3270- The communications protocol for interactive terminals connected to IBM mainframe computers.

ABEND (Abnormal END)- A condition that occurs when the computer is presented with instructions or data it cannot recognize; also called a crash or bomb. 

abort- To interrupt and halt the execution of a computer program. 

access- To retrieve information from memory. 

access methods- Software routines which are part of the operating system or network control programs that store actual storing and receiving of data; includes tape , disk, and communications access methods. 

access time- Time required to retrieve information from memory. The access time for data in main memory is much faster than from a mass memory storage medium such as a disk or tape. 

accumulator- A register inside the CPU that holds results arithmetic operations. 

ACK (ACKnowledgement Code)- A communications code sent from the receiving station to the transmitting station to acknowledge it is ready to receive data. Contrast with NAK (Negative ACKnowledgement). 

acoustic coupler- Device which enables a computer to communicate over a telephone line using a standard telephone receiver. It converts digital computer messages into the audible tones used in telephone communications and vice versa.

address- Name or number that identified a particular storage location in memory. 

algorithm- A list of exact steps to perform a specific calculation or programming problem. A precise description of the solution to a problem. 

alphanumeric- Category of characters including letters and numbers. Sometimes also includes punctuation marks and standard typewriter symbols such as $, %, &, etc. 

ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit)- The part of the computer's CPU which actually performs arithmetic and logic operations. 

analog computer- Operates by measuring variable levels of physical quantities, such as sound, temperature, current, motion, etc., then assigning them a numerical value (contrast with digital computer). 

ANSI (American National Standards Institute)- A non-profit institution which establishes standards for computer information processing. The ASCII code is published by ANSI (see ASCII). 

append- Adding data to the end of an existing file. 

application package - A software package from a software vendor that is created for a specific purpose, function, or industry. 

applications program- Programs designed for the end user to perform specific tasks. 

argument- A value that is passed between programs, subroutines, or functions. 

arithmetic functions- As an optional feature, a system can provide accumulators to perform various arithmetic functions. The accumulator is used to provide intermediate storage, to form algebraic sums, and to generate fields from stored quantities. Accumulator contents, comprised of keyed entries or numeric constants, can be used as operandi in computations defined by the arithmetic operators provided by system. 

arithmetic logic unit (ALU)- The element which performs the basic arithmetic and logical manipulations in the central processor. 

array- A collection of memory locations stored in an orderly arrangement. A one-dimensional array could be a list of the days of the week (i.e., day 1= Monday, day 2= Tuesday). A two-dimensional array could be a table representing the days of the year, identified, by the month and date (e.g., day 2,1= February 1, day 3,5= March 5). 

artificial intelligence- Computer programs designed to simulate human-like intuitive reasoning and communicate in human language. 

ASCII- American Standard Code for Information Interchange. The most common standard for the characters and code used to record information in a computer memory (see ANSI). 

assembler- A program that converts instructions from assembly language to machine language. 

assembly language- A programming language that is one step away from machine language with symbolic or mnemonic statement representation of the instructions and data. 

asynchronous- Sending information over a communication line in individual pieces, without any set time schedule. Additional signals must be sent to inform the receiving device that specific data has been transmitted. Generally used in low speed communications (see synchronous). 

AUTOEXEC.BAT- A Microsoft DOS file that is executed immediately when the computer is started (booted). The file can initialize operating system settings, load RAM resident programs and/or automatically call in a specific application program. 

automation- The replacement of manual operations by computerized methods.

auxiliary storage- See mass memory. 

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background- A process that is taking place in the computer that is not interactive or visible on the screen. 

backplane- The back side of a panel which contains wires or printed circuits for interconnecting a series of plug-in printed circuit boards on the other side. 

backup- Making a spare copy of computer files or programs on diskette or tape. A regular backup schedule helps prevent loss of vital data due to a computer malfunction. 

bar code- A specialized code used for fast identification of items with an optical scanner. 

