AGP: Accelerated Graphic Port

The Accelerated Graphic Port is where most of the newer video expansion cards connect to the motherboard. Video expansion cards are also known as Graphic Expansion Cards. AGP cards are capable of higher and faster data transfer rates than PCI graphic cards. They connect the monitor to your computer. The AGP card and your monitor are what determine the quality of your screen's display.

Analog

Continuous and without breaks. A steady, uninterupted flow. Analog is like the water flowing in a stream. The opposite of analog is digital. Digital is non-continuous. Digital is like the rain which falls

ANSI: American National Standards Institute

A voluntary organization responsible for establishing computer industry standards.

ASCII: American Standard Code for Information Interchange

The code which uses numbers 1 thru 127, for representing characters and codes. This enables the computer to transfer alphabetic, code, and symbol characters, to another computer. For example: In ASCII code, the capitol letter “A” is represented by the number 65. Small letter “a,” is represented by the number 97.

AT: Advanced Technology

AT refers to computers which use the socket type, : Socket 7 usually, processors. AT computers will not support the Pentium Slot1 processor. The AMD-K6-2 processor is an AT compatible processor.

ATA: Advanced Technology Attachment

A specification used for the connection of computer devices, normally harddrives.

ATX

ATX computers are Intel Slot1 compatible computer systems which use the Pentium Slot1 processor.

AVI: Audio Video Interleave

The format for Microsoft Window's video files. These files end with the ".avi" extension.

BASIC: Beginner's All-purpose Symbolic Instruction Code

An easier to learn programming language, which is ideal for the beginning programmer.

Baud

The number of bits transmitted per second. This unit of measure is pretty accurate for lower data transfer rates. As the rates get faster, : over 1,200 bits per second, the accuracy drops. At higher baud rates, the transfer speed may be two bits per second, or even more. For this reason, transfer rates at higher speeds are normally given in bits per second : bps.

BBS: Bulletin Board System

Similar to a newsgroup. Users post and respond to messages posted on the bulletin board. Generally there is a topic for discussion.

Binary

A system of numbers using only two digits, 1 and 0. The computer only understands binary information, known as machine language. Eventhough programs are written in HTML, C++, Assembly, Java, Basic, and etc., the programs eventually have to be translated into the binary, or machine language. The binary numbering system, which is represented by 0 : for an "off" bit, and 1 : for an "on" bit, is not so hard to understand. Our normal numbering system is known as the decimal system. Binary 0000 = Decimal 0, Binary 0001 = Decimal 1, Binary 0010 = Decimal 2, Binary 0011 = Decimal 3, Binary 0100 = Decimal 4, Binary 0101 = Decimal 5, Binary 0110 = Decimal 6, Binary 0111 = Decimal 7, and so-on. Here is how you do it: The first place represents 8, the next 4, the next 2, and the last place represents 1. The numbers are multiplied by 2, for each position from right to left, starting with the 2 position, as the binary digits increase. Lets look at binary again. If the first digit had been "on" and the rest were off, like this: Binary 1000, then the Decimal equivalent would have been 8, since the binary "8 position" would have been on. If all the positions for 8,4,2,and 1 were on, like Binary 1111, the decimal equivalent would be 15, because 8+4+2+1 = 15. Binary 1010 = Decimal 10, because 8+0+2+0 = 10. What would 16 be? If you said Binary 10000, you were exactly right! Last thing: : 64*2=128, : 32*2=64, : 16*2=32, : 8*2=16, : 4*2=8, : 2*2=4, : 1*2=2, and finally the : 1 postion. This gives us the values for a binary number with 8 digits, like: binary 11110000, which equals Decimal 240 since 128+64+32+16+0+0+0+0 = 240. The maximum value for an 8 digit binary number is 255 : 128+64+32+16+8+4+2+1. An 8 bit, : or digit, binary number is known as a byte. 00110011 is a byte, just as 11000011 is a byte, they both just represent different binary numbers.

BIOS: Basic Input/Output System

BIOS is the computer's "built in" operating system, always available, even without battery power. When you first boot, : turn on your computer, the BIOS is in charge. Once everything is functioning properly, the BIOS turns the computer over to Windows or the primary operating system on your computer. When first starting your computer, : booting, you are given the option of entering the BIOS setup. BIOS setup, is where you configure the components installed on your computer. For Advanced Users Only!. Setup can cause your computer to go haywire if done wrong!

Bit

A single on/off binary position. If the positon is set to 1, then the bit is "on." If the position is off, then the bit would be set to 0. 8 bits make a byte. : Now that makes me hungry!

