Computer Definitions

Title Explanation
10 base T A standard for transmitting Ethernet over twisted-pair cable. See also Ethernet.
1GL First Generation Language. Machine Language, consists of 0s and 1s. The only language which a
computer understands.
24 bit color Synonym for photorealistic color, this term describes printers, graphics cards and monitors that use 24
bits of color information per pixel or dot, producing up to 16.7 million color per image.
286 An obsolete 16-bit CPU used in original IBM AT and it's clones.
2GL Secong Generation Languages. Assembly Language. Programmer could use shorthand mnemonics to
write programs but still it was low level.
386 DX Intel's first 32 -bit CPU, now obsolete but still a key standard due to millions of 386 systems in use and
the ability of 486 and pentium systems to run software written for the 386.
386 SX A slightly slower version of the 386DX that accesses memory 16 bits rather than 32 bits at a time.
387 Intel's math co-processor for 386 PC.
3D graphics Graphics containing shapes that can be rotated and otherwise manipulated in three dimensions. eg.
"Walking through" a 3D drawing of a building.
3GL Third Generation Languages. PASCAL, BASIC, etc. These are procedural languages.
486 SL An obsolete version of 486 SX used in laptops.
486 SX A 486 DX without the built-in math co-processor.
486DX Essentially a speeded up 386 CPU with built in math co-processor and 8K memory cache.
486DX2 Intel's successor to 486 DX. A "clock doubling" version of 486DX whose internal processing speed is
twice that of a 486 DX installed in the same motherboard.
486DX4 A "clock tripling" (not quadrupling) version of the 486 DX whose internal processing speed is three
times that of a 486DX in the same motherboard.
4GL Fourth Generation Languages. High level languages like C++, Visual BASIC,etc fall in this category.
These languages are also called Non-procedural languages and believe in re-usablility of code.
8086 An obsolete 16-bit variation on 8088 used in few XTs and clones.
8088 An obsolete 8-bit CPU, used in original IBM PCs and PC-XTs and their clones. Incompatible with
most contemporary software, including windows.
ADC Analog to Digital Convertor. A device used to convert analog signals into digital signals in order to use
them. eg. A temprature sensor, a MODEM. etc.
AI Artificial Intelligence. An approach used / technique to make a computer "think" like human beings
and do things at it's own.
Algorithm Solution of a problem in simple words/ simple steps/ simple english.
ALU Arithematic and Logic Unit. It does all the calculations. It does all the arthematic, logical and relational
operations on the data being held in the memory unit.
Analog computers Computers which use analog data for processing. eg. Oil pressure indicators, computerized baro
meters, computerized air pressure and temprature controllers.
Analog data Type of data which can not be counted but measured somehow.eg water flowing from the tap,
temprature,etc
Analog data Data that has an infinite number of possible states/values, rather than the simple 1's and 0's of a digital
signal.eg. Audio, video and voice telephone signals,etc.
ANSI American National Standards Institute. It sets standards for things all over the world.
Anti virus A type of program that scans your system and sounds the alarm if a computer virus is detected and
removes the virus infection from the infected media.
AOL America On Line. One of the most popular on-line services , offering e-mail, news reports, travel
reservations, online shopping, user forums, shareware, chat areas, a large reference library, and more.
Application software An application software is a software designed to accomplish a specific task or to solve a particular
problem or to serve a particular need of the user.eg. Word processors, Spreadsheets, Desktop
publishing packages, databases, graphic designing programs, simulation programs. etc.
Archive Any collection of data intended to be stored indefinitely and accessed infrequently. Archive files are
also called library files as files are packed together by a compression utility, unpacking an archive
restores the original component files. eg. PKZIP, LHARC, ARJ, etc.

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Instructor O/A Level Computer Science ICAS F-8/2, Islamabad
Instructor O Level Computer Science ASAS F-8/3, Islamabad.
 Computer Definitions

Title Explanation
Array Collection of variables of same name, same data type, same size BUT different subscript
numbers/element numbers.eg. an array to store names of ten students of a class may be defined in a
computer language like : DIM names [10] .
ARU Audio Respond Unit. Used as output device. gives out output in voice form.
ASCII American Standard Code for Information Interchange. It is a character set used as a standard to store
and retrieve, send and recieve data and information on different media.
Assembler Converts programs written into assembly language into machine language. It does it line by line.
Assembly language A low level language, bit easy as compared to machine language but quite difficult as compared to
high level languages. Needs an assembler to translate it's code into machine code.
Asynchronous transmission A type of transmission that sends data using flow control rather than a clock to synchronize data
between the source and destination.
AT Advance Technology. Class of IBM PC compatibles having processors 80286 and higher.
ATM Automated Teller Machine. Used at banks as cash dispencing machine. It is always On-line to the bank
database.
Audio compression A technique for reducing the size of sound files on disk. Depending on the compression scheme , it
may reduce sound quality.
Automatic Backup A backup utility that uses a software timer to trigger backups at set times, or network utility that backs
up local hard drives to a server without users having to do anything.
AVI Audio Video Interlaced. Microsoft's standard file format for digital video.
Back end The server component of a client-server system. It provides services to the front-end (the client
component).
Background printing The process of printing behind the scenes while you work in another file or application. Windows
comes with a print spooler called Print Manager, which enables you to use background printing with
almost any Windows application.
Backup A method used to have another copy of important data at a safe place on a safe medium.
Bandwidth In network communications, the amount of data that can be sent across wire in a given time. Each
communication that passes along the wire decreases the amount of available bandwidth.
Bar chart A data chart designed to compare quantities at evenly spaced time intervals. Bar charts emphasize each
interval's data point, the individual numeric value represented by each bar's height.
Barcode Series of thin and thick lines / light and dark bars which uniquely identifies an item.
Batch file A file containg a series of DOS commands, each on its own line, that executes automatically when
you type the name of the file at DOS prompt and press enter key. Batch files enable you to speed up
repetitive tasks.
Batch printing The ability to send several files to the printer in a single operation.
Batch processing It is the process in which inputs are collected for certain period of time and are then processed at a
specific time. eg. A payroll processing system.
Baud It is the rate at which data is transferred along a communication line. Normally one bit per second.
Baud rate The per-second rate of state transitions (i.e. from 1 to 0 and vice verse) of a signal. Baud rate of
modems define the speed at which they make state transitions. Because state transitions can represent
more than a single bit each, this rate is different from Bits Per Second (BPS) rate.
BBS Bulletin Board Service. A home-brewed version of an on-line service such as Compu Serve or
America On Line, where people dial up with their modems and leave messages or files for others to
read or download. Anyone with a modem and the right software can turn a PC into a BBS, and almost
all small BBSs charge little (or nothing) for access.
BCD Binary Coded Decimal. An obselete character code.
Benchmark A speed test performed under controlled conditions.
Binary search A very fast search algorithm/technique. It uses sorted field to search for a match.
BIOS Basic Input Output System. It is a computer program written in machine language and "Hard Burned"
into CMOS. Needed at startup of a computer.
Bit Abbreviation of Binary digit. a bit can have a value either zero (0) or one (1). smallest measurement
unit of data in a computer. 8 bits makes 1 byte
Bit-mapped graphics Images stored as grid of dots. Paint programs, scanners, and fax modems save data as bitmaps.

