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access v., n.
- to read or write data on a computer file - [U] the act of reading data from a computer file
account n.
[C] an arrangement that users have with a company that allows them to use the Internet for certain purposes
Just open a personal email account with a reliable address. * Internet account * email account
add-on (also plug-in) n.
[C] an optional product designed to complement another application, for example a ‘solver’ in Excel
This product is an add-on for Firefox with a lot of features and extras.
analogue (AmE analog) a.
(of a measured value) taking any value between a maximum and a minimum
Computers require modems to turn signals from digital to analogue and vice versa. * analogue signal
animate v.
to display a sequence of images in a computer program to give the impression of motion
Professionals use animated slides only very sparingly in a business presentation.
animation n.
[C] a sequence of images in a computer program giving the impression of motion
There are many software applications that enable you to create animations. * computer animation
applet n.
[C] a small program which is run from within another application, for example from within a browser or a website
Unlike an application, applets cannot be executed directly by the operating system.
application (also app) n.
[C] a program or a group of programs that performs a particular task for the user, i.e. a word-processor or a spreadsheet
Teachers make great use of standard applications in their history lessons. * application software * hosted application
artificial intelligence (AI), n.
[U] the ability of a computer to copy intelligent human behaviour in finding a solution to a problem
Some researchers think that AI has the objective to put the human mind into the computer.
asymmetric (also asymmetrical) a.
(of data transmission) differing downstream bit rate and upstream bit rate; or relating to public-key cryptography
Asymmetric key encryption uses different keys for encryption/decryption. * asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL)
attach v.
to link a file to an electronic message, for example to an email
I attach a copy of her report. * Please find attached my cover letter and CV.
attachment n.
[C] a file that is linked to an electronic message, for example to an email
Users should not casually open attachments, especially if the emails have originated from an unknown source.
authentication n.
[U] proof of identity as a security measure that requires users to securely verify who they are
This is a server that does not require authentication. * biometric authentication
avatar n.
[C] a graphical representation of a person on a computer screen, especially in a computer game or chat room
In most computer games you can create your own digital avatar.
back up v., backup n.
- to copy information from your computer to a separate storage device - [C] a copy of information on your computer, which is stored separately
backbone n.
[C] a high-speed line or a series of connections to which smaller, local lines connect
While Internet traffic soared by over 50 percent in the last decade, worldwide backbone capacity grew even faster.
bandwidth n.
[U] the amount of data that can be sent through a network connection at any one time
How much bandwidth do you need for your VoIP calls? * to reduce/increase bandwidth
barcode n.
[C] a coded pattern of thick and thin bars with varying spaces in between for recognition by a scanner
There's more than one kind of barcode in use around the world. *barcode scanner/reader
beta test n.
[C] a test for a computer product given to customers prior to commercial release, often preceded by a round of alpha testing
The beta test of the software is now available for downloading. * beta software * beta version
binary a.
pertaining to a numbering system that has 2 as its base and uses only two digits, 0 and 1, for its notation
This reduces the vulnerability to attacks, since users can no longer enter binary data. * binary code * binary digit (bit)
blog (also weblog n.) v., n.
- to update a publicly accessible Web page serving as a personal journal for the writer - [C] a publicly accessible Web page that serves as a personal journal for the writer
blogger n.
[C] a writer who updates a publicly accessible Web page that serves as a personal journal for any subject
The blogger refused to withdraw his post.
bookmark / favourite n., v.
- [C] a marker for finding a Web page or a specific place in a file immediately - to mark a Web page or a specific place in a file so that they can be found quickly
boot v., n.
- (~ up) to load the first piece of software when starting a computer - the act of loading the first piece of software when starting a computer
bot (also robot) n.
[C] a software app, e.g. a spider, that runs without human intervention to perform repetitive tasks on the Internet
Bots can be employed against ticketing sites to buy up as many good seats for a concert as possible.
browse v.
to use a software application to look for and read documents on the Internet that are written in HTML-code
During break time and at the end of the activity the children could browse the Internet while supervised.
browser n.
[C] a software application that is used to look for and read documents on the Internet
Once the resource has been retrieved on the Internet, the web browser will display it. * Web browser * Internet browser
buffer n., v.
- [C] a reserved area of memory where data can be stored for a short time - to store data in a reserved area of memory for a short time
bug (also glitch) n.
[C] an error in software or the chip layout that causes repeated malfunctions
Most bugs arise from mistakes made by people in either a program's source code or its design. * Y2k bug
built-in a.
included as part of an application and accessible by end-users
Most spreadsheet applications support a built-in SUM function that adds up all cells in a row or column.
bundle n., v.
