A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

AMD Athlon
AMD are the world's second largest processor manufacturer and their Athlon range provides cutting edge technology processors. They are ideal for all home computing applications and will give a superb computing experience
Accurate Viewfinder - Cameras
Because you view through the lens viewfinder what you see is exactly what you will get in your picture.
Active Matrix Display
A type of flat-panel display in which the screen is refreshed more frequently than conventional passive-matrix displays. The most common type of active-matrix display is based on technology called TFT (thin film transistor).
Amps
This is a measure of the amount of current the product consumes. A product which uses a high number of amps is more powerful than one which uses a lower number of amps. The power consumption in Watts = 240 times the amps drawn.
Anti-shock technology
Anti-shock technology lets you listen to digital quality music on the move without the music missing a beat.
Aperture/Shutter Priority - Cameras
Semi-manual mode allows you to add your own creativity to an image by adjusting either the shutter speed or the aperture size manually. The camera will automatically optimise the other setting. This gives greater control and flexability than automatic mode, but is easier to use than fully manual mode.
Automatic Modes
Most Digital cameras have pre-set programmes for specific subjects such as portrait, sport or landscape. Select a programme and the camera will take over the exposure and focus settings to give you a professional result at the push of a button.
BUS
The collection of chips and wires through which data is transmitted from one part of a computer to another. There are several different bus types (known as architectures) which transport data at different speeds and between different devices. PCI Peripheral Component Interconnect. A bus standard common on many PCs. There are probably several PCI ports at the back of your PC.
Base Unit
Desktop PCs consist of a base unit which contains the computers processor, hard disk etc, plus a separate keyboard and monitor. If you buy a base unit you will get the base unit plus the keyboard, but not a monitor. This is ideal if you are upgrading from another machine, or want a special monitor. If you want a complete PC ready to use you should look at desktop PCs or desktop packages - which will include other items such as a printer or scanner or digital camera.
Bi Directional (PC cables)
This shows whether the cable is bi-directional i.e.Input and Output are carried on the same cable.
Bleeding
This happens when ink from a bubble or ink-jet printer seeps into the grain of the paper and blurs the image. This effect can be minimized by using paper produced specifically for use with ink-jet printers.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth is the latest in low power radio technology to connect two electronic devices, without the need for cables. This can be achieved up to 10 metres apart without the need for those devices to be in line of sight, as they would have to be with infra-red.
Boom Mic
Handsfree mobile phone kits have a small microphone attached to the headset called a Boom Mic.
Built-in Flash - Cameras
A built-in flash enables you to use the camera in varying light conditions.
CD
Compact Disc.
CD ROM
A CD-ROM (Compact Disk - Read only Media) can contain vast amounts of information (over 600Mb). You can only read information from a CD-ROM.
CDR Recordable CD offers Digital quality in a format that's probably already in your home CD. When recording onto Recordable CDs there is no loss of sound as it exactly reproduces the sound and as with normal CDs there is no deterioration in sound quality over time.
Recordable Compact Disc also allows up to 650Mb of data to be stored very cheaply on a Compact Disc.
Data is written to the CDR using a special CD Writer, but once written, is permanently burned into the CD. If you need to be able to record, erase and re-record data, please see CDRW.
CDRW
Recordable and Re-writeable Compact Disc - this allows up to 650Mb of data to be stored very cheaply on a compact disc using a special CD Writer. Unlike CDR, data can be written to the CDRW more than once.
Camcorder
A portable video recorder - can be digital (uses memory cards) or analogue (uses conventional video tape - usually in a smaller cartridge)
Camcorder Tape
There are different tape formats for different camcorders including 8mm, VHS-C, Digital 8 and Digital.
Card Readers - Cameras
Plug into your PC and insert memory card for quick and easy download of images from memory card to PC.
Cell
The individual building blocks of a spreadsheet. Each cell is named by a letter and number combination – for example, A1, B2, Z99.
Character Keys
Keys carrying the letters of the alphabet.
Charging Time
The length of time it takes to fully charge a rechargeable battery.
Cinema Quality Sound - DVDs
DVDs can give earth shaking digital surround sound playback that's unbelievable. Digital sound can be separated into discrete channels, making full cinema surround sound, with stereo sound from your rear speakers, possible in your living room.
