Internet Jargon Busting
Becoming Fluent in Jargon
Very often the most confusing aspect for an Internet Newbie is being bombarded with internet jargon. It is like trying to learn using an instruction manual written in a foreign language. Not only so you need to learn the nuances of web business but you also need to learn a new language.
If you have just joined the NZPCS Million Dollar Blueprint as a complete internet novice there are some terms that you need to understand to ease your passage and in turn teach to others.
Below are some common Jargon words and their meanings in alphabetical order that you will find during the first few stages of the program,. I will periodically update the list
10pt
Short for 10 point, a typographic measurement. The larger the number, the bigger the text character will appear.
56Kbps
The fastest standard for traditional modems. Modems convert electronic signals from your computer into sound signals that can be transmitted over a phone line. 56kbps means that a modem is capable of receiving up to 56,000 bits of computer data each second.
Address
In the context of the internet, an address is the information a web browser needs to locate a particular website. Microsoft’s website address, for instance, is www. microsoft. com.
ADSL
Stands for Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line. A technology that converts an ordinary household telephone line into an extremely fast internet connection — around ten times faster than a regular 56K modem.
Affiliate
Someone who sells products for or makes referrals to an affiliate program for a commission
Affiliate Program
An affiliate management system that pays a commission to its affiliates for performing a service for that business.
Animated GIF
Stands for Graphics Interchange Format, a popular file format for storing graphic images, often for use on websites. An animated GIF is simply a string of these images, creating the illusion of moving pictures when played back.
Annotation
A comment or mark added to an image or a document, much like sticking a Post-it note on an office memo to highlight a point of interest.
API
Stands for application programming interface, a standard used by computer programmers to allow operating systems and software applications to understand one another.
Application
A computer software program that enables the user to perform specific tasks. For example, Microsoft Word is used for word processing, while Paint Shop Pro is designed for image-editing requirements.
Attachment
A computer file, such as a document or picture, sent along with an email message.
Autoresponder
An email program that runs on a computer server connected full-time to the Internet. It gives you an email address that automatically replies to any incoming message by returning the text of a particular file of your choosing. This information is delivered anywhere in the world, to any Internet user with email, within seconds, 24 hours a day/7 days a week.
Avatar
In computing context, a graphic or icon used to represent a person in an online chat-room or game. Avatars can usually be customized and range from simple images to complex three-dimensional shapes.
AVI
A type of video file used by windows and usuall played using Windows Media Player.
Bandwidth
The rate at which you can send or receive information through your connection to the Internet
Beta
Version of a software application or system that is still in development. Companies make beta versions available to selected testers for evaluation, testing and feedback.
Binary
A coding system used by computers and other digital devices to store data as a series just two digits � 0 and 1.
BIOS
Basic Input Output System. Software built into all PCs, to control the basic operation of devices such as the screen, hard disk and keyboard. When a PC is switched on, the BIOS automatically kicks in, and looks for a drive (like the hard disk) from which the operating system proper can be launched.
Bit
A contraction of binary digit, which is the smallest unit of computer data. A bit can hold one of two values 1 or 0. Consecutive bits combine together to form larger units of information. There are eight bits in a ‘byte’.
Bitmap (BMP)
A type of graphic image recorded as many tiny dots (or pixels). Scanned photographs and similar images are often stored in this form. If you use an image-editing application to zoom in on a bitmap image, the pixels will gradually become distinct. BMP image files tend to be quite large, so other types are more popular.
Blogs
A blog is sometimes called web log or weblog. It is a type of online journal or diary, often including personal comments as well as web links and images.
Bookmark
A way of flagging favourite websites in your web browser for later reference, much like marking a page in a book.
Boot
The process a PC goes through after it is switched on performing a quick self-test, loading Windows, and so on.
Bps
Bits per second. Measure of computer data transmission speed. For example, a 56Kbps modem can receive up to 56,000 bits of computer data per second.
Broadband
Refers to high-bandwidth internet connections, such as ADSL.
Browse
Using a web browser application to look at websites on the net or a file browse application to look for files on your PC.
Browser
The short name for a web browser an application that lets you view pages on the internet. Internet Explorer and Netscape Navigator are the two most popular browsers.
Buffer
A small amount of memory used as a reservoir for data that’s provided (usually in spurts) from a source.
Byte
a unit of computer storage that can hold a single character. 1024 bytes make a kilobyte, or 1Kb.