- [C] software and/or services included with a new computer at no extra cost - to include computer software or services with a new computer at no extra cost
bus n.
[C] a set of wires through which data is transmitted from one part of a computer system to another
A bus has a clock speed measured in MHz. * A 16-bit bus transmits 16 bits of data at a time. * internal bus * data bus
business-to-business (B2B) a.
relating to business software that enables companies to exchange services, information or products online
The volume of B2B transactions is much higher than the volume of B2C transactions.
business-to-consumer (B2C) a.
relating to business software that enables companies and consumers to exchange services, information or products online
In a supply chain there is only one B2C transaction, the sale of the finished product to the end customer.
byte n.
[C] a unit of digital information that consists of 8 bits
Each character requires one byte of storage space.
cache n., v.
[C] a temporary high-speed storage area for copies of data that is often needed while a program is running
The computer first checks the internal cache. * internal (also: memory) cache * external (also: disk) cache
card n.
[C] the part inside a computer to which chips are attached, allowing the computer to do specific things
expansion card * graphics card* soundcard * videocard
capture v., n.
- to save a particular state of a program, esp. the information currently displayed - [C] the act of saving a particular state of program, esp. the info currently displayed
checker (also check) n.
[C] a software tool or online service that you use to check things, e.g. grammar and spelling
My mailing program doesn't have a built-in spell checker. * grammar checker * spell checker *link checker
checkout button n.
[C] a small square in a dialog box that you can click to leave a Web site
Please access the payment section by clicking on the checkout button.
chipset n.
[C] a group of integrated circuits (chips) that are used together to perform a specific function
My new chipset seems to be performing consistently slower than the older one. * chipset driver
client n.
[C] a workstation or a software program a personal computer, both of which rely on a server to perform certain tasks
How do you log in to a client workstation? client/server * thin client * fat client
clipboard n.
[C] a special memory area (buffer) which is used to transfer text or graphics within a document or between documents
When you paste a block of text, the word processor copies it from the clipboard to its final destination in the document.
cluster n., v.
- [C] a group of computers, connected together to improve computing power - to connect a group of computers together to improve computing power
code n., v.
- [U] written computer instructions - to write computer instructions
collaboration software (also groupware) n.
[U] software designed to help people to work together on a project with computers
We offer collaboration software to enable concurrent and distributed engineering on larger projects.
command n.
[C] an instruction given to the computer by means of keyboard, mouse or voice command
How do execute the startup command for this program? * command initiator * command receiver
compatible a.
(of software and hardware) (~ with) able to work together
Software must be compatible with the hardware it is used with. * fully backward compatible * forward compatible
compiler n.
[C] a computer program that translates a high-level programming language into machine code
The program fed into the compiler is called the source program.
compress v.
to code data in a format that takes up less space and is faster to transmit
Graphics can be compressed to 10 percent of their original size.
compression n.
[U] the act of coding data in a format that takes up less space and is faster to transmit
Compression can be applied to data files, images, audio, or video. * data compression
computer-aided a.
using computer systems as aids for special purposes
Computer-aided design (CAD) is used to design figures in 2- or 3-dimensional space. * computer-aided learning (CAL)
computer (also cyber) forensics n.
a branch of forensic science pertaining to legal evidence found in computers and digital storage media
Today cyber forensics is offered as courses at many colleges and universities worldwide.
computerize v.
to store in, to equip with or to control by means of computers
Our operations have been fully computerized.
computer-literate a.
being able to use a computer well
These days, all our students are computer-literate.
configuration n.
[C] the way a computer or network is set up to meet the user’s requirements, or the setup of the hard-/software components
I changed the configuration by resetting the parameters. * configuration management
configure v.
to set up a program or computer system for a particular use
A computer can be configured differently for different uses.
connect v.
(~ to) to link up a computer with the Internet or a computer network
The school is not connected to the Internet yet. * connect time
connectivity n.
[U] a program or device's ability to link with other programs and devices
Laptop computers, many of which have difficulty linking into a network, have poor connectivity.
convergence n.
[U] merging two or more disparate technologies by incorporating, for example, digicams and Web browsers into PDAs
There is increasing interaction and convergence between the Internet and mobile phones. * digital convergence
corrupt v.
to damage a computer file in such a way that the information in it is no longer correct
The new application seems to have corrupted the system files.
crack v.
to break into a computer system or to copy software illegally by breaking copy-protection and registration techniques
Some people claim that they can crack any password in five minutes.
crawler (also spider) n.