BMP: Bit Mapped

Graphic files ending with the ".bmp" extension. They are called "bit-mapped," because they are made up of a bunch of little on/off square bits, grouped together on a graphical map, composed of rows and columns. These bits are so tiny, we do not notice that they are squares. If you keep zooming in on the image, eventually the squares will become visible.

Browser

A program used to browse files. A web browser, browses internet files. Both, Netscape Navigator, and Internet Explorer are web browsers.

Bus

The connections between the computer's components. For example: PCI busses are paths, : or connections, that connect the PCI slots to the Processor. Busses can be wires, paths, or any other type of electrical circuit used to connect one component, to another.

Byte

A group of 8 binary on/off bits. Bytes, usually have an extra bit, known as a "parity bit," which is used for error checking. This actually means that a byte has 9 bits, instead of 8, although, normally, a byte is only thought of in terms of 8 bits.

Cache

Memory which is readily available to the CPU. Level 1 Cache, is located in the CPU itself. Level 2 Cache, is located outside the CPU, but can still be accessed much faster than the RAM memory. The CPU stores commonly accessed data in it's cache memory. This causes the processing cycle to be much quicker, and more efficient.

CAD: Computer-Aided Design

CAD software, which is sophisticated graphical software, is used to design 3 dimensional objects. It is commonly used by drafting engineers and architects.

CD-ROM: Compact Disk Read Only Memory

A compact disk player which reads compact disks. : Makes sense to me. :- CD-ROM disks can hold aproximately 650MBs of data.

CD-R: Compact Disk Recordable

A compact disk player which not only reads compact disks, it records information also. Although a CD-R drive can record information, it cannot erase it. A special CD-R disk is needed in order to record information.

CD-RW: Compact Disk ReWritable

A compact disk player which can read, record, erase, and rerecord information on compact disks. In order to use the rewrite feature, one must use a special CD-RW disk.

CGI: Common Gateway Interface

A programming language used extensively with internet applications. CGI programs are commonly written in Perl or C++. They can include JavaScript, HTML, and other languages also. The CGI program is stored on the website's server computer, normally in a directory labeled "cgi-bin," and runs the program from there, not on the user's computer. Webpages normally use HTML and JavaScript programs. Those programs run from the user's computer, allowing him or her to view webpages with a web browser.

CMOS: Complemenentary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor

CMOS is the memory used to store computer settings, time and date information, BIOS information, and any other information which must not be erased when the computer is turned off. Most CMOS memory relies on a small battery to provide continuous power.

CODEC: Compressor/Decompressor

CODEC technology is included in software and hardware for compressing and decompressing data. QuickTime and MPEG both utilize CODECs for video data.

COM

Refers to the serial communications port names. A computer normally has only two serial ports, but 4 serial port names: COM1, COM2, COM3, and COM4. Usually COM1 and COM3 relate to one serial port, and COM2 and COM4, the other. In order to use two devices on the same serial port, they both must be set to different COM's. COM's on the same serial port can never be used at the same time, or an error will most likely occur.

Compiler

A program that converts higher level languages,: non-binary, into lower level machine language, : binary. A computer can only understand machine language. Humans can understand both, but, due to the complexity and difficulties of machine language, : all 1's and 0's, humans better understand the higher level languages like C++, Java, Basic, etc.. The higher the language level, the easier it is to understand. Basic is a higher level than C++. A high level language may go something like this: variable1 = variable2; which simply causes variable1 to be equal to variable2. Thats much easier to understand than several lines of: 00110011 11000101 11110000... Get my point? Compilers convert the easy to understand high level languages, into machine language, which the computer understands.

CPU: Central Processing Unit

The brain of the computer. The Central Processing Unit or CPU, contains the Control Unit and the Arithmetic/logic Unit, both working together to process the data inside the computer. The control unit is actually the brain of the brain. The control unit controls the computer by fetching, decoding, executing, and storing the data inside the computer. The arithmetic/logic unit is kinda like the CPU's sergeant. It handles all the math calculations and logical comparisons for the CPU, working together with the control unit like team. The microprocessor's Level 1 cache memory, is memory that is contained within the CPU, and stores the most frequently used instructions and data. The CPU can access the cache memory much faster than having to access the RAM : Random Access Memory. Level 1 cache memory, is memory that is included in the CPU itself. Level 2 cache memory, is memory between the RAM and CPU, but not directly on the CPU chip itself. The Control Unit is in charge of decoding, executing, storing, and fetching data. The Control Unit first fetches the data from memory. It then decodes the data so the computer can understand it. Next it has the Arithmetic/Logic Unit proccess this data by executing it, and storing it back into memory. These 4 steps are what's called the Machine Cycle of a computer. These 4 basic steps are how the computer runs each and every program. The Clock Driver is what times, or sets the pace for the computer. The clock's speed, is how CPUs are rated. Each machine cycle consists of two beats. Each beat the Control Unit fetches and decodes data, which is called the Instruction Cycle. At the same time the Arithmetic/Logic Unit executes and stores data, which is called the Execution Cycle. The speed of a clock is rated by how many beats per second it can accomplish. 1 million beats per second is refered to as 1Mhz. For every beat : except the very first, a machine cycle is completed. Common CPUs available today perform at 550Mhz and faster. This means that a 550Mhz CPU can execute 550,000,000 instructions in a single second!

