Glossary

Word Definition
2G, 3G and 4G-LTE Mobile Wi-Fi connection services of varying speeds or ‘generations’.
Aggregate query A special type of query that performs specific mathematical functions on numerical
data.
Algorithm Sequence of precise instructions that results in a solution.
Alignment The position of text relative to margins or borders.
AND An operator that is used to search for records that meet all criteria in a query.
Anti-virus software Software designed to protect computer users against the effects of viruses.
Application software Software that instructs a computer to carry out a specific task.
Arithmetic and logic Performs the calculations and logic operations in the computer.
unit (ALU)
Artificial intelligence Devices capable of perceiving their environment and taking actions that increase their
chances of successfully achieving goals.
Asynchronous The transmission of data at irregular intervals, one character at a time.
transmission
Backup A copy of a file or files made to ensure data is not lost if the original copy is in any way
compromised.
Barcode A group of vertical bars which, when scanned, provide information about an item for
sale, such as its country of origin, manufacturer and item code.
Batch processing The collection, grouping and processing of data in batches, rather than individually or
sequentially.
Bistable device A microelectronic switch that can be in one of two possible states: on or off, or 0 or 1.
Bit Binary digit. The 0s and 1s that describe the state of bistable devices.
Blog Short for ‘web log’. A blog is an online journal or diary of an individual’s opinions and
latest news. It is updated regularly and displayed in chronological order.
Bluetooth A method of wireless connectivity using radio waves.
BODMAS Brackets, order, division and multiplication, addition and subtraction. Mnemonic
device designed to help you remember the correct order of operators in mathematics.
Breadcrumb Linear list showing the pages a user would have to access to arrive at the current page
on a website (also the last item in the list).
Broadband High-speed transmission channel used to connect to the Internet.
Broadcast configuration The use of one computer to transmit data to several computers in a network.
Browser A computer program used to access websites.
Bug (1) A device used to secretly record data.
An error in program code.
Bus network A network in which all nodes are connected in a line.
Byte A group of eight bits, usually representing a single character.
Cable (Internet High-speed Internet connection often provided by cable television companies.
connection)
Cache A collection of temporary files downloaded from the Internet that enables you to
return to online information more quickly.