BASIC (Beginner's All-Purpose Symbolic Instruction Code)- The most widely used language for microcomputers because it uses standard English words and is relatively easy to learn. It was developed at Dartmouth University to be used for teaching programming in schools. 

batch- Group of related records keyed from source; must be identified in data entry by a unique batch name.

batch balancing- A feature to provide balancing of batches; if an out of balance occurs, it must be corrected and an update function must be performed. 

batch mode- Method of handling computer operations by grouping them into batches before execution. 

batch processing- The processing of a group of transactions at one time. Contrast with transaction processing. 

baud- Generally measured as bits per second. A measurement of the speed of the transmission over a communication line. Named after Baudot, a pioneer of telegraphic communication. 

benchmark- A test of performance of a computer or peripheral device using an actual set of programs and data files. 

bench test (or benchmark test)- Used to measure and compare product performance and speed under equal conditions. 

beta test- A test of hardware and software performed by users under normal conditions. 

bi-directional printer- Can print in both directions on a page. It is faster than a printer which can only print from left to right. 

binary- Number system with only two digits (0 and 1). Computers store information and instructions in binary code (see bit). 

BISYNC- Binary synchronous communications protocol. 

bit- Contraction of "binary digit," the smallest unit of computer memory. A bit has a value of 0 or 1, which represents the "on" or "off" state of an electrical switch. A combination of 8 bits equals a byte. 

black box- Slang term used to describe any piece of computer equipment whose inner workings are beyond the understanding of the user, who is only concerned with input and output. 

boot or bootstrap load- To load the initial instructions which get a computer system up and running. The name was derived from the idea of a computer pulling itself by its own bootstraps. A "cold boot" is performed when the computer's power is turned on. A "warm boot" occurs as a reset command performed by the operator. Many modern microcomputers have a bootstrap loader in ROM, so they automatically boot themselves up when the power is turned on (see ROM). 

bpi (Bits per inch)- Used to specify the density recorded on tape or disk. 

bps (bits per second)- Unit of measurement for the speed of communications transmission (see baud). 

branch- A program instruction which causes a transfer of control to another program sequence. 

buffer- A group of switches that holds data tempo rarity until it can be transmitted or processed. Since a computer sends information much faster than a printer can print it, a buffer must be provided between these two devices. Many computers also have keyboard buffers, so the operator can keep on typing while the computer is momentarily occupied with another task. In order to avoid loss of input data, it is important for the user to know how many characters will be held in this buffer. 

bug- An error in a computer program, or a computer hardware problem. 

bundled/unbundled- Bundled describes a computer system hardware and software, that is sold for a single price; unbundled systems have separate for each system component. 

bus- A pathway that carries information back and forth in a computer system. A wiring harness similar to an electrical plug-in. 

byte- Combination of eight bits. Each type represents one character in memory. 

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C:- A high-level programming language developed by Bell Laboratories. 

cache memory- A reserved section of main memory or a separate bank of high speed memory that is used to improve computer performance. 

CAD (Computer Aided Design)- The use of computers for designing consumer and industrial products; includes an assortment of software packages and input devices. 

CAI (Computer Assisted Instruction)- The use of computers in education and training. 

call- A programming statement that references an independent subroutine or another program. 

CGI (Computer Graphics Interface)- A standard format for writing graphic drivers, a set of instructions that activates a graphics device. 

chain- Running a program by executing it from within another program. Performing a set of operations in sequence; automatically calling one format after another. 

character- Letter, digit, punctuation mark, or other symbol. In microcomputers, each character is represented by one byte (see byte). 

character set- The collection of characters available for display or processing on a particular computer or peripheral. 

check digit/modules- Check digits (an optional feature of the system) enable error detection by calculating a redundant digit for a group of digits. When used with an identification number (e.g., account numbers, etc.), the check digit provides a means of detecting invalid numbers. Most systems permit the use two standard check-digit (modulus 10 and modulus 11). The system permits both alphabetic and numeric characters in this check-digit calculation or verification can be performed by the system. 

chip- Tiny wafer of silicon covered with thousands of miniature electrical circuits. Slang term for integrated circuit. Modern chip technology is referred to as large integration. A chip which contains all the components of a CPU is called a microprocessor (see CPU). 

circuit- A conductor of system of conductors to route the flow of electrical current. 

clipboard- Reserved memory for holding data that has been copied from one text or graphics for insertion into another. 

clock rate- Refers to the rate at which bits are transmitted form one location to another in the CPU. A computer with a clock rate of 1 MHZ would transmit one million bits per second. 