CRT: Cathode-Ray Tube

More commonly known as a "Picture Tube," the CRT is what most televisions and monitors use for their display screens.

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Data

Simply another name for information. While data is correctly known as bits of electronic information, stored for computer use, it can also be information written on paper, information stored in our heads, or any other type of information.

Database

A collection of data. A filing system capable of accepting data. Normally refered to as a well organized, easily accessible, computer filing system, which contains a collection of information. A database can also be a file cabinet, or any other item that stores data.

Dedicated Line

A line or channel dedicated for a specific purpose. Also known as a dedicated channel. A dedicated phone line for a computer, would be a phone line reserved for the computers use only.

DHTML: Dynamic Hypertext Markup Language

A newer variation of HTML, which allows much better movement, manipulation, and interactivity with web pages. With DHTML, pretty cool webpage video games and other things are possible.

Digital

Non-continuous. Computers are digital. They process information bits at a time. Computers can convert analog information, into digital information : for processing, then back into analog again. A sound card can take your voice : analog, convert it to digital : for processing, then convert it back into analog again, playing it through the speakers. A digital clock is a good example of how digital information is handled. The numbers on the clock go from one to the next, stopping for a split second in-between. On the older type clocks, the hands move continuously in a slow, steady, circular motion, : analog. They never stop, unless of course the power goes out!

DIMM: Dual In-Line Memory Module

A memory board that has two seperate, nonconnected sides. Both sides have independant contact points, which connect it to the memory slot.

DLL: Dynamic Link Library

DLL files are called from programs and used to access certain computer routines.

DMA: Dynamic Memory Access

DMA refers to accessing the computer's main memory from a device, like a hard drive, without going through the central processing unit.

DMI: Desktop Management Interface

DMI is everything that allows the computer user to easily access the computer system. Icons, cursors, menus, and similar items are part of the DMI.

DNS: Domain Name System

The naming system the internet uses to identify websites. The domain name for Kids Online is: www.kids-online.net

DOSDisk Operating System

An older 16 bit operating system. DOS is still available on most computers, but rarely used. With time, DOS will eventually become obsolete.

DPI: Dots Per Inch

A standard of measuring the quality of an image's resolution. The more dots per inch that an image has, the better the picture quality.

DRAM: Dynamic Random Access Memory

This memory module type is the most commonly used. DRAM holds data only for a short period of time before having to refresh itself.

DS/DD: Double Sided/Double Density

A computer disk capable of being recorded to on both sides. The disk also has twice the storage capacity of single density disks. A 3.5 inch DS/DD disk can hold 720k of data. These disks are now fairly obsolete.

DS/HD: Double Sided/High Density

Computer disks commonly used today are the 3.5 inch DS/HD disks. They are capable of holding 1.44Mb of information and can be recorded to on both sides.

Dumb Terminal

A keyboard and monitor hooked to a remote computer. The dumb terminal can send and receive information, but lacks the ability to alter the primary computers information. It cannot process data, or store data by itself. It can only enter, transmit, receive, and display data.

DVD: Digital Video Disk

DVD disks are capable of storing around 4.7GBs of data. Eventually DVD drives will probably replace CD-ROM drives, which store much less information.

EBCDIC: Extended Binary-Coded Decimal Interchange Code

An IBM code like the ASCII code, for representing characters with numbers, allowing character data to be transferred via computer. Most computers use the ASCII code.

ECC: Error Correction Code

A superior form of error checking used with DRAM modules. Unlike parity error checking, using only one bit per byte to check for errors, ECC normally uses three additonal bits per byte. It is capable of detecting multiple bit errors and fixing single bit errors.

EDI: Electronic Data Interchange

Normally used by businesses, EDI is the direct electronic exchange of information from one computer to another.

EDO: Extended Data Out

A type of DRAM which allows the CPU to access main memory several times faster than previous types could.