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Glossary Glossary

Word Definition Word Definition

Candidate key A field that can uniquely identify any database record without referring to any other (2) A group of laws that determine what information can and cannot be kept by
data. businesses, governments and other organisations about individuals.
CD-ROM Acronym for Compact Disk Read-Only Memory, read-only media, which means that Data validation Computerised checking of input data for errors.
you can only use the data on the disks. Data verification Checking for mistakes in input data against source data.
Central processing unit The brain of a computer and controls how the rest of the computer works. Data Raw (unprocessed) facts.
(CPU) Database Similar to a spreadsheet, a database is used to store larger and more complex collections
Chart A pictorial or visual representation of data contained in an Excel worksheet. of data, often containing more textual than numerical material.
Cloud An unlimited and powerful remote network of interconnected computers used to store Database management A system that handles the storage, modification, retrieval of, and access to data.
data remotely. system (DBMS)
Coaxial cable Cable used for high-speed data transmission, commonly found on televisions. Decryption The decoding of encrypted data to return it to an intelligible form.
Command-line interface Interacting with a computer by typing commands using a special language Windows, Denial of service (DOS) Deliberate attack on computer systems to prevent legitimate users from accessing
icons, menus, pointers (WIMP) – components of a graphical user interface them.
Comment In word processing, a review function that allows the author or a contributor to make Desk checking Process of manually reviewing an algorithm for the correct processing and output.
suggestions or notes without interrupting the flow of text. Dial-up Slow form of Internet connection that uses a telephone landline to connect.
Communication channel A method used for transmitting data. Digital subscriber line Service that uses a phone line to connect to the Internet.
Communications Telecommunications equipment that is used to access data and information. (DSL)
technology Direct data entry devices Used to transfer data automatically from a document into the computer, for example, a
Composite key A primary key made up of two or more fields. form or barcode.
Computer security The protection of computer resources against accidental or deliberate damage, theft or Double (data) entry The process of entering data twice so that data verification can take place.
corruption. Download To receive data sent from one computer to another via a network.
Computer surveillance The use of technology to gather information from a computer, often without the user’s Drive A type of storage device.
knowledge.
Driver Allows hardware devices to communicate with the computer.
Computer–user interface Controls how you interact with IT.
Electronic The use of electronic devices to monitor electronic communication without the
Conditional statement A description of a process that takes place if certain conditions are met. eavesdropping knowledge or consent of participants.
Constant Variable in which the values do not change for that algorithm. Electronic funds Enables the transfers of account information and the cost of the goods, into the
Control unit Carries out instructions in the software and directs the flow of data through the transfer at point of sale banking system.
computer. (EFTPOS)
Copy A function used to place a replica of data on a virtual clipboard (while leaving the Electronic point of sale Used with barcodes to enable large amounts of data to be input very quickly and
original in place) so it can be ‘pasted’, often multiple times, elsewhere. (EPOS) accurately.
Copyright Legal concept designed to provide creators and owners of original works with exclusive Email Mail or messages transmitted electronically by computers via communication channels.
rights to that work’s use and distribution. It is usual for such messages to be held in a central store for retrieval at the user’s
Custom-written Software that is written for use in specific organisations. convenience.
software Embedded controller Program within a CPU designed to carry out one task.
Cut A tool used to remove or excise data from a file or document, retaining it on a virtual Embedded system  Computer system dedicated to one or two specific functions.
clipboard so it can be ‘pasted’ elsewhere. Encryption Encoding of data to make it unintelligible to anyone but the intended recipients.
Data communication Transmission of data between two or more computers. Endnote In word processing, endnotes are used to provide additional information or to provide a
Data exchange Sending or receiving data between computers. reference for a quotation. Appear at the end of the document.
Data file A collection of records holding the same type of information. Ethernet cable Common form of network cable.
Data logging The automatic capture of data using a sensor. Expert system Form of artificial intelligence designed to store a vast amount of data and use it to
Data protection (1) Methods by which computer users can protect their data against loss or damage. predict future outcomes.
Extranet Similar to an intranet, but allowing limited access to non-members.

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Glossary Glossary

Word Definition Word Definition

Fibre optic cables Cables comprised of glass fibres that transmit data as pulses of light. Hyperlink A link from one website to another, displayed as text on a screen, often presented in
Field Section of a record containing data relating to one attribute of an entity. blue and underlined.
File A document used on a computer. Hypertext link A way for users to connect from one website to another.
File server Computer containing large hard disk drives to make files available to network users. Hypertext Markup A text-based language used to create web pages.
File transfer protocol A set of rules and procedures that govern transmission between components in a Language (HTML)
network. Icon Small picture of an object displayed on a screen.
Find and Replace Often referred to as ‘Search and replace’, a function that enables users to locate specific Indexed file File in which contents are organised for easier access to data.
information in a document, as well as to replace a particular element with another. Information Processed data.
Flowchart Type of diagram that represents an algorithm or process. Information processing The conversion of data into information using computers.
Folder A virtual directory to group related files together. Information system A record-keeping system.
Font A digital file determining the overall presentation of text in a document. Information technology The equipment (hardware and computer programs or software) and its use that
Footer Recurring information appearing at the bottom of each page of a document. allows us to access, retrieve convert, store, organise, manipulate and present data and
Footnote Similar to an endnote, but appears at the bottom of the page. information.
Foreign key A field found in two or more tables; if it is the primary key in one table, it is a foreign Input device Used to enter data into a computer.
key in the other. Instant messaging A feature that exchanges text, images, video or audio messages in real time.
Form (database) A method of entering or searching for data in a table. Integrated software Combines several applications in a suite of programs. Most of these packages combine
Format A common collection of functions that allow a computer user to change the layout and a word processor, spreadsheet and database program. Data is shared easily between
presentation of text, images and other document elements. these integrated programs.
Formula An equation that tells the spreadsheet or database what actions (calculations) you wish Internet service provider A company that provides a subscription Internet service to customers.
to take on any data. (ISP)
Full-duplex Transmission system that allows data to be sent and received at the same time. Intranet Private network used by businesses and other organisations.
Function Built-in mathematical formula included in Microsoft Excel or ACCess. IP address A unique address used to identify host computers on the Internet.
Generations Versions of mobile phone systems. IPO chart A table used to identify input, processing and output information in a problem.
Gigabyte One thousand and twenty-four megabytes. Key field Used to uniquely identify the record.
Global village The figurative result of the increased connection provided to businesses, governments Keyword An instruction within a program.
and individuals as a result of the Internet and other communications technologies. Kilobyte One thousand and twenty-four bytes.
Graphics tablet A flat, touch-sensitive drawing surface that captures drawings or handwritten Landscape The orientation of a page (or page view) in which the longest side is horizontal.
signatures using a special pen called a stylus. Line spacing The positioning of lines of text relative to one another on a page.
Hacking Unauthorised access and use of computers. Local area network A network of computers connected in a small geographical area
Half-duplex Transmission system that allows data to be transmitted in one direction at a time. (LAN)
Hard disk or hard drive A magnetic disk protected by a hard case and used to store data. A hard drive controls Logic error Problem arising from a human-made mistake in the sequence of the program
the motion and operation of hard disks. Most people use these terms interchangeably. sentences.
Hardware The physical components of a computer system such as the CPU, memory, input, Loop Will repeatedly execute a section of program until the end condition is satisfied.
output and storage devices. Magnetic ink character Reads information on a cheque along with the amount of the cheque into a banks’
Hardware interface See Input device. reader (MICR) information system.
Header Recurring information appearing at the top of each page of a document. Mail merge Word-processing tool that draws information from a database, usually a mailing list, to
Homepage The file available for access at a website, intended to greet visitors, provide information print multiple copies of a document. Each copy contains some common text, but each
about the site and direct them to related information. will bear, for example, different name and address details.
Hotspot A public area offering Internet via a wireless network. See WLAN. Main memory Memory located directly on the computer’s main circuit board so that data can travel
quickly to and from the CPU to be processed.
Hub A central device used to connect computers in a network.

