Internet Terms-T

T1 line a leased telephone line connection allowing for the transfer of data at a speed of 1.544 Mbits (1.544 million bits) per second. Though not fast enough to accommodate realtime streaming video, a T1 connection is often used by businesses to connect to the Internet.

T3 line a leased telephone line connection allowing for the transfer of data at a speed of approximately 45 Mbps (45 million bits) per second. T3 connections provide the bandwidth for realtime streaming video. T3 lines comprise much of the backbone that allows for the transmission of data over networks such as the Internet. Many ISPs use a T3 connection to provide services to customers.

see bandwidth, backbone.

tab a designation in a program document or Web page similar to the ridge-like projection that divides and identifies sections in a notebook or planner. Like the physical tab in a notebook, the onscreen tab in a program application or Web page usually isolates a body of information. Clicking on such a tab with the mouse brings the material to the foreground.

Tab key a useful computer keyboard key that moves the cursor to a new insertion point as determined by a user’s margin settings. The tab key also brings a user to a new field when making entries in a cell or dialog box (form).

table a particular orientation of information, arranged in vertical columns and horizontal lines of items such as text or images. Spreadsheet applications produce many types of tables.

tab stop a designated point set by a user that positions the cursor in a particular spot on a page. In word processing, tab stops can be useful for setting recurring margins, paragraph indentions, and other repeated parameters in a document.

tag an instruction written into a program or document that signals a particular function or series of functions to occur. In HTML, commands are sometimes called tags.

tape a magnetically coated material used for the storage of computer, video, or audio data. The advantages of storing computer information on tape are that tapes can store large amounts of data and are less expensive than disks. The drawback to using tape is slow running speed. Tape is the preferred method of storing information that is not needed frequently such as archived data.

tape drive a device that reads and/or writes data onto a tape. Accessing data on tape can be time consuming depending upon the location of the information.

For example, a tape drive would need to fast forward through a large quantity of tape to access data stored in the middle of a spool.

talk realtime online chat (replete with all of the familiar abbreviations and acronyms) that takes place in a virtual community of which there are many, according to an individual’s interests. As with most other communication forums, regular participants take the medium seriously and discourage poor netiquette.

In some talk forums, administrators monitor discussions.

target also referred to as destination, the program, file or final location for computer data that is being transferred or copied. Target is the opposite of source.

task refers to the particular function being performed by a software application.

taskbar in Windows, the panel on the bottom of a display monitor that contains icons, beginning with the Start button on the far left, that provides shortcuts to opening selected applications. The taskbar also displays the symbols representing folders, programs, and/or files that are presently open. It is also home for the volume control and displays the current time. Clicking on an item in the taskbar brings that item to the foreground.

TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) a standard protocol that allows computers to process and display information such as Web pages and email that originate in the various networks that comprise the Internet.

teamware sometimes called groupware, software that lets individuals separated geographically work on the same project. The Internet is usually what links participants to each other.

technical support assistance provided by the manufacturer of both hardware and software. It is also a service provided by ISPs, online service providers, and Web hosting companies. Technical support may be offered by telephone, via an online chat program, by email, or by snail mail. Support personnel answer questions of all varieties such as, “How do I set up this equipment?” to “Where is the on switch for my new computer?” The popularity and success of many companies offering computer-related products and services is often directly related to the quality of technical support they offer.

telecommute a popular term originating in the 1970s used to describe working from home with the use of electronic devices such as a fax, computer, modem and telephone.

teleconference a meeting of individuals separated geographically, using telephone as well as audio and/or video connections provided by a private network or the Internet.

television board an expansion board that allows a computer and monitor to act as a television. Some allow a user to place a small TV picture in a corner of the monitor screen while using the computer for other work. A television board might also be called a TV card.

telnet a program that allows a user to log onto a remote server or host. For example, if you were away from home, and connecting to your ISP required a long distance call, you could use telnet to connect and avoid the charges. You would need a user name and password and would have access to services normally offered by your home ISP such as email.

template a model or pattern. The word is used to describe several functions with regard to software applications and graphical layout. For example, in a word processing application, a template might refer to a style sheet, in that the layout for a document is set before beginning work. Entering information into pre-set fields is all that is necessary to create the framework for the document. The same could apply to entering information into a spreadsheet. In graphic or Website design, a template might be used to maintain a uniform theme throughout the creation.

Terabyte approximately one trillion bytes.

Terminal hardware consisting of a keyboard and display screen allowing a user to communicate with a computer either through normal cable connections or by a network. see dumb terminal, smart terminal.

Texas Instruments a global semiconductor company and the world’s leading designer and supplier of digital signal processors and analog integrated circuits, the engines driving the digitization of electronics. These two types of semiconductor products work together in digital electronic devices such as digital cellular phones. In 1958, Jack Kilby, a researcher for Texas Instruments, developed the first integrated circuit. In 1967 the company introduced the first hand-held electronic calculator.

text characters, numerals and symbols that make up sentences and paragraphs.

text box a designated area within a software program or Web page where a user may enter text.

text file a file containing primarily text. A word processing document however, is usually not simply a text file. Word processing files are different because they incorporate items such as boldface and italic characters, margins, underlined words, and many other variables that set them apart them from text files. A true text file is one where the sentences have no special characters or uniformity such as margins or columns. Some word processing programs allow a user to save documents in a “text only” or an ASCII format, allowing for easy uploading and downloading to others.

text wrap also called text flow, a feature supported by many word processing programs allowing a user to enter text around a picture, clipart or other image placed on the page. see Figure T.03.

thermal printer a low cost printer that produces characters and images using heat applied to a special type of paper. Calculators and some fax machines employ this technology.

Thrash to move about wildly without accomplishing anything useful. With computers, thrashing occurs when too many programs are open and the system does not have the resources to accommodate them all. Closing one or all applications will get things under control. A more permanent solution is to install more memory.

thread a series of posted messages of the same topic found on a bulletin board or newsgroup. It is often possible for a user to call up all of the messages associated with the original.

three-dimensional audio a method of enhancing stereo sound. A device listens to the sound while evaluating factors such as room acoustics. It then sends this information back to the computer and the sound card makes adjustments, producing optimal sound.

three-dimensional graphics the process by which software makes two dimensional images appear to be three dimensional. 3-D graphics are essential for many games and other animation. The process requires a large amount of memory and a special microprocessor.

thumbnail 1. refers to a preview of an image and is usually considerably smaller than the actual image. When viewing images such as photos and clipart stored on a CD-ROM or floppy disk, the user is sometimes shown a smaller sample (preview) that allows her to either continue on through the samples, or enlarge the preview image to display the entire graphic. 2. on a Web page, a small image that contains a hyperlink. When clicked with a mouse, the image is enlarged.

TIFF (Tagged Image File Format) a popular file format for saving bitmap images on both PCs and Macintosh computers. The TIFF format can store large im- Figure T.03. text wrap thrash 145 ages, black and white graphics, unlimited color, and can display an image in any resolution. TIFF files are identified by the .TIF file extension.

tilde the keyboard symbol (~).

TLD (Top Level Domain) the suffix attached to Internet domain names such as .com, .net, org, uk, .ws .cc, etc. As the Internet grows in popularity and domain names become increasingly scarce, new TLDs are being created.

Tillamook an Intel processor designed for use in portable computers. The Tillamook chip is a version of the Pentium that runs at more than 200 MHz.

time out after waiting for an answer, a program or hardware device will often display a time out message and abandon the function. For example, when accessing computerized stock quotes on the telephone, the program will ask for the user’s account number. If it isn’t given within a certain period of time, say 30 seconds, the computer might return the user to the main menu or even disconnect.

time sharing refers to more than one user having access to the same computer.

Time sharing utilizes the multitasking concept, that is, that a computer rapidly switches processing duties among two or more open applications.

Times Roman a popular font style noted for its legibility both on the printed page and on a Web page. The font is characterized by its vertical orientation and serifs. The vast majority of type used in this book is Times New Roman, a slight variation to the original Times Roman.

title bar the uppermost rectangular bar in the frame of a program or Web page containing the program title or file name, and possibly an icon that identifies it.

toggle a term used to describe several actions. Primarily, to toggle means to switch functions from one to another. Occasionally people refer to clicking hyperlinks while surfing the Internet as toggling through the Net.

token 1. a single component of a programming language such as a keyword or symbol. 2. a code or message transmitted from one member of a token ring to another, allowing the holder the ability to transmit.

token ring network a network arranged in a circular fashion where a message is transmitted from one member to another. It is the token that gives the holder the ability to transmit. see ARCnet.

toner electrically charged ink-like power used in copiers and laser printers. Toner is available in disposable cartridges for both printers and copy machines or may be added to a reservoir as needed.

tool one of any number of utility function devices available in a software application allowing a user to accomplish useful work. Often a tool can be manipulated with the mouse cursor. For example, in a paint program, the spray can, scissors, and pen are all tools.

toolbar an assembly of tools, represented by buttons, placed on the top, bottom, or either side of the display monitor. The toolbar allows a user easy access to a number of functions offered by the program. Usually, one needs only to left click on a function to activate the desired tool. see tool, floating toolbar.

topology refers to the manner in which individual items or points are connected. In networking, topology usually refers to the arrangement of computers connected in the network. see local area network for network configurations.

touchpad a touch-sensitive area on a portable or hand-held computer allowing a user input by use of a special pen or her finger. The touchpad is used in place of a keyboard.

touch screen a display monitor that, when running with certain software allows a user to make selections and input data into the computer by touching the screen with a finger. Touch screen technology is often used in kiosks.

tower computer components are assembled inside of a metal box. Tower refers to a box that is taller than wide. The advantage of a “tower model” computer versus a desktop model, is the tower saves space. see PC.

track a circular section on a data storage disk containing data, resembling a single musical selection on a vinyl record album. Data storage is further isolated into sectors.

trackball a device similar to a mouse used for pointing to and clicking on items on a display monitor. The difference is the trackball has a free-moving ball that is housed in a socket in the device. The user rolls the ball to position the cursor while the device remains stationary.

traffic 1. refers to the number of communications being sent over a system or network.
The extent of traffic sometimes determines a users ability to login and navigate a network. 2. the frequency and number of visits received by a Web page or Website.

transfer interrupted a message box appearing on a display monitor after the downloading of data has been stopped. A user may have pressed the stop button, or the source server may have shut down for any number of reasons.

transfer rate the speed that data travels from one hardware device to another, either through conventional wire and cable connections, or over a network.