Cache
A store for frequently-used data or files. Data can be accessed from a cache more quickly than from its original source. Internet Explorer uses a hard disk cache for web pages, while computer processors often have small amounts of very speedy memory as a cache.
Capture cards
A video card that slots into a spare PCI slot in your computer and has the input and output sockets necessary for digitising video.
Capturing
The process of taking an ordinary analogue signal from a camcorder and converting it into digital information to be stored on a computer’s hard disk.
CD-R
Standard for compact disc recordable format, or blank CDs onto which information (such as data or music) can be recorded but only once. Playable on most CD-ROM drives (except some older ones) and CD players. You need a CD-R drive to record onto CD-R discs.
CD-ROM
A version of the CD, which can store a lot more than just music. This small plastic disc can hold up to 650Mb of data.
CD-ROM drive
Used for installing software (on CD-ROM discs) and playing multimedia audio and video. Audio CDs can also be inserted.
CD-RW
Stands for compact disc rewritable format, or blank compact discs which can be recorded on over and over again.
Cell
A spreadsheet page uses rows and columns to divide a page into cells. Rows and columns are identified with letters and numbers, so each cell has a unique co-ordinate, such as D15.
Chat rooms
Online venues for typed chat, rather like the premium-rate chat lines you see advertised on late-night TV. Some even allow you to create cartoon-style characters to represent yourself.
Classified Ad
Online Classified ads are similar to newspaper classifieds in most ways. The biggest difference is that many Online Classifieds are free to post an ad. Paid ads are inexpensive and tend to draw more valid prospects. Classified ads may contain your company URL, your own URL, and a mention of the company name, as they are a form of passive advertising. This means that someone actually must come to your ad and request more information from you.
Click
Pressing down once and releasing a mouse button, or other key.
Client
A geeky term for an additional piece of software that runs alongside your web browser, allowing you to use services like newsgroups and internet chat.
Clipart
A library of drawings or photographs that you can use in presentations, reports or in desktop-publishing documents. You must check whether there are copyright restrictions if you are intend using the pictures commercially.
Code
In computing terminology, short for program code meaning instructions that are intended to be executed by a computer.
Colour picker
All painting programs have one, it’s the electronic equivalent of a paint palette so you can choose which colour you want to use.
COM port
Short for communications port, a PC can have up to four of these COM1 to COM4. It is through these ports that devices can talk to the rest of your PC. Anything fitted to a serial port will be allocated one of these, as will a modem.
Combination keystroke
Literally where you have to hold down more than one key at once to access a particular function. Holding down the Alt and Tab keys, for example, lets you cycle through any programs you’re running.
Command prompt
Also known as DOS prompt. The Windows environment lets you point and click to navigate your way around the computer. However, the predecessor to Windows, DOS (disk operating system) requires typed in commands to control the PC and these are entered at the command prompt.
CompactFlash
Matchbook-size memory cards with no moving parts. These slot into various devices to store data. Popular with digital cameras and handheld computers.
Compression
To reduce the size of a file by encoding the data. This is useful for storing files which would otherwise take up lots of disk space, such as picture and video files. Compression also reduces transfer times, meaning files can be sent over the net, or to another disk, more quickly.
Configure
To tweak the functions of software or hardware to the particular settings you require. For example, Windows can be configured so that it displays a particular colour background, or so that it uses a larger typeface
Context menus
The context-sensitive menus that pop up when you right-click on something in Windows. What you see on the menu varies according to the task that you’re engaged in and the program you’re using.
Control Panel
A collection of icons that allow you to configure the basic functions of Windows and your PC. Within the Control Panel there are icons to define display attributes, keyboard settings, passwords and a host of other options.
Cookies
Text files generated by websites you visit and stored on your computer’s hard disk. Cookies contain preferences and other information about your use of the sites, and are not harmful.
Copy and paste
Just like it sounds: selecting part of an image or document in order to place it elsewhere.
CPU
An abbreviation for central processing unit, or processor the heart of a computer. The CPU does most of the hard work and the faster it is, the better the PC is likely to be.
Crash
This is what happens when a software application or operation goes wrong, often freezing the computer. Sometimes, the only way to recover from a crash is to switch the PC off and start again and this in turn may cause you to lose documents or data you were working on.
Cursor
A flashing shape on the screen showing where the next character you type in will appear. When entering text in a word processor, the cursor is normally a flashing vertical bar. Sometimes, the word cursor is used to describe the on-screen mouse pointer.