EEPROM: Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory

EEPROM is memory that retains it's data without any power source. EEPROM is also erasable and rewritable, although the abbreviation suggests it is read only.

EIDE: Enhanced Integrated Drive Electronics

An interface used on some of the newer types of drives. This interface is around 4 times faster than the older IDE interface. EIDE supports hard drives up to 8.4GB. It's data transfer rate is between 11 and 13.3MBs per second.

EISA: Extended Industry Standard Architecture

EISA slots connect EISA cards to the motherboard. EISA is a 32 bit interface which operates at speeds up to 8.33MHz. EISA is a newer version of the older ISA technology. The 32 and 64 bit PCI interface operates at 33Mhz and 66Mhz. It is beginning to replace the slower and less efficient EISA interface.

E-mail: Electronic Mail

The electronic transmission of messages over communication networks, like the internet.

EPROM: Eraseable Programmable Read Only Memory

EPROM stores it's information until it is erased with an ultraviolet light. Once Erased, EPROM must be reprogrammed using a special PROM burner.

FAT: File Allocation Table

The table used by the computer to find files on the hard drive and/or disks. FAT keeps track of all the computers files.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

A program file, or page on a website, set up to answer frequently asked questions.

Fiber Optics

A technology that will soon replace telephone wires. Fiber optic cables have fishing line type threads that carry data in the form of light beams. This data, traveling at the speed of light, not only is faster, but it is capable of digital transmissions, which is the computers natural form of data.

FIFO: First In, First Out

FIFO usually refers to a method of storing information. Drink cans are stacked on top of each other inside of a drink machine. When the drinks are first loaded, the first drink placed in the machine goes to the bottom of the dispenser. The first drink purchased will be the first that was put into the machine.

FPU: Floating-Point Unit

Floating-Point Units are special chips which perform math calculations for the microprocessor. Earlier verions were known as Math Coprocessors, and were usually located seperate from the central processing unit. Today, most microprocessors have both the FPU and CPU : Central Processing Unit, built into the microprocessing chip together.

FTP: File Transfer Protocol

The internet protocol for sending files via the internet.

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GB: Gigabyte

Stands for 1 billion bytes. Actually, a gigabyte is really 1,073,741,824 bytes, : or 2 raised to the 30th power.

GHz: Gigahertz

Gigahertz stands for one billion cycles per second.

GIF: Graphical Interchange Format

A bit-mapped graphics file which is compatible for use over the internet. GIF files are recognized by the ".gif" extension. Normally, image files with few colors are best used on the internet as GIF's. If the image has a lot of colors, the JPG format is usually best.

Green PC

A computer which manages power consumption by monitoring certain devices is refered to as a Green PC. If certain devices are not required, the computer is able to shut down their power flow. Sleep mode is also supported. With sleep mode, the computer powers down automatically after an extended period of inactivity.

GUI: Graphical User Interface

Graphics which aid the user in using computer programs or applications. Pointers, menus, pop-up dialogs, icons, etc., are all GUI's.

Hardware

Physical items. Items that you can see and touch. Disks, keyboards, monitors, chips, computers, wires, etc., are all hardware items.

HDTV: High Definition Television

HDTVs use digital signals for video output. A standard television uses analog signals. Computer monitors operate with digital signals.

HTML: Hypertext Markup Language

The language used for creating webpages or other HTML files.

HTTP: Hypertext Transfer Protocol

The standard used to transfer pages on the internet.

Hz: Hertz

Hertz stands for one frequency cycle per second.

Icon

A graphical user interface : GUI, used to represent programs and other items. When clicked, the icon opens it's coresponding application. Icons are normally designed to resemble, in appearance, an image of something that reminds you which program it belongs to.

IDE: Integrated Drive Electronics

An IDE interface, is a drive interface controlled from the drive itself. The IDE interface supports data transfer rates of approximately 3.3MBs per second, and is limited to 538MBs per drive.

IEEE: Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers

The IEEE organization is responsible for determining the standards for much of the computer and electronic industry.

INI: Information Necessary for Initialization

INI files, are text files which contain information necessary for initializing a coresponding program.

I/O: Input/Output

I/O refers to the process of entering and extracting data, to and from a computer. Scanners, keyboards, cameras, and mice are examples of items used for input. Monitors, printers, and speakers, are examples of output devices. Floppy disks, hard disk drives, CD-RW drives, and memory are capable of both inputting and outputting information.

IP Address: Internet Protocol Address

An IP Address is used to identify a specific computer using the Internet. An IP Address consists of 4 numeric parts. The first part denotes the geographic region where the computer is located. The second part identifies the company or organization the comuter is linked to. The third part reveals the computer group network. The fourth and final part identifies the specific computer the user is connected to.

