access |
to retrieve (information) from a computer. [1/5 definitions] |
access time |
the amount of time needed for a computer to retrieve or store data. |
account |
an arrangement that allows one to gain access to a computer, a computer application, or website when one enters a username and password that one has established. [1/16 definitions] |
accumulator |
a register or electrical circuit for storing numbers and performing one or more arithmetic or logical operations on them, as in a calculator or computer. [1/3 definitions] |
algorithm |
a completely determined and finite procedure for solving a problem, esp. used in relation to mathematics and computer science. |
alphanumeric |
in computer terminology, consisting of both letters and numbers or other nonalphabetic symbols. |
analog computer |
a computer that uses physical quantities such as pressure or electric voltages to represent data. (Cf. digital computer.) |
antivirus |
any software program designed to identify, thwart, and eliminate computer viruses and other malicious software programs. [2 definitions] |
app |
a computer application designed for mobile operating systems and devices, such as cell phones. [1/2 definitions] |
Apple |
a multinational company that sells consumer electronics, computer software, and online services. |
application program |
a computer program designed to be used by, and perform a particular function for, end users, such as a word-processing program, browser, or game. |
artificial intelligence |
research in and development of computer programs that imitate human thought processes such as reasoning or decision-making. |
audio |
a particular sound recording, often giving instructions, information, or a sample of a longer recording, made to be heard on a computer or other electronic device. [1/4 definitions] |
AWACS |
an aircraft fitted with a radome and carrying sophisticated radar and computer equipment, used for reconnaissance and for directing ground forces, or a warning system employing such aircraft (acronym for "Airborne Warning and Control System"). |
backspace |
to move a typewriter carriage or computer cursor back one or more spaces by pressing a certain key. [1/2 definitions] |
back up |
to create and store a copy of (a computer file), often in a separate location, in case the original is damaged or lost. [1/8 definitions] |
BASIC |
a simplified computer language (acronym for "beginner's all-purpose symbolic instruction code"). |
bit3 |
a unit of information in a computer; binary digit. |
boot |
in computing, to start up (a computer or a program) by loading the operating system or providing the initial instructions (often fol. by "up"). [2/10 definitions] |
bootstrap |
a single computer program that loads and puts into operation a bigger program. [3/5 definitions] |
boot up |
in computing, to start up (a computer or a program) by loading the operating system or installing the initial instructions. |