Cut
Just like it sounds: this function will delete selected information, such as cells in a spreadsheet or a paragraph in a text document.
Cyberspace
The total range of information available through computer networks. A term coined by author William Gibson
Data rate
The speed at which digital information is transferred from one device to another, and can range from a few kilobits to many hundreds of megabytes per second. Traditional modems, for example, offer download data rates of up to 56Kbps.
Database
Any collection of information, usually (but not always) used to refer to information stored on a computer. Database software applications usually include powerful search and data-filtering facilities.
Decryption
The process of making encrypted data readable again.
Default
A standard software or hardware setting. Most programs, including the Windows operating system itself, ask you to make a series of selections in order to perform a task. Sometimes the computer will already have made some selections these are called the defaults. You can change the defaults to fit your own preference, or accept them as they are supplied.
Desktop
What you see when you first start up a Windows-based computer. The Desktop will display your Taskbar and a selection of icons such as My Computer and Recycle Bin.
DHTML Dynamic HTML
This is an extended version of the language used to describe web pages, which allows a page to change instantly when certain things happen, for instance the mouse moving over a specified area.
Dialogue box
A small window that pops up to display or request information. In Windows, Menu options that end with an ‘�‘ always open a dialogue box.
Digital
Unlike the smooth signal of analogue, digital information consists of discrete parts. An analogy would be a car’s gearbox. A vehicle can be in first or second gear, but not first-and-a-half. Computers only recognise digital information, so must convert analogue signals. A soundcard, for example, converts the sound of a recording into a series of numbers the PC can process.
Digital camera
A camera that stores images in computer memory rather than on light-sensitive film.
Digital signature
A piece of encrypted data that can be used to verify the identity of someone who sent the message to which it is attached.
Directory
An old name for what we now call folders. These provide a way of organising files and documents on disk, by grouping related items together.
Domain name
The name used to identify a site on the internet, such as computeractive. co.
DOS
Stands for Disk Operating System. The standard PC operating system before the dawn of Windows. DOS manages how files are stored on your PC. It is controlled through typed commands.
Dots per inch (dpi)
The way the resolution of printed and scanned images is measured. Both types of picture are made up of dots. The more dots there are per inch, the smaller they are and the better the picture looks.
Double-click
To click twice quickly in succession on a mouse button. If you double-click on an application icon, Windows will then attempt to launch the application.
Download
Process of transferring files onto your PC directly from another computer. You might, for instance, download pictures and files from the internet.
Drag
In Windows, it is the action of clicking on something with the left mouse button, keeping the button pressed and moving (dragging) the object.
Drag and drop
A feature of operating systems, including Windows, which allows you to easily move and manipulate on-screen objects and files. For example, if you want to delete a file from the Windows Desktop, you move the pointer to the file’s icon, click once to highlight it, then press and hold down the left-hand button. The item can now be dragged and dropped into the Recycle Bin.
Drag out
Click and hold down the left mouse button as you move the mouse.
Driver
Software needed to allow Windows (and other operating systems) to communicate with a peripheral. While Windows has many built-in drivers, often hardware-specific versions will be provided on CD-ROM with a new device.
Drop-down menu
A list of options displayed beneath a menu bar when you select a menu option, or when you click on a down-pointing arrow in a dialogue box.
DTP (desktop publishing)
The design, layout and printing of documents, books and magazines using special software, such as Microsoft Publisher.
DV
Digital video. A DV camera stores images on digital medium.
DVD
A type of disc able to store huge amounts of digital data, including full-length movies, with excellent-quality sound and pictures.
DVD RW
A rewritable version of the DVD-R format whose discs are compatible with most DVD players and DVD-ROM drives
DVD+R
One of the emerging recordable DVD standards. It uses DVD+RW disks that are designed to have data recorded on to them time and time again. Movies recorded on to DVD+RW disks are fully compatible with DVD players
DVD+RW
A rewritable version of the DVD+R format.
DVD-R
Standard for Digital Versatile Disc-Recordable format, or blank DVDs onto which information (such as data or music) can be recorded but only once. Playable on most DVD players and DVD-ROM drives. You need a DVD-R drive to record onto DVD-R discs.
DVD-RAM
One of a number of competing standards for recordable DVD.DVD-RAM is really only of use in DVDRAM drives fitted in computers and some set-top DVD recorders.
