US letters andnumbers used to indicate a town or street inan address on an envelope

Zip diskZip disk /�zp dsk/ noun a proprietary typeof removable storage device, similar to a re-movable hard disk drive, manufactured byIomega Corp. to provide a convenient backupand storage medium with 100 Mb or 1Gbdisk capacity.zip filezip file /�zp fal/ noun a computer file withthe extension .zip containing data that hasbeen compressed for storage or transmission.ZMODEMZMODEM /�zed �məυdem/ noun an en-hanced version of the XMODEM file transferprotocol that includes error detection and theability to restart a transfer where it left off ifthe connection is cutzonezone /zəυn/ noun 1. a region or part of ascreen defined for specialised printing 2. thedivision of the area of a television pictureraste. Usually, zone 1 is the part held withina circle of 0.8 of picture height, zone 2 is thecircle equal to picture width, and zone 3 is therest of the area outside zone 2.zoomzoom /zu�m/ verb 1. to enlarge an area oftext or graphics to make it easier to work on2. to change the focal length of a lens to en-large the object in the viewfinder

‘…any window can be zoomed to full-screen sizeby pressing the F-5 function key’ [Byte]

zoomed video port

‘…there are many options to allow you to zoominto an area for precision work’ [Electronics& Wireless World]

zoomed video port /�zu�md �vdiəυ�pɔ�t/ noun full form of ZV Portzoomingzooming /�zu�mŋ/ noun the process of en-larging an area of text or graphics � Variablezooming from 25% to 400% of actual size.zoom lenszoom lens /�zu�m lenz/ noun a lens whosefocal length can be varied to make an objectlarger in the viewfinderzoom microphonezoom microphone /�zu�m �makrəfəυn/noun a microphone which can give a zoomeffect by moving towards or away fromsoundZV PortZV Port /�zed �vi� �pɔ�t/ noun an interfaceport that allows data to be transferred from aPC Card directly to the computer’s videocontroller without passing through the com-puter’s central processor. Full form zoomedvideo port (NOTE: It is used to allow a lap-top computer to display live images from avideo camera plugged into the computer’sPC Card socket.)

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SUPPLEMENTS

HTML codesThe following is a list of the basic HTML codes (or tags) used to format webpages.<a> ... </a>creates a hyperlink target or source. For example,

<a href="www.bloomsbury.com">link to Bloomsbury</a>

will create a hyperlink to the Bloomsbury Publishing Plc webpage.<address> ... </address>enclosed text is formatted in smaller typeface as an address<applet> ... </applet>defines an applet within the document<area>defines the area of a graphic image that will respond to a mouse click using aclient-side imagemap<b> ... </b>formats enclosed text in a bold typeface<base>defines the URL that is added in front of all relative URLs used within the document<basefont>defines the point size of the font used to format for the following text<bgsound>defines the audio file played as a background sound to the document (used in MS-IE)<big> ... </big>formats enclosed text in a bigger typeface<blockquote> ... </blockquote>formats the enclosed text as a quotation<body> ... </body>defines the start and finish of this document’s body text; also used to define a graphicimage used as a background, and to set the default colour of the text, hyperlinks andmargins for the document<br>inserts a line break in the text; the <p> code also inserts a carriage return<caption> ... </caption>defines the caption for a table<center> ... </center>formats enclosed text to be centered across the line<cite> ... </cite>formats enclosed text as a citation<code> ... </code>formats enclosed text as program code, normally using the Courier typeface<col>defines the properties for a column that has been defined using <colgroup>

HTML codes continued<colgroup>defines a column<comment> ... </comment>defines the enclosed text to be a comment. Only works in MS IE; with any otherbrowser you should use the <!> comment <> tag format<dd> ... </dd>defines one element of a definition list<dfn> ... </dfn>formats enclosed text as a definition<dir> ... </dir>creates a directory list using the <li> to create entries<div> ... </div>divides the text within a document and formats each division<dl> ... </dl>creates a definition list using the <dd> and <dt> tags to create entries<dt> ... </dt>defines the definition part of an entry within a definition list<em> ... </em>formats enclosed text with emphasis (similar to bold typeface)<embed> ... </embed>points to an object to embed in a document<font> ... </font>defines the size, colour and typeface of the font to use for the enclosed text<form> ... </form>defines the following tags to be treated as one form; also defines how to process theform and where to send the encoded information<frame> ... </frame>defines a frame, including its border, colour, name and text<frameset> ... </frameset>defines a collection of frames<h> ... </h>defines a pre-set font size, such as <h1> for a large headings, <h4> for small headings<hr>breaks the current line of text and inserts a horizontal rule across the page<html> ... </html>defines the start and end of the entire html document<i>... </i>formats enclosed text using an italic typeface<iframe> ... </iframe>defines a floating frame