Client
The name given to a program or computer that requests a service from another program or computer.
Clipboard
A special area of memory that Windows uses as a temporary store for any items you copy or cut from a document.
Compatible File
File saved in one program that can be read in another
Copy Typing
Duplicating written notes or printed matter by typing. The material being copied is usually placed to the right of the keyboard, on the desk or in a document holder. The typist then reads the material and types without looking down at the keyboard.
Crystal Clear Picture - DVDs
DVDs have 540 lines of resolution, which makes a crisper, sharper image than VHS, which rely on around 240.
Cyberslacking
Using an employer's time and internet access to surf the web for personal use
DAB
Digital Audio Broadcasting: Along with the revolution in digital TV comes the revolution in digital radio. Although still in its infancy, digital radio will end hissing, sweeping and those annoying warbling noises on weak signals or between stations. The level of signal needed to achieve a perfect signal on digital radio is far lower so you can achieve greater audio clarity more of the time.
DPI
Dots Per Inch - A measure of the quality of the output from a printer - the greater the number of DPI the better the printer.
DS Screen - Laptops
A Dual Scan Screen is divided into simultaneously refreshed sections giving fast refresh rate. Offers low power consumption, but inferior sharpness & brightness.
DVD
Digital Versatile Disk. The most widely known DVD format is currently DVD-Video, the digital version of VHS, and designed for storing full-length movies on a single disc similar in size to a CD.
DVD can give earth shaking digital surround sound playback that's unbelievable and has 540 lines of resolution, which makes a crisper, sharper image than VHS, which relies on around 240.
DVD Player / Drive
Hardware that reads and plays DVD discs; a DVD drive is used with your PC, a DVD player with your television set
DVD+RW
A new standard for rewritable DVD disks being promoted by Hewlett-Packard, Philips and Sony. It is competing with another standard, called DVD-RAM, developed by the DVD Consortium. The two standards are incompatible. DVD+RW disks have a slightly higher capacity -- 3 GB per side, versus 2.6 GB per side for DVD-RAM disks.
DVD-RAM
A new type of rewritable compact disc that provides much greater data storage than today's CD-RW systems. The specifications for DVD-RAMs are still being resolved by the DVD Consortium. Meanwhile, a group of manufacturers led by Hewlett-Packard, Philips and Sony, have come up with a competing standard called DVD+RW. Whereas the DVD-RAM standard supports 2.6 GB per disk side, DVD+RW supports 3 GB per side.
DVD-ROM
A new type of read-only compact disc that can hold a minimum of 4.7GB (gigabytes), enough for a full-length movie.
The DVD-ROM specification supports disks with capacities of from 4.7GB to 17GB and access rates of 600 KBps to 1.3 MBps. One of the best features of DVD-ROM drives is that they are backward-compatible with CD-ROMs. This means that DVD-ROM players can play old CD-ROMs, CD-I disks, and video CDs, as well as new DVD-ROMs. Newer DVD players can also read CD-R disks.
DVD-ROMs use MPEG-2 to compress video data.
Data card
Some digital mobile phones can be connected to a notebook computer to send and receive data and fax messages over a mobile phone network. Not all phones can do this. Even those that can normally require a data card to connect them to a computer. A few of the latest phones have the necessary electronics built in and require a cheap cable for the link.
Databack - Cameras
The databack facility records and prints the time and date of the photograph, which means you'll never forget when the picture was taken.
Desktop
This is the workspace on your computer where the icons, such as My Computer, My Documents, and any shortcuts you create are displayed.
Digital
All the data in a digital device is, at its most basic level, distinguished by one of two values: 0 or 1 (on or off). This allows any type of data to be encoded and it also means that the data is not open to misinterpretation. The result is a perfect reading every time.
Digital Theatre System (DTS)
Alternative system of encoding six-channel digital surround sound, used in some cinemas and on some DVD discs.
Digital Zoom
Enlargement of a selected area of the image using digital technology.
Display Properties
The way your Desktop and icons look
Dolby Digital
Dolby Digital brings cinema sound to your home. Sound is divided into 5 channels, 3 at the front (including one centre channel) and 2 at the rear to completely surround you with sound. You also get a sub-woofer to fill the room with bass.