DVD-ROM drive
These drives will play both CD-ROM and DVD discs. Huge amounts of data can be stored on one DVD disc, which looks just like a CD, including full-length movies, with excellent-quality sound and pictures.
DVD-RW
A rewritable version of the DVD-R format.
DVI (Digital Video Interface)
A video connection used on some TFT monitors and graphics cards that provides a purely digital connection between a PC and monitor. This gives a higher quality image than using a standard VGA connection.
Ecommerce
A term used to describe financial transactions over the internet.
Email
Short for electronic mail, a system of sending notes and memos between computers via internet.
Emoticon
Also known as a ’smiley’, a combination of ASCII characters that suggests an emotion when read sideways 
Encryption
The science of scrambling data be it text, audio, or video so that it can only be read by the authorized sender and recipient. Encryption can also be used to embed identifying markings in data, so that it can’t be undetectably falsified.
Events
An action in Windows, such as opening a document, emptying the Recycle Bin, or shutting down your PC.
Executable files
These are launch-able programs, which have the file extension .EXE. Clicking on an executable file will start it running it may be an application, an animated greeting card or a game, for example. Avoid launching. EXE email attachments, as these may carry computer viruses.
Explorer
A program supplied with Windows that’s used to browse files on your PC. Explorer can be used an alternative to the Windows Desktop.
Extension
The three-letter code at the end of a filename that indicates the type or format of the file. For example,. BMP is a bitmap,. EXE is an executable program file. These enable Windows to recognize what type of file it’s dealing with.
Extract
The process of expanding compressed files so they can be opened.
FAQ
Stands for frequently asked questions, usually a text file containing useful information about an application or website.
Favorites/Bookmarks
Your personal address book of places on the internet that you visit periodically. Bookmark a site and it will be stored in your Favorites/Bookmarks list for future visits.
FFA Page
FFA or “free for all” links page is a forum where people can post links to their sites, using a site submitter that is provided by the host. FFA pages can be used in several ways. One is to place a link to your own web site on other people’s FFA page, with a catchy phrase that will make yours stand out from the rest of the links on the page. Another way is to get your own free FFA page from one of the hundreds of places on the Web offering them. Then, with most FFA pages, anyone who submits a link to your page will get a confirmation of their post in the email by auto-responder. The key here is that you get to completely customize your “thank you” email. This means you can advertise your business every time someone posts on your FFA page
Field
In a database, a field is an individual container that can hold a particular type of information. For example, if you have a contacts list of your customers, each entry is called a record and the various parts of each record are called fields.
File extension
The file extension is the suffix or letters after the dot in a file’s name. Examples include .doc (for a word document) and .xls (Excel) and .txt (Notepad). This is how Windows knows which application to use to open a particular file.
File Manager
Part of the Windows 3. 1 operating system, since replaced in later versions of Windows by Explorer. File Manager displays lists of all of the files you have stored on your PC’s hard disk.
Firewall
A system that prevents unauthorised access to a computer over a network, such as the internet. Firewalls can be either hardware or software � businesses tend to use the former; home users the latter.
Firmware
Basic software permanently stored on a device (such as a graphics card) that controls it’s basic operation. Firmware can be upgraded using a process known as ‘flashing’.
Flash
An application used to create high-quality animations on websites.
Flash memory
A special type of memory that maintains its contents even when the host machine, like a palmtop computer, is switched off.
Folder
Files on PC’s hard disk are arranged within a system of folders, which group related items together, helping you find the item you need. Folders have names to describe what’s in them, for example: My Documents.
Font
A set of letters, numbers and other symbols in a particular style. Popular Windows fonts are Arial and Times New Roman.
Font size
This is the measurement typographers use to describe the size of text. Thus, 72pt text is bigger than 34pt text. The text you are reading now is set in 8. 5pt.
Footer
A special area at the bottom of a word-processor document: type something in here and it will appear at the base of every page.
Form
A document formatted in a certain way for entering data, much like the paper version. Forms are typically used by databases.
Forum
Online community based venues for subject based messages. Used to shared information and peer support. Some are open to the public while others are closed to all except approved Forum Members.
Frame rate
The number of images, or frames, shown each second that make up a moving image. The higher the rate, the smoother the moving image. Games and movies in particular benefit from high frame rates.
Frame size
The size or resolution of each individual frame of video, usually set on capture and dependent on whether you require full screen or a small video window on your monitor.
Frames (web animations)
Animated GIFs contain multiple images (otherwise they wouldn’t move) which are held in frames, just like those you would see in a movie reel.