COBOL (Common Business Oriented Language)- A program designed for information processing. It is the most widely used high-level language for mini-computer and mainframe business applications. 

coding- Writing computer instructions in a programming language. 

command- 1)an electronic signal to start a computer operation; 2)the instruction word which identifies the operation to be performed. 

COMMAND.COM- A command processor for Microsoft operating systems (DOS and OS/2) which creates the user interface for screen prompts and execution of commands. 

command language- A special purpose language that accepts a limited number of commands such as a query language or job control language (JCL). 

compiler- A program that translates instructions from a high-level language into machine language. It compiles the entire program before beginning execution (contrast with interpreter). A compiler executes a program faster than an interpreter. 

computer- A machine that receives and processes information in a programable way and displays the results produced (see also analog computer, digital computer).

computer literacy- An understanding, working knowledge of computers and information systems.

computer system- The complete assembly, hardware and software, with CPU, a memory, 1/0 and any devices or peripherals.

CONFIG.SYS- An instruction file for Microsoft operating systems (DOS and OS/2) that is executed when the system is booted or rebooted. It allows the operating system to be customized to a particular environment.

configuration- A computer system or communications network with all inter-relater components.

console- The terminal that has the most control in a computer system.

constant- Data with fixed values.

control key- A special function key, used in a conjunction wit another key, to command the computer.

control unit- The part of the CPU that interprets coded instructions and directs the sequence of operations.

converter- A device that converts one set of codes, modes , or sequences to another.

core memory- Old fashioned form of memory storage made up of magnetic iron donut-shaped rings, about 1mm in diameter, strung on wires.

CP/M (Control Program for Microprocessors)- A widely used disk operating system development for microcomputers by Digital Research, Inc. (see operating system).

cps (characters per second)- Unit of measurement for the speed of printers.

CPU (Central Processing Unit)- The brains of a computer. It consists of a computer. It consists of a control unit, a timing device, an arithmetic logic unit, and generally a small amount of primary memory storage. A microprocessor is a CPU on chip.

crash- When a computer device stops working abruptly due to a serious malfunction, which often results in loss of data. A disk crash occurs when a read/write head comes into violent contact with the disk (see disk drive).

crossfoot- A numerical error checking technique that compares the sum of the columns with the sum of the rows.

CRT (Cathode Ray Tube)- A video screen used to display computer information. Sometimes called a VDT (visual display terminal) or VDU (visual display unit). A CRT connected to keyboard is called a CRT terminal.

CTS (clear to send)- An RS-232C standard control line from the modem indicating the carrier is present and data may be sent.

cursor- A lighted symbol on a CRT screen to indicate where the next characters will be displayed; a positional market located on the keystation screen.

cursor keys- A special set of keys that are used to control the position of the cursor on the screen; includes the directional keys (left, right, up, down), HOME, END, PAGE Up and PAGE DOWN.

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data- General term used to describe all kinds of information which can be processed by a computer.

data base- Or data bank. The entire collection of all data stored in a computer system.

data center- The computer operations department where the computers are physically located and managed.

data entry- Method of utilizing computers which permits the entry and verification of data into the system, in addition to allowing selective searching, auditing , and updating of data within the system.

data flow- The path of data from the original source to the final desired output.

data output- The transfer of data from the system to a system peripheral device or a data processing system.

data processing (DP)- Generic term for handling information by any means. Generally refers to automatic equipment and computers.

data set- A device which converts signals of a business of a business machine for transmission of communication lines. It may also perform other related functions. Synonymous with modem.

data-transfer rate- The rate of transfer of data from one place to another such as from disk to memory or from memory to memory.

DBMS (Data Base Management System)- General mechanism for systematic storage and retrieval of data from a data base.

debug- Find and correct errors in a computer programer malfunctions in the hardware.

debugger- A software program that aids in debugging a program.

decimal- The numbering system in which each digit in a decimal can hold up to 10 before the value is carried over to the next position on the left.

dedicated- Computers or programs designed for full-time sue to perform a specific task. A dedicated word processor , for example , is designed to handle only word processing tasks.

delete- A method used to eliminate erroneous or unwanted data.

demand mode- Method of handling computer operations by executing each command immediately.

density- Refers to the amount of information stored in a specific amount of space on the surface of a disk.

desktop publishing- A graphics based software package which merges text and graphics to produce high-quality camera read output.

diagnostics- Routines designed to locate a computer malfunction.

dial-up- Computer communications through ordinary telephone lines; initiated by dialing a phone number.

digit- A single character in a numbering system.

digital computer- Operates by recording "on" or "off" state of electrical switches, then assigning a binary digit to that switch (0=off, 1=on). All information is processed by recording these binary numbers (contrast with analog computer).