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Instructor O/A Level Computer Science ICAS F-8/2, Islamabad
Instructor O Level Computer Science ASAS F-8/3, Islamabad.
 Computer Definitions

Title Explanation
Book mark Placemarkers that let you move around rapidly in a long text document. Most word processors enable
you to insert several book marks in a document, letting you jump from one to the next instead of
scrolling.
Boot sector Physical area on hard disk which contains the boot strap program and vital hard disk partition
information.
Boot sector A small section of hard disk or floppy disk in which DOS or any other OS looks for instructions about
how to start your computer.
Booting up A process during which a computer loads neccessary software into memory and executes it to make
the computer ready for use. Such special program is called a boot strap program.
Bubble sort A sorting algorithm
Buffer Reserved space in memory area which is used between input/output devices and the CPU to regulate
the speed of data.
Bug A mistake a programmer made when writing software that shows up on your end as some unexpected
event.
Bus network All the terminals and server(s) are connected to one wire/bus. If one terminal fails then the entire
network goes down. the data is send and recieved by using tokens which are plased on "bus". the bus
or the signals "stops" at every terminal and tries to match the address. this keeps on happening until
either address is found or one bus cycle is complete.
Business system A business system is a profit oriented system which has some purpose, goals,objectives and policies.
It achieves them by different operations, decision making and management. A business system
interacts with an information system to do decision making, management and operations.
Byte Smallest unit of storage in a computer. 8 bits = 1 byte, 1024 bytes=1KB (kilo), 1024KB=1MB (mega),
1024MB =1GB (Giga), 1024GB=1TB (tera) ,1024TB=1EB (exa).
CAD Computer Aided Designing. A software used specially to design different things on the computer and
test them.eg. Auto CAD.
CAI Computer Assisted Instructions. An educational tool based on drill and practice method. Useful when
memorization is the main consideration. See also CAL.
CAL Computer Assisted Learning. Computer presents material, asks questions, based on these questions
and student's performance, determines whether to present new topic or repeat old one. See also CAI.
CAM Computer Aided Manufacturing. Used as a tool in industries as it uses raw materials in a very efficient
manner and the output is high.eg. CAM is used in car manufacturing company.
CASE Computer Aided Software Engineering.
CD-I Compact Disk Interactive. A CD-ROM standard used by Philips CD-I player. Not relevant to PC
CD-ROMs.
CDROM Compact Disk Read Only Memory. A high capacity direct access storage media, which can be written
only once by a laser and later on can be read as many times as needed. It is a very safe way to keep
backup as it is safe from accidental or delibrate deletion or updation.
Change over Done in Implementation phase of SDLC. old system is stopped and new one is run. This method is
inexpensive/cheap but results are not reliable.
Check digit A number put after the string of numbers to check that they have been correctly input to the
computer.
Cient A terminal or a computer connected to the server through a network.
CISC Complex Instruction Set Computers. These computers have large instruction set area in the CPU
resulting in a smaller memory area, thus resulting in a lot of data moving in and out of CPU in a unit
time. This results in slower processing. Software needed for these computers is simple and needs less
efforts. PCs fall under this category.
Client-server architechture A network architecture in which a circuit is established between end-points and data, programs and
services from servers. The servers then provide the data, programs and services to the clients.
Applications/programs written for the client-server architecture typically have different components
for the server and for the client. Client-server architecture allows clients to exploit the processing
power of the server.
Clip Art Any collection of drawings or other ready-made images you can insert into your document to liven
them up.
Clone An old fashioned term that refers to an IBM-compatible PC.

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Instructor O/A Level Computer Science ICAS F-8/2, Islamabad
Instructor O Level Computer Science ASAS F-8/3, Islamabad.
 Computer Definitions

Title Explanation
Closed loop control The process controller takes neccessary actions to keep the process control variable in specific
range.eg. automatic switching on and off of a burner in a furnace, automatic switching on and off of
the tap when certain level of liquid is attained in a tank.etc. See also Process controller, open loop
control.
CMOS Complementry Metal Oxide Semiconductor. It is backed up by a battery to keep the clock ticking. It
also contains BIOS program which is neccessary for a computer to start.
CODEC Short for compression / decompression, codec refers to an audio or video compression method. Indeo
and Cinepak are common video codecs.
COM Computer Output on Microfilm.
Compiler Converts a program written in a computer programming language into machine language all at once.
An error file (.ERR) is also generated if any errors are found in the source code. Normally a comiler
does not links the neccessary library files to an object file till the time all errors are removed.
Compression The process of shrinking files to conserve disk space or reduce modem transmission time. eg. PKZIP,
LHARC, etc.
Computer A machine used to store and process information.
Computer crime It refers to using computer resources to engage in unauthorized or illegal acts. It normally includes:
data diddling (performing unauthorized modifications to data), tojan horse technique ( criminal
computer code burried in an authorized program), trap door routines(doors left open in a program),
logic bombs, computer viruses, scavenging, wire tapping, software piracy and hacking.etc.
Computer virus A software written by a progrmmer to destroy/corrupt data of the target computer when this software
is run on the target computer. eg. Pakistani brain virus ( the ever first virus created in computer field) ,
Spirit virus, etc.
Constant A constant is a data value which doesn't change during program execution. eg 5, 10, 1.4329 etc.
Continuous data See Analog data
Coprocessor Also known as FPU (Floating Point Unit). a math coprocessor is specifically designed to accelerate
certain mathematical operations. Most useful for highend CAD, graphics, and statistical software.
Math coprocessors used to come as a separate / stand alone chip but since 486 DX they are built in the
main CPU.
CPU Cental Processing Unit. Contains three main parts.i.e. CU, Memory unit and ALU. It is considered the
brain of the computer system.
CRT Cathode Ray Tube. It is the picture tube in the monitor or TV. A jargony synonym for monitor.
CU Control Unit. Controls all the inputs from and outputs to the input and output devices. controls ALU
and Memory unit.
CUI Common User Interface. A text base software which interacts with the user through command line.
DAC Digital to Analog Converter. A device used to convert Digital signals to analog signals in order to use
them. eg. MODEM, a speedo-meter.etc.
Data Collection of raw facts and figures, which alone does not make sense. eg. 25, Smith, 36, 7000
Data base A database is a collection of tables which further contain data about different entities (persons or
things). eg . a school database may contain a table containing data of all students and another table
containing the library information.
Data capture Data capture is a process in which data is collected and organized in some format before inputing it to
the computer.
Data communication channe Data can be transmitted and recieved by using any of Narrow band, voice band or broad band
channel.
Data conversion Conersion of data from manual files to computer files. also conversion of data from older system to
new system is called data conversion.
Data Dictionary It contains specifications about entities used in the computer system. In general terms it contains
information about tables, their fields and description and the relationship amongst them.
Data file A file normally containing the raw facts and figures or DATA which is further used for producing
information.
Data file A data file contains raw facts and figures or DATA.
Data Integrity It is the condition that the data stored in a data store is always up to date and cannot be corrupted/lost
automatically or intentionally.