Frames (web pages)
In the context of web pages, these are used to segment content. One frame might contain a menu of the website while the other displays the information that you’re interested in. The frame borders might be visible but are often hidden.
Freeware
Software, often downloadable from the internet, which is then free for you to keep and use.
FTP
Stands for File Transfer Protocol, which is a way of transferring files over the internet, particularly when maintaining websites.
Gb (Gigabyte)
A measurement of storage capacity usually for hard disks. 1Gb is equal to 1,024Mb (megabytes).
Gbits/s
Gigabits per second. A measure of data transfer rate equal to 1024Mbits/s or 1,048,576Kbits/s
General protection fault
A fault that occurs when an application incorrectly accesses computer memory, causing the program to crash.
GHz (gigahertz)
A thousand megahertz a measure of how fast the processor in your PC works.
GIF
Graphics Interchange Format. A visual image file
Graphics card
The part of a PC that displays the image you see on your computer’s monitor. Some are more advanced than others, featuring connections for video recorders or other similar devices.
Hackers
People who break into other people’s computers and networks, often in an attempt to steal sensitive information.
Hacking
The slang term used to describe illegal access of computer systems by unauthorised users.
Hard disk
A high-capacity disk drive fitted in almost all PCs and used to store both applications and the documents and files they create. Hard disks are so-called because they use rigid magnetic disks to store data. Hard disk storage capacity is measured in gigabytes.
Hardware
Your computer set-up is split into two parts hardware and software. Software covers the programs that run on your machine, while hardware describes the physical components, like the monitor and keyboard.
Header
A title that can be inserted at the top of the page, usually in a word-processor document.
Hit
A measure of Web site traffic; each time a page on a site is requested
Homepage
The first or main page of a website, usually containing links to more detailed sections or content.
Host
The PC that you set up as the ‘base’ or central PC in your home network. It is usually attached to the printer.
HTML (HyperText Mark-up Language)
The language used to create pages for a website. HTML code is written as text that is converted to a web page by a web browser.
Hyperlink
A clickable link on a web page or in a document that takes you to elsewhere, like to another website or a later page.
Icon
A small image used by Windows to identify a file or application.
Index Page
refer to hompage
Infection
Describes the way a virus transfers itself from one computer to another
Instant messenging
Real-time text-based communication over a network (usually the internet), using a program such as AOL Instant Messenger.
Internet
An global network that links millions of computers, using phone and cable links. Users connect to server computers, which act rather like a local phone exchange. A modem connects your PC to the server from home, allowing you to become part of the internet.
Internet Explorer
Microsoft’s internet browser a program that allows you to ‘browse’ web pages, manage your favourite web sites, and so on.
Internet Protocol (IP) address
An identifying number of a computer attached to a network. A computer’s IP address is similar to a phone number in function. Every computer must have a unique IP address either a permanent address or one that is dynamically assigned to them each time they connect to the net. IP addresses are written as four sets of numbers separated by full stops; for example, 204. 171. 64. 2.
Internet service provider (ISP)
A company which provides you with an internet connection, either for fixed monthly fee or for the cost of local call charges. Examples of popular ISPs include BT Internet, AOL and Freeserve.
ISDN
Stands for Integrated Services Digital Network, which is a digital telephone connection providing high-speed data transfer, for such things as internet access. Popular in particular with businesses needing to transfer large amounts of data regularly and reliably.
Java
A special language used to create advanced effects on websites, such as animated sequences and interactive buttons and menus.
JPEG (or JPG)
A common format for image files. JPEG images are compressed and the small file size makes them ideal for web pages.
Justified
Text which lines up with both page margins or both edges of a column.
Kb (kilobyte)
Measure of capacity of a storage device. Equal to 1,024 bytes.
Kb/s
Short for kilobytes per second, which is a measure of data transfer speed.
Kbit/s
Short for kilobits per second, which is a measure of data transfer or modem speed. A kilobit is 1,000 individual bits of computer data, and most computer modems download information at up to 56Kbps.
Keyword
A word of particular importance on a web page that can be used by search engines to identify it.
KHz (KiloHertz)
For digital audio, this refers to the number of samples per second a piece of music is recorded at. Audio CDs use 48KHz samples — 48,000 samples per second.
Knowledge base
A structured store of electronic information. Like an interactive encyclopaedia but designed to help with decision-making and problem-solving in a specialised field, not as general reference source.