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Glossary Glossary

Word Definition Word Definition

Mainframe Large-scale computer with a variety of peripheral devices. The term is often used in Podcast Form of audio broadcast using the Internet; podcasting takes its name from a
comparison with a smaller or subordinate computer. combination of ‘iPod’ (a now out-of-production MP3 player) and broadcasting. It is a
Manual input devices Allows a user to enter or transfer data into the computer. method of releasing files to the Internet, allowing users to subscribe and receive new
Margin Space provided to the left, right, top and/or bottom of a page of text or data. files automatically.
Master file A file whose records are kept up-to-date. Point-to-point A direct link between two networked computers.
configuration
Megabytes One thousand and twenty-four kilobytes.
Portrait The orientation of a page (or page view) in which the longest side is vertical.
Memory Enables a computer to temporarily store instructions and data.
Primary key Field used to identify a record in a database.
Menu Screen listing commands of action or alternatives to lead the user through an
interactive program. Printer Device which outputs a hard copy (usually paper) of your work or data.
Menu-driven interface Program interface where the user is provided with a list of operations. Programming Writing the solution to a problem using a language that a computer can interpret.
Metropolitan area A network that is large enough to extend to an area like a city or campus Propaganda Information deployed to influence public opinion for or against a particular group of
network (MAN) people or course of action.
Mobile device Handheld device including laptops, tablets and smartphones. Proprietary data Internally produced and owned data.
Mouse Input device that controls the movement of the cursor. The cursor moves in response to Proprietary software Internally produced and owned software.
the movement of the mouse on a flat surface. Protocol Set of rules and procedures controlling the transmitting and receiving of data so that
Musical instrument Used to input data via a piano-type keyboard or by sensors that respond to being different devices can communicate with each other.
digital interface (MIDI) pressed. Pseudocode A language consisting of English-like statements used to define algorithms.
Network A group of connected computers that exchange information and share equipment. Random access memory Hold the temporary operating instructions for the computer, its programs and the data.
Operating system Set of programs that control and supervise the resources of a computer system. It also (RAM)
acts as an interface between the user and the computer. Read-only memory Contains instructions that are read every time the computer is switched on.
Optical character A program that converts scanned text into a file that can be edited, reformatted and (ROM)
recognition (OCR) reprinted by a word processor. Query Used to answer a question using the data in a database.
Optical mark A method that relies on precisely positioned marks on a form being read by a special Record A collection of fields on data related to one entity.
recognition (OMR) scanner. Relationship (database) The linking of tables in a database by a common field.
OR An operator that is used to search for records that meet at least one criterion in a query. Relative addressing Adjustment of a formula when copied to other cells.
Output device Used to retrieve or generate processed information from a computer. Redo  Common computer function that allows the user, having ‘undone’ the most recent
Outsourcing The process of reallocating work previously done by employees of a company to change to a file, document or system, to make that change again.
workers from other companies, or workers who are self-employed. Repetitive strain injury Pain about the body caused by, for example lengthy or improper use of computers.
Packet sniffing The monitoring of all data transmitted on a network. (RSI)
Paste Tool used to place cut or copied data elsewhere in a document. Report (database) A method of presenting data in a summarized or grouped format.
Path The sequence of drives and folders used to locate a file. The name of the file combined Ring network A network in which the last node is connected to the first.
with its file type is the last item in the path. Router Directs data from a modem to the devices connected to it.
Peer-to-peer network Network in which each computer acts as a server to other computers on the network. Save As A command that allows the user to write data to a particular file type or use a different
Peripheral device Any hardware device connected to and controlled by the CPU. file name.
Phishing The use of websites and emails to trick individuals into disclosing personal information. Save A command that writes all new data to a file, preventing the user from losing it.
Pivot table Reorganises and summarises selected columns and rows of data in a spreadsheet or Search engine A website that finds other websites using keywords.
database. Searching (database) Finding all records that match a particular condition.
Pixel Picture element; makes up images as seen on monitors. Secondary storage Media and methods used to keep computer programs, data and information available
Plotter Type of printer used by designers, architects and engineers to output accurate images. for later use.
Secondary storage media Keep data, instructions and information on the physical hardware of a computer for
future use.