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Instructor O/A Level Computer Science ICAS F-8/2, Islamabad
Instructor O Level Computer Science ASAS F-8/3, Islamabad.
 Computer Definitions

Title Explanation
Data logging It is automatic recording and storage of the information provided by sensors. eg. a wheather station,
recording temprature every hour into the computer every hour.
Data preparation A series of processes through which information goes through before it is in the form that the
computer can understand.
Data preperation Before inputing data into computer, data must be gathered and prepared in a specific order/layout.
This is called data preparation.
Data processing Process of conversion of data into information. See also information.
Data protection Protecting data by using physical or software means. can be done by: Hiring the employees carefully,
separating the functions of each employee, restricting system use, passwords, using backup,
encrypting data and programs, monitoring system transactions and conducting audits of different
accounts frequently.
Data security Precautionary measures taken to make sure that data is secure from unauthorized access, accidental or
delebrate deletion,etc. See also data protection.
Data transmission channels Data can be transmitted on any of the data communication channels by using simplex, half suplex or
full duplex techniques.
DBMS Data Base Management System. A software specially designed to handle databases and it's related
issues.eg. Foxpro, DBase, etc.
Debugging Process of removal of logical, syntactical or run-time errors from a program.
Decoding The process of transmitting a message from a transmittable standard to the native form of the recipient.
Decryption The opposite of encryption.
Dedicated line A transmission medium that is used exclusively between two locations. Dedicated lines are also
known as leased lines or private line.
Dedicated server A computer that functions only as a server and is not used as a client or workstation.
Deffered processing See batch processing
Delay time Time needed to read the data by the head of a harddisk and translate it to binary and give it to CPU.
Desk Top Publishing DTP. The process of using a word processor and page layout software, plus a laser or better printer , to
produce professional looking reports, news-letters, brouchures and other publications.
DFD Data Flow Diagram. They are NOT to be confused with program flow charts. These depict the flow of
data in a computer system.
Dial in gateway A PC or special device / computer attached to LAN that enables users to dial in by modem from their
home PC or laptop and access the network as if they were sitting at a regular workstation.
Digital computers Computers which use digital data for processing. A PC, mainframe or a mini computer is a digital
computer.
Digital data See Discrete data
Digitize The process of converting analog input , such as photographs or sound waves, to digital output such as
scanned images or audio CDs.
Direct access file A file in which records can be access directly.
Direct data capture It is done by using OMR, OCR, Bar codes and magnetic stripe cards.
Discrete data Type of data which can be counted. or the data which changes it's value is steps.eg. Count of seconds,
number of days, number of heartbeats per minute,etc
Disk drive Used for disks which inturn are used to store and retrieve data.eg. Floppy disk drive, hard disk drive,
CD-ROM drive, etc.
Dithering Simulating colors (or sahdes of gray) not available on a monitor or printer by mixing pixels or dots of
other colors (or shades). eg. A monitor could simulate yellow-green by mixing yellow and green dots.
DMA Direct Memory Addressing. Atechnique used by audio and video devices to directly address memory
rather than requesting the microprocessor.
Domain In Windows NTserver, a group of computers that share the same security and logon authentication
database.
Dot Pitch A basic measure of monitor sharpness, the dot pitch is the distance, measured as a fraction of a
millimeter, between phosphor dots of the same color on the inner surface of a CRT's screen.
Download Usually , to recieve a file via modem from BBS or on-line service. Also to send downloadable fonts,
such as True Type Fonts (TTF) or Post Script fonts, from the PC to a printer.

Muhammad Kamran Azeem Printed on : 09-Dec-2002 Page number : 5/ 15

Instructor O/A Level Computer Science ICAS F-8/2, Islamabad
Instructor O Level Computer Science ASAS F-8/3, Islamabad.
 Computer Definitions

Title Explanation
DRAM Dynamic RAM. A type of RAM which needs refreshing after specific time period (normally nano
seconds). This type of RAM is slower than SRAM, but since it is less expensive, it is used in normal
PCs.
Dry running Testing of an algorithm or a program code by using paper and a pen rather running it on the computer.
Or writing down the results of each step of a program manually to check that the program is correct.
EBCDIC Extended Binary Coded Decimal Interchange Code, An obselete character code to store and retrive
data and information.
EEPROM ElectricallyEraseable Programmable Read Only Memory. New code can be written by first erasing the
older one by using electrical signals.
EFT Electronic Fund Transferring. A very basic type of credit card system.
Email Fascility to send and recieve messages available on any network of computers.
EMI Electro Magnetic Interference. A type of low-voltage, low-current, high-frequency signal that interferes
with normal network transmission. EMI is typically caused by improper insulation or insufficient
grounding.
Encoding The process of translating a message from a native form of a sender to a transmittable standard form.
Encryption The encoding of messages for security reasons.
ENIAC Electronic Numerical Integrator And Calculator. Name of computer built between 1943 and 1946.
EPROM Eraseable Programmable Read Only Memory. New code can be wrirten by first erasing the old code
by shinig ultra violet ligh on the IC.
ERD Entity Relationship Diagram. It shows the relationship between different entities in a computer system.
This tool is used during analysis and design phase od SDLC.
Ethernet The most popular network specification. Developed by Xerox in 1976, Ethernet offers a transfer rate of
10 Mbps (Mega Bits Per Second). Ethernet uses a bus topology and thick or thin co-axial, fiber-optic,
or twisted pair cabling.
Even parity When the total number of 1s in a byte is even.
Execution error See runtime error
Expert system A computer system designed to work/operate at the level of an expert in that particular field.eg.
MYCIN in the medical field. An expert system always contains a knowledge base and inference
procedure/reasoning. See also knowledge base, inference procedure.
FAT File Allocation Table. A tracking system DOS uses to monitor the status of every sector on a hard disk
or floppy disk and keep track of all files.
Fiber-optics One medium type used for network communications. Fiber-optics uses a tiny glass or plastic fiber and
sends light signals through it.
Field It is a heading under which specific type of data is stored about an entity ( a person or a thing) in a
table of a database file. eg. A NAME field may contain the names of all employees in a firm.
File See Data file
File generations This is a process / method of updating files. In this process master file is copied to a backup file and
any previous backup file is copied to a second level backup file. In this whole senario 2nd level backup
file is grand-father file, the first level backup file is Father file and the new master file is son file. when
ever a new master file is created these all files change places.
FLOPS FLoating point Operations Per Second. Similar to MIPS. It is a measure of computer system speed as
how many large numeric calculations can be executed in a second.
Floptical drive A 3 1/2" floppy dirve that uses a laser to pack 21MB on a single disk. Floptical drives also accept
standard 3 1/2" floppies with 720KB and 1.44 MB capacities.
Flow chart Solution of a problem in graphical format. It generally depicts the flow of instructions.
Forien key In a multiple table system or in an RDBMS it is a key field in a table which looks up to another field( a
primary key) in another (master/primary) table. This field can have duplication but not blanks.
Fractal A mathematical formula that procudes graphics that look like (often beautiful) natural textures and
shapes.
Freeware Free software , usually available through a BBS or on-line service.
Front end The client component of a client-sever system. A front end application works with a back end
component stored on a server.