[C] a program that collects and indexes Web pages and the references linked to them
Crawlers are often deployed by search engines.
cursor n.
[C] a small mark that can be moved around a computer screen to show exactly where you are working
This key moves the cursor to the end of the line.
customize v.
to adapt a program or application to suit the needs of the owner
Our company will customize the software for you.
cyber prefix
related to the new things that have been made possible by computer systems or the Internet
cybercafé * cybercrime * cybershopping * cyberspace * cyberstalking * cyberterrorism
data mining n.
[U] the process of extracting hidden patterns from a group of data that can be used to predict future behaviour
New advances in data mining techniques are leading to deep web searches. * data mining
data transfer rate (DTR) n.
[C] the speed at which data can be transmitted from one device to another
Please note that a data transfer rate of at least 511 kbit/s is required to access the live broadcast.
data warehousing n.
the combination of many different databases which come from different parts of a business and which are stored together
Data warehousing functions prevent you from having to invest in additional business intelligence tools.
debug v.
to find and remove the errors in a computer program
If you get error messages here you have to debug the source code.
decompress (also expand) v.
to change a compressed file back to its original size
Do you know how to decompress this archived file?
decrypt v.
to change encrypted data back to its original form
The receiver uses his private key to decrypt the secure message.
default n, v.
- [U] an instruction assumed by a program if the user gives no other instructions - (of a program) to assume an instruction if the user gives no other instructions
defragment v.
to put all the parts of a file together in one location, which reduces the time the computer needs to load it into memory
I’m afraid I don’t know to defragment my hard drive.
desktop
[C] a computer screen which represents an office desktop and shows the icons of the programs ready for use
You can arrange the icons on the electronic desktop just like real objects on a real desktop. * desktop publishing
dial-up a.
using traditional copper telephone lines with analogue signals to connect a computer to a network
As dial-up access utilizes normal telephone lines, data rates are limited. * dial-up connection
dialogue (AmE also dialog) box n.
[C] a special window on a screen allowing the user to communicate with the computer by entering information or setting options
The parent window is sometimes frozen when the dialog box opens.
digit n.
[C] any number from 0 to 9
The binary system represents all numbers using only two digits: 1 and 0.
digital a.
using a series of the digits one and zero to receive and send information by means of an electronic signal that is either on or off
All data that a computer processes must be encoded digitally. * digital art * digital camera * digital certificate
digitize v.
to convert analogue information into a digital form that can be read and processed by a computer
Unpublished text documents are being digitized by libraries and archives.
directory (also folder) n.
[C] a virtual container used to organize other directories and files in a hierarchical structure
It’s impossible to read information from this directory. * root directory * source directory * subdirectory
disable v.
to turn off an optional software item, making it non-functional
When a check box doesn’t contain a checkmark, the function is "disabled," i.e. it is turned off and not active.
domain n.
[C] a part of the Internet that is owned by an organization or person, where they can upload files or access email
We will register the domain, if it has not already been registered for someone else. * domain name * top-level domain
down a.
(of a computer or computer system) not working and not ready for use
Either there are network problems or the server is down for maintenance. * downtime
download v., n.
- to transfer data from a server to your computer - [C] the data transferred from a server to your computer
drive n.
[C] a hardware device that reads and writes information on disks, CDs or tapes
A disk drive rotates the disk very fast and has one or more heads. * hard drive * portable hard drive
driver (also device driver) n.
[C] software that allows an operating system to communicate with a hardware or peripheral device
You may need to load a new driver when you connect the device to your computer. * printer driver * keyboard driver
e prefix
related to something that is done on or involves the Internet
e-book * e-business * e-commerce * email * e-tailer
embed v.
to insert an object into a file or an Internet page in such a way that it is no longer linked to the source document
Why don’t you embed this YouTube video in your blog?
emulation n.
[U] the ability of one computer to work in the same way as another computer; e.g. an Apple computer acting like a PC
The efficient wafer operation provides for optimal emulation of third party software.
enable v.
to turn on an optional software item to make it functional
Please put a check in the box to enable the spell checker.
encrypt v.
to put data in a secret code so that only someone with the right key can read it
Sensitive banking data is encrypted before being sent to another subsidiary.
encryption n.
[U] the act of putting data in a secret code so it is unreadable except by authorized users
We use state-of-the-art 128-bit encryption whenever you make a deposit with us.
engine n.
a program or service on the Internet that allows users to search for files and information
Google has long established itself as the search engine of choice.
enterprise resource planning (ERP) n.