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Glossary Glossary

Word Definition Word Definition

Semantics The meaning associated with the words, symbols and punctuation that make up a Touchscreen Device that allows data to be input by touching a screen with the finger or a stylus. The
programming language. surface of the screen consists of a number of programmed touch points each of which
Sidebar A navigational bar or menu showing links to other major sections of a website. may trigger a different action when selected by the user.
Simplex Transmission system that allows data transfer in one direction only. Trace table A method of checking an algorithm for errors by displaying the value of specified
Smart card A payment card containing an electronic circuit. variables at intervals.
Smartboard An interactive whiteboard. Track changes A common word-processing tool that enables users to see a history of all edits made
to a document. In documents with multiple creators, it is easy to see who made which
Software interface Allows computer users to interact with a device. Command-line interfaces are operated edits, and when.
using a special language. Menu-driven interfaces make this process easier by providing
the user with a range of options. Graphical user interfaces (GUI) are even easier, Transaction file Temporary file used to update a master file with newly input, created or deleted data.
enabling users to cut and paste data between applications. See also: Touchscreen. Transaction log Record of all changes to a transaction file.
Software package See: Integrated software. Truth table Table with one column for each variable and a final column showing each possible
Software Collection of programs, procedures and routines which direct the operations of result of a logical operation.
a computer. Custom-written software is written for use in specific organisations. Turnaround document A document which, after being output by the computer, can be used to record data.
Specialised software is written solely for one specific task. Typeface See: Font.
Sort Redistribution of data into an order on the basis of the contents of a key item. Undo A common tool that allows the user to ‘go back’ to the way a file, document or system
Sorting (database) Temporarily reorders records in a database file. was before the last change was made.
Source code Collection of code using a human-readable programming language. Uninterruptible power Device that contains a battery that supplies equipment with backup power during a
Spellcheck An automated process of checking for spelling errors in a file, using an electronic supply (UPS) power outage.
dictionary. Upload To send data from one computer to another via a network.
Spreadsheet A grid of cells organised in rows and columns, used to work with primarily numeric URL A web address used to access a web page.
data. User documentation Information that provides help for the user about the program.
Stand-alone computer An unnetworked computer. Utility software Specialised software that tries to protect and maintain system software.
Star network A network in which all nodes are connected to a central hub. Value The numeric content of a cell or cells in a spreadsheet.
Statement A description of a process that can include an action or condition. Variable Stores data for a program to work with.
Storage device Used to record and retrieve data from storage media. Virtual memory Used to split large programs or collections of data into smaller blocks to prevent the
Storage media Hardware used to house or accommodate data. computer from slowing down.
Stylus A small pen-like device used to draw or type on touchscreens. Virtual reality Computer-generated simulation of a 3D image or environment.
Subroutine Section of a program that can be repeatedly called on to perform a given set of Virus Malicious software program that replicates itself by modifying other computer
instructions by other parts of the program. programs and inserting its own code.
Synchronous High-speed transmission of data at regular intervals. Voice-activated system Also known as voice-response system, carries out instructions from voice commands,
transmission instead of using a mouse or a keyboard.
Syntax Set of rules defining the structure of statements in a programming language. Voiceband A channel that can transmit data at a rate between 300 and 9600 bits per second.
Syntax error A mistake that is made in the language rules or sentence structure of a programming Voice over IP (VoIP) An Internet protocol used to convert voice sounds into digital form and transmit it
language. over the Internet.
Table (database) A database file that consists of a collection of records. Web pages A document on the World Wide Web, consisting of an HTML file and any related
TCP/IP A set of rules for sending and receiving data over the Internet. files for scripts and graphics and often hyperlinked to other web pages.
Teleworking Working from home while remaining connected to centralised computer systems Webcam Digital video camera often used to enable computer users to see each other while
located in a traditional office. chatting online.
Terabyte One thousand and twenty-four gigabytes. Website Set of interconnected web pages, usually including a homepage, generally located
on the same server, and prepared and maintained as a collection of information by a
Touchpad A flat rectangular surface that uses movement of one or more fingers on its surface to person, group or organisation.
complete tasks on a computer.