DIP (Dual In-Line Package)- Houses and protects a chip, which is very fragile. The DIP has a row of pins on each side to enable it to be plugged into a circuit board.

directory- The table of contents of a computer file system, designed to allow convenient access to specific files.

disk- A flat circular piece of plastic similar to a phonograph record. Information is stored in magnetic tracks on the surface of the disk. The disk is housed in a protective jacket or case. Keystation information in data entry is stored on disks, which contain format , batches , tables and other software programs.

disk drive- A mechanical device into which a disk is inserted in order to transfer and record information. It has a motor for spinning the disk and read/write heads for transferring data.

diskette- Small disk, usually 3.5, 5.25 or 8 inches in diameter, also called floppy disk or "floppy".

distributed processing- A system of computers, connected via a communications network, that provide the capability of local or source data processing.

DMA (Direct Memory Access)- The method used to provide high-speed data transfers between a peripheral and main memory. Data is exchanged at maximum memory speed.

do-loop- A construction of high- level language in which a segment of a program is executed repeatedly until a certain condition is met.

document- In data entry, a form that has been filled in for the entry and transcription of data. IN word processing, a document is a text file.

documentation- A narrative, graphical description of a system including operating procedures, system and technical documentation.

DOS (Disk Operating System)- An operating system whose main secondary storage medium is disk.

dot matrix printer- Forms characters by striking a ribbon with dot-like projections on a print head. The quality of the characters produced depends on number of dots in the matrix. More dots = more finely formed characters.

downtime- Period of time while a computer is not functioning.

dumb terminal- A terminal that does not possess any data processing "brains", but acts as an input/output device.

dump- 1)to withdraw all power from the computer; 2) to transfer all memory contents from one location to another; 3) to output contents of memory onto hard copy.

duplex- A bi-directional communication method that allows simultaneous data transfers in both directions.

dynamic batch balancing- A feature providing balancing or batches; if an out of balance occur, it must be corrected and the system automatically balances without running update mode.

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EBCDIC (Extended Binary Coded decimal Interchange Code)- An 8-bit code developed by IBM to encode a character set. It encodes essentially the same characters as ASCII, but in a different numerical order.

EDI (Electronic Data Processing) electronic- Electrically powered device with mechanical, moving parts (e.g., electric typewriter, printer, graphics plotter).

electronic mail- The transmission of letters, messages and memos over a communications network.

electronic spreadsheet- A software package designed to aid in the solution of mathematical problems by using an 'electronic sheet' or grid of rows and columns on the video screen. Locations within the grid can be treated as variables. Equations for solving complex problems may be applied to these variables.

electronic printer- Uses special metallicized paper and forms characters by sending an electric charge through the paper.

EOF (End of File)- An identification by the computer to mark the end of a file. Used by some computers in error messages.

EOM (End of Message)- A special character used in some computers to indicate where the end of the message occurs.

ergonomics- The science of fitting humans together with machines with maximum comfort and safety for the humans.

error message- A displayed message to inform the operator of an incorrect condition.

Ethernet- A standard for an intercomputer communications network designed by Xerox Corporation.

execute- To carry out computer operation.

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fatal error- An error condition that halts further processing by the program.

fault-tolerant- A program or system capable of correct operation even during failure of components.

field- Space allotted for entry of one item or type of data, such as name field , address field, phone field (see record).

FIFO (first-in-first-out)- Used as a buffer to connect two devices operating asynchronously at different speeds. Data is deposited at one end and removed from the other.

fifth generation computers- The next generation of computers that are designed with artificial intelligence technology.

file- An organized collection of related records (see record). Each file is assigned a name in order to locate it in memory.

file management system- A collection of programs designed to format and manage files in a transparent way.

firmware- Instructions that are permanently programmed into the computer, typically in read only memory (ROM), and cannot be changed by user. Also called systems programs. Most microcomputers have a bootstrap loader programed into an ROM chip, so the computer automatically becomes operational when the power is turned on (see boot).

flip-flop- Switch used to store information. Once it is flipped to a particular setting, it will stay that way until it receives another command (see RAM).

floppy disk- see diskette.

flowchart- Diagram using standardized symbols to map the instructions for a computer program. Can also be used to display the steps and the procedures for any office system.

format- Program description of field types and prompts to control the keying of a batch.