Factors such as network traffic, the type of data being transmitted, and individual computer speeds affect the transfer rate.

transistor a small electronic device composed of semiconductor material such as germanium or silicon, that amplifies or otherwise modifies a signal or current.

Transistors replaced vacuum tubes and are rapidly being replaced by printed circuit boards, both of which perform the same or similar functions. Computers, as we know them today would not exist without transistors.

transparent 1. unable to be seen or noticed. In software applications, functions that automatically happen without the user being aware of them are said to be transparent. 2. in paint and graphics applications, to make transparent means to take an image and eliminate its background so it can be placed in a new field without any trace of the old background.

Trash the folder in the Macintosh where deleted files are kept until they are permanently cleared or restored. The Trash bin in the Mac is the equivalent to the Recycle bin in the Windows operating system.

tree a data storage structure where new items are attached to elements below them.
The first item in the structure is the root. The connections are called branches.

Trojan horse a program downloaded from the Internet that contains destructive elements to a computer. Unlike a true virus, the Trojan horse does not replicate itself, it simply erases the users hard drive. A Trojan horse can come disguised as a useful application such as a game or even a virus protection program. The name is taken from Greek mythology, where the Greeks gifted their Trojan enemies, a large wooden horse as a peace offering. Once inside the city of Troy, Greek soldiers, who were hiding inside the hollow horse, opened the gates to the city allowing fellow soldiers to invade.

troll sometimes referred to as flame bait, a message posted to any number of public chat or bulletin board forums that is designed to prompt a large number of responses.
Often the message is a complete exaggeration, lie, or insult. One might be said to be “trolling” for a particular type of response.

typeface tron to communicate online and not through more conventional means such as telephone or face-to-face.
true color a graphics application using at least 24 bits for each pixel of color. True color applications are able to display more than 16 million colors.

TrueType developed as a joint venture between Apple and Microsoft in 1991, an outline font included in both company’s operating software that has become a standard of sorts for everyday home computing.

truncate to shorten something. In programming languages, (especially when disk storage space was at a premium) there would not always be room to enter an entire character string, so there was a need to shorten it. For example, the number 45.070921 becomes 45.

tune to clean up hard disk space by deleting old files and otherwise run applications that improve the speed and efficiency of a computer. Running a defragmentation utility would be one method of tuning a computer.

turnkey system a computer system that is designed for a particular application and comes to the user ready to perform certain functions. For example, a desktop publishing system would come with publishing, scanning, and printing drivers as well as the appropriate hardware and software. A user could figuratively turn a single key to be up and running.

TWAIN (Technology Without An Interesting Name) an interface that allows optical scanners to communicate with application software. A TWAIN driver delivers the scanned image to the various software applications a user might be working with, allowing the scanned image to be used in many applications.

tweak to adjust, align, manipulate, or otherwise fine tune a hardware device or software application for maximum efficiency.

type 1. to enter characters as computer input using a keyboard. 2. the various styles of characters and symbols produced by a keyboard.

typeface a particular design for characters such as Courier or Times New Roman.

The two major distinctions that separate typeface styles are Serif and Sans serif.

Internet Terms-S

safe mode a temporary method of running Windows using the absolute minimum in resources. In the event of a hardware failure or malfunction, it can become necessary to run the operating system in the Safe Mode. In safe mode, it is sometimes possible to back up files and otherwise rescue data that is subject to loss due to eminent hardware failure. Windows is often able to alert the user to such problems before they actually occur. It would be wise to print out the instructions for Safe Mode operation prior to needing them. To do so, go to Start, Help, type “Safe Mode” into the keyword prompt box, click on Display and print the instructions for safekeeping.

sandbox a safe environment for running Java applications without threatening a computer’s disk space or memory.

sans serif type without serifs. Popular sans serif fonts include Helvetica and Arial.

saturation the degree of intensity of a color. Deep vivid color is said to be saturated, while decreasing saturation causes the color to fade.
S This is a sans serif font.
This is a serif font.

save to transfer data from memory to a more permanent storage medium such as a hard disk, floppy or tape. When a program prompts a user to save work, the transfer that occurs is usually to a file or folder on the hard disk.

Save As the option to save a file under a different name, format, or in a different folder. The Save As option comes in particularly handy in word processing functions when variations of a single document must be created.

scalable the adaptability of something, especially with regard to size. Scalability refers to the ability of a hardware system or software application to accommodate ever-increasing use or demand. The term is freely used in the marketing of hardware and software to describe versatile products.

scalable font sometimes called object-oriented or outline fonts, a versatile font available in graphics oriented language such as TrueType or Postscript that can be used to print characters of high resolution and of any size.

scale also called sizing, to change the size of a graphical image without distorting its shape. Most vector oriented graphics programs allow for scaling by selecting the image and dragging a corner handle diagonally.

scan to convert pictures, text or images into digital data by running them through a scanner. see optical scanner.

ScanDisk a DOS and Windows diagnostic program that searches for hard disk errors. see Defrag.

scanner see optical scanner.

screen short for display screen.

screen capture to copy the image currently displayed on the screen to the clipboard for use in another file or document, or to print. In Windows, pressing the Figure S.02. scaled object 119 screen capture 124 Print-Screen key saves the screen’s contents to the clipboard. Holding the Alt key while pressing Print Screen captures only the active contents of the screen.
In Macintosh, holding down Command and Shift while pressing 3 places a bitmap screen image in the root directory under PICT.

screen saver a program that displays an animated picture or pattern when the computer has not received input from the keyboard for a specified period. Screen savers were originally used to prevent “screen burn” or ghosting, a condition that caused the screen’s inner coating to wear from images or text that was constantly present. Modern display screens are no longer subject to this condition, yet the screen saver has retained it’s popularity. Many interesting and unusual screen saver patterns are included in both Macintosh and Windows operating systems as well on thousands of Websites for free downloading.

screen shot see screen capture.

script 1. a font type that resembles handwriting. 2. a simple programming language.
3. refers to programs written in Applescript and Hypercard by Apple.

scroll the systematic movement of text or images, either up and down, or from side to side on a computer display screen with the use of the keyboard arrow keys, or a mouse. In scrolling down, a new line of text appears at the bottom of the screen as the line at the top disappears. To scroll up and down using a mouse, the user would place the mouse cursor on the scroll bar (a sliding rectangular button located on the right of the display), or on a stationary arrow button at either the top or bottom of the frame. In using the arrow button, the user would position the cursor on the button, left click, and hold the mouse button down.
The contents of the screen will move up or down accordingly. To scroll using the sliding button, the user would place the mouse cursor on the button, left click the mouse, and leave the button pressed while moving the mouse either up or down. This causes the screen contents to move at the same speed as the mouse. To scroll using the arrow keys, a user simply presses the key that corresponds to the desired direction of the screen contents.

scroll bar a rectangular sliding button located either on the right side and/or the bottom of a computer display screen used to move the screen’s contents accordingly.

see scroll, Figure S.03.

Scroll Lock key a special key on PC and Macintosh keyboards whose function varies depending on the program running. see Special Key Functions, page 281.

SCSI (Small Computer Systems Interface) pronounced scuzzy, a parallel interface which is the leading standard for connecting high-performance peripherals to PCs and Macintosh computers. SCSI interfaces can accommodate a combinascreen saver 125 tion of up to seven peripherals, such as scanners, hard disks, tape backup devices and more. While SCSI is the exclusive peripheral interface for the Macintosh, PCs support several interfaces in addition to the SCSI.

scuzzy see SCSI.

SDK (Software Development Kit) programming tools that allow a programmer to create applications that will enhance the operation of other software.

SDRAM (Synchronous Dynamic Random-Access Memory) an extremely fast type of DRAM running up to three times faster than conventional memory. SDRAM achieves this by synchronizing itself with the processor.