LAN Local Area Network
Describes two or more computers connected, either physically or wirelessly, with the ability to share resources, such as printers.
Legend
A translation of the symbols or colours used in a chart.
Link (or hyperlink)
An object on a web page that, when clicked, takes you to another web page. Both text and graphics can be links.
Link Popularity
A grading system indicating how popular a link is. It is measured by how many other sites link to it
Linux
An operating system that runs on a variety of computers (including PCs) and can be freely modified and distributed by its users. It was developed by Linus Torvalds.
LPT1 (abbreviation for line printer)
Nowadays more commonly called a parallel port, this a connector at the back of a PC originally developed to connect a printer to the computer. All sorts of devices, like Zip drives and scanners, now make use of this port. A second parallel port will be called LPT2.
Mail server
The computers at your ISP that handle email coming into your account as well as all the email you send out.
Mailbox (or inbox)
The folder in your email application that stores your incoming messages.
Mailing list
A service provided by special interest groups that sends regular email updates to its (usually free) subscribers. When a list subscriber sends a message, it goes to everyone on the list. You can reply to the messages, send new messages, or just lurk, reading the messages with out participating
Mail-merge
A useful tool included in most word-processing applications that allows you to create multiple documents based on data from another source, usually a database program. Mail merge is particularly useful and time-saving when you want to send the same letter to a group of people whose addresses are kept in your database.
Malware
A generic term for software designed to perform harmful or surreptitious acts.
Master pages
In desktop publishing software, anything such as headers, logos or guides placed on a master page will appear on every page in the publication.
Mb (megabyte)
A measurement of storage capacity, usually for computer memory. 1Mb is equal to 1,024Kb (kilobytes).
Mb/s
Short for Megabytes per second, which is a measure of data transfer speed.
Mbit/s (megabits per second)
A measure of data-transfer speed. A megabit is one million bits.
Megapixel
A measure of the level of detail recorded by digital cameras � one megapixel means an image made from one million tiny dots (pixels).
Memory (or RAM)
Random Access Memory is the computer’s temporary storage area, measured in megabytes (Mb). Anything written to memory will be lost when the power is switched off. Windows 95 needs at least 16Mb to work properly, and double that again to work smoothly. For Windows 98 and beyond, consider 64Mb as a realistic minimum.
Memory cards
Small cards that can store many megabytes (Mb) of computer data or documents. Often used as a removable storage medium in digital cameras and palmtop computers.
Memory stick
A type of proprietary memory card designed by Sony. Used to provide slot in, removable storage, for devices such as digital cameras.
Message board
An internet-based equivalent of an actual message board, where people can post and reply to messages ‘posted’ by other people.
MHz (Megahertz)
A measure of how fast the processor in your PC works 800MHz Pentium III, for example. As a rule of thumb, the higher the number the faster a PC will be.
Stands for Musical Instrument Digital Interface, which is a standard for controlling electronic musical instruments by computer. One
MIME
Stands for Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions, which is a standard for sending files and other data that is not plain text in mail messages over the internet.
Mirror site
A duplicate of a website, usually in a different location, intended to share the load in times of heavy use. Shareware download sites use mirror sites for this very purpose.
Modem
A device that enables two computers to communicate with each other over a telephone line. A modem is usually needed to connect to the internet.
Moderator
User who controls who can speak in a moderated chat room.
Mouse pointer
Also known as the pointer, this is what you see on screen when you move your mouse. It usually looks like an arrow.
MP3
A standard for compressing digital audio. The sound quality of an MP3 file is close to that CD audio but requires only a fraction of the storage space.
MPEG
Stands for Motion Picture Experts Group, and describes a method of compressing digital video. MPEG-1 compression gives VHS-quality vide, while MPEG-2 compression gives high-quality video with CD-quality sound. MPEG-2 compression is used for DVD movies.
Multimedia
Implies that either hardware (such as your PC) or software is capable of handling both video and sound.
My Computer
Usually you will find an icon labelled ‘My Computer’ in the top-left corner of your Windows desktop. Double-click on this and a Window will appear, containing icons for any disk drives you have connected to your PC, as well as any printers you have installed.
Mysql Database
Net
Short for internet, which is a global network of computers you can hook up to through an ordinary phone line.
NetMeeting
A software program developed by Microsoft and available free of charge. Allows you to talk and share data with other computer users over the internet; either audio only or, if you’ve a camera, visually.