Dolby Pro Logic
Dolby Pro Logic takes Nicam Stereo Sound & adds 3 extra speakers to create a true Cinema at Home Sound System. Virtual surround sound creates a surround sound effect using your TV's stereo speakers.
Dolby Pro Logic Surround
Dolby Pro Logic surround sound uses 5 speakers to recreate the sound used in the cinema. 2 speakers for the front left and right sound, 2 speakers for the rear left and right sound and a fifth central speaker for any dialogue.
Double Click
A double click, achieved by pressing the left mouse button quickly twice, is used to open files and folders in Windows. As some people have trouble timing their clicks properly you can automate this task, or increase the time Windows waits for the second click.
Drag and Drop
This phrase describes the ability to pick up an icon with a click of the left mouse button and, while holding down the button, ‘drag’ it to another location on the Desktop. Although it sounds simple now, this was revolutionary when invented by the Apple computer company in the 1980s.
Dual Recording Mode
Take a still image while shooting continuous motion video.
E-MAIL
Electronic mail – a way of sending short text messages, and other files, to anyone with an Internet-based e-mail account
Exposures
The number of pictures on a film (usually 24 or 36).
FAQ
(Frequently Asked Questions) A file of common questions and answers on a topic
FMV
Stands for Full Motion Video. This term is generally used when referring to video playback on a computer and to a display that is made up of individual frames that play back at a rate comparable to that of video tape.
FONT
Different styles of text
FORMAT (DISK)
The preparation of storage media (hard disk drive, floppy) so that information can be stored on it.
FORMAT (TEXT)
To arrange your text or document in a new way
FTP
(File Transfer Protocol). Site for uploading and downloading files
File Extension
The three-letter label Windows attaches to the end of every file name, these denote what type of file it is
Fill-in Flash - Cameras
This feature adds light when the background light is not strong enough and the subject is too dark, but it is less harsh than a full flash which can lead to photographs looking washed out and to excessive red-eye.
Film Format
This identifies the type of film - different cameras require different formats. Examples include 35mm, 110mm or APS (for Advanced Photo System cameras).
Film Speed
Film speed measures a film's light sensitivity. Different film speeds perform better in different lighting environments. For example, 100 ISO works better in bright lighting conditions, whereas 400 ISO more sensitive to light and is good in poor light or when photographing fast moving action, when a faster shutter speed is required.
Flatscreen
Flatscreen improves picure definition and minimises screen reflection. From wherever you sit in the room the picture will not be distorted unlike ordinary screens.
Flatscreen Technology
Flatscreen technology is a completely flat screen both vertically and horizontally, which virtually eliminates all reflections, distortions and glare for the very best picture quality.
Floppy Disks
Removable disk used for storing information for a PC. These disks used to be "floppy" but are now encased in a rigid plastic case. Standard floppy disks hold 1.44Mb of data.
Format
The aspects of text that alter the way it appears, such as the font, style, highlighting and position on the page. Special The option in Microsoft Word that lets you search for less-obvious items, such as comment marks, white space and so on.
Frequency Range (Headphones)
For headphones, the 'frequency range' is the audible range of the headphones (ie the range from the lowest note to the highest note which the headphones can reproduce) measured in Hertz (Hz).
Frequency Range (Speakers)
For speakers the 'frequency range' is the audible range of the speakers(ie the range from the lowest note to the highest note which the speakers can reproduce) measured in Hertz (Hz).
GPRS (general packet radio service)
GPRS is a packet-based data transfer technology that provides increased capacity and higher data rates for quick access to the mobile internet. The so-called 2.5g technology promises data rates up to 114,000 bps.
Gb (Gigabyte)
A measure of computer data storage capacity and is approximately 1000Mbytes or 1 billion bytes. A conventional floppy disc has a storage capacity of 1.44Mb, a powerful PC hard drive may have a capacity of 20Gb or more
Graphics Card
A piece of hardware that is linked to the monitor & enables the screen based output of a program to be visible to the user.