SDSL (Symmetric Digital Subscriber Line) new technology requiring a special modem that allows for the sending of data over copper telephone lines at high speeds. Data can be transferred at rates of up to 3 Mbps because SDSL transmits on frequencies not used for regular voice transmission.

search and replace the ability for a word processing application to find a specific word or phrase and replace it with another. Most programs will either automatically replace every chosen character string, or give the user the option of approving each of the changes. In Macintosh compatible software this feature is called find and replace.

search engine computer software that, through the use of bots and by seeking out keywords, searches an extremely large number of documents and locations on the World Wide Web and Internet for specific information. After searching for Figure S.03. scroll bar scroll bar arrow button search engine 126 information related to the word or words used in the search, the program compiles a page of results, listing hyperlinks pointing to Web pages that contain (hopefully) the desired information. Although “search engine” refers to the actual search software, the term is often associated with a specific service such as Alta Vista or HotBot. Understanding how to ask a search engine for the desired information can minimize the frustration sometimes experienced with using such a service. see Search Engine Tips, page 275.

sector the smallest unit of data storage available on a disk. A disk is divided first into tracks then into smaller units called sectors. A track is similar to an individual recording on a vinyl record album. A sector would be represented as a diagonal portion, or cross-section of a track.

security a wide range of measures taken to guard computer systems, as well as the storage and transmission of data. Among the many security measures taken to ensure that data doesn’t fall into unauthorized hands, are the implementation of firewalls, the encryption of information, passwords and security keys for users of institutional and personal secure systems, and the isolation and guarding of mainframe computers so unauthorized personnel do not have access to them. see firewall, encryption.

seek time the time it takes a device to call up a particular file or other piece of information, usually measured in milliseconds.

segment 1. a representation of a portion of memory in a microprocessor. 2. a defined portion of a network.

select to designate an object in preparation to execute a program, file or other function. For example, placing the mouse cursor on a desktop icon and left clicking once will cause the item to become highlighted or selected. Pressing the Enter key after selecting the item will open the associated file or program.

select box a window in a software application or on a Web page offering a user choices or options. Usually clicking one of the choices initiates a function such as opening a new Web page or entering information as part of a survey or questionnaire.

semiconductor a material used in the production of electronic components that is neither a good conductor nor a good insulator. The most common semiconductor material is silicon.

serial the transfer of data over a single line, one bit at a time.

serial port a computer or other hardware device interface that allows for serial transmission, that is, one bit of data at a time, over a single line. Modems, mice and printers (printers also use parallel port connections) all utilize serial port connections. Most computers have two such interfaces labeled COM 1 and COM 2.

serif a decorative adornment to a type character such as the one used in the main body of this book, Times New Roman. Some feel that serifs allow for easier reading. see Figure S.06.

server a network computer (and/or software) that performs a wide variety of functions such as delivering data to client computers. Servers store and deliver, upon demand, files to other computers on the network. A Web server, for ex- Figure S.05. select box server 128 ample, stores Web pages that are simply files. When a Web browser, prompted by a user, sends a request for a particular page, the server calls up the file from its hard disk and sends it to the browser over the network. Web servers need to have large data storage disks to store multiple pages. The term also refers to computers other than Web servers. A server on a LAN might maintain files needed exclusively by the users of that network, while an e-commerce server would maintain and deliver data essential to the transfer of funds for commercial transactions on the Internet.

server mirroring maintaining a computer that has the exact same files contained by a primary server for the purpose of backup in the event of failure or malfunction by the primary machine.

service provider 1. a company that provides a wide variety of online services via a Website. 2. sometimes used to refer to an Internet Service Provider (ISP), a company that provides customers with Internet access or Web hosting. see online service, Internet Service Provider.

servlet a Java applet that runs on a Web server. Servlets are slowly replacing CGI applications because of their versatility. Unlike a CGI program, an applet is opened by a Web browser and stored in memory so that each time it is needed it is available without the need to reload. CGI scripts must load each time utilized, taking more time than servlets. see applet, CGI.

session refers to the time spent using a computer. For example, an online session would be the time a user spent connected to a network.

SET (Secure Electronic Transaction) a widely accepted standard that uses digital signatures allowing for secure credit card transactions over the Internet.

setup to install computer hardware or software. Most hardware and software programs include a mini-program or setup file that configures an operating system so it will accept the new device or application.

SGML (Standard Generalized Markup Language) a method for creating interchangeable structured documents using a special grammar called Document Type Definition (DTD) in ASCII text.

SGI (Silicon Graphics Incorporated) a company engaged in high-performance computing, offering powerful servers, supercomputers and visual workstations.
The company’s broad range of workstations and graphics servers deliver advanced 3D graphics and computing capabilities for engineering and creative professionals. Its highly scalable servers also have a growing presence in the enterprise market, with a particular emphasis on Internet, large corporate data and telecommunications applications.

shadowing a method of increasing computer speed by configuring a system to utilize general-purpose ROM during the boot process rather than the slower BIOS ROM. To do this, BIOS ROM is copied into RAM when the computer is booted.

shareware computer software available for downloading without charge on the World Wide Web. Based on the honor system, the user is expected to pay a registration fee to the author if he decides to keep the software. If unwilling to pay the fee, he is supposed to delete the program. With registration, a user receives program updates and support. Shareware differs from public domain software in that it is copyrighted. Often at the start or end of a session, a reminder pops onto the screen prompting the user that he has not yet registered.
Because of this reminder, shareware is sometimes jokingly called nagware.

shell also called user interface or command shell, the part of an operating system that processes user commands and allows them to be executed.

shift click to hold the shift key down while left clicking the mouse. In some applications this allows a user to select more than one item.

Shift key a computer keyboard key that when pressed at the same time as another key (much like the typewriter Shift key), changes the function of the other key.

Shockwave a product of Macromedia Inc, Shockwave is a popular Web browser plug-in that provides online audio, video, and animation. It lets the user view interactive Web content such as games, business presentations, entertainment, and advertisements from both Windows and Macintosh platforms.

shortcut in Windows, the ability to execute a program or open a file by clicking on an icon, usually located on the desktop. A user can easily create a shortcut to a program by first clicking on My Computer, selecting the desired icon and right clicking. Then, with the left mouse button pressed, he drags the icon to the desktop. From then on the user needs only to double click this icon to open the program.

shortcut key some keys allow a user to execute certain functions easily. For example, pressing Control and the “P” character, brings up the “Print” dialog box while Control and “S” saves your work. see page 281.

shout to post a message in any online forum with the Caps lock key on. Using all caps is considered bad netiquette.

shut down to properly turn off a computer. In the Windows operating system, select Start either by left clicking on the icon or pressing the “Windows” key, select Shut down, and press Enter or left click the mouse.

sig file short for signature file. A small file, attached to every email of a particular sender that consists of a special group of characters, words, symbols, etc. that acts as the users signature.

sig quote similar to a signature file except the attachment is a quote or saying attached to outgoing email. see sig file.

signal-to-noise ratio the quantity of useful information found in an online forum as opposed to senseless blathering, off-topic nonsense, and commercial posting.
One might say that, “the signal-to-noise ratio on this board is high.” signature file see sig file.

single-density disk a low density floppy disk.

single-sided disk a floppy disk that is able to store data on only one side.

site short for Website.

size see scale.

sleep mode a computer setting where, usually after a pre-set idle period, the computer shuts down unnecessary operations such as the display monitor and disk drive. The sleep mode is designed to preserve energy.

SLIP (Serial Line Internet Protocol) a standard for using a modem and telephone to connect to the Internet. see PPP.

slot synonymous with the term socket, an opening where a plug-in circuit board (often referred to as a card) may be attached.

Smalltalk an object-oriented program language and operating system developed by Xerox Corporation in the 1970s utilizing a graphical user interface environshortcut key 131 ment. Smalltalk had a profound influence on the development of both the Apple Macintosh and Microsoft Windows operating systems.

Smartdrive a disk caching system developed by Microsoft and used in earlier versions of Windows and DOS that provided faster access to data on a hard disk by caching. see cache.

smart terminal a keyboard and display monitor system containing a small amount of processing power, allowing the terminal enhanced functions. A dumb terminal has no processing capabilities.

SMDS (Switched Multimegabit Data Services) a standard for high-speed data connections whereby local area networks (LANs) can be connected to form a wide area network (WAN).

smiley an emoticon. A smiley is a grouping of common keyboard characters put together to show how the sender or poster is feeling. The most common smiley is, : - ). see emoticons, assicons, also see page 228.

smoke test a slang term referring to the first time a computer is started. The pun is, “Will smoke come out?” SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol) a method of transferring electronic mail between computers over the Internet.

snail mail a slang term used to describe tangible physical letters or packages delivered by the postal service. The term came into being when email became popular.

Snail mail is so named because of its slow delivery time as opposed to email. A snail address is the place where snail mail is received.

sniff to monitor information packets en route over a network using hardware and/ or software. A device or system designed for this purpose (called a sniffer) may be used both by unscrupulous people trying to gather data for the purpose of theft or unauthorized entry to a system, or by a network system manager for legitimate monitoring purposes.

SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) a set of protocols used for communications software and devices such as switches and routers connected to a TCP/IP.

socket a receptacle for a wide variety of electrical connectors. see slot.

software information used by a computer and stored in one of several storage media. Software is the data that enables a user to produce meaningful work.
Although the disk containing such data is considered hardware, the actual data, being intangible, is termed software. Software is synonymous with the term application, which refers to a program that actually produces results for a user such as a spreadsheet or word processing program. System software refers to an operating system such as Windows or Linux. The terms application, utility, and program are often used to describe software.

software engineer a software developer or programmer who is focused primarily on design rather than the actual writing of code.

software license permission from the manufacturer, developer, distributor, or copyright holder of a software program for an individual to use the program. When a person purchases a program, the copyright holder usually grants the user a limited-use license in exchange for the price of the program. Such a license allows for the personal use of the product but not the right to reproduce or sell it. see license.

software piracy the unauthorized reproduction and/or selling of software. see piracy.

SOHO (Small Office Home Office) often refers to individuals working from home (and the many resources available to them), one of the largest markets for computers, supporting devices, and software.

solution a popular Internet and computer marketing buzzword that refers to what a particular device or application can do for a user.

sort to arrange items such as records, individual words, or files in a specific way.
For example, the names in a telephone directory would be sorted alphabetically.

sound card a printed circuit board that allows a computer to record and play sound such as stereo music and MIDI files. Although generic sound cards come as standard equipment with most off-the-shelf computers, the term implies an added feature, as a card is an expansion (circuit) board.

sound player a component of a Web browser that allows a user to play sound.

source a common computer term meaning the point of origination for any number of data items such as files or folders. For example, if a file were to be copied from a computer’s hard disk to a floppy disk, the source directory would be the hard disk while the destination or target would be the floppy. Source is the opposite of target.

source code program instructions written in a particular programming language.
To view HTML source code, go to any Web page, click on View in the upper menu bar and select Source. The unusual display of characters and symbols you see is the source code for the page.

spam unsolicited commercial offers sent via email or posted to an online public forum such as a news group or message board. Spam is electronic junkmail sent usually to a large mailing list. It is widely considered a nuisance because spam consumes both time and considerable bandwidth. However, some feel that the campaign against commercial mass emailing is overblown considering the ease with which a recipient can dispose of the message (a mouse click is all it takes). Spam can become particularly annoying when it provides a link to a pornographic Website that children can access. It is unclear where the term originated, though it is thought to have come from either Monty Python’s ditty that repeats the word spam, spam, spam... thus, the reference to duplicated messages, or from the processed meat product produced by Hormel that some consider unpalatable.

spank the keyboard an amusing expression meaning to turn a keyboard upsidedown and gently, yet firmly pat particles of debris free.

speech recognition the ability for a software application to understand spoken human commands and act on them. The challenge with voice recognition technology lies in the ability for the program to distinguish contrasting patterns in the way people speak. Many of the applications available using voice recognition are word processing programs that transform the spoken word into text.

speech synthesis software with the ability to read text files and translate the text into spoken words. Although unable to mimic a human voice perfectly, many such applications do a commendable job of generating recognizable speech in both male and female tones. Speech synthesis applications are also used for automated telephone inquiries. For example, a credit card holder can call a customer service number almost any time of the day, and after keying in his account number, receive computer generated information in the form of synthesized human speech. Additionally, speech synthesis can be particularly useful for sight-impaired individuals.

spell check a feature found in many text oriented software applications such as word processors that scans the text in a document and alerts the user to misspelled words, many with the ability to offer suggestions for the correct spelling.
Such a program needs to maintain its own dictionary. A small drawback to a spell check feature is that many don’t recognize a misused word that is correctly spelled, such as the words there and their.

spider a program that searches out information online. It works by systematically accessing one Web page after another, making use of the many hyperlinks connecting the pages on the World Wide Web. Search engines employ spiders to seek out information from millions of sources. see bot, crawler.

splash page also called a doorway page, the first page a user often comes upon when arriving at a Website, though usually not the Homepage. Often the splash page displays a paragraph or two describing the site’s contents. The purpose of such a page is to incorporate keywords and phrases that will get the site listed on the major search engines. A Website may have several splash pages, each using a different set or a combination of keywords, with the intention of picking up more and higher search engine ratings.

split screen the division of a display screen into two or more frames each displaying a different document or different portion of the same document.

spod an unsophisticated inhabitant of cyberspace who, often unknowingly, makes a nuisance of himself by violating any and all rules of netiquette. Spods, like dweebs, are concerned with meeting members of the opposite sex and gaining access to forums such as MUDs where they are unwelcome. They often achieve this end through the use of begged, borrowed, and stolen passwords and codes.

see dweeb, MUD.

spoof also called spoofing, to fool or trick. In online data transmission (called IP spoofing), to make a message appear as though it originated from a user or computer other than the one that actually generated the message.

spooling to order items or jobs in a queue before sending them to an output device such as a printer. Spooling furnishes a waiting area for documents to pause while waiting for the printer to accommodate each item in the queue.

spot color the use of a specific color of ink in the production of an image rather than the combination of the four basic colors (cyan, magenta, yellow and black) used to simulate the desired color.

spray can a tool available in a paint program that applies color much like a spray can in the real world. That is, when used, it disperses color sparingly first using a fine mist. To add density, the user must concentrate the application by spraying more in the same area. The concentration of color depends on how quickly the can is swept over the desired surface while using a mouse.

spreadsheet a table, chart, or graph displaying information such as numbers or text arranged in vertical and/or horizontal columns and pie charts. Spreadsheet applications are capable of a wide range of functions such as mathematispider 135 cal calculations, which will automatically adjust values as new data is added.

Spreadsheets can be created using three-dimensional features and color to accent specific items.

sprite used in video games and animation, an image within a larger graphical image that moves.

SQL (Structured Query Language) a standard query language used to manage large databases. The original version, called SEQUEL was developed by IBM in the 1970s.

SRAM (Static Random-Access Memory) pronounced S-ram, unlike dynamic RAM, which requires refreshing with electrical current thousands of time per second to function, Static RAM does not need to be refreshed. Consequently, it is faster and more expensive. It is used in caches and video memory, where speed is of the essence.

SSL (Secure Socket Layer) a protocol used by Netscape utilizing encryption, and ensuring the secure transmission of data between client and server.

stack in programming, a set order of prioritizing tasks (also called last in, first out) where each additional item is added to the top of the order and acted on first.

stand-alone a hardware device that is able to operate independently. An electronic calculator or hand-held video game would be a stand-alone device, while a computer monitor is not because it requires input from a computer.

standard a value by which other values are measured. A standard may either be official and endorsed by an organization of some type, or unofficial and simply accepted as an industry-wide rule. Standards are important when considering computer hardware and software because, among other things, they N 11 12 13 14 15 Customer Name Model G/F M.V. Hansen J. Canfield H. Potter C. Obi T. Gore 5-6-01 5-7-01 5-6-01 5-6-01 5-6-01 Linc. Twn. Car El Dorado Blue Cherokee Astro Van Mercedes SUV Y Y Y N N Figure S.07. spreadsheet standard 136 ensure that devices are compatible and can be used together. Among the organizations setting computer standards are, Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA) and American National Standards Institute (ANSI).

star the computer keyboard character (on the main body of the keyboard) sharing space with the number 8, also called the asterisk. On many keyboards such as the numeric keypad, it has its own key. A star key is also present on push-button telephone keypads. The star or asterisk (*).

star network a local area network (LAN) in which nodes are connected to a central computer.

Start In the Windows operating system, a menu activated either by a desktop button located in the lower left side of the display monitor, or a keyboard key displaying the Microsoft logo (sometimes called the Windows key). Activating Figure S.08. star network Figure S.09. Start menu star 137 either brings up a menu that allows a user many options such as starting a program, changing system settings, finding files, or shutting down the computer.

The Start menu can also be displayed by pressing the Control and Esc key at the same time.

Start menu in Windows, the menu that is displayed by pressing the Start key on the computer keyboard or clicking the Start button in the lower left section of the display screen. see Start.

startup disk a disk used to start or boot a computer. Under normal conditions, a computer boots using operating system instructions on the hard drive. In the event a hard drive is damaged or otherwise compromised, it is necessary to boot from a floppy disk. To create a startup disk: 1. Insert a fresh floppy into the floppy drive.

2. Select Start, Settings, Control Panel.

3. Open Add/Remove Programs.

4. Select Startup Disk, and click Create Disk.

5. When finished, label Windows (version...) Startup disk, and store in a safe place.

storage the capacity of a hardware device to store and maintain data.

store 1. to copy and save computer data. 2. sometimes refers to an e-commerce Website.

streaming online data transmission which displays constantly changing realtime information. For example, streaming stock quotes show stock prices actually change as buyers and sellers bid for the stocks.

StuffIt a Macintosh data compression application from Aladdin Systems that allows a user to combine more than one file into a single file.

style sheet in word processing, desktop publishing, and Web design applications, a set of parameters determined and set by the user that define the overall look of a document or Web page such as margins, fonts, and headings.

stylus a writing or drawing tool shaped like a pen found in paint and graphics programs.

subdirectory a directory (folder) kept within another directory. All directories other than the root directory are subdirectories.

subscribe to take advantage of an offer online by submitting email information.

suite a bundle of compatible software applications made by a single manufacturer for the purpose of user convenience. For example, Microsoft Office is a suite that offers several useful applications. Among these are a program for word processing, desktop publishing, presentations software, and a spreadsheet, all designed for compatible operation.