IPX/SPX: Internet Packet Exchange/Sequenced Packet Exchange

IPX/SPX is a data transport protocol used by Novell Netware networks.

IRC: Internet Relay Chat

IRC is an internet activity which enables people to send and receive messages using an IRC chat program.

IrDA Port: Infrared Data Association Port

An IrDA port allows a user to send information from one device or computer, to another, without any physical connection. Information is sent using infrared light waves. The data transfer rate is about the same as with parrallel ports.

IRQ: Interrupt Request Line

A computer contains many components which must communicate directly with the central processor. Components must request an interruption when they wish to send information to the processor. If several components try to send their information at the same time, the processor will not be able to handle it, and may cause the computer to make an error or crash. IRQ settings must be made so that no two devices send data at the same time.

ISA: Industry Standard Architecture

ISA slots connect ISA cards to the motherboard. ISA is an 8 or 16 bit interface which operates at speeds up to 8.33MHz. EISA or Extended ISA is a newer 32 bit interface. Although the faster 32 and 64 bit PCI technology is beginning to replace the slower ISA interface, many sound cards, modems, and other expansion cards are still manufactured using the older ISA technology.

ISDN: Integrated Services Digital Network

A communication standard which uses special digital telephone lines to transfer data at speeds of 64,000 bits per second.

Interface

An interface is an item which connects two or more individual items. A User Interface connects the computer user to the computer. Keyboards, mice, icons, and menus, are examples of user interface items. A Device Interface connects a device to the computer.

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Javascript

A programming language that does not need to be compiled, yet it performs much like compiled programs do. An extremely useful companion to HTML for webpages. Javascript is very similar to C++ and Java. It is a great language for advanced webpage designers to learn. All you need to program javascript, is the Windows Notepad application, or any other text application.

JPEG: Joint Photographic Experts Group

An image format with the ".jpg" or ".jpeg" extension, : normally ".jpg". This format is especially useful for internet image files, because of its smaller size. An image is best saved as a JPEG type when it has a lot of colors. If it has few colors, it normally is a smaller file when saved as a GIF type. Both types are internet compatible.

KB: Kilobyte

One thousand bytes. Actually, when refering to a binary Kilobyte : as computer bytes are, it is : 2 raised to the 10th power, or 1,024 bytes.

kHz: Kilohertz

Kilohertz stands for one thousand frequency cycles per second.

LAN: Local Area Network

A small network : connection of computers, covering a specific area. A bank would most likely be set up on a LAN.

LCD: Liquid Crystal Display

Liquid Crystal Display screens output graphical data to a video screen which uses a liquid crystal solution to display the information. LCD screens are normally very thin and have a flat viewing surface. Notebook computers have LCD output screens.

LIFO: Last In, First Out

LIFO usually refers to a method of storing information. Using the Stack method of storage, data is placed on top of a stack and removed from the top of the stack when needed. Using a stack of CD's as an example, when your through listening to a CD, you place it on top of the stack. When your ready to listen to CD's again, you must first pick up the last CD you placed on the stack, before listening to any other CD.

Logon

The process of entering a user name and/or password, to gain access to a computer system.

LPT: Line Printer Terminal

Although printers usually have three LPT computer ports available : LPT1, LPT2, and LPT3, most printers use the LPT1 port.

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MAPI: Messaging Application Progamming Interface

MAPI is a Windows operating system application which allows the user to distribute and read email, between different email programs.

MB: Megabyte

Refers to 1 million bytes. Actually, in binary, 2 raised to the 20th power is a Megabyte, : or 1,048,576 bytes.

MHz: Megahertz

One MHz is one million frequency cycles per second.

MIDI: Musical Instrument Digital Interface

A musical file with the ".mid" or ".midi" extension. MIDI's are musical files in digital form. The computer is able to process midi files quickly, since they do not have to be converted from analog form. MIDI files are much smaller in size than most any other musical file, making them an excellent choice for internet use.

MIPS: Million Instructions Per Second

A computer's speed is often measured by how many million instructions per second : MIPS, it can perform. The CPU is responsible for decoding each instruction.

Modem: Derived from: {Mo}dulation/{Dem}odulation

A modem converts the computers digital data into analog data, which allows it to be transmitted across telephone wires, which carry only analog data. The modem also converts incoming analog data, back into digital data, so that the computer will be able to understand it. A modem's speed is rated in bits per second, : or bps. A 56k modem is capable of handling 56,000 bits per second, although most phone lines restrict the data flow to about 28.8k, which causes the 56k modem to only transmit/receive at 28.8k. Modulation converts digital pulses into analog waves for sending, : transmitting data. Demodulation is the process of converting the received, analog carrier waves, back into the original digital pulses.