HPA screen (High Performance Addressing) - Laptops
HPA is Short for High-Performance Addressing. A passive-matrix display technology that provides better response rates and contrast than conventional LCD displays. Although HPA displays aren't quite as crisp or fast as active-matrix (TFT) displays, they're considerably less expensive to produce. Consequently, HPA is being used by a number of computer manufacturers for their entry level notebook computers.
Hacker
a) a person with an enthusiasm for programming or using computers as an end in itself b) a person who gains or tries to gain unauthorised access to computer files or networks
Handles
The small squares that appear on an object when it is selected. You can change the size of an object by dragging a handle with your mouse.
Handsfree
Usually related to an accessory for a mobile phone, which enables you to use an earpiece to connect to and use your phone.
Hard Disk Drive
Essentially, this is your computer's memory. The hard disk usually contains the computer's system software and applications.
Headphone Socket
Allows you to connect a headphone set so you can watch movies / listen to music without disturbing others.
INDEX
One or more tab stops in from your normal left margin
ISO Override - Digital Cameras
Manual override enabling you to take a varied style of images from fast action to low light.
ISP
Internet Service Provider. A company that provides access to the Internet (either free or for a monthly fee) via a modem and the cost of a local telephone call.
Icon
An icon is the small picture on a function button and is used to make that button quickly recognizable. For example the Print Preview button has a small picture of a magnifying glass on it and the icon for saving a piece of work is represented by a floppy disk.
Image Stabiliser - Camcorders
Reduces camcorder shake and is especially useful when using the zoom.
Import Filters
These are the parts of your word processor that can convert files created in other word processors so that they can be used in yours. They are activated automatically when you open a document from the File menu.
In Place Editing
The feature by which an object from one program can be edited inside a document created by another program.
Infomediary
A person or business that acts as a broker for the transmission of information between consumers and businesses
Inputting Device - Handheld PCs
Most palmtop computers and many handhelds have a touch sensitive screen which can recognise your handwriting or run on-screen keyboards. Others have a conventional keyboard or use a combination of both.
Intel Celeron Processor
Intel are the world's largest PC chip manufacturer. Their Celeron range provides high quality technology at outstanding value and is ideal for all home uses.
Intel Pentium III Processor
Intel are the world's largest PC chip manufacturer. Pentium III is the name of Intel's highest speed range of processors on the market. It offers the very latest in processor technology.
Internesia
The state of forgetting where something was found on the web
Interpolation - Cameras
In-built software used to enhance image output quality.
Joysticks - games
Programmable buttons, hat switches, throttle control and force feedback technology make games feel real. Ideal for flight simulation games.
Keyboard Tutor
Some keyboards include a tutorial programme that teaches you how to play.
LCD Screen - Digital Cameras
The cameras Liquid Crystal Display screen can be used as a viewfinder as well as to immediately review your images.
Landscape
The orientation of a sheet of paper whereby it is wider than it is tall. Landscape is the alternative to portrait – the orientation used for letters.
Lux Low Light - Camcorders
A low lux rating means your camcorder can be used in dark conditions.
MBps
Short for megabytes per second, a measure of data transfer speed. Mass storage devices are generally measured in MBps.
MP3
MP3 is the latest thing in the world of digital music technology. Simply put, MP3 is a file format that allows sounds to be compressed and stored digitally. Because of this, music can be downloaded from the internet onto a PC much more quickly than would otherwise be the case. The compression process works mainly by removing noise that is outside the range of human hearing so loss of quality is minimised.
MPEG
Stands for 'Moving Picture Experts Group'. MPEG is a computer file format (usually digital video and audio files) which reduces the space needed to store the information.
MPEG-2
Stands for Motion Picture Expert Group version two. It is one of a set of digital video compressor and file formats. Video information is reduced in such a way as to achieve very high levels of compression before encoding and storage.
Margin
The unused white space that surrounds a page or a text box. In both cases, you can change the amount of space Word leaves.
Mb (megabyte)
A megabyte (Mb) is a measure of computer data storage capacity and is approximately a million bytes. Conventional floppy discs have a capacity of 1.44 Mb.
Minimize
This refers to a program window which is active, but not in use. A minimized program appears as a button on your taskbar.