Sun Microsystems a worldwide provider of products, services and support solutions for building and maintaining network computing environments. The company sells scalable computer systems, high-speed microprocessors and highperformance software for operating network computing equipment and storage products.

supercomputer a computer with extremely fast processing capabilities used for specialized applications requiring many complex mathematical calculations.
Among their many functions, supercomputers are used for the creation of complex animated graphics.

SuperDisk disk technology from Imation Corporation using high-density disks that are compatible with many other disk systems.

superscript a character, smaller than those in the main body of text appearing above the baseline. For example, 103 = 10x10x10.

supertwist a high contrast liquid crystal display (LCD) which uses technology that twists light rays, changing their polarization, producing a high resolution image.

super VGA video graphics with higher resolution than VGA. Display monitors receive instructions from a video card that, among other functions, allow for color display and screen resolution. VGA (Video Gate Array or Video Graphics Adapter) was a standard introduced by IBM in the 1980s that had a maximum resolution of 640x480 pixels with 16 colors. Although SVGA features differ according to individual manufacturers, the standard allows for resolutions of up to 1600x1200 pixels and color display capabilities from 256 colors to 16 million colors. Standards for video display are reviewed by a number of graphics manufacturers known as the Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA).

surf (surfing) refers to the casual browsing of Websites and online discussion forums with no particular purpose or destination. Because virtually all information on the World Wide Web is linked, surfing is as easy as pointing a mouse and clicking.

surge protector a hardware device similar to an extension cord, containing several power outlets for connecting any number of appliances requiring electrical current. Surge protectors are designed to absorb excess current produced by lightning or other electrical system malfunctions. It is important for a user to make sure that all outlets providing power to computer equipment are grounded and plugged into a surge protector.

SVGA see super VGA.

switch 1. a small lever or button used to activate or deactivate a hardware device. 2.
in networking, to direct or route information packets.

synchronous a signal or message occurring at evenly timed periods. Usually, communications within a computer are evenly timed, while communication between computers and peripheral devices is not regularly timed, therefore referred to as asynchronous.

syntax the instructions or guidelines by which computer language (as well as spoken and written language) is constructed so it has meaning. Computer language has its own set of spelling and grammar rules.

synthesizer a device used to generate sounds resembling the human voice or music.

sysop (system operator) a person who manages the day-to-day business of an online message forum such as a bulletin board.

system any number of computer devices and software applications working together to accomplish a specific goal. For example, a Web designer would probably have a system consisting of a high speed computer with plenty of disk storage, one or more Web page development applications, an optical scanner, a high resolution display monitor and printer.

system programmer an individual or team of individuals who designs and writes custom applications for a system required to do specialized work.

system software operation software applications designed and written for computer systems that perform specialized functions.

Internet Terms-R

RADIUS (Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service) a system used by some Internet Services Providers (ISPs) thatrequires a user to enter a user name and password. This lets the ISP know the user is authorized to access the service and allows the service to track time spent connected.

ragged margin in a text document, a margin that does not line up vertically. The margins in this book are left
justified with regard to the terms and definitions and ragged on the right. An example of a right ragged margin: Four score and seven years ago, our fathers brought forth on this R Figure R.01. radio buttons

RAM (Random Access Memory) pronounced ramm, computer hardware that stores and accesses data as needed from any location within the memory on a short term basis. RAM holds needed information from the application currently running, allowing for quick access as it is called up. The data stored in RAM is cleared when the computer is shut down. There are two types of RAM. Dynamic RAM and Static RAM. (DRAM and SRAM) To facilitate its own functioning, DRAM requires an electrical charge, which is refreshed thousands of times each second while in use. While SRAM is faster because it doesn’t need
to be refreshed, it is considerably more expensive than DRAM. Because of its higher speed, SRAM is often used for caching. RAM refers to a computer’s main memory as opposed to read-only memory (ROM), which contains necessary pre-recorded data used for booting the computer and other routine functions.

see DRAM, SDRAM SRAM, ROM.

RAM disk a portion of RAM (random access memory) used to simulate a disk drive. Utilizing RAM in this way allows for quicker access to information than calling it from the hard disk, but has some limitations. First, files must be copied from the hard disk to the RAM disk for each session and the new material must be copied back to the hard disk before ending the session. This is necessary because, like normal RAM, a RAM disk clears all data when the computer is shut down. Additionally, a power failure will cause the loss of data on a RAM disk.

rapid application development a programming procedure that allows programmers to create usable programs quickly. Software designers are able to use a wide variety of development tools to construct graphical user interface applications that might otherwise require large development teams.

RAS (Remote Access Services) a component of Windows NT that allows a user to connect to a LAN using a modem, WAN


raster the rectangular portion of a display monitor where the actual image appears.
The raster is usually smaller than the true dimensions of the display panel. On most modern monitors the raster can be adjusted to allow for maximum image display.
raster graphics a bitmap image pattern usually in a GIF or JPEG format that fills an entire display monitor assigning color values to every available pixel.

raster image processor (RIP) components made up of hardware and software that combine to convert a vector image into
a bitmapped image. Inkjet and laser printers are raster image processors.

rasterize to transform a graphical image into a bitmap so that it fits the shape and size of a raster output
device such as a printer.

raw data computer input that has not been organized, categorized or formatted.

ray tracing a complex technical process whereby a graphical image is enhanced and made to appear more realistic by incorporating shading, shadow, and color.
This is accomplished by simulating the way light plays on individual components of the image. Ray tracing software requires a great deal of memory and processing resources and often takes several hours to produce the end effect.

RDRAM (Rambus Dynamic Random-Access Memory) a high speed memory chip developed by Rambus that can function up to six times faster than Synchronous Dynamic Random-Access Memory (SDRAM). see SDRAM.read to access stored data, usually by transferring it from one of many storage media such as magnetic tape or floppy disk, to a hard disk for display or processing.

readme file information contained in a software program that was not part of the users manual, usually an update, improvement, a recent development, or feature.

read-only recorded computer data that is recorded and cannot be changed. Operating systems contain many read-only files.

read-only memory (ROM) permanently recorded computer memory. see ROM.

read/write data recording and storage media such as a floppy disk or CD-RW, that allows a user to access information (read) and record/store information (write).

RealAudio a proprietary plug-in application developed by RealNetworks, included with both Netscape Navigator and Microsoft Internet Explorer (in addition to being freely available for downloading on numerous Websites) that allows users to play FM quality stereo music online in real time. Previously, a user would need to download an audio file (a time consuming process) and have an audio card installed, providing them with the ability to play the file back.

real estate a slang expression that refers to the physical space on a desktop, or computer desktop space. In
programming, the hard disk or chip memory space available for data input.

real time also realtime, 1. live online communications. The term refers to several types of information
transmissions. For example, real time chat programs provide real time 116 users with a medium to communicate live by
typing messages back and forth.

Real time stock quotes give users individual live stock quotes as they change throughout the trading day. Stockquotes can be “snapshot” or “streaming.” Streaming real time quotes change on the user’s monitor as they change on
the exchange trading floor. Snapshot quotes are real at the time they are downloaded, but must be refreshed manually for subsequent updates. 2. immediate response to an input command by a computer. Most operating systems can take several seconds to minutes to respond to commands, thus do not respond in real time.

real time chat a program that provides a live online forum for users to communicate by typing messages to each other. ICQ and Microsoft Messenger Service are real time chat programs.

real time clock a battery operated clock inside a computer that runs even when the computer is turned off.

RealVideo a program developed by RealNetworks allowing users to experience streaming real time video online.

reboot to restart a computer for any number of reasons. Some computers have a reset switch, others will reboot using
a series of key commands such as, Control, Alt, Delete and choosing to restart the computer when prompted.

rebuild Desktop a housecleaning operation for the Macintosh that clears the computer’s memory of obsolete data, thusimproving performance. To rebuild the Desktop, a user holds down the Command and Option Keys while booting.The computer will ask the user if she wants to proceed, if so instructed, the computer will then clear the unnecessary data.

reciprocal link a hyperlink placed on a Web page in exchange for a link on another page. In an effort to increase site traffic, Web managers with similar, but usually not competitive goals, do each other the favor of providing reciprocal links.

record a set of data components comprised of fields, that make up a file. For example, a word processing document might contain text and graphs. The text would be included in one field, and the graphs in another.

recovering deleted files see file recovery.

Recycle Bin comparable to the Trash Can in the Macintosh. In the Windows environment, a folder represented on the

desktop by an icon of a small recycle bin.

real time chat 117 This is where deleted files are temporarily stored until they are either cleared permanently from

a computer’s hard disk or restored.

Red Book a standard established by Phillips and Sony for CDs that, among other things, set the playing time of a

recorded CD at 74 minutes, transferred at a rate of 150 Kbps.

redlining in printed word processing documents, the marking of edited text, noting sections that need to be changed

or corrected.

refresh 1. to update a Web page. Websites offering dynamic content, that is, everchanging information such as

breaking news, stock market or weather reports etc., require a user to update pages containing the changes. Web

browsers allow for this with a refresh option. On Microsoft Internet Explorer, there is a button labeled Refresh

located in the toolbar. In Netscape Navigator, it is called Reload.