Network
A way of connecting several computers and printers so that they can share data.
Newsgroups
Discussion areas on the internet, where you can post a message and read replies from other people, like an office noticeboard.
Notebook
A portable computer, usually around the size of an A4 notebook. Also referred to as laptop.
OCR
An abbreviation of optical character recognition, the process by which printed text is scanned and converted into a computer-editable electronic document.
OEM
Short for original equipment manufacturer, which refers to components sold to manufacturers purely for incorporation in complete systems. Often, OEM parts are similar to those sold retail, but may be cheaper or sold with different software.
Offline
Working with internet software, like an email program, without being connected to the internet, potentially running up telephone charges.
Onboard
Already fitted to your PC as part of the main circuitry on the motherboard. So ‘onboard AGP graphics’, would mean the PC with built-in AGP graphics facilities. The alternative is a separate expansions card which is attached to the motherboard via a special port.
Online
Being connected to the internet.
Online
The time you spend connected to or via the internet.
Online instructions
A read-me text file that will be installed on your computer during the installation of software, or will be present on the CD-ROM for future reference. Think of it as an electronic manual.
Online Service
A company that provides its own online content that’s accessible only to fee-paying members, as well as access to the internet proper. AOL is an online service.
Operating system
A crucial piece of software which is so important that it loads automatically when you switch on a computer. Windows 98, 2000 and XP are operating systems, as is Mac OSX, Linux, and Palm OS5 (for the Palm handheld computer) Operating systems govern the way the hardware and software components in a computer work together.
Packet
Information sent over the internet or other computer networks is split up into packets of data. Each of these includes the destination IP address, so they can travel separately and be rebuilt into the complete message on arrival.
Page printer
General term for printers that, like laser printers or inkjets, process a whole page at a time.
Page Rank (PR)
Page Wizard
A simple series of on-screen forms to generate a page layout based on your preferences. For example, Microsoft Publisher can automatically create a birthday card based on your answers to some simple questions.
Palette
In an image-editing program such as Paint Shop Pro, a palette will allow a user to select a range of tools or colours to use for drawing or photo-retouching work.
Patch (software)
A software file or collection of files that fixes problems with an existing software application by making minor changes to the program.
Path (file management)
In file management, the names of the drive, folder and subfolders that indicate exactly where on a disk a file is stored, like ‘C:WindowsMapsMyFile. xls’. This example means that the file MyFile. xls is located in the folder called Maps, which is inside the folder called Windows on your hard disk.
Pay Per Click (PPC) Programs
Programs that pay for website visitors to click on advertisements. Google Adwords is such a program and so is Google Adsense.
PDF
Portable Document Format. A file format developed by Adobe that allows formatted pages of text and graphics to be viewed and printed correctly on a variety of machines, without the original author having to worry about the recipients. PDF pages created with Adobe Acrobat need to be read with the free Acrobat Reader application.
Personal data
Any information referring to identifiable individuals; usually (but not always) used to refer to computerised information. Most businesses and organisations storing personal data must register with the Data Protection Commissioner.
Phonebook
A mobile phone memory used to record the owner’s personal numbers, so they can be recalled and dialled easily rather than tapped out each time.
Pixel
Short for picture element, which is the smallest part of an image displayed on a monitor or captured by a scanner or digital camera.
Pixelation
Many digital images are made up of tiny dots. So tiny that to the naked eye they cannot be seen. However, if an image is enlarged or ‘blown up’ the individual become visible. This process is known as pixellation.
Platform games
These involve jumping and running across ‘platforms’, fighting foes and collecting sundry objects.
Playlist
A list of audio tracks (usually MP3s) queued for playback, not unlike a stack of records on an old record player.
Plug-in
A small program that adds extra features such as streaming video to your web browser or to other applications, and is loaded only when it’s needed to display information
Point size (or pt size)
The measurement that typographers use to describe the size of text. One point is approximately 1/72nd of an inch. Accordingly, 72pt text is twice as big as 36pt text.
POP
Point of Presence. An Internet access node of an Internet service provider, in other words, the number your modem rings to get on-line
POP3
Post Office Protocol 3. A protocol for remotely accessing and retrieving email from an ISP. Most email applications and ISPs use POP3
Pop-up menu
A menu that can be displayed on the screen at any time by pressing the appropriate key, usually displayed over material already on the screen. Once you have made a choice from the menu, it disappears and the original screen is restored.