Motherboard: Also called: Mainboard

The main circuit board which connects all of the computer's components together. Everything connected to the computer, whether inside or out, communicates either directly, or indirectly, with the motherboard. The CPU is usually at the heart of most motherboards.

MPEG: Motion Picture Experts Group

One of the leading standards used with full motion audio/video files. MPEG files are recognized by the: ".enc", ".m1v", ".mp2", ".mpa", ".mpe", ".mpeg", ".mpg", and ".mpv2" extensions. A very good quality movie file format, close to a VCR movie's quality.

mW: Milliwatt

One thousandth, or .001 of a watt.

Network

Two or more computers linked together.

ns: Nanosecond

A nanosecond is one billionth of a second. In more simple terms, "It's pretty darn fast!!" :- It is commonly used to specify the amount of time it takes to access data.

NVRAM: Non-Volatile Random Access Memory

NVRAM is memory which is preserved by battery power while the computer is off. NVRAM usually contains information like setup settings and other user settings which need to be remembered each time the computer is booted.

OCR: Optical Character Recognition

OCR programs allow text from items like pictures or magazine pages to be converted into editable text which is useable in text based applications like MS Word or Notepad.

ODBC: Open DataBase Connectivity

ODBC provides compatability between different progams and database management systems : DBMS, which are ODBC compliant. A special database driver is needed as a mediator between the program and DBMS. The DBMS must be capable of receiveing ODBC commands. The program must also be capable of sending them.

OEM: Original Equipment Manufacturer

OEM computer products are often considerably cheaper than the standard boxed versions. OEM products are often packaged in plastic bags only. They rarely contain any user manuals or prouduct support. Often lacking the software necessary for installation, the user must download the files from the internet.

OLE: Object Linking and Embedding

OLE allows a user to create an object with one program and embed it into another, while the object retains it's original format.

Operating System

Sometimes abreviated as: OS. The program which manages your computer environment. Windows 98 is a common operating system.

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Parity Bit

A single bit, which is added to a byte of memory in order to check for errors. A byte is composed of 8 bits. Counting the parity bit, a byte is actually composed of 9 bits. Sometimes there is more than one parity bit per byte.

PC: Personal Computer

A personal computer conforming to IBM standards. While the technical term refers only to IBM compatible computers, used loosely, it can refer to almost any "personal" computer.

PC 100

PC 100 refers to motherboards with 100Mhz bus speeds. Memory modules need to be PC 100 compatible in order to work properly with this newer technology.

PCI: Peripheral Component Interconnect

PCI slots connect 32 bit and 64 bit PCI expansion cards to the motherboard. PCI cards send and receive data at speeds of 33Mhz for 32 bit cards, and 66Mhz for 64 bit cards.

PCMCIA: Personal Computer Memory Card International Association

The PCMCIA is responsible for the development of the credit card size PC memory cards. These cards are used to upgrade the memory in notebook computers by simply pluging them into a card slot located on the computer.

PDA: Personal Digital Assistant

PDAs are small handheld computers which use a special pen for inputting data. These small computers, while not as powerful as most standard computers, have most of the basic functions of a regular computer. Many PDAs also allow access to the internet, and can send and receive faxes, email, and even telephone calls.

PICT

Another type of image format compatible with the internet. PICT files end with the: ".pct" or ".pict" extension. These file are not as common as the JPEG or GIF formats.

PIM: Personal Information Manager

A device or program, not as powerful as a computer or PDA operating system. PIMs often manage notes, appoinments, phone numbers, addresses, a calander, calculations, or a number of other helpful day to day tasks.

PIN

A small pin-like connection used on circuit boards, chips, or other items to make a connection to a jumper or socket.

Plug-In

A helper application for a program which expands the program's capabilities. Web browsers are a good examples of programs which use plug-ins. A sound plug-in might allow the browser to handle a new type of sound file.

PnP: Plug and Play

PnP refers to a computer having the ability of automatically configuring device settings for a component, without the user having to make any manual adjustments. A computer without the PnP technology has to be configured manually with the BIOS setup program and/or by setting jumpers located on the device and/or motherboard.

POST: Power On Self Test

A computer goes through POST each time it is booted, before loading windows, or the appropriate operating system. POST, located on the BIOS chip, checks the memory, connected devices, expansion cards, and other items, then compares the results with previously stored information on the CMOS chip.

PPP: Point to Point Protocol

A method that provides a connection to the internet.