[U] a system to manage all the information and functions of a business or company from shared data stores
Resource optimization through the use of ERP software has boomed in recent years.
error message n.
[C] a message that communicates to the user that the computer cannot carry out an instruction, or there is some other problem
You’ll have to call our hotline if you get that error message again.
execute v.
to make a program or command happen or work
Our home computer failed to execute the last series of updates. * to execute a program * to execute a command
expandable a.
relating to a compressed file that can be returned to its original size
It’ll take hours to get these expandable files running again.
expert system n.
[C] a computer system that is programmed to imitate the problem-solving procedures that a human expert makes
The success of an expert system depends on the quality of the data provided to the computer.
field n.
[C] a specified area, within a database record, used for a particular category or item, for example, Name, City, Zip Code
A field may have a specific number of characters or may vary.
file n.
[C] a block of information in the form of bytes, stored together on a computer or external storage device, and given a name
If the file is protected by a password, you are asked to enter this password. * file name * file share site * file server;
firewall n.
[C] a system or combination of systems that enforces a boundary between the Internet and another network/workstation
Please check whether or not you have a firewall installed and, if so, whether it may be blocking access to the portal.
flash n.
a solid-state, non-volatile, rewritable memory that functions like a combination of RAM and ROM
Flash memory cards are small and used in PDAs, digital cameras, cell phones, printers, etc. * flash drive * flash memory.
format n., v.
- [C] the way in which information is stored or held to be worked on by computers - to organize the space on a disk or the layout of a file in a particular way
fragmentation n.
[U] breaking a file into parts to store the data in whatever disk areas are available
In computer storage, fragmentation is a phenomenon in which storage space is used inefficiently.
fuzzy a.
(of a computer program or system) designed to deal with data which is imprecise or has uncertain boundaries
A fuzzy search can be useful when the user is not sure of the spelling. * fuzzy logic * fuzzy technology
gateway n.
a hardware or software setup that provides access to other systems or networks with differing protocols
Prodigy has a gateway that translates between its internal e-mail format and the Internet. * a gateway to the Internet
grid computing n.
[U] applying the resources of many computers in a network to solve or work on the same problem simultaneously
Grid computing can be used for very large tasks that require an enormous amount of computing power.
hack v.
to use ingenuity and creativity to solve computer programming problems or to overcome the limitations of a system
Last week he hacked into the company's central database.
hand-held a.
relating to electronic devices that have been designed so that they can be held and used easily with one or two hands
Hand-held scanners are less expensive than desktop scanners, but require a steady hand to get a clear image.
hands-free a.
relating to electronic devices that are mostly without touch
Hands-free wireless phones allow users to talk and listen to calls without holding the phone against their head.
headset n.
[C] a headphone combined with a microphone
Headsets provide the equivalent functionality of a telephone handset with hands-free operation.
help desk n.
[C] the place in a network or organisation where users ask questions or report problems with hardware or software
The help desk operators provide help directly or pass requests on to technical support staff. * help desk technician
high-end a.
relating to the highest level of development of a device, usually implying premium price
High-end computers today will be largely obsolete in two years.
high-speed a.
relating to the transmission of data at high speeds over ordinary copper telephone wires or fibre wires
Most multi-user gaming events require high-speed networks.
home page n.
[C] the main page of a Web site to which the others are linked
The landing page from a Google search may not always be the home page.
host n., v.
- [C] the main computer in a network that provides facilities to other computers - to provide facilities to other computers in the same network
hotspot n.
[C] a wireless LAN access point or a spot in a website that contains a hyperlink
Most users find hotspots by mining the screen with roll-over. * wireless hotspot
hub n.
a central device that connects several computers together or several networks together
A passive hub may simply forward messages; an active hub amplifies or refreshes the stream of data.
hyper prefix
beyond the usual size or limits
hyperlink * hypermedia * hypertext
identity theft n.
[U] a form of Internet fraud that involves someone pretending to be someone else in order to steal money or gain other benefits
Identity theft is a major concern for online security.
icon n.
[C] a small picture on the screen which represents a computer application, a file etc.
Files and programs have icons which open when the user double-clicks on the icon.
information (super-) highway n.
[C, usually sing.] the use of the internet as a means to connect sources of information worldwide
The information superhighway, once a dream, is now threatening us with overflowing traffic.
intelligent agent n.
[C] a computer utility program that uses AI to perform tasks such as retrieving and delivering information
Intelligent agents are capable of autonomous action when searching through your email program.
interactive a.
relating to computer programs that accept input from the user while they are running
The opposite of interactive processing is batch p., where all the commands are given before the program starts to run.
interconnected a.
relating to a system of mutually linked devices or systems
Creating a system of interconnected devices is the next great challenge.
interface n.