Muhammad Kamran Azeem Printed on : 09-Dec-2002 Page number : 6/ 15

Instructor O/A Level Computer Science ICAS F-8/2, Islamabad
Instructor O Level Computer Science ASAS F-8/3, Islamabad.
 Computer Definitions

Title Explanation
FTP File Tranfer Protocol. A TCP/IP protocol that permits the transferring of files between computer
systems. Because FTP has been implemented on numerous types of computer systems, file transfers
can be done between different computer systems.
Function A special type of a module which returns a value to the calling program or calling module.
Fuzzy logic It's a method to solve a problem in a non-precise way. i.e the words SOME, MANY, LITTLE are used
to define quantities. Such kind of logic is very helpful / rather currently being used , in designing and
implementing expert systems andcomputer systems based on artificial intelligence.
Gateway A network interconnectivity device that translates communications protocols. or A PC or special box
hooked to a network to connect to another system, such as the Internet, a remove LAN, or a
commercial e-mail system.
General pupose computer Used to do general tasks/multiple tasks. eg. IBM Personal Computer, Apple Macintoch.
GIGO Garbage In = Garbage Out. a terminology indicating that if incorrect data is supplied to a computer
system than incorrect information will be recieved.
Graphic tablet A flat panel (also known as a graphics pad) that enables you to draw using a stylus instead of a mouse.
A pressure-sensitive tablet lets you vary the width or color of the line on the screen by pressing harder,
providing a close simulation of working with pencil or brush.
Grayscale A term used to describe an image containing a number of gray shades as well as black and white. Also
describes hardware(usually scanners) that produce grayscale images.
GUI Graphical User Interface. A software which interacts with the user through pictures, symbols and
pointers rather than lengthy commands. A GUI is always user friendly and easy to use.eg. Windows
9x Operating systems.
Handshaking The exchange of codes between two devices in order to negotiate the tranmission and reception of
data.
Hard copy Printed output
Hardware All the physical things in a computer system which can be felt and touched
is hardware. Hardware needs logic code to be used/utilized.
High level language A class of computer programming languages wich are machine independent. they are also called
problem oriented languages because the programmer can concentrate on thinking the solution of a
problem rather than thinking about controlling the hardware. More over the program could be
portable.i.e. can be taken and executed on different operating platforms. eg, Pascal, BASIC, C, etc
HTTP Hyper Text Transfer Protocol. A protocol used to send and recieve data on the internet.
Hub A network connectivity device that brings media segments together in a central location. Hub is a
central controlling device in some star networks.
Hybrid computer A computer in which digital and analog devices are connected together and data is passed between
them.
IBM AT An ancient IBM personal computer, introduced in 1985 and built around Intel's 286 CPU.
IBM PC The first IBM personal computer, released in 1981, built around Intel's 4.77 MHz 8088 CPU, it
originally shipped with 64 KB of RAM.
IBM XT The first IBM system with a hard disk, otherwise nearly identical to the IBM PC.
IC Integrated Circuit
IDE Integrated Drive Electronics. A technology used in hard drives. Now adays all the hard drives are
either IDE or SCSI. See also SCSI.
Inference procedure It is made up of the reasoning methods used to arrive at a conclusion, using the information in the
knowledge base. See also Knowledge base, expert system
Information Processed data is information. It can also be shown by the equation Information=f(data).
Information makes sense. eg. name = smith
age=25, pay=7000, house number= 36.
Information system Information system is a computer system which supports any business system.
Input devices Devices used to provide data to the CPU of a computer.eg, keyboard, mouse, joy stick.etc.
Interlaced A video mode that draws the even lines on the screen in one pass, odd lines on the next. Allows a
higher resolution display than a monitor would otherwise be able to support, but usually results in
irritating flicker.
Internet A network of many stand alone computers and INTRA-NETS (a network on a small scale / LAN ) on
the world wide bases.

Muhammad Kamran Azeem Printed on : 09-Dec-2002 Page number : 7/ 15

Instructor O/A Level Computer Science ICAS F-8/2, Islamabad
Instructor O Level Computer Science ASAS F-8/3, Islamabad.
 Computer Definitions