FORTRAN (FORmula TRANslator)- An early high-level language devised for numeric computations; one of the most used programming languages in scientific environments.

function keys- A special set of keys on a computer keyboard that initiate commands to the computer; may be programmed to work independently or in conjunction with another key.

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Gb, gigabyte- One billion bytes.

Ghz, gigahertZ- One billion bytes per second (see clock rate).

GIGO (Garbage In, Garbage Out)-Expression used to illustrate the fact that the quality of computer output depends on the quality of the input.

graphics- Information represented by pictures. Computer graphics can be produced on a computer screen and/or a printer.

half-duplex- A mode of communications in which data may be transmitted in only one direction at a time.

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handshaking- A procedure carried out when establishing a connection between two data communications devices prior to any data transfer communications synchronizing technique using two signals: (1) ready? (2) yes/no acknowledgement.

hard copy- Computer output that is produced on a permanent medium, generally paper.

hard disk- A rigid circular platter coated with magnetic material. A type called a "Winchester" disk is contained in a disk drive unit that is permanently sealed to keep out dust and other contaminant. It has much greater storage capacity and can operate at faster speeds than a floppy disk of similar size.

hardware- The physical machinery of a computer system.

HertZ, HZ- Cycles per second, used to measure clock rate.

hexadecimal- Numbering system that uses 16 digits: 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, A, B, C, D, E, F.

high-level language- Any programming language resembling 'natural language' with powerful instructions which require either a compiler or interpreter.

high resolution- A quality of video graphics display systems or printers capable of producing images in great detail.

HIPO (Hierarchy plus Input, Process, Output)- A flowcharting technique developed by IBM that produces a graphical representation for designing and documenting systems.

host- The central or controlling computer in a timesharing or distributed processing environment.

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icon- A graphical representation of an object such as a data file, text document, tape or disk, that are used to command the computer.

impact printer- Operates by striking a character on a print head against an inked ribbon, which marks that character on any standard type of paper.

implementation- The complete installation of new hardware and system software or the installation of new application programs.

IMS (Information Management System)- A mainframe hierarchy data base management system developed by IBM.

information management- Evaluation and effective of all types of data/information within an organization.

initialize- 1) to specify the starting value of a variable or address; 2) to set the starting condition of a hardware device.

input- To enter information into a computer.

input/output (I/O)- General term for the process and/or equipment used to enter and retrieve data.

instruction- A single order within a program which a program which is fetched from memory, decoded, and executed by the CPU.

integer- Whole number without any fractional part.

integrated circuit- see chip

intelligent terminal- A terminal which has some processing and storage capability in addition to acting as a peripheral for a computer. Also called a smart terminal.

interface- Process, program or equipment used to allow contact and communication between two computer systems or parts of the same system.

internal memory- See main memory

interpreter- A program that translates instructions from a high level language into machine language. It translates and executes one statement at a time (contrast with compiler).

interrupt- A feature that signals the CPU that an input or output is required transferring control to the operating system whish determines what action should be taken.

I/O interface-A channel between the CPU and a peripheral device.

ISAM (Indexed Sequential Access Method)- A file access method developed by IBM.

iterative- Describes a process of repeatedly executing the same series of instructions.

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JCL (Job Control language)- A job command language that directs the operating system to run application jobs on the computer; includes programs, files, and databases used as well as priority and running sequence of jobs.

job- A collection of related batches or records in data entry; can consist of any size of batches.

job stream- A series of related programs that are run in a prescribed order with the output of one programming becoming the input of the next program.

joystick- A stick, normally vertical, that can be titled in any direction of movement. It is often used to position a cursor on a screen.

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KB, Kilobyte- 1024 bytes. For example, a 64 Kb memory contains 65,536 bytes or memory storage.

keyboard processor- The keyboard internal circuit that convert keystrokes into the appropriate character codes.

keypunch- A device used to punch holes in computer cards. The holes represent characters of data, and can be read by a card reading machine to input data into the computer.

kilobaud- One thousand bits per second.

kilohertZ- 1000 cycles per second (see clock rate).