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Glossary Glossary

Word Definition Acronym Definition

Wide area network A network of computers connected over a large geographical area ALU Arithmetic and logic unit
(WAN)
ATM Automated teller machine
Wi-Fi Short for wireless fidelity; a method of connecting computers and mobile devices on a
network that is also connected to the Internet. BD Blu-ray disk
Wireless local area Laptops or remote devices that can connect wirelessly to a LAN. CD-R Compact Disk Recordable
network (WLAN) CD-ROM Compact Disk Read-only Memory
Wireless network A form of network that does not require cabling. CD-RW Compact Disk Rewritable
Word (1) The largest amount of data that can be moved together to be processed.
CPU Central processing unit
(2) Common short-form name for Microsoft Word, a popular word-processing
program. CT Communications technology
Word count (Word) A feature that provides a summary of the number of words in the document. CU Control unit
World wide web Method of accessing information on the Internet using a web browser. DBMS Database management system
Worm A malicious file similar to a virus, but does not require a host program in order to be DDE Direct date entry
transmitted. DOS Denial-of-service
DSL Digital subscriber line
DVD Digital Video Disk or Digital Versatile Disk
EFT Electronic funds transfer
EPOS Electronic point-of-sale
FTP File transfer protocol
HCI Human-computer interface
HTML Hypertext Markup Language
IP (address) Internet protocol (address)
IPO (chart) Input-processing-output
ISP Internet service provider
IT Information technology
LAN Local area network
MAN Metropolitan area network
MICR Magnetic ink character recognition
MIDI Musical instrument digital interface
MRI Magnetic resonance imaging
OCR Optical character recognition
OMR Optical mark recognition
PC Personal computer
PIN Personal identification number
POS Point of sale
RAM Random-access memory

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Glossary

Acronym Definition
ROM Read-only memory
RSI Repetitive strain injury
SIM Subscriber identification module
TCP/IP Transmission control protocol/Internet protocol
UPS Uninterruptible power supply
URL Uniform resource locator
USB Universal service bus
UTP (cables) Unshielded twisted pair cables
VBA Visual Basic for Applications
VoIP Voiceover Internet protocol
WAN Wide area network
WIMP Windows, icons, menus, pointer
WLAN Wireless local area network
www The World Wide Web

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