2. to recharge, as with a display monitor or memory chip. To function properly, most memory devices are constantly

being charged with power or information.

register a high speed storage space within a CPU. The size and number of registers in the central processing unit are

critical in determining the speed and power of a computer.

registration 1. to provide a software or hardware manufacturer with user information.

Manufacturers and commercial enterprises of all types such as Websites request information from users for a wide

variety of purposes, many aimed at the marketing of additional products. Registering as an owner of software and

hardware often assures the owner of receiving technical support in the event there is a problem with the product. It

also helps prevent software piracy. 2. the proper physical orientation of color plates in a color printing job. The

proper alignment of individual color plates comprises the full color images we see.

Registry a storage space in Windows and Windows NT operating systems that maintains program setup data.

reload see refresh.

remote hardware, software, and data not directly included in, or connected to a workstation.

remote access see remote terminal.

remote login see remote terminal.

remote login 118 remote terminal the term is synonymous with remote access and remote login. It means to have the

ability to log onto a network, (thus utilizing all of its resources), from somewhere other than the actual terminal

site. One small drawback to remote access is a slight compromise in network navigation speed.

removable hard disk a hard disk that can be treated as a floppy disk in that it is easily removed and used as needed,

yet with all of the speed and storage capabilities of many internal hard disks.

render the use of special software to enhance a computer image by adding dimension, color, and shading.

repaginate to reassign a numerical sequence to the pages in a document after making changes in the text and/or

graphics. see paginate.

Request for Comments see RFC.

reset button a switch or button on a computer that stops all functions and restarts the computer. Using the reset

button to restart a computer is often the method of last resort after the computer has crashed and all other reboot

measures have been exhausted.

resize in graphics applications, to enlarge, shrink or distort an image using a horizontal or vertical orientation.

see scale.

resolution the degree of clarity and detail of a graphical image on a computer monitor, in print, or bitmap. With

printers, the greater number of dots per inch (dpi) a printer can produce, the better the resolution. In display

monitors, screen resolution is determined by the number of pixels the screen can display. Graphical display devices

are often generally classified as high, medium or low resolution.

resource sometimes called system resources. In operating systems such as Windows and the Macintosh, any data or

function that is available to the operation of software running with the system. Memory is a major resource.

restore to bring a window back it its original size after having been minimized or maximized. see maximize, minimize.

retouching to modify a photograph or image using graphics software such as Adobe PhotoShop.

Return key in word processing, pressing the Return key moves the cursor (insertion point) to the next line. In many

applications, pressing the Return key conremote terminal 119 firms the choice of an option or initiates a prompt. In

this case, the Return key and the Enter key act in the same way. see Enter key.

reverse to exchange black characters for white or white characters with black, often to add effect. Careful choice of

fonts is necessary in using this technique as the finer details of many fonts do not always contrast well in reverse.

RFC (Request for Comments) maintained by the Internet Task Force, a collection of notes and observations made about

the Internet, beginning in the late 1960s when it was called the ARPANET. With the evolution of the medium,

individuals have had the opportunity to make unofficial suggestions about various procedures and protocols as

“Request for Comments.” Many have evolved into Internet standards. For example, RFC 2660 addresses the issue of

Secure Hypertext Transfer Protocol.

RGB red, green and blue, the colors that make up all other colors on a computer display monitor.

rich text format a standard for developing text documents created by Microsoft that uses the encoding of formatted

text and graphics for easy transfer between applications. Other document encoding formats include HTML and SGML.

right click to press the button on the right hand side of a mouse. With the mouse cursor on an object, right clicking

will often produce a pop-up menu that, de- Figure R.02. restore button minimize maximize & restore close Figure R.03.

reverse The User Friendly Guide The User Friendly Guide right click 120 pending on the object selected, offers

options that can lead the user to open a program, cut or copy, create a shortcut, or display the properties of the

selected object.

right justify to orient text so it conforms to a vertical margin on the right side of a document.

Ring Master the individual who manages and maintains hyperlinks in a Webring.

ring network a local area network (LAN) that is connected in a loop.

RJ-11 (Registered Jack-11) a convenient connection device that eliminated the need to strip, splice, and match color

coded wires when connecting telephone lines. Most of us know the device as the small plug used to connect a phone.

robot 1. a computerized machine designed for a wide variety of manufacturing functions such as material handling and

automobile assembly. 2. often referred to as bot, a computer program that automatically searches, and compiles data

or responds to queries such as email. ListBot is a robot of this type.

robotics a subcategory in the artificial intelligence field, robotics is the blending of computer science and

engineering that endeavors to create machines which are able to react to sensory input independently. Although the

field of robotics has made great strides of late, robots are still unable to perform many practical functions for

humans outside the industrial setting. Robotics is a term introduced by Isaac Asimov in his science fiction novel, I,

Robot, in 1950.robust stable performance under most circumstances, even those which are less than optimal. Also occasionally refers to software allowing a user many sophisticated and unique features. In software parlance, opposite of brittle.

rollerball a pointing device similar to a mouse. see trackball.

roll up window a dialog box that offers the user program tools or options and can be moved to a position of

convenience.

ROM (Read-only Memory) permanent memory used by a computer for essential functions of the operating system. Data cannot be written to, or changed in ROM. Unlike RAM, read-only memory is retained by the computer when it is shut  off. The same meaning applies to CD-ROM, a disc, such as one containing a software application that retains data and may not be used for recording.


RPM (Revolutions Per Minute) the number of revolutions a disk turns per minute.ruler in graphics and some word processing programs, a line containing designated points running on the top and the
side of the display screen used to measure, place objects and text, and accurately identify specific points on a
document.

Internet Terms-Q

query a question, usually one presented to a database or search engine to find a file, Web page, product or service.

queue pronounced “Q” a waiting line where elements of many varieties are sorted and are waiting to be processed. For example, a number of printing jobs may be “queued up” waiting to be printed. The printer takes a single document at a time and prints it.

QuickDraw Macintosh graphic control language used to create, display and manipulate graphical images.

QuickTime part of the Macintosh operating system used for the display of video and animation that requires a special QuickTime driver. QuickTime is available for PC users by downloading the Windows plug-in.

QuickTime VR (QuickTime Virtual Reality) an upgraded version of QuickTime developed by Apple that allows users to experience 3D photographs and other graphical images using a mouse to zoom in and out, rotate and otherwise manipulate a wide variety of shapes and forms.

quit to exit an application by properly saving work and shutting it down.

Q radio buttons one of a group of items or options appearing in a dialog box or dropdown menu, that once selected, inactivates the others, unlike items available in a check box, of which more than one may be chosen.

Internet Terms-P

packed file a computer file in a compressed form. see compression.

packet sometimes called datagram, a packaged unit of characters or other form of computer output sent from one computer to another over a network. Packets are digitally encoded with the address of the sender and recipient so they reach their intended destinations as well as letting the receiver of the data know that it came from an authorized or recognized source.

packet switching the method used to send information over a network. Each packet has the address of the sender as well as the destination address. This allows information to intermingle with other packets of data, without being lost or misdirected, while making it’s journey over the network.

page 1. in a word processing program, a specified amount of information such as text or images, regardless of the size of the characters or other variables.
 2.short for Web page, a frame of information stored on a Web server, available on the Internet. Unlike a page in a word processing application, a Web page has an unlimited amount of space available. However, Website developers consider it wise to keep page sizes within reasonable limits.

Page Down key a key on the numeric keypad that, when set in the cursor mode, moves the cursor down by a pre-specified number of spaces on the display monitor.

page impressions (compare to hit) also referred to as page views, the number of times a particular Web page is visited by a user. This is a more accurate method of tracking site activity than counting hits because page impressions account for a server delivering an entire page to a viewer. A hit refers to individual P components of a page such as a single image or block of text. Consequently, a page containing five images would be counted as five hits. Determining the accurate number of page impressions is important for companies both buying and selling advertising. see hit.