[C] a shared boundary or common point for interaction between hardware and hardware or between a human and a computer
The user-friendly interface is combined with a set of algorithms. * graphical user interface * virtual interface
intrusion n.
[C] any set of actions that attempt to undermine the integrity, confidentiality or availability of a resource.
Intrusion detection has become a lucrative sector of IT security. * Intrusion Detection System (IDS).
Internet Protocol (IP) n.
[C] a part of TCP/IP, which is used to route a data packet from its source to its destination over the Internet
The system is protected by https, a secure internet protocol. * IP address * Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP)
kernel n.
[C] the essential part of a program or operating system that performs the basic functions
My new netbook runs on a Linux kernel.
log in (also on) v.
to access a computer system, often by means of a password
You need a password to log on to your home page.
log off (also out) v.
to perform the routine to finish using a computer system
You’ve got to log out before switching the computer off.
low-end a.
relating to a basic level of development of a device, usually implying a cheap price
Many users are happy with low-end computers that offer data processing and internet access.
magnetic stripe card n.
[C] a type of card which stores data by modifying the magnetism on a band of magnetic material.
Magnetic stripe cards are commonly used in credit cards, identity cards, and transportation tickets.
mainframe n.
[C] a large and powerful computer that can support hundreds, or even thousands, of users at the same time
Their mainframe computer is located in an air-cooled bunker below the earth.
markup language n.
[C] a language that has codes for indicating the layout and styling of a file, such as italics, paragraphs, insertion of graphics
Exact instructions for a markup language have to be followed.
mash-up n, mash up v.
- [C] a web page made by mixing and matching content from other sources - to automatically mix and match content from other sources on one’s web page
media player n.
[C] application software for playing multimedia files, including both audio and video files
The current market for media players has been captured by RealPlayer.
memory n.
[C] he working space used by the computer to hold the program that is currently running, along with the data it needs
The information is then stored in the computer's memory. * read only memory (ROM) * random access memory (RAM)
memory stick n.
[C] a removable device with a flash memory card format
Insert the memory stick into a USB port of your PC and copy the file onto the memory stick.
merge v.
to combine two files in such a way that the resulting file has the same organization as the two original files
This is a tool for comparing and merging files and folders. * mail merge * print merge
micro prefix
extremely small
microchip * microcomputer * micro–electronics * microprocessor
modem n.
a device for transmitting data over a telephone line, which converts analogue signals to digital signals and vice versa
To enable you to surf the internet, your computer has to set up a connection via the modem.
motherboard n.
[C] the main circuit board that everything plugs into and that contains the CPU, the busses, memory sockets, etc.
Additional boards, called daughter boards, can be plugged into the motherboard.
multi prefix
many or much, more than one
multimedia * multi-player * multitasking
nano prefix
indicating extreme smallness: one billionth part of a unit
nanobot * nanocomputer * nanotechnology
net suffix
related to the Internet
Ethernet * extranet * Internet * intranet
netiquette n.
[U] the rules of correct or polite behaviour for the Internet, especially in forums and chatrooms
‘No Flaming’ is the most commonly breached rule of netiquette.
netizen n.
[C] someone who uses the Internet frequently and in a responsible way
Many netizens face a crack down at the hands of the authorities who see their internet activities as dangerous dissent.
network n.
[C] a group of interconnected computers, including the hardware and software used to connect them
The office network allows users to share files and to use a central printer.* local area network (LAN)
neural a.
(of a computers) able to "learn" from experience, used in applications such as speech recognition and medical diagnosis
The bank is using neural networks to assess credit risks.* neural network * neural computer
newsgroup n.
[C] a discussion group on the Internet which is focused on a particular topic
There are thousands of newsgroups on different subjects.
nickname n.
[C] a pseudonym users give themselves, either to protect their identity or to create an online presence
Everyone in this newsgroup goes by several nicknames.
node n.
[C] an interconnection point on a computer network where numerous lines come together at the same switch
Intrusions are often attempted at a network’s most vulnerable node.
object-oriented a.
related to an approach to programming in which each data item with the operations used on it is designated as an object
To perform object-oriented programming, one needs an object-oriented programming language like Java or C++.
offline a.
not connected to the computer and not turned on; or not connected to a computer network or the Internet
Our computers are offline for one hour each day.
ontology n.