Modem
Modem stands for Modulator-Demodulator. It is a device for transforming a digital signal from your PC into an analogue signal which can travel down a normal telephone line. A modem at the other end reconverts this signal back to digital. Having a modem in your laptop computer allows you take advantage of email and the Internet via a compatible mobile phone or telephone line. Most laptops are internet ready with built-in modems.
Monitor
The Monitor is used to display the images which are generated by a PC or Mac Base Unit
Motion Picture Recording
Allows you to record a clip of moving image directly onto the memory card to review, download to PC or e-mail.
Multi Camera Angle Facility
This means you can choose to view the action on-screen from a choice of camera angles, rather than the fixed cinema version. This facility is not available from all DVDs.
Multimedia Software
Software that combines text, pictures, sound and movies. Most educational CD-Roms are multimedia.
Multiple Selection
Selecting more than one cell at any one time.
NTSC Playback
The ability to play back pre-recorded video tapes which are in the NTSC format as used in the USA.
Network
A network is basically a series of wires & cables that connects a number of computers. Data is exchanged between computers via these cables. The maximum speed at which the data can be transmitted is called the bandwidth.
Newbie
Internet jargon for a beginner. Newbies are the people for whom most FAQs are designed, because they are an efficient way for a novice to pick up the basics about a subject.
Newsgroup
An online discussion forum devoted to a particular subject. They are used to debate issues, share views, ask for assistance and exchange information.
Nicam Stereo
Nicam is the transmission system for the reception of Hi-Fi sound on your TV or Video.
OLE
Short for Object Linking and Embedding. The technical term for the Windows facility that allows in-place editing and automatic updating.
Object
A special type of item, such as text, picture and so on, that has been created by an OLE-compliant program. Only objects can be edited in place.
Operating System
The Software that is responsible for running the PC, e.g. DOS, Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows NT
Optical Zoom
Image magnification without the loss of optical quality.
PIP
(Periodic Information Posting) A relative of the FAQ – a regular (perhaps monthly) posting of updated information to one or more newsgroups.
Parental Lock (DVD)
Allows discretionary 'locking' of software using a code so that undesirable or inappropriate sections are automatically skipped (software dependent).
Peripheral
A device which can be attached to a PC and is controlled by its Processor. e.g. Printer, Scanner, Joystick
Picture Effects - Digital Cameras
Add your own effects to your images such as Black and White, Sepia and Borders.
Pie Chart
A chart that shows the parts of a total quantity as segments of the same circle. A pie chart allows you to see the biggest and smallest parts of the pie at a glance.
Pixel Resolution - Digital Cameras
Image quality is determined by the pixel resolution. The higher the pixel resolution (shown in millions), the better the quality of the image.
Plug & Play
Plug & Play will detect and automatically update your system files when adding new hardware to your PC.
Posting
The process of sending a message to a newsgroup. The word is also used as a noun, to describe the message itself.
Print Preview
A function that lets you look at your document in its entirety on screen, so you can get an overall impression of how it will appear when printed.
Processors
This is really the 'brain' of a PC and is a key factor in deciding which PC is right for you. In general terms, the faster the processor, the faster the PC will work which is especially important for surfing the Internet or for games. The speed of a processor is measured in Megahertz (MHz).
Program
Any piece of software that carries out a particular task. Programs may be as complex as Word or as simple as Calculator
Programmed AE Modes - Camcorders
Set modes for different situations (eg sport), your camcorder will then focus automatically for best results.
RDRAM - Memory
Short for Rambus DRAM, a type of memory (DRAM). The fastest current memory used by PCs (SDRAM) can deliver data at a maximum speed of approx 133MHz, RDRAM transfers data at up to 600 MHz.
RTF
Short for ‘Rich Text Format’. It is a good option to choose if you want to save a word processing document in a format which most other word processors can open.
Range
A continuous, rectangular block of cells: for example, corresponding to ‘A1:A4’, ‘B7:N7’ or ‘C3:D6’. When a range of cells is selected by highlighting, the range area appears in the grey area above column ‘A’ of the spreadsheet.
Readme file
A file supplied with software to give the latest information on it
Recycle Bin
The Desktop icon that looks like a waste-paper bin and stores deleted files
Red Eye Reduction - Cameras
This feature reduces the very annoying 'red eyes' effect that can ruin a special photograph.