HTML codes continued<img>includes an image within a document, also defines a border for the image, size,alternative caption text and whether the image is a video clip<input type=checkbox>defines a checkbox button within a form<input type=file>defines a file-selection list within a form<input type=image>defines an image input element within a form<input type=password>defines a text input that displays an asterisk when text is entered<input type=radio>defines a radio button within a form<input type=reset>defines a button to reset the form’s contents<input type=submit>defines a button to submit the form’s contents to the named process<input type=text>defines a text input element to allow users to enter a line of text<isindex>defines the html document to be searchable by a defined search engine<kbd> ... </kbd>formats enclosed text as a keyboard input<li> ... </li>defines an item in a list; the list can be ordered using <ol> or unordered using <ul><link>defines a link within a document header<listing> ... </listing>an old tag that is the same as the <pre> tag<map> ... </map>defines an image map that contains hotspots<marquee> ... </marquee>creates an animated scrolling text line, used in MS-IE<menu> ... </menu>defines a menu that has items created using the <li> tag<meta>allows the programmer to include extra information about the document<multicol> ... </multicol>defines multiple columns within the document; only used in Netscape Navigator

HTML codes continued<nextid>used by automated html document generators as a reference point within a file<nobr> ... </nobr>prevents the browser adding breaks within the enclosed text<noframes> ... </noframes>defines content that should be displayed if the browser does not support frames<noscript> ... </noscript>defines content that should be used if the browser does not support Java; only used inNetscape Navigator<object> ... </object>defines an object, applet or OLE object to be inserted into the document<ol> ... </ol>defines the start and end of a numbered list; items are inserted using the <li> tag<option> ... </option>defines one option within a <select> tag<p> ... </p>defines the start and end of a paragraph<param> ... </param>defines the parameters to be passed to an applet or object<plaintext>formats the rest of the document as plain text with spaces and breaks<pre> ... </pre>formats the enclosed text as plaintext with spaces and breaks<s> ... </s>formats enclosed text with a strikethrough (horizontal line)<samp> ... </samp>defines enclosed text as an example (sample)<script> ... </script>defines the start and end of a script written in a language such as JavaScript orVBScript<select> ... </select>defines a list of options within a form, each created using the <option> tag<small> ... </small>formats enclosed text in a small type size<spacer>inserts a character space within a line of text; only used in Netscape Navigator<span> ... </span>define a style sheet that formats text over several tags<strike> ... </strike>formats enclosed text with a strikethrough (horizontal line)

HTML codes continued<strong> ... </strong>formats enclosed text with emphasis, similar to bold typeface<style> ... </style>defines a collection of text formatting commands that can be referred to with this stylecommand_...formats enclosed text as subscript^...formats enclosed text as superscript<table> ... </table>defines a table including border, colour, size and width; columns are added with <td>and rows with <tr><tbody>a group of rows within a table<td> ... </td>defines a cell within a table, effectively adds a column to the table<textarea> ... </textarea>defines a multiple line text input element for a form<tfoot>defines rows within a table that are formatted as a footer to the table<th> ... </th>defines the header to each column in a table<thead>defines rows within a table that are formatted as a header to the table<title> ... </title>defines the title of an html document<tr> ... </tr>defines a row of cells within a table<tt> ... </tt>formats enclosed text in a monospaced typewriter-style font<ul> ... </ul>defines the start and end of a bulleted list of elements; each element is added using <li><var> ... </var>enclosed text is the name of a variable<wbr>defines a possible point for a word break within a <nobr> line<xmp> ... </xmp>an old tag that formats enclosed text, similar to <pre>

Decimal Conversion Table

Decimal BCD Binary Octal Hexadecimal

base 10 2 2 8 1600 0000 0000 0000 00 001 0000 0001 0001 01 102 0000 0010 0010 02 203 0000 0011 0011 03 304 0000 0100 0100 04 405 0000 0101 0101 05 506 0000 0110 0110 06 607 0000 0111 0111 07 708 0000 1000 1000 10 809 0000 1001 1001 11 910 0001 0000 1010 12 A11 0001 0001 1011 13 B12 0001 0010 1100 14 C13 0001 0011 1101 15 D14 0001 0100 1110 16 E15 0001 0101 1111 17 F

Prefixes

T tera- 1012

G giga- 109

M mega- 106

k kilo- 103

d deci- 10-1

c centi- 10-2

m milli- 10-3

� micro- 10-6

n nano- 10-9

p pico- 10-12

f femto- 10-15

a atto- 10-18

Symbols

% per cent= equals� approximately equal to� is not equal to< is less than> is more than+ plus- minus� divided byx multiplied by� therefore& and