[C] a model for describing the world that consists of a objects or concepts, their properties and their relationships
The essential knowledge about the domain will be made available to the agents by means of an ontology.
operating system n.
[C] the main control program of a computer that schedules tasks, manages storage, and handles peripherals
The application is running under a full, general-purpose operating system.
packet n.
[C] a piece of a message that is formatted for transmission on a network and includes its source and destination in the header
The data packets related to a message are reassembled once they have arrived at their destination. * packet switching
password n.
[C] a secret sequence of letters and other symbols for authentication to log into a computer system
When a user enters a password, it appears as a line of asterisks ******* so no one can read it.
patch v., n.
- to insert code into a computer program to fix or modify it in some way - [C] the code inserted into a computer program to fix or modify it in some way
path n.
[C] the exact directions to a file on a computer, usually described by means of the hierarchical filing system
Once again, I forgot to print the path on my document and can’t find it anymore.
personal digital assistant (PDA) n.
[C] an kind of handheld and palm-sized PC, electronic organizer, smartphone, or pager
PDAs can usually store phone numbers, appointments, and to-do lists.
peer n.
[C] a computer in a communications network where any computer on the network can be a client and/or server
Any computer can access files on any other computer in a peer-to-peer network. * peer-to-peer (P2P)
peripheral n.
[C] any piece of hardware connected to a computer, or any part of the computer outside the CPU and working memory
Adding extra servers, peripherals or users can be trivial, but this gets much harder as the network grows.
phishing n.
[U] the practice of tricking a user into giving away personal information into a fake form on the Internet
The program can be used to block malicious phishing and virus-infected webpages.
piracy n.
[U] the unauthorized copying of copyrighted software or media for personal or commercial use.
Piracy has become a serious issue for the entertainment industry. * Internet piracy
platform n.
the hardware and/or operating system on which a program runs
The platform used is an Intel yy processor running DOS version xx.
podcast n., v.
- [C] a radio-style show that is downloaded in MP-3 or video format - to upload a radio-style show in MP-3 or video format
pointer n.
[C] a symbol displayed on the computer screen that is moved by means of a mouse, stylus, trackball, etc.
The pointer can be used to locate a specific point or object on the screen, to select and move objects, etc.
port n., v.
- [C] a place on a computer to connect sth or an endpoint to a logical connection - to move software from one computer system to another
portal n.
[C] a site that is intended to be the point of entry to the Web
Decision makers are choosing our portal as their favourite source of online information. * Internet portal * Web portal
post n., v.
- a message sent to an Internet discussion group for all the group members to read - to put a message or computer file on the Internet so that other people can see it
printer n.
[C] a peripheral that prints text or illustrations on paper; essential to have if you want a hard copy of your work
There are four types of printers on the market: dot matrix, inkjet, bubble jet and laser.
printout (also: hard copy) n.
[C] a printed version of text or data from a computer
Printouts contradict the notion of a paperless office.
processor (also Central Processing Unit or CPU) n.
[C] the central part of a computer system that controls the interpretation and execution of instructions
The work to be handled by the processor is shared across all the cores.
programmable a.
able to accept instructions for automatic operation or computer processing
Properly using a programmable thermostat in your home is one of the easiest ways to save energy?
proprietary (also closed) a.
relating to a product which is privately owned and controlled; in the computer industry, proprietary is the opposite of open
Do you have the proprietary rights to the data? * proprietary software
quantum computing n.
[U] applying the principles of quantum mechanics to computer technology to make computers of the future much faster
Quantum computing is not well suited for tasks such as word processing and email.
query n., v.
- [C] a request for information from a database - to request information from a database
radio frequency identification (RFID) n.
[U] the use of an object (RFID tag) applied to or incorporated into a product or person for identification using radio waves
RFID systems can be used just about anywhere, from clothing tags to missiles. * RFID tag
real-time a.
relating to changing data that is processed fast enough to control its source; or referring to events simulated in real-life speed.
They developed a real-time missile guidance system for the defence industry.
reboot v., n.
- to restart a computer - [C] the act of restarting a computer
recognition n.
[U] the process by which an electronic device recognizes acoustic or printed or written letters or numbers.
He developed software for the recognition of receipts. * optical character recognition (OCR) * speech recognition
record n.
[C] in a database, a group of fields that make up one complete entry
A record about a customer might contain fields for name, address, telephone, etc.
recovery n.