Region Code - DVD
Playback management system making discs specific to a particular region. The UK is within region code 2, so only region 2 or region-free discs will play on UK DVD players.
Remote Control
Operate your Device form the comfort of you sofa.
Removable Memory - Digital Cameras
Record and store digital still images on a removable memory card, then download to a PC via card reader or cable.
Restore
To undo the act of deleting a file and make it useable again
SCART Socket
A Scart connector is a 21 pin electrical lead that connects one audio-visual product with another (e.g. a television and a video recorder). Essential when linking stereo video and stereo TV.
SD RAM/RAM
Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory increases the number of instructions a computer can perform at any one time. For example, the more ram you have, the more applications can be run at the same time.
Scanner
A scanner allows you to ‘photocopy’ any picture directly on to your PC in a variety of graphic formats. You can then use the image as a part of your work document or design.
Scroll Bar
The vertical or horizontal slider control that allows you to view the contents of a window or an options menu by scrolling up or down through the list of contents.
Self-Timer - Cameras
Why shouldn't you be in the photograph? With a self-timer you can be, so you don't miss out!
Shortcut
Shortcuts are icons which can be placed anywhere on your Desktop and which, when activated, open a program. This provides a quick route to a program you might often use. You can either place it on the Desktop or in a folder for convenient access.
Software
Software is a general term for the various kinds of programs used to operate computers and related devices. (The term hardware describes the physical aspects of computers and related devices.) Software can be thought of as the variable part of a computer and hardware the invariable part. Software is often divided into application software (programs that do work users are directly interested in) and system software (which includes operating systems and any program that supports application software). The term middleware is sometimes used to describe programming that mediates between application and system software or between two different kinds of application software (for example, converting data from one file format to another file format). An additional and difficult-to-classify category of software is the utility, which is a small useful program with limited capability. Some utilities come with operating systems. Like applications, utilities tend to be separately installable and capable of being used independently from the rest of the operating system. Applets are small applications that sometimes come with the operating system as "accessories." They can also be created independently using the Java or other programming languages. Software can be purchased or acquired as shareware (usually intended for sale after a trial period), liteware (shareware with some capabilities disabled), freeware (free software but with copyright restrictions), public domain software (free with no restrictions), and free software (software whose users agree not to limit its further distribution). Software is usually packaged on CD-ROM and diskettes. Today, much purchased software, shareware, and freeware is downloaded over the Internet. Some general kinds of application software include: Productivity software, which includes word processors, spreadsheets, and tools for use by most computer users Presentation software Graphics software for graphic designers CAD/CAM software Specialized scientific applications Vertical market or industry-specific software (for example, for banking, insurance, retail, and manufacturing environments) Firmware or microcode is programming that is loaded into a special place area on a microprocessor or read-only memory on a one-time or infrequent basis so that thereafter it seems to be part of the hardware.
Sound card
An expansion card that the PC utilises to play and record sound from a variety of different file types such as MIDI files.
Spam
The e-mail equivalent of junk mail. Spam is any unsolicited e-mail that arrives in your e-mail inbox
Start Menu
A selection of files, folders, options and controls that appear when you click on the Start button. Folder The yellow boxes that you see while using your computer are know as folders. You can place files, programs and other folders inside them. Think of them as being like very versatile folders you might keep stationery in.
Steering Wheels - games
Programmable buttons, gear paddles and non-slip pedals provide control, while force feedback technology lets you feel every bump and slide.
Still Shot Facility
Take still images and store on camcorder tape or removable memory card.
Storage
All PCs have a Hard Drive that can store software, files and images. The higher the capacity of the Hard Drive, the more filing space you have. Hard Drive capacity is measured in Gigabytes (Gb).
Super VHS (SVHS)
SVHS records more lines of infomation (400 against 240 for VHS) to create a superior picture than VHS is able to. A higher quality tape is needed for SVHS. You can play VHS tapes on SVHS players, but not SVHS on VHS players.
Surge Protection
Prevents electrical power surges from affecting an electrical item when it is connected to a power supply
Syllabus
An outline of the subjects to be taught on a particular course. Exam CD-Roms are designed to cover the syllabuses found in the most widely used exam systems – A Level and GCSE.