PROM: Programmable Read Only Memory

PROM can only be programmed one time and never erased. PROM is programmed with a special PROM burner : also known as a PROM programmer. Unlike ROM, which comes preprogrammed, PROM is completely blank when manufactured.

Protocol

A format which is agreed upon, and recognized, as a method of data transmission between two or more computers.

Query

The process of requesting information.

Queue

A storage area where tasks wait to be processed by the computer or a device. Normally items come out of queue in the same order they went in, although certain items with a higher priority may get to cut line. : Thats not fair! :-

RAID: Redundant Array of Inexpensive Disks

With RAID level 1 storage systems, 2 identical sets of disks are created containing the same information. This type of RAID operation is known as mirroring, and provides a backup copy of the first set of disks. RAID level 2 uses several sets of disks, writting information to each set simultaniously. This provides quicker disk access. A set of disks known as a parity disk, is sometimes also used with this method. The parity disk contains enough backup information to recreate lost data in the case of a disk malfunction.

RAM: Random Access Memory

Memory that the computer readily reads from, and writes to. Once the computer is turned off, : shut down, the RAM is cleared, : erased.

RISC: Reduced Instruction Set Computer

A RISC CPU contains fewer instructions than a non RISC CPU. On first thought, one might think the RISC would be inferior to the non RISC CPU. Actually a RISC CPU is faster because of the fewer instructions. Some of the eliminated instructions are deemed fairly obsolete anyway. A disadvantage might be that a RISC CPU may make software more comlex if the program has to work around the eliminated instuction: s.

RGB: Red Green Blue

Red, green, and blue, are the three colors a monitor and printer use to create full color images. Combining red and green makes yellow. Red and blue combine to make magenta, which is a purplish color. By varying the proportions and combinations of each color, the color possibilities are virtually endless.

RPM: Revolutions Per Minute

The number of times an object rotates completely, in a 60 second time span.

RPS: Revolutions Per Second

The number of times an object rotates completely, in a 1 second time span. Sometimes it is denoted as r/s.

RTC: Real Time Clock

The computer's RTC keeps track of time even while the computer is off. The clock is powered by a small battery, located on the motherboard.

ROM: Read Only Memory

Computer memory which never changes. ROM memory contains data that is permamently recorded on the ROM chip. ROM, is memory that is normally never erased or altered. It is for reading only. Unlike RAM, ROM retains it's data, even when the power is off or disconnected.

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SCSI: Small Computer Systems Interface

The SCSI interface has several different variations. The standard SCSI interface allows 7 devices to be connected to a single SCSI port. It transmits data at speeds up to 4MB per second. The fastest SCSI interface, which is called SCSI 3 or Ultra SCSI, can transmit data up to 40MB per second, : WOW!!!.

SDK: Software Developers Kit

A kit containing programs, program code, files, tools, documentation, and other components which enable a programmer to develop software.

SDRAM: Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory

Using a clock unit, the SDRAM module synchronizes the data transfer rate to the CPU, with the CPU's clock. SDRAM modules are around 25% faster than EDO modules, because they are able to send and receive data "N sync". : Hey! Is that not a music group? :-

Serial Device

A device like the keyboard, or mouse, which transmits data one bit at a time.

Server

A computer which serves the computers connected to it. When you connect to the internet, you connect to your internet provider's server computer.

SGML: Standard Generalized Markup Language

HTML is said to have been derived from SGML. Both languages, while somewhat different, use similar tags and have many other similarities. SGML is nowhere near as widely used as HTML; the most common internet language.

SIMM: Single In-line Memory Module

A type of memory module that has two connected sides. A contact point location on one side of the memory card touches the same location on the opposite side of the card. An example would be like several rubber bands wrapped around a deck of cards. You have seperate rubber bands connecting all the way around the deck.

SLIP: Serial Line Internet Protocol

A method that provides a connection to the internet.

SMTP: Simple Mail Transfer Protocol

A standard used to transfer electronic mail between computers.

Software

The actual program itself, not the disk. A disk is hardware, but the program contained on the disk is software. Software can't be seen.

Spam

Spam is a term refering to mass e-mail forewarded messages, junk email, e-mail hoaxes, etc.. Spam is especially bad, because it boggs the internet down with unwanted junk e-mails, and makes it slower for us to download files, or access web pages.

Spooling: Simultaneous Peripheral Operation Online

The method of placing tasks in a waiting buffer and accessing them once the task in front of them has been completed. Once a task has been placed in the buffer, the task is saved. If the task is waiting to be printed, and the program that sent the task to the buffer closes, the printer will still print it.

SQL: Structured Query Language

An extremely popular database management system. SQL is used to request data from a database.