[U] the restoration of corrupted data resulting from damaged disks, viruses, power spikes, and other problems
This program improves backup and recovery of critical data. * disaster recovery * file recovery program
refresh (also reload) v.
to update the screen with new data that has arrived since you first began looking at it
Display monitors must be refreshed many times per second. * refresh rate * refresh button
retrieve v.
to find and bring back stored data, so that it can be displayed on the screen and processed
Computers are used to store and retrieve information efficiently.
rewritable a.
able to be rewritten many times; for example, storage media such as optical disks and magnetic tapes
Most people choose to burn the file on a rewritable CD ("CD-RW") * rewritable optical disc
rip v.
(~ to) to convert and copy sounds or pictures from a DVD or CD onto a computer
How do I rip a DVD movie to my hard drive?
router n.
[C] a device that sends data packets through networks; located at gateways, where two or more networks connect
Do I as need to install a hardware router, or is software protection enough? * to configure a router
run v.
- to operate or execute a program - (of a program) to be executed
scan v.
(~ into) to pass light over a picture or document in order to copy and store it in the memory of a computer
How do I scan a photo and attach it to an email? Can you scan the text into the computer?
screen n.
[C] a flat surface in a cinema, on a television or a computer system on which pictures or words are shown
Write the letter on the computer to make changes easily on screen. * screen saver * screen shot * touch screen
script n.
[C] a series of commands that can be executed without user interaction
Did an error in the script cause the malfunction?
seamless a.
relating to sth done so smoothly that you cannot tell where one thing stops and the next begins
The seamless integration of data, text, images and sound is enabled. * seamless IT infrastructure
searchable a.
(of computer files and database) containing information organized in such way that it can be found using a computer
The CD contains 200 fully searchable film clips. * a searchable database
semiconductor n.
[C] a material like silicon, which partially allows electricity to move through it, or an electronic device made from this material
Semiconductors make it possible to miniaturize electronic components, such as transistors.
serial a.
designed to transfer data sequentially, i.e. one data bit after another
Average serial cables become unreliable after the first 3 to 4 meters. * serial number * serial port
server n.
[C] a software program that controls or supplies information to several clients connected in a network
Cookies contain information that is sent back to the server the next time you visit it online. * proxy server * mail server
sideload v.
referring to the process of transferring data between two local devices, especially between a computer and a mobile device
The launch of Apple’s iTunes store brought sideloading to the masses.
simulation n.
[C] imitating a real phenomenon with a set of mathematical formulas; for example weather conditions or chemical reactions
Simulations are also used to test new theories. * real-time simulation
snail mail n.
[C] regular postal service mail, which is slower than electronic mail
For customers there are monthly lists with new releases and special offers, sent by snail mail or e-mail.
source code n.
[C] the original form in which a computer program is written before it is translated into machine code
Source code is the only program format that is readable by humans. * open-source
spam n.
- [U] the electronic equivalent of junk mail, often advertising material - to send the same message to many different people over the Internet
spreadsheet n.
[C] an application that is used to perform automatic calculations on changing data
Each location in a spreadsheet is called a cell, and each cell has a number, such as A3, B4, etc.
standalone n.
[C] a computer that works on its own without being part of a network
The various applications are architecturally autonomous and can also be used separately as standalone solutions.
storage n.
[U] the process of placing, holding and retrieving data on a computer
I have the rights of reproduction and storage. * storage device * data storage * storage and retrieval of information
stream v., n.
- to play sound or video on your computer while it is being downloaded from the net - the file played on your computer while it is being downloaded from the net
stylus n.
[C] a pen-like pointing and writing device for the screens on handheld computers
Using a stylus, you can navigate the menu by touching icons on the screen.
surf v.
to navigate through cyberspace like a surfer riding the top of a wave
The new open-source operating system would primarily make it easier to surf the Internet * to surf the Web
swipe v.
to move a card with information stored on a magnetic stripe through a device to read this information
The cash register only opens once the card has been swiped.
synchronization (also sync or synch) n.
[U] harmonizing a single set of data between two or more devices, automatically copying changes back and forth
The network facilitates fail-proof synchronization of the databases in both computer centres. * in sync * out of sync
tablet n.
[C] a device for entering drawings, sketches or handwriting into a computer by means of an LCD screen and a stylus
They are capturing now signatures on the display of a tablet. * graphics tablet * digitizing tablet * tablet PC
tag n., v.
- [C] an indication of command beginnings and endings or a file formatting command - to mark a section of a file with a formatting command
tele prefix
relating to long distance
telecommunications * telecommuter * teleconferencing * teletext * teleworking
terminal n.
a piece of equipment, consisting of at least a keyboard and a screen that joins a user to the central computer network
This connectivity option is suitable for participants who already have a Bloomberg terminal.
thumbnail n.