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LAN Manager- A local area network management software developed by Microsoft and 3Com. It allows all keystroke sin the network to share data and programs.

line printer- Prints virtually an entire line of information simultaneously instead of one character at a time.

local area network- A communication network of computers/work stations that function as distributed processing systems in which each computer in the network may process and manage its data.

log-on/log-off- A valid log-on provides access to the computer while log-off breaks the connection. The log-on may be used to restrict access to files/programs and to identify operator statistical calculations.

loop- A sequence of instructions which is repeated a specific number of times.

LOTUS 1-2-3- A spreadsheet software package from Lotus Development Corporation which includes graphics, file management and limited word processing capabilities.

low-level language- A computer language written for the purpose of optimizing computer speed, therefore not easily understood and limited word processing capabilities.

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machine language- The only language computer hardware understands. All other programming languages must be translated into machine language before execution. Machine language is written in binary code.

magnetic tape, mag tape- Plastic tape, similar to audio recording tape, but coated with magnetic material to enable a computer to record information on it in parallel tracks.

magnetic tape unit- A device which provides the capability of reading or writing on a 9-track magnetic tape reel.

mainframe- Refers to the CPU of a large computer system.

main memory- The RAM memory storage located within the CPU.

mass memory - memory storage on a disk or tape. Called mass memory because its maximum volume is much larger than main memory. Also called auxiliary or secondary storage.

master file- A set of records pertaining to the main subject in an application system, such as employee master file in a payroll application. Contrast with transaction file which are records that update the master file.

Mb, Megabyte- One million bytes, or 100 KB (see Kb).

mean time between failures (MTBF)- Average length of time between breakdowns.

megahertZ, MHz- Million cycles per second (see clock rate).

memory- A computer storage medium. Main memory is on disk or tape. ROM memory holds the system's programs.

menu- Table of contents displayed by a computer to show what tasks it call perform.

merge- Combining data from two separate files.

microcomputer- Usually refers to a small, low cost computer system built around a microprocessor.

microprocessing unit (MPU)- A CPU contained on a single chip. These come in different sizes: 4 bit, 8 bit, 16 bit, and 32 bit. Microcomputers using an 8 bit microprocessor are by far the most common, but 16 bit even 32 bit microcomputers are being produced more often. The main advantages of these computers are speed and larger maximum memory capacity.

microsecond (usec)- One millionth of a second.

millisecond (msec)- One thousandth of a second.

minicomputer- Usually refers to a relatively inexpensive computer that has been designed primarily for medium-sized business applications.

mnemonic- A symbolic representation, generally of an upcode (Add, Sub, Mpy).

mode- A method or procedure for system usage.

modem- A device which enables a computer to communicate over a telephone line. Its name is derived from the term "MOdulate/DEModulate."

monitor- 1) a high-resolution picture tube (see CRT); 2) a computer program designed to control other programming tasks.

monochrome- A one-color lighted display on a video screen with a background of a different color. There are several common combinations: green on black, white on green, black on white, white on grey, etc.

motherboard- The main board equipped with female connectors in which all functional boards are inserted; also called a backplane.

multiplexer- Sometimes called a "mux." A device which enables more than one signal at a time to be transmitted over a single line. This enables several different users to share a communications channel.

multiprocessing- Denotes computer systems with multiple processors.

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NAK (Negative ACKnowledgement)- A communications code that is sent to indicate a message or request was not received or that a terminal is not ready to transmit data.

nanosecond (nsec)- One billionth of a second.

nesting- The placement of a set of instructions which are to be repeated a certain number of times (loop) within a loop.

network- Group of computer systems and/or terminals that communicate together.

nibble- Half a byte. A combination of four bits.

NOMAD- A non-procedural relational database management systems developed by National CSS for IBM mainframes.

novell network- A local area network that uses that Novell NetWare operating management system.

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OCR (Optical Character Recognition)- The machine recognition of printed characters such as OCR fonts, typewriter, hand printer, and computer printed characters.

octal- A numbering system that uses eight digits: 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.

office automation- The integration of all automated functions within an office including data entry, word processing, data processing, electronic mail, graphics, and desktop publishing.