Unicode Characters 0 – 207 in Decimal and Hexadecimal

dec hex char dec hex char dec hex char dec hex char0 0 NUL 52 34 4 104 68 h 156 9C ST1 1 SOH 53 35 5 105 69 i 157 9D OSC2 2 STX 54 36 6 106 6A j 158 9E PM3 3 ETX 55 37 7 107 6B k 159 9F APC4 4 EOT 56 38 8 108 6C l 160 A0 NBSP5 5 ENQ 57 39 9 109 6D m 161 A1 ¡6 6 ACK 58 3A : 110 6E n 162 A2 ¢7 7 BEL 59 3B ; 111 6F o 163 A3 £8 8 BS 60 3C < 112 70 p 164 A4 ¤9 9 HT 61 3D = 113 71 q 165 A5 ¥10 0A LF 62 3E > 114 72 r 166 A6 ¦11 0B VT 63 3F ? 115 73 s 167 A7 §12 0C FF 64 40 @ 116 74 t 168 A8 ¨13 0D CR 65 41 A 117 75 u 169 A9 ©14 0E SO 66 42 B 118 76 v 170 AA ª15 0F SI 67 43 C 119 77 w 171 AB «16 10 DLE 68 44 D 120 78 x 172 AC ¬17 11 DC1 69 45 E 121 79 y 173 AD SHY18 12 DC2 70 46 F 122 7A z 174 AE ®19 13 DC3 71 47 G 123 7B { 175 AF ¯20 14 DC4 72 48 H 124 7C | 176 B0 °21 15 NAK 73 49 I 125 7D } 177 B1 ±22 16 SYN 74 4A J 126 7E ~ 178 B2 ²23 17 ETB 75 4B K 127 7F DEL 179 B3 ³24 18 CAN 76 4C L 128 80 xxx 180 B4 ´25 19 EM 77 4D M 129 81 xxx 181 B5 µ26 1A SUB 78 4E N 130 82 BPH 182 B6 ¶27 1B ESC 79 4F O 131 83 NBH 183 B7 ·28 1C FS 80 50 P 132 84 IND 184 B8 ¸29 1D GS 81 51 Q 133 85 NEL 185 B9 ¹30 1E RS 82 52 R 134 86 SSA 186 BA º31 1F US 83 53 S 135 87 ESA 187 BB »32 20 SP 84 54 T 136 88 HTS 188 BC ¼33 21 ! 85 55 U 137 89 HTJ 189 BD ½34 22 “ 86 56 V 138 8A VTS 190 BE ¾35 23 # 87 57 W 139 8B PLD 191 BF ¿36 24 $ 88 58 X 140 8C PLU 192 C0 À37 25 % 89 59 Y 141 8D RI 193 C1 Á38 26 & 90 5A Z 142 8E SS2 194 C2 Â39 27 ‘ 91 5B [ 143 8F SS3 195 C3 Ã40 28 ( 92 5C \ 144 90 DCS 196 C4 Ä41 29 ) 93 5D ] 145 91 PU1 197 C5 Å42 2A * 94 5E ^ 146 92 PU2 198 C6 Æ43 2B + 95 5F _ 147 93 STS 199 C7 Ç44 2C , 96 60 148 94 CCH 200 C8 È45 2D - 97 61 a 149 95 MW 201 C9 É46 2E . 98 62 b 150 96 SPA 202 CA Ê47 2F / 99 63 c 151 97 EPA 203 CB Ë48 30 0 100 64 d 152 98 SOS 204 CC Ì49 31 1 101 65 e 153 99 xxx 205 CD Í50 32 2 102 66 f 154 9A SCI 206 CE Î51 33 3 103 67 g 155 9B CSI 207 CF Ï

Unicode Characters 208 – 255 in Decimal and Hexadecimal

dec hex char dec hex char dec hex char dec hex char208 D0 Ð 220 DC Ü 232 E8 è 244 F4 ô209 D1 Ñ 221 DD Ý 233 E9 é 245 F5 õ210 D2 Ò 222 DE Þ 234 EA ê 246 F6 ö211 D3 Ó 223 DF ß 235 EB ë 247 F7 ÷212 D4 Ô 224 E0 à 236 EC ì 248 F8 ø213 D5 Õ 225 E1 á 237 ED í 249 F9 ù214 D6 Ö 226 E2 â 238 EE î 250 FA ú215 D7 × 227 E3 ã 239 EF ï 251 FB û216 D8 Ø 228 E4 ä 240 F0 ð 252 FC ü217 D9 Ù 229 E5 å 241 F1 ñ 253 FD ý218 DA Ú 230 E6 æ 242 F2 ò 254 FE þ219 DB Û 231 E7 ç 243 F3 ó 255 FF ÿ

Notes:1. Characters 0 – 127 form the ASCII character set.2. Characters 32 – 127 and 160 – 255 are the same in the ANSI character set.

Unicode CO and CI controls

NUL null EM end of medium RI reverse line feed

SOH start of heading SUB substitute SS2 single shift two

SOT start of text ESC esape SS3 single shift three

ETX end of text FS file separator DCS device control string

EOT end of transmission GS group separator PU1 private use one

ENQ enquiry RS record separator PU2 private use two

ACK acknowledge US unit separator STS set tranmit state

BEL bell SP space CCH cancel character

BS backspace DEL delete MW message waiting

HT horizontal tab BPH break permitted here SPA start of guarded area

LF line feed NBH no break here EPA end of guarded area

VT vertical tab IND indent SOS start of string

FF form feed NEL next line SCI single character

CR carriage return SSA start of selected area introducer

SO shift out OSC operating system CSI control sequence

SI shift in command introducer

DLE data link escape ESA end of selected area ST string terminator

DC device control HTS character tabulation set PM privacy message

NAK negative ack. HTJ character tabulation APC application program

SYN synchronous idle with justification commandETB end of transmission VTS line tabulation set NBSP no-break space

block PLD partial line forward SHY soft hyphen

CAN cancel PLU partial line backward

Logic Function Tables