Symbol Keys
Keys carrying punctuation marks and other signs.
Synchronisation: - Handheld PCs
This allows you to link to your PC or laptop in order to exchange information. There are an increasing number of web-based services offering free software or information from the internet to download to your handheld device, and many models allow you to synchronise e-mail to read and reply on the move - your replies will be sent on return to your PC .
System Requirements
The minimum specification your PC must meet to run the software. The faster your PC and the more memory it has, the smoother the CD will run
TFT (Thin Film Transistor)
A very thin, bright, colour pc screen as used on laptops for superb resolution, crispness, sharpness and brightness, with minimum size and weight.
Taskbar
A bar along the bottom of your screen displaying a series of buttons, each indicating an open program. Click on a button and that program’s window will open up.
Text Box
A free-floating box which contains text. You can make text in a text box flow either horizontally or vertically.
Toggle
A word used instead of switch when relating to computer functions. For example, you can toggle the bold text feature on or off by pressing Ctrl+B on the keyboard. Many functions can be toggled using keyboard shortcuts.
Touchpad
A stationary pointing device that provides a small, flat surface that you slide your finger over using the same movements as you would a mouse. You can tap on the pad's surface as an alternative to pressing one of the touchpad keys.
USB (Universal Serial Bus)
USB is a form of HOT PLUG AND PLAY, the system allows you to add or remove peripherals via the USB socket/s, without the need to turn off or restart your PC.
USB - Digital Cameras
Ultra fast, plug and play download of your images from camera to PC.
Vector graphics
Vector graphics is the creation of digital images through a sequence of commands or mathematical statements that place lines and shapes in a given two-dimensional or three-dimensional space. In physics, a vector is a representation of both a quantity and a direction at the same time. In vector graphics, the file that results from a graphic artist's work is created and saved as a sequence of vector statements. For example, instead of containing a bit in the file for each bit of a line drawing, a vector graphic file describes a series of points to be connected. One result is a much smaller file. At some point, a vector image is converted into a raster image, which maps bits directly to a display space (and is sometimes called a bitmap). The vector image can be converted to a raster image file prior to its display so that it can be ported between systems. A vector file is sometimes called a geometric file. Most images created with tools such as Adobe Illustrator and CorelDraw are in the form of vector image files. Vector image files are easier to modify than raster image files (which can, however, sometimes be reconverted to vector files for further refinement). Animation images are also usually created as vector files. Shockwave's Flash product lets you create 2-D and 3-D animations that are sent to a requestor as a vector file and then rasterized "on the fly" as they arrive.
Video Conference
A video setup (using special software) that enables several users in distant locations to see and hear each other at the same time.
Virus
Any sequence of code capable of propagating itself within the memory of a computer or across a network, usually with detrimental results
WPM
Words per minute – a measure of typing speed. One word usually means five characters or symbols. Initially aim at 12 wpm (1 keystroke per second). A good average speed is 50 to 60 wpm.
Wallpaper
The background of your Desktop.
Watermark
A very faint background image or, occasionally, section of text. It is most often used as a background to text.
Wattage / Watts
Wattage / Watts refers to an amount of electrical power. The higher the wattage, the more power a product consumes.
White Space
A term used to refer to gaps or unused spaces between words.
Wildcard
Characters that represent just about anything in your search field. Use wildcards to fine-tune your search for specific characters, words or symbols – a full list of wildcards and their usage is available in the help menu. Search string The word or sequence of words or symbols that you wish to find.
Wireless Application Protocol (WAP)
The wireless application protocol (WAP)is designed to bring the internet, in a modified form, to mobile phones and some personal organisers. WAP sites are tailored for small screen sizes and slower download speeds.
Zip Disc
Removable disc used for storing information for a PC, only used in a Zip Drive. Has a capacity of 100Mb or 250Mb as compared to a conventional floppy disc which has a capacity of just 1.44Mb
Zip Drive
Special disc drive for use with Zip discs. Most Zip discs have a capacity of 100Mb compared to conventional floppy discs which have a capacity of just 1.44Mb.
Zoom Lens - Cameras
A zoom lens lets you get close in on the action without moving at all. The longer the zoom, e.g. 38-140mm, the closer the image

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