SRAM: Static Random Access Memory

SRAM does not need to be refreshed as often as DRAM, : Dynamic RAM. SRAM is accessable at speeds of aproximately 10 nanoseconds, as opposed to a much slower rate of around 70ns : 70 nanoseconds, with DRAM.

SS/SD: Single Sided, Single Density

An older disk type which was only recordable on one side. Single density disks only store half the amount of information a double density disk can.

SVGA: Super Video Graphics Array

SVGA monitors support 16 million colors.

TB: Terabyte

Stands for 1 trillion bytes, although it's really 1,009,511,627,776 bytes, : or 2 raised to the 40th power.

TCP/IP: Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol

A standard used for transmitting data over the internet. TCP and IP are actually 2 different standards, but they are most always used together. TCP/IP is the most widely accepted standard for transmitting data between computers.

TIFF: Tagged Image File Format

An image file format which stores bit-mapped images. The format supports any resolution and color scheme.

TWAIN: Technology Without An Interesting Name

This is the standard used for scanners. A TWAIN driver is normally included with a scanner. It should be mentioned that scanners are not Windows Plug-N-Play compatible, which often causes users to have many problems with scanner and computer compatability.

UART: Universal Asynchronous Receiver Transmitter

The UART manages serial communications. Serial ports are managed by a UART. A modem also has a UART to handle it's transmissions.

UNIX

A popular server operating system for serving many users at the same time.

UPS: Uninterruptable Power Supply

A UPS prevents a computer from shutting off in the event of a power outage. The computer and other components are plugged into the UPS, which has a battery capable of providing power for several minutes. This gives the user time to shut the computer down properly and not loose any of his or her current work. Some UPS units come with software that automatically closes programs and shuts the computer down.

URL: Uniform Resource Locator

The internet address of a web page. Every web page on the internet has an address. The web browser uses the URL to retrieve it's web pages.

USB: Universal Serial Bus

A USB is a 4 pin interface which is capable of connecting up to 128 devices that operate at transfer speeds of less than 10Mbits per second. USB technology is significantly faster than a regular serial port. Devices can be plugged in and installed without shutting the computer down. USB is plug and play compliant. It is also one of the easiest ports for adding expansion devices.

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VESA: Video Electronic Standards Association

The group responsible for developing video display standards. VESA is responsible for the SVGA technology which offers superior resolution and colors.

VGA: Video Graphics Array

VGA monitors support 262,144 different colors. SVGA has made VGA obsolete.

VIRUS

A malicious program designed to intentionally cause harm to a computer's data files. These programs can be designed to replicate themselves and spread throughout your files, using up memory, and/or destroying data. While viruses might wipe out all of your data, the computer can be restored by reformatting the hard drive and reinstalling the operating system.

VRML: Virtual Reality Modeling Language

A language that does not need to be compiled. It can be written with notepad or any another text program. VRML files have the ".wrl", ".wrz", ".vrml", or ".wrb" extension. These programs create VR worlds that have life-like environments, designed to be as realistic as possible.

WAIS: Wide Area Information Server

A primative program for locating files on the internet.

WAN: Wide-Area Network

A network of computers which span a large geographical area. The internet is a wide area network.

WAV

The Waveform sound format used for many audio files. These files are recognised by the ".wav" extension.

WORM: Write Once, Read Many

An optical disk technology which allows information to be recorded only once. The disks can store anywhere from 600MB to over 3GB of information. The negative aspect of the worm disk technology is that only the same type of drive which recorded the data is able to read it.

WWW: World Wide Web

Computers, linked to each other all around world, resulting in a web of documents and files which have links, allowing you to jump from one location on the web to another.

WYSIWYG: What You See Is What You Get

WYSIWYG text applications display text exactly as it will appear when printed. Some webpages are also created with WYSIWYG editors.

XON/XOFF

A telecommunication transfer protocol.

XOR: Exclusive OR

The XOR operator is a true/false : boolean, operator which returns true if it's two operands have different values.

XT: Extended Technology

A PC capable of running a hard drive is considered an XT. : A fairly obsolete technology now.

Y Connector

A Y shaped cable which plugs into a single terminal. The terminal is then capable of connecting two devices, instead of one.

ZIP

A method of compressing a file, making it much smaller in size, and capable of being transferred from one computer to another more quickly. These files are recognized by the ".arc", ".arj", ".b64", ".bhx", ".cab", ".hqx", ".lzh", ".mim", ".tar", ".taz", ".tgz", ".tz", ".uu", ".uue", ".xxe", ".z", and ".zip" extensions. ".zip" is one of the more commonly used types of zipped files.

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