Page Up key A key on the numeric keypad that, when set in cursor mode, moves the cursor up by a pre-specified number of spaces on the display monitor.

pagination the assignment of numbers to the pages in a document. Logically, one would think that one number simply followed another, but in word processing jobs, allowances can be made for objects such as charts and blank pages, which the author might want excluded from the logical numbering sequence. Word processing programs also automatically divide text into single pages. Without this function a document would appear to be one continuous page.

paint program an application that allows a user to draw pictures and create images using straight lines, boxes, ovals, as well as apply color and shading. The program also includes tools for manipulating images such as a pen or brush for drawing, scissors for cropping, a spray can used for painting, and an eraser. An image created by a paint program is formatted as a bitmap. Many operating systems include simple paint programs, however, such applications are available commercially and offer a wide range of creative options for artists and graphic designers.

palette one of a set of tools included in graphics and paint applications. The palette is a selection of colors, usually displayed in small boxes. The user can select the desired color, and click OK to apply it.

palmtop a computer small enough to fit in the user’s hand. Primarily used as personal organizers, they provide users with the ability to store names and addresses, play games, access the Internet, and use a calculator. 3Com’s Palm Pilot is a popular palmtop. see hand-held computer.

parallel port a computer connection that allows data to flow using more than one wire. Most printers are connected to a computer using a parallel port allowing faster transmission than a serial port connection. see serial port.

parallel processing the simultaneous use of more than one microprocessor to run a program, allowing for faster execution.

parameter an identifying feature, value, or characteristic. In programming, a parameter represents a boundary or value, which might trigger a function or action.

parent an element that passes its characteristics to an adjunct of that element (child). Modifying the properties of the parent will change the properties of the child but changing the properties of the child will not alter the parent.

parent directory the senior directory to a particular file or directory in a computer’s hierarchy. In the Windows operating system, the C drive is the computer’s main storage space or root directory. All of the other directories are kept here.
For example, to trace the lineage of a file labeled “My Recipes”, we would first look in the C directory, then to Program files (stored in the C Directory), then to MS Word, (the application that created the My Recipe document) kept in the Program Files Directory, then the individual file, My Recipes. Since MS Word is kept in the folder called Program files, Program files is the parent of the MS Word folder, just as the C directory is the parent to Program Files. C:\ Program Files\ MS Word\ My Recipes. see chart under hierarchy.

parity the state of equality or being equal. In computer programming, as well as the transmission of data, evenly (or oddly) matched groupings of data allow for a simple method of checking errors.

park to safely secure the read/write head of a hard disk so that it isn’t damaged when a computer is moved. Modern hard disks automatically do this when the computer’s power is shut off.

parse to divide, analyze, and categorize individual components of language into small units so they can be utilized usefully in computer programming.

partition to alienate sections of a hard drive for individual uses. Each section acts as a separate disk and improves the overall storage efficiency of the disk. Software applications are available allowing a user to partition a hard disk.

Pascal a high level programming language based on Algorithmic Language (AL GOL) developed in the early 1970’s by Niklaus Wirth. The language was named after the seventeenth century mathematician Blaise Pascal who built one of the first mechanical adding machines. Pascal is noted for its highly systematic and methodical structure, making it a popular teaching language.

passive matrix a low resolution liquid crystal flat-panel display used for computer monitors. Although the display quality is not quite up to par with the activematrix display screens, the significant difference in the cost of the passive matrix has caused it to remain popular.

password a secret series of characters (that might incorporate numerals or other symbols) which allows a user access to a program, subscriber Website or serparent 101 vice, a network, or a computer system. Many people, in an effort to remember a password, use a birthday, anniversary or another easy to remember phrase.
This is often what allows unauthorized individuals to easily break into a computer or otherwise gain access to a guarded system. An effective and hard to crack password might be: 8&!m>$t, because such a character string isn’t likely to be easily guessed. It is wise to change a password periodically.

paste an efficient way to insert a single letter, word, an entire block of text, or an image from one location within a document or file, to the same or another document or file. To paste, means to place the material, into a document. It’s easy to do. For example, in Windows, say you decide you want to move the first paragraph of a document to the middle of the page. Place the mouse cursor just to the left of the first word in the paragraph. Now, left click the mouse and keep the button down while dragging the mouse over the entire paragraph, until all of the text is highlighted. Release the button. Now, in the menu bar, click Edit, select Copy, and click. The block of text is now temporarily saved on the Windows clipboard. Next, place your mouse cursor at the point in the document where you want the paragraph to appear and click. The screen cursor should be blinking. With your mouse, go back to the Edit command and click on Paste. If you’ve done everything correctly, the paragraph will appear at the point of the blinking cursor, making room for itself by pushing any other text forward. You can also copy and paste in exactly the same way from one application to another. see copy and paste.

path in DOS and Windows, the series of directories where an operating system searches for executable files called up by a user.

PC (Personal Computer) originally the IBM personal computer, but today the term refers to any IBM clone or compatible computer, or any personal computer that isn’t a Macintosh. Additionally, PCs are considered to have Intel or Intel-compatible microprocessors.
Desktop Tower Figure P.01. PC personal computers PC 102 PC Card any of a number of printed circuit devices conforming to the PCMCIA standard that are easily attached to a computer enhancing its performance by adding or improving features such as memory, video or sound. see PCMCIA.

PCMCIA (Personal Computer Memory Card International Association) an international standards body and trade association with over 500 member companies founded in 1989 to establish standards for Integrated Circuit cards and to promote interchangeability among mobile computers where durability, low power, and small size were critical. Among the standards a card needs for PCMCIA compliance are uniform thickness and size.

PDA (Personal Digital Assistant) a generic term for any number of electronic computing or communications devices that are able to act as cellular phones, fax senders or personal organizers. Although somewhat expensive, PDAs are becoming more sophisticated and easier to use.

PDF (Portable Document File) a standard for electronic document distribution developed by Adobe Systems. PDF is a universal file format that preserves all of the fonts, formatting, colors, and graphics of any source document, regardless of the application and platform used to create it. PDF files are compact and can be shared, viewed, navigated, and printed exactly as intended by anyone with Adobe Acrobat Reader. Acrobat Reader is freely available for downloading from many sources on the World Wide Web.

pen a drawing tool used in a paint program.

pen computer a computer (usually hand held) that uses an electronic stylus for input.

Pentium refers to a number of microprocessors manufactured by Intel corporation, including the first in the line introduced in 1993, the Pentium microprocessor, the Pentium Pro, the Pentium II, and most recently, the Pentium III. With the introduction of each successive Pentium product, processing efficiency, speed and power has dramatically increased.

peripheral short for peripheral device, a hardware device such as a keyboard, printer, scanner, or display monitor connected to a computer.

Perl a popular programming language developed by Larry Wall primarily for processing CGI scripts.

personal computer see PC.

PgDn key see Page Down key.

PGP (Pretty Good Privacy) a free security application developed by Phillip Zimmerman that allows users to email files anywhere in the world. The program includes a feature that lets the sender know the files were received and that they actually came from the sender. Additionally, PGP Security offers a complete line of network security software, available from Network Associates of Santa Clara California.

PgUp key see Page Up key.

Photo CD a proprietary format for the digital storage of photographs developed by Kodak. A special Photo CD Player along with special software is needed to read the discs.

photo scanner an optical scanner that specializes in scanning photos. Photo scanners usually offer better resolution than conventional scanners.

PhotoShop a popular image editing program produced by Adobe that allows a user to create original artwork, retouch or dramatically modify photographs, and create special effects for a wide variety of projects such as magazines, books, posters, or Web pages. Many artists feel PhotoShop is the standard by which other image editing software is judged.

phreaking similar to hacking, only the phreaker’s goal is to access a phone system for the purpose of making free long distance calls. see cracker, hack, hacker.

physical 1. relating to computer hardware. 2. in contrast to virtual, or a computer generated world, physical refers to the tangible world. For example, some netizens have expressed the desire to leave the physical world for a full time existence in cyberspace.

PIF (Program Information File) in DOS and Windows, a file that contains instructions on how to run a program other than DOS or Windows.

pin 1. a small wire shaft in a dot-matrix printer that strikes an inked ribbon producing the dots that make up characters and images. The resolution of a dotmatrix printer depends on the number of pins present on the printer head - the more pins, the better the resolution. 2. an individual wire component found in a cable connector such as a 29 pin connector. see Figure P.02.

PING (Packed Internet Groper) a timed interval echo-like message sent by a computer over a network to another computer to determine if the receiver is available for communication.

 pipe a connection between two software programs that acts as a shortcut in accessing data.

pipelining an advanced function of a microprocessor that enables a computer to call up and read data before it has finished executing previous commands, thus allowing for faster operation.

piracy the unauthorized duplication and/or use and distribution of a software program.
Buying a program usually allows the user a limited license for its use on a single computer. In the past, software manufacturers tried to discourage piracy by copy-protecting their products. However, because US copyright laws allow a legitimate holder of a program to make a backup disk, measures such as owner registration have been used to discourage unauthorized use. Aside from being illegal, there are several other reasons for not using pirated software.
Among them, the user gets no operating manual, no technical support, and runs the risk of introducing viruses into a computer by installing a bootlegged program.

pitch 1. the number of characters of a particular font that will fit into a measured space. 2. the amount of space dividing pixels on a display monitor.

pixel one of many tiny points that make up an image or character on a display screen or printed page. A pixel is the smallest component of an image on a screen or in printed material. For example, the quality of a display screen image depends on how many pixels the monitor can accommodate. There are a wide variety of monitors available with varying resolution qualities ranging from 300,000 to more than 16 million pixels per screen.

PKZIP a popular free file compression program developed in the 1980s by Phillip Katz. Once a file is compressed it is said to be zipped. When decompressed, unzipped.

plasma display a flat display monitor that uses ionized gas compressed between panels to produce images.

platform the type of operating system or hardware that make up a computer or computer system. These factors provide a particular environment for operation.
The platform determines the parameters under which a system runs associated hardware and software. For example, software designed to run on a Macintosh, will not run on a PC and visa-versa. For Mac software, or hardware, to work in a PC environment, it would need to be cross-platformed.

plotter a computer output device that draws images on paper using a pen. A plotter draws real lines rather than simulating them as a conventional printer would by producing a series of very close dots.