Title Explanation
Inter-network Two or more independant networks that are connected and yet maintain independent identities.
Interpreter Converts and executes a program written in computer programming language into machine language,
line by line. eg. BASIC. It doses not create any error file or object file.
Interrupts Input to the CPU in a PC that allow devices to get its attention to interrupt it-if is performing some
other task. Interrupts are also called IRQs (Interrupt ReQuests).
Intranet Combination of LANs, in a building normally where separate LANs exist for each floor or for each
department.
ISDN Integrated Services Digital Network. A CCIT standard for digital communications. ISDN lines allow
voice, video and data transfer all on the same line.
ISP Internet Service Provider. It provides dial in fascilities so that users can connect to internet.
Jargon What people know something about computers use to intimidate others who know less.
JPEG Joint Photographic Experts Group. The name of a compresion standard for still images. Motion JPEG
is a digital video standard that compresses each frame with JPEG.
Key field A field in the database which identifies a record ( normally uniquely ) . We can have searches wich
base on the key field values. eg. names of all students in a school database, registration number,etc.
Knowledge base The knowledge base contains the facts and figures in the field being consider.eg. a blood disease
expert system may contain disease type, symptoms, possible treatments in it's knowledge base. see
also expert system.
Knowledge based systems See expert system
LAN Local Area Network. It is a network of computers normally confined within a geographical boundry.
eg, a LAN in an office building.
Laptop The predecessor of the notebook, the laptop is a mobile PC usually weighing somewhere between 8
and 15 pounds, but the term is frequently used for notebook computers as well.
Latency timer Time used by a hard disk to spin up and put the head on the specific cylinder and sector containing
required data.
LCD Liquid Crystal Display. A flat panel of tiny cells , used on most mobile computers in place of a
monitor. Each cell contains a substrate that blocks or admits light depending on the electric charge;
together these cells produce the image on screen.
Leased Line A communication circuit permanently established for a single customer. Also called private line.
LEO Lyons Electronic Office. World's first commercial computer.
Linear bus A network topology/model in which all computers are connected by a single length of cabling with a
terminator at each end. The bus is simplest and most widely used network design.
Linear search A search algorithm used to locate for some specific dataitem in a database or an array. It searches each
record or each data item exactly once so that a match may be found.
Log in Also called Log on. It is a process through wich you enter your name and password when you connect
with a LAN or dial into an on-line service or BBS via modem.
Logic gates Electronic pulses in a computer can be made to follow certain rules if they pass through certain
components. These components act like electronic switches and are called gates.They either let electric
current pass through them or they prevent it from doing so.
Logical error An error made in the flow or the logic of the program written in some computer programming
language. It is never indicated by the interpreter or the compiler but must be percepted by the
programmer. eg. A = B+C. This line is Ok if written to find the sum of two numbers B and C. But will
give incorrect results if used for subtraction of two numbers.
Low level language A class of computer programming language wich is normally machine oriented. It is normally very
close to machine language which gives it the advantage of having the power of accessing the hardware
directly. eg. Assembly language.
LSI Large Scale Integration. Unit of measurement of ICs planted on a unit surface area of a printed circuit
board.
Machine code Executable Computer program obtained after transaltion of source code.
Machine language The only language which a computer understands. All programs must first be translated to this by
using an interpreter, compiler or an assembler in order to use/run them.
Macro A series of keystrokes, commands and/or mouse actions that can be "played back" using a special key
combination.

Muhammad Kamran Azeem Printed on : 09-Dec-2002 Page number : 8/ 15

Instructor O/A Level Computer Science ICAS F-8/2, Islamabad
Instructor O Level Computer Science ASAS F-8/3, Islamabad.
 Computer Definitions

Title Explanation
Mail merge A word processing feature that inserts information from a data file (usually a list of names and
addresses) into pre-selected positions in a document file in order to print a series of customized
documents. As it's name implies, mail merge is most often used to create mass mailings.
Main memory See Primary Storage
Mainframe An old-fashioned computer that lives in it's own air-conditioned tomb, attended by geek priests in lab
coats. Now useful mostly for giant processing tasks like airline reservation systems and insurance
claims processing.
Mainframe computer A large computer whose CPU consists of many processing units and a lot of terminals attached to it.
They have a large number of backup devices attached. Normally executes more than 5 million
instructions per seond. word length varies between 32 and 64 bits. eg . IBM 370, NEC 610, DEC 10.
MAN Metropolitan Area Network. A network larger than LAN and smaller than WAN. MANs span a single
city or metropolitan area.
Mask In a databse, a mask is used to ensure that data entered in a field is formatted in exactly the desired
way. eg. A mast for a phone number might be (###) ###-####. The # characters will take only
numbers, and the database will automatically add the parentheses, space and hyphen.
Master file Its a matter of fact that this terminology is obsolete now. In older computer programs, main data file
was called master file.
Memory unit It should not be confused with RAM or ROM or any thing of this type. Infact memory unit consists of
high speed registers which are used for any type of calculation. It is used to hold intermediate and final
results and the instruction to be executed by the CU.
Merging Joining of two sets of data on some specific common field (key field) resulting in a third set of data.
MICR Magnetic Ink Character Recognition. Normally used at banks to verify the authenticity of cheques.
Micro computers Single or dual chip CPU. Low storage capacity, Maximum word size is 16 bits. can normally execute
250,000 instructions per second. eg. Apple, Tandy, IBM, AMD.
Microprocessor A programmable device which is the heart of a Micro-computer system, and does all the processing.
Microwaves A type of unbounded network tranmission medium. Microwaves are most oftenly used to transmit
data accross satellite links and between earth-based equipment, such as telephone relay towers.
Microwave tranmission is commonly used to transmit signals when bounded midea such as cable,
cannot be used.
MIDI Musical Instrument Digital Interface.This standard was created by musical instrument manufacturer. If
you install MIDI-in and MIDI-out ports in your PC, you can hook up with any MIDI-compatible
device (such as synthesizer) and , with the aid of MIDI sequencer software , turn your PC into an
electronic recording studio.
Mini computers A reletively large computer system as compared to micro computer. Can execute almost 1 million
instructions per second. word length varies beteen 12 to 32 bits. eg. Prime 9755, IBM 36, AS400.
MIPS Million of Instructions Per Second. It is the measure of the speed of any processor that how many
instructions it can execute in a second.
MMX Multi Media eXtension. Techonology introduced in microprocessors by intel which makes processor
take load of enhancing audio and video performance.
MODEM MOdulator/ DEModulator. A communication device used by the computers to send and recieve data
through telephone lines.
Modules Stand-alone piece of software designed to do one and onlt one task in a computer program. eg. a
calculator program can have modules for addition, subtraction, division and multiplication of two
numbers.
Motherboard The main circuit board in your PC. Usually includes the memory , CPU, and expansion slots, etc.
Multi programming Running / execution of more than one programs at a time by giving CPU time slices to each program.
Multi tasking See multiprogramming
Multiaccess Operating syste Operating systems such as UNIX, LINUX and windows NT allow multiple users to access the same
data and compute. such operating systems are multi access operating systems.
Multimedia A combination of hardware and software used to store and retrieve audio and video data and
information.
Multiprocessing Execution of programs and accomplishment of different tasks in a computer by using more than one
processors. Normally one processor is a front end processor and the other is back-end processor.