[C] a miniature display on a computer screen which shows you what a larger picture will look
Please click on the thumbnail to view a larger version of the image.
tool n.
[C] a small helper program that performs a specific non-routine task, such as adding a graphic
The collaboration tool supports this exchange of information. * toolbar
topology n.
[C] a map or plan showing the arrangement and interlinking of computers in a network
What’s the network topology that a potential client will reside in? * bus topology * ring topology * star topology
transmit v.
to send data from one point to another by means of radio waves or along a transmission line
Dial-up modems utilize traditional copper phone lines to transmit analogue signals. * to transmit data
transmission n.
[C] sending data from one point to another by means of radio waves or along a transmission line
The company markets fibre optic capacity for the transmission of data. * (a-)synchronous transmission
trojan horse n.
[C] a destructive program that masquerades as a benign application containing additional hidden code
Using social engineering techniques, the Trojan horse could be disguised as a game or a handy new utility.
troubleshoot v.
to isolate the source of a problem which is suspected to be hardware-related and fix it
Your hardware manufacturer will troubleshoot any driver installation problems.
unauthorized a.
trying to access a network or a computer without the official permission
Can we prevent any unauthorized access from other people or software programs?
unformatted a.
relating to a disk or a file which is not ready for use and unorganized
Unformatted text can be created using Notepad. * an unformatted disk
uninstall v.
to remove an application from a computer by removing all the files that were added when the application was initially installed
Before you install the new version, you must first uninstall your current version.
uninterruptible power supply (UPS) n.
[C] a power supply that includes a battery to maintain power in case of a power failure
A built-in uninterruptable power supply (UPS) and an automatic backup function ensure that data is not lost.
up a.
(of a computer or computer system) working and ready for use
My new computer is finally up and running properly. * uptime
update v., n.
- to change or add to the data in a file in order to make the data current - [C] a change or addition to a file so that it has the most recent information
upgrade v., n.
- to install or make a new and presumably better version of hardware or software - [C] a newer, presumably better, version of hardware or software
upload v., n.
- to transfer data from your computer to a server - [C] the data transferred from your computer to a server
username n.
[C] an individual name used to gain access to a computer system, also part of an email address before the @ symbol
Usernames, and often passwords, are required in multi-user systems.
utility n.
[C] a small helper program that performs a specific routine task, such as examining or copying files
Open the utility for decompressing files, select the compressed, and specify where you want to save it.
virtual a.
existing on a computer or on the Internet, rather than in the real world
We tested the control measures in virtual form before implementing them in practice. virtual office * virtual reality
volatile a.
relating to memory or storage devices that lose their content when the power is shut off
The main memory (RAM) of the computer is volatile memory. * non-volatile memory * volatile storage
ware combining form
relating to computer programs and devices
adware * freeware * groupware * hardware * malware * shareware * software * spyware
watermark n.
[C] a unique inaudible code inserted into a digital file that identifies the owner or the first person who legally purchased the file
Do you want to protect your audio files with a watermark?
wiki n.
[C] a collaborative construction engine on the Web which allows any user to add and edit content
How can I put links to other pages in my own wiki entry? * Wikipedia
wild card n.
[C] a symbol that can represent any single or group of numbers or letters in operating systems and applications
Wild card characters can be included if similar words should be looked for within the same search.
window n.
[C] a subdivision of a computer display screen, each of which can run a different program or display different data
In a graphical interface, windows can be opened, closed, and moved around on the screen. * active window
wireframe n.
[C] a computer visualization of a three-dimensional image showing the outlines of all edges in a transparent drawing
The output consists of a wireframe structure that can be imported directly into the program.
wireless a.
relating to any computer network where there is no physical wired connection between sender and receiver
The wireless network consists of several access points and is available throughout the building. * wireless hotspot
wizard n.
[C] a tool within an application that helps you use the application by giving you a series of simple choices
A letter wizard within a word processing application leads you through the steps of producing an appropriate letter.
word processor n.
[C] a program or computer that you use for writing letters and other documents
WordStar was the first commercially successful word processing software program produced for microcomputers.
World Wide Web (also web) n.
[C] a part of the Internet, featuring a combination of information retrieval and hypertext techniques
The information was subsequently prepared for publication on the web. * webmaster * web page * website
workstation n.
[C] a terminal or personal computer for one person to work at
Journalists are entitled to all the necessary information and a workstation in the press room.
worm n.
[C] a program that can make copies of itself and destroy information on computers that are connected to each other
What if my computer gets infected by a virus or worm?