Plug and Play a computer hardware device such as a monitor or printer that is ready to use with other hardware without requiring special configuration. In simple terms, plug-and-play hardware introduces itself to the computer, and automatically sets itself up for functioning.

plug-in a software or hardware accessory required to enhance or provide a particular computer function. For example, to download and play audio files from the Internet, a user would require a special program such as RealJukeBox. Many plug-ins are freely available for downloading on the World Wide Web.

PNG (Portable Network Graphics) a graphics file format similar to GIF that encodes images as bitmaps.

point 1. a designated spot on a display screen or a document. 2. the positioning of a cursor to select an item or option as in point and click. 3. hyperlinks (clickable links leading a user to another page) on a Web page are said to point to the destination page. 4. the fractional designation used to describe the size of a character in relation to a particular font.

PointCast a free online subscriber-based news and information service that utilizes a wide variety of sources from CNN and Reuters, to Newsweek and the New York Times and many more. A subscriber may customize news and information to her needs.

pointer a symbol displayed on a computer screen whose movement corresponds to that of the mouse. The pointer usually presents as an arrow, but may have other forms such as a hand or flashing I beam.

point-of-sale system a computer system that acts as a cash register as well as one that keeps track of invoicing, inventory, and sales in a retail environment.

POP 1. (Post Office Protocol) the standardized protocol an ISP uses that tells its server software how to accept email. 2. (Point of Presence) a physical location where an ISP or Internet hosting service maintains a telephone or cable connection, modems, computers, and other equipment necessary for its business.
3. (Point of Purchase) see point-of-sale system.

pop-up-menu a group of options or selections offered to a user that appears as the result of pressing a special function key, clicking a button with the mouse, or any number of menu or toolbars either in an application or on a Web page.

port a slot on a computer that allows it to be connected to another computer or hardware device for the purpose of the input or output of information. Ports may exist both internally and externally. For example, many modems are present internally and are connected via internal ports. Printers, optical scanners, monitors and mice are usually connected via external ports.

port replicator similar to a docking station, a device that incorporates a number of ports allowing notebook computers to access stationary devices such as printers and monitors.

portable when speaking of hardware, lightweight and easily transported such as a laptop or a hand-held computer. When speaking of software, the ability to operate on more than one type of computer.

Portable Document File see PDF.

portal an entry point to the World Wide Web usually providing services such as email, search engines, news, weather, stock quotes, chat and message forums, and a number of additional benefits designed to attract users to the site.
Such Websites encourage users to set the site as their Homepage. Many of the top search engines, in an effort it increase site traffic, have endeavored to become all-purpose cyber-utilities, providing a user with many of the services the World Wide Web has to offer. Yahoo and MSN are common portals.

portrait a document with vertical orientation. In other words, the page is taller than it is wide. Portrait orientation is opposite of Landscape.

post as a verb, to write and upload (send) a message to any number of public or private online forums such as a chat room or bulletin board. As a noun, the actual message that ends up on display in the forum.

Postscript a programming language developed by Adobe Systems for importing files in all environments and printing documents on high resolution laser printers.
Utilizing the standard requires a printer to support specific fonts as well as have the ability to automatically change the font size and create circles and lines in particular positions.

PowerPC a computer containing a high-powered microprocessor. They were developed as part of a joint venture among IBM, Apple and Motorola in an effort to compete with Intel and Microsoft. The first of the PowerPCs was the Power Mac introduced in 1994.

PowerPoint a popular Microsoft software product allowing a user to create visual demonstrations incorporating photos, clipart, charts, graphs and text (displayed on a computer monitor or through a projector) to accompany speeches or in - structional presentations.

power supply an internal computer component that supplies and regulates the power a computer receives. The power supply is designed to keep a steady stream of power flowing to the computer as well as preventing unexpected power spikes or surges.

ppm (pages per minute) the number of pages per minute a printer can produce.
The standard applies to text only as printing graphics slows a printer significantly.

PPP (Point to Point Protocol) a communications protocol used in connecting computers over a network using a modem and telephone lines.

Pretty Good Privacy see PGP.

preview in word processing applications, a feature that allows a user the ability to look at a document on the screen and have it appear exactly as it would when printed. This is a useful tool because many programs permit the user to view only a portion of a document while actually working on it.

printed circuit board (PCB) sometimes called a card, a sheet of nonconductive material containing electronic components such as transistors, resistors and chips used in virtually all modern electronic devices. Computers often contain several PCBs including a motherboard and expansion boards used for adding features to a machine or enhancing existing features.

printer a hardware output device used to produce a hard copy of a text or image oriented document. Printers are available in color or black and white. Printer resolution has improved greatly over the years as costs have continued to fall.
Among the printer types available are the daisy wheel, where the actual printing mechanism is similar to the IBM Selectric typewriter with its ball and wheel paper striking device; the dot matrix; the ink jet; the laser printer, designed for high resolution, the high-speed line printer that produces low quality output; the LCD and LED, both high resolution devices and the thermal printer such as might be found with older copy or fax machines. Some printers, such as the line and daisy wheel, are capable of producing text-only documents. Hewlett Packard, Cannon, and Epson are among the many companies manufacturing low-cost, high-speed quality printers capable of many functions.

printer engine the fundamental component of the printer that does the actual printing. The engine determines the resolution quality of the printed product as well as the speed of the printer.

printout also referred to as hard copy, printed computer output.

Print Screen key a command key on most computer keyboards that, depending on the application running, sends the image displayed on the monitor to the clipboard.

procedure an individual component of a software program that performs a particular function.

process the execution of a computer function or functions.

processor short for microprocessor. see CPU, microprocessor.

Prodigy a popular online Internet service provider offering users Internet access, news, travel, email, business, sports, online chat and many other services.

program a software application designed to perform a specific task. A program is a compilation of commands and instructions written in programming language, Figure P.05. dot matrix, inkjet, and laser printers program 110 designed to allow an operator to use a computer in a particular way. Microsoft Internet Explorer, Adobe PhotoShop, and Corel WordPerfect are among the thousands of programs available to allow people to get the most from their computers.

programmer a person who creates programs.

programming language the instructions used in creating computer programs. There are a great number of programming languages in existence and no one language is suitable for writing all types of programs. The language a programmer uses to create an application will depend on the desired properties of the program.
Some programming languages lend themselves to mathematical and analytical functions while others are better suited for creating business or data processing applications. The programming language field is wide and complex, encompassing a large number of disciplines.

PROM (Programmable Read-only Memory) a type of memory chip that differs from RAM in that once a program has been written to the chip, it cannot be changed.

prompt a request by a computer asking the user to do something such as enter information. In most cases, the computer will cease functioning until the request is met. For example, when logging on to the Internet, the computer will ask for a password before connecting.

proprietary features exclusive to a particular company’s product that add distinctive qualities to the product and often give it an edge in the marketplace. A proprietary component of a software program may be protected by a trademark or copyright and is not available to other manufacturers for use. For example, Worden Brothers, the creators of TC2000 stock tracking software, have included in their software a proprietary feature called Moneystream. This tool measures institutional and individual investor dollars flowing into and out of a stock, but only Worden Brothers know the exact parameters used for measuring Moneystream. Proprietary features are present in many hardware devices as well as in software.

protected mode a computer standard that guarantees particular programs receive a portion of memory for individual operation.

protocol a pre-set parameter used by a computer to communicate with another computer over a network. Protocols include how data is compressed, and the method for recognizing and acknowledging the sender of data over a modem.

proxy server existing between a client Web browser and a real server, a computer that caches common and often requested Web pages and holds them for easier access by users. Proxy servers allow for faster access to Web pages for groups of users in a particular area. For example, quick access to popular online services such as America Online is provided by AOL’s many proxy servers, which are positioned regionally.

public domain software, clipart, photographs, music and other intellectual property that is available for use by the general public for free. Public domain items may be un-copyrighted or intellectual property where the copyright has run out and now available for anyone to use.

pull to call for information from a Web server. The majority of Internet activity is currently based on pull technology. That is, a user requests information from a server. The opposing concept, called push, is oriented toward a user having information broadcast or transmitted to them as a subscriber.

pull-down menu a list of options or selections a user calls for by selecting a choice offered from a menu bar or other on-screen prompt.

purge to permanently remove or delete unneeded data from a computer.

push receiving information over a network without necessarily having asked for it.
Most Internet users actively call for Web pages from servers. In doing this they are utilizing pull technology. The opposite is push technology whereby a user receives information randomly. An example of push technology is email.

pyramid scheme (Ponzi scheme) a method of making money that requires new participants to invest in order for previous investors to be paid. The problem with this plan is that it continuously requires new investors. The Ponzi scheme can be thought of as an expensive game of Old Maid. Unfortunately, pyramid schemes eventually collapse because it becomes increasingly difficult to attract new players.
Chain letters, asking people to send money to others listed in the letter, and then crossing off the last recipient’s name and replacing it with yours, are a form of pyramid scheme. The pyramid scheme is mentioned in this book because the Internet is alive with such offers. As with anything else, a user would be wise to know the company or individual he is dealing with before sending money.