Muhammad Kamran Azeem Printed on : 09-Dec-2002 Page number : 9/ 15

Instructor O/A Level Computer Science ICAS F-8/2, Islamabad
Instructor O Level Computer Science ASAS F-8/3, Islamabad.
 Computer Definitions

Title Explanation
Network Terminology used to represent computers connected to each other. Normally a network contains
atleast one server and at least one client computer/terminal.
Network A group of computers and various devices ( such as printers and routers) that are joined together on a
common networktransmission medium.
Network administrator The person who makes sure the network is working properly and who assigns access rights to users.
Also the person you blame when something goes wrong.
Network Operating system It is an operating system which is specifically designed to meet the requirements of a network. It
allows networked computers to communicate (using e-mail) . It supports multitaccess. Allows user to
share software and data on a computer which is normally a server. Allows user to share Hardware
(printers, etc). Manages print ques and spooling. Authenticates all the users logging on to the network
through login names and passwords. eg . WIndows NT, UNIX, LINUX, etc.
NIC Network Interface Card. A hardware device installed in a computer which makes it able to link to a
network.
Null MODEM cable A cable pecially wired to connect two computers together via their serial ports. Not compatible with a
regular MODEM cable.
Object Code Normally comiplers does not directly make an executable program. Rather they just convert the
source code into object code which is later on linked with different neccessary library files to make it
executable.
eg. compiler of COBOL converts source code (.CBL) into object file (.COB) which is later on
executed by COBOL runtime Library files.
Object oriented programmin A programming method which puts alot of stress on code reusability and modular programming rather
procedural programming. eg. C++, Visual BASIC,etc.
OCR Optical Character Recognizer. Used at places where lot of word processing is to be done or a lot of
data is to be extracted out of newspapers and books, etc.
OEM Original Equipment Manufacturer. The company that actually made the hardware / software as
opposed to the company whose name is on it. Also used to the OEM market-comapnies that buy and
resell original equipment under their own name.
Offline processing See Batch processing.
OLE Object Linking and Embedding. A window standard for combining data from from different
applications. Creating an OLE link is like cutting and pasting between document, except the pasted
data is updated automatically to reflect any changes made to the original.
OMR Optical Mark Reader. Normally used to input data at a large scale by using a specific format.

Online processing When input and output is done interactively. Or when the inputs are processed before the next inputs
arrive.
OOP See Object oriented programming.
OORDBMS Object Oriented Relational Data Base Management System. at the moment only ORACLE is the
OORDBMS as it deals with all tables ,views, users, procedures as OBJECTS.
Open loop control The process controller only indicates what actions needs to be taken. eg. a screen message or an alarm
or a bell. See also Process controller, Closed loop control.
Operand The data /constant or variable on which some operation is performed. In the equation A = B+10, B and
10 are operands and ( + ) sign is the mathematical operator.
Operator Operators perform specific operation on the operands. They are mainly of three types. Mathematical
operators (+ - / * ), Logical Operators (AND OR NOT ) and relational Operators (> < = <> >= <=
).
Optical fiber Glass filament cable that conveys signals using light rather than electricity.
OSI Open System Interconnection. A model defined by the International Standard Organization (ISO) to
conceptually organize the process of communication between computers in terms of seven layers,
called protocol stacks.
Output devices Devices used to recieve information from the CPU and give it out to the user.eg. Monitor, printer,etc.
Output devices Devices used to give information to the user either in hard copy format or doft copy format.

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Instructor O/A Level Computer Science ICAS F-8/2, Islamabad
Instructor O Level Computer Science ASAS F-8/3, Islamabad.
 Computer Definitions

Title Explanation
Paging A process in which only those pieces of program code are loaded into memory which are currently
needed and rest are stored on the virtual memory in areas called pages. whenever some code from
virtual memory is needed, it is swapped with the page in memory thus resulting in the smooth
execution of the program.
Parity It's a technique used to verify the authenticity of data being recieved. A parity bit is attached with rest
of the eight bits. It contains one or zero depending on the number of ones and zeros in the data bits
(eight data bits).
PCMCIA Personal Computer Memory Card International Association. This acronym refers to notebook
expansion specifications, ehich describe slots and expansion crads no longer in width and height than
a credit card. Memory cards, modems hard disks, and more have all been sqeezed onto PCMCIA
cards.
Peer to peer network A local area network in which network resources are shared among workstations, without a file server.
Peripheral devices All devices attached to CPU are peripheral devices. In broader terms, the input, output and storage
devices are the peripheral devices.
Pie chart A circular data chart designed to show proportions (usually percentages) of a whole quantity.
PIN Personal Identification Number. It is NOT stored on any kind of card. Rather it is stored in the bank's
database only.
Plotter Special type of printer which can print in both directions. used to draw graphs, maps, detailed designs
of different things.
Plug n' Play A standard developed by Microsoft, Intel, and other vendors that will allow PCs running Windows 95
and it's successors to configure themselves automatically, making it easier to install exapnsion bords,
CD-ROMs and things like that.
PNP See Plug 'n Play.
Polling A technique used by a network server to check wether any client needs it's attention or not. It does it
by querying each terminal, and gives the specific time slice/Server attention to the terminal for that
much time.
POS terminal Point Of Sale terminal. Normally found at shops which are connected to some central computer.
Prallel run Technique used in the last stage of SDLC, normally during physical implementation of the new
computer system. Both old and new systems are run in parallel to notice any differences. This method
is expensive but reliable.
Primary key A key field in a table which always uniquely identifies a record. this means that no duplication is
allowed in this field nor the field can be empty.eg. Registration number of all the students in a school.
Primary storage Volatile Memory of computer which is used to hold data for a short interval of time. It loses it's
contents when power is switched off. eg. RAM.
Printer An output device. Used to get hard copy of the results.
Procedures Procedure is a technical term used for module in a computer programming language.eg. FoxPro. In
literal terms a Procedure is a special type of a module which does not return any value to the calling
program or calling module.
Process Control It is the control of some process(normally in industries) by using computers. The process control can
be either a open loop control or closed loop control.
See also Process controller.
Process control variable It is the physical quantity that can vary in a process.eg. Temprature, Level of liquid, etc. The job of
process controller is to make sure that this variable stays in the specific range. See also open loop
control, closed loop control.
Programming language A computer language in which solutions of problems are written / implemented.eg . C , C++, BASIC,
Pascal, etc.
Project Dictionary It contains complete details on all items of a project.eg. List of programs, List of database files, DFDs
,etc.
PROM Programmable Read Only Memory. Only few settings/ values can be altered.
Protocols The specifications that define procedures used by computers when they transmit and recieve data. In
other words, the rules by which computer communicate.
Pseudocode Solution of a problem in a computer like language. i.e. both simple words and some computer
terms/tools/constructs are used to write the solution of a problem.

Muhammad Kamran Azeem Printed on : 09-Dec-2002 Page number : 11/ 15

Instructor O/A Level Computer Science ICAS F-8/2, Islamabad
Instructor O Level Computer Science ASAS F-8/3, Islamabad.
 Computer Definitions

Title Explanation
RAID Redundant Array of Inexpensive Disks. A technique used to join several small hard disks and use
them as one, normally on a network. If one or more drives fail, network data can be saved.
RAM Random Access Memory. Volatile memory used to read and write. Wiped off at power off. See also
Primary storage.
Random Access Type of access in which records can be accessed directly without going through all the records and
values.
Random numbers Numbers generated without any sequence within a specific range. Normally used is games, eg
throwing of a dice,etc.
RDBMS Relational Data Base Management System. A DBMS which supports relation model. i.e. by using
parent-child relationships in more than one table. eg. Visual Foxpro, Microsoft Access, ORACLE.
Realtime processing See online processing.
Reports Printed outputs of a computer information system. reports are the most vital and most important
output of a computer system. They provide an overview of mattters and are extensivly used by the
management for decision making. Reports may be detailed reports, summary reports, error reports,
etc.
Ring network All the terminals and the server(s) are connected to each other in a closed loop. The request is send
down on the network using a token. The reciever picks up the token decodes it and puts back the reply
on a new token which is recieved by the initial sender. This flow of data is uni-directional. This type of
network is actually a bus network with it's both ends connected to each other/joined. Not a very robust
network model.
RISC Recduced Instruction Set Computers. These computers have a very small instruction set area in the
CPU thus resulting in a larger memory unit, which inturn results in faster computing. such computers
are very expensive and special software has to be written to tap their full power.
ROM Read Only Memory. Used to read from only and cannot be written to. It normally contains Bootup
information backed up by a battery. It is also known as ROM-BIOS sometimes.
Runtime error Errors which occur at Execution time. eg. a data file may not be OPEN when you are trying to put data
in it or read data from it. This results in a runtime error.
SAD System Analysis and Design. A field in which computer systems and their problems are studied and
rectified.
SCSI Small Computer System Interface. Pronounce as (Scuzzy). A technology used in hard drives. SCSI
hard drives are faster than IDE hard drives.
SDLC Ssytem Development Life Cycle. a common sequence of steps taken to develop a computer system.
They are Investigation, Analysis, Design, Review, Implementation.
Search engine A program used to search for the given data on the internet. It uses commands similar to the one
which are used to interogate a database.
Secondary memory cache Most CPUs (inclusing Intel's 486 and Pentiums) have a fast built -in memory cahe. If the CPU can't
find what it needs in its own cache, it tries the secondary memory cache-also known as external
memry cache - an array of SRAM chips on the motherboard between CPU and main memory. The
idea is to keep the CPU from accessing main memory directly, which would slow things down.
Secondary storage devices Category of devices to permanently store data even when the power is off. eg. Floppy disk, hard disk,
CD-ROM. etc.
Sequential access Type of access in wich records are access by using a specific key in an order.
Sequential Search See Linear search.
Serial access A type of access in which records are accessed in the order they are stored.
Server Normally a main computer in the network, to which all the terminals connect and share resources.
sometime we have other servers as well beside normal main or primary servers in the network. They
may be : backup severs, application servers, mail servers, web servers, etc.
Shareware Software you try out for free, If you like it, you are requested to send a small payment to the author.
The most common way to get shareware is to download it via amodem from an on-line service such as
compuserve, etc.
Simulation Creation of environment in computer what might be real world events. eg. financial simulation,
Scientific simnulation, engineering simulation, weather simulation, geological simulations flight
simulators. ectc.

Muhammad Kamran Azeem Printed on : 09-Dec-2002 Page number : 12/ 15

Instructor O/A Level Computer Science ICAS F-8/2, Islamabad
Instructor O Level Computer Science ASAS F-8/3, Islamabad.
 Computer Definitions

Title Explanation
Sleep mode Also known as suspend mode. A state of battery saving hibernation that notebook computers go into
when you perss a button- every thing shuts down except for the trickle of power required to preserve
data in memory, which may stay there intact for weeks. Press the suspend button again , and you pick
up where you left off.
SLIP Serial Line Internet Protocol. A protocol that permits the sending of IP packets on a dial-up (serial)
connection. It does not by itself provide support for compression or for IP address negotiation.
Soft copy Output on the monitor.
Software Software is the Program code/ data/ information which cannot be felt and touched but is used to
control the hardware to utilze it's resources to solve a particular problem. Mainly two types of software
exist. System software and Application software. See also System software, Application software.
Sorting To arrange data in some specific order (ascending or descending) on some specific key field (a unique
key normally). This term is normally used in databases and spread sheets.
Source code A computer program written in a computer programming language before translation process.
Source documents Specific predecided/predesigned forms/documents used for data capture.
Special Pupose computers They are designed to do some specific task.eg air craft landing system/navigation system. Heart beat
controller. etc.
SPOOL Simultaneous Peripherals Operations On Line. It is a technique used by the computer to control all the
peripheral devices simultaneously.
Spooler A software program that stores documents until they can be printed and coordinates how print jobs
are sent to a printer.
Spooling Controlling of peripheral devices simultaneously by giving a time slice to each device.
Spread sheet It is used to solve problems which involve calculations ;aid out in rows and columns., eg. result cards
of a class ,financial calculations,etc.
SQL Structured Query Language (Pronounced as es que el). It is the most powerful language for data
retrieval from databases. first developed by IBM. Now main constituent of almost all RDBMS. Oracle
uses extensive use of SQL in it's product ORACLE.
SRAM Static RAM. This type of RAM does not need any refreshing and holds data until it is changed or
power is switched off. This type of RAM is extremely fast and is used as CACHE memory in normal
PCs. It is used in place of DRAM in high end servers very speed is the vital aspect.
SRD Speech Recognition Devices. Used as input devices by using human voice.
Stand alone system Any computer which is not connected to any kind of network and can operate at it's own.
Star network All terminals and server(s) are connected to one main server through a "hub". data is send and
recieved back via this main server (also called Primary server ) . If one terminal goes down or the wire
breaks from somewhere then the network keeps working and only the relative terminal is disconnected
from the server.
Structured Programming In short structured programming is technique used to write efficient programs using TOP DOWN
DESIGN or using modules.i.e. a problem is broken down into smaller problems and so on, then a
solution for each smallest problem is written. It is a common mis-concept that structured programing
is GOTO LESS programming. It is not so but the use of GOTO satements is always discouraged and is
always avoided till maximum extent.
Sub routine A synonym used for module. See also module.
Super computer Can normally execute more than 50 million instructions per second. Very high storage space. Very
high temporary / main memory. Normally used for weather forecasting, weapon system design and
weapon control systems, mathematical modeling and image processing. eg. CRAY-1, CRAY-2,
CYBER-205, NEC SX 400.
Synchronous transmission A type of transmission that uses a clock to control the timing of bits being sent.
Syntax error An violation of gramatical rules of a specific computer programming language. eg. the following line is
invalid for BASIC language. A := A + 10 ;
i.e. the operator ( := ) is not supported in BASIC , moreover the symbol (;) must not be put in as an
end of statement indicator. So till the time these two errors are there , this BASIC program will not be
executed including and beyond this line.
System Analyst A person who performs system analysis.
System flow chart System flow chart is used to show the overall working of the computer system and the interaction
between it's various parts.

Muhammad Kamran Azeem Printed on : 09-Dec-2002 Page number : 13/ 15

Instructor O/A Level Computer Science ICAS F-8/2, Islamabad
Instructor O Level Computer Science ASAS F-8/3, Islamabad.
 Computer Definitions

Title Explanation
System Implementation It is placing the system into operation, computer programs are written and testted, managers and users
are trained to use the new system and operations are converted to the new system.
System Software It is the software which is specially designed to handle the hardware of the computer. It is also called
operating system. It controls and manages all the computer hardware. It manages all the user files.
Optimizes the use of computer's hardware and software resources. Launches the application programs
on user request. eg. DOS, windows 95, UNIX, Windows NT, etc.
See also Network Operating System.
System support It is the on-going support of the system after it has been placed into operations. This include program
mentainance and system improvement.
Table A collection of records is a table. See also Field, Data base.
TCP / IP Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol. Generally used as shorthand for the phrase
"TCP/IP protocol suite".
Technical documentation Documentation written by a programmer or an analyst for another technical person so that any
changes , enhancements can be made easily. It is also used to simply understand the working of a
specific system. It deals with issues like database structure, DFDs , system flowcharts, logic used
(algorithms), actual program code and different type of test data used.
Telecommunication Exchange of data and information by using telephone lines.
Telecommuters Handicapped workers can stay at home and perform office work on computers. Work is send and
recieved from them through telephone lines.
Template In word processing, desktop publishing, and presentation graphics, a document where most of the
layout and formatting decisions have been made for you, so all you need to do is enter text or
graphics.
Terminal See client
Test data Data used to test an algorithm or a program whose values /results are already known.
Throughput The amount of data that has been sent over a given time. For example, 10 base T Ethernet has
theoratical maximum throughput of 10 Mbps. In practise the throughput depends on the quality and
length of wiring and is usually slightly less than 10 Mbps.
Time sharing A process of giving time slices to all the terminals on the network.
Time slice A very small part of the CPU time which is allotted to / given to a program or given to a terminal on
the network.
Topology A type of network connection or cabling system. Networks are usually configured in bus, ring, star
and mesh / hybrid topologies.
Transaction file An obsolete terminology. a file containig data in a temporary state or waiting to be processed or
waiting to be added to a master file is called a transaction file.
Trogan Horse A dangerous or destructive program that is designed to disguise itself as something harmless.
UNIVAC UNIVersal Accounting Machine. First machine was used to calculate the USA census, later machines
were used for accounting purpose.
URL Uniform Resource Locator. An address of some site or data on the internet.
User documentation Documentation written by a programmer for a common user so that it is easy for him to use/operate
the system. It deals with issues like Installation procedures, instructions on how to use and common
problems and their solutions (trouble shooting).etc.
User Manual See User Documentation
Validation It is a test that whether the data being input is REASONABLE or not. ie. A name field of an employee
cannot be blank, pay cannot have -ve value, Hiring date cannot be less / smaller than the birth date
VAN Value Added Network.
Variable A memory location which holds values during program execution. As the name depicts, a variable can
have different values coming in and out during program execution. eg A = 10 , Print A , A = A + 1.
In this example, A is a variable. Variables can be of differnt types. See also data types.
VDU Visual Display Unit. Used as both input and output device.
Verification It is a check that the data being input to the computer is being input correctly or not. It is normaly done
by inputing the data twice.
Virtual Reality It's a computer simulated environment in which user "experiences" real world environment by using
hardware and software. The user can move around in that environment see, do and "feel" things by
using electronic gadgets such as special gloves and head gears.

Muhammad Kamran Azeem Printed on : 09-Dec-2002 Page number : 14/ 15

Instructor O/A Level Computer Science ICAS F-8/2, Islamabad
Instructor O Level Computer Science ASAS F-8/3, Islamabad.
 Computer Definitions

Title Explanation
Virtual storage A reserved area on hard disk used as RAM. This technique is used when physical RAM is insufficient
to load/execute programs.
VIrus See computer virus.
VLSI Very Large Scale Integration. See also LSI.
Volatile memory Memory which loses its contents on power off. See also Primary storage.
VRAM Video Random Access Memory, a type of memory chip that costs more and runs faster than DRAM.
VRAM is used in about half of all graphics cards.
WAN Wide Area Network. It is not confined within any geographical boundries. It may be (and is) spead
over a very large area such as between cities, countries,etc.
Web browser A program used to visit different web sites and view the information over there.
Word It is the unit made up of bytes. normally 2 bytes=word, 4 bytes=double word.
Word Length The combination of bytes resulting in a larger unit of measurement. 2 bytes= 1 word, 4 bytes= double
word. In these cases , one word has the word length of 16 bits or 2 bytes and double word has a word
length of 32 bits or 4 bytes.
Word processor A software specially designed to serve typing, letter writing, etc, supplied with fascilities as edit, delete,
insert text.
Workgroup A group of computers linked together to share resources. A workgroup is less sophisticated than a
domain, in what workgroup lack the central administrative capacities of a domain.
WORM Write Once Read Many. a terminology used for CD-ROM.
WORM Write Once , Read Many. An optical disk that can be written to do only once. Useful for creating
archive disks of data that you don't want changed.
WWW World Wide Web. The collection of computers on the internet running HTTP (Hyper Text Transfer
Protocol) servers. The WWW allows for text and graphics to have hyperlinks connecting users to other
servers. By using a web browser, such as Qmosaic, netscape or Internet explorer, a user can cross-link
from one server to another to interact at the click of a button.
XT Extended Technology. Class of IBM PC compatibles having processors 8086 and 8088.

Muhammad Kamran Azeem Printed on : 09-Dec-2002 Page number : 15/ 15

Instructor O/A Level Computer Science ICAS F-8/2, Islamabad
Instructor O Level Computer Science ASAS F-8/3, Islamabad.