Port
A socket, which is located at the back of the computer’s base, where you plug in items like the printer and keyboard.
Portal
A website that offers a variety of services, such as news, weather reports, stock information, email and so on. The information on offer may be personalized for your interests if you have registered with the portal. Most search sites are also portals.
Posting
To send a message to a newsgroup, forum or blog.
Preferences
The part of a program that lets you alter various settings and remembers your changes so it looks and behaves how you want it to.
Preview
In graphics and drawing programs, a mode that allows you to see your artwork in color with fills and strokes. Some programs offer more than one preview quality mode.
Preview pane
Part of a window in an email application that lets you read a message without having to first double-click it to open it. This has the disadvantage that some malicious emails can contain HTML which will run automatically in the preview pane, potentially importing a virus to your system.
Processor
The chip that is the ‘brain’ of the computer. The faster the processor, the better a computer will perform.
Program
Software or applications. Programs tell your computer, and its accessories (the hardware) what to do and how to do it. Examples are Excel, Word, and computer games.
Pt
Point size. The measurement that typographers use to describe the size of text. One point is approximately 1/72nd of an inch. Accordingly, 72pt text is twice as big as 36pt text.
Quicktime
A video file format invented by Apple, and used on both PCs and Macs.
Radio button
A method of selecting an option in an application dialogue box. Only one button in the control group can be selected: if you change your selection, your first choice is automatically deselected.
RAM
Random Access Memory. The computer’s working area, used for data storage while the PC is switched on. Its capacity is measured in megabytes (Mb): the more memory your PC has, the more things it can process simultaneously and the faster it will seem. Note that any information in RAM will be lost when the power is switched off.
Readme file
A file created during an application installation that contains useful information. Readme files are usually found in the same Program Files folder as the application
RealPlayer
The software required to play RealAudio and RealVideo files streamed over the internet. A basic version is available as a free download while a more sophisticated version can be bought online.
Reboot
To restart a computer. Normally, this is by using the ‘Restart’ option on the Windows Start menu. However, it may be necessary to press Control-Alt-Delete or even to use the Reset button if one is fitted to the PC.
Record
A single entry in a database, comprising a related group of individual ‘fields’. Each entry in an address book, for example, is a record.
Recycle Bin
Where all files deleted in Windows are sent. Shown as a rubbish bin icon on the Desktop, it must be emptied if you want to get rid of deleted files for good.
Refresh rate
Measured in Hertz (Hz) the number of times per second that the image on your monitor is redrawn. Slight changes in the image each time it is updated combine to give the illusion of movement. For a steady image, the higher the refresh rate, the less flicker you will see. A refresh rate over 85Hz is generally accepted as being flicker-free.
Resolution
The amount of detail shown in an image, whether on screen or printed. For a monitor, it is the number of pixels it can display (typically 1024 x 768 pixels for a 17in monitor). For printers and scanners, resolution is measured in dots per inch (dpi); the number of drops of ink or toner that can be printed in a square inch.
Right-click
Most actions in Windows are performed by clicking the left mouse button. However, since the arrival of Windows 95, many programs � and Windows itself � make use of the right mouse button click to display a pop-up menu with special functions.
ROM
Read Only Memory. Any memory that can be read but not written to. A PC’s BIOS uses ROM to store basic system information and instructions which cannot be changed.
Router
A device which is used to connect more than one computer together and/or to the internet as an alternative to a modem. It’s so-called because it determines which way data is sent.
Safelists
Also known as opt-in lists. That means that people have signed up to send and receive email to and from all the other people on the list. There are many good ones available. All you need to do is perform a search for “safe lists” or “opt-in lists” on any major search engine. But no matter how safe a list is reputed to be, you should only send a blind or teaser ad to the members
Sample
A recording of instruments or sounds. Samples can be used with a sequencer to make music, or downloaded to a wavetable soundcard so it can reproduce those sounds, combining them and playing them back at different pitches to make music.
Scanner
A device which uses a light sensor to convert a drawing, photograph or document into data which can then be interpreted by software on your PC. A flatbed scanner has a flat sheet of glass on which the image or document is placed. The scan head moves below the glass, while with a handheld scanner you move the scanner over the image.
Screen shot
Also screen grab. An image of what was displayed on screen at a particular moment. A screen is captured to the clipboard in Windows by pressing the Print Screen key. You can then copy it to a graphic file or simply print it off.
Script
A short program that’s stored on a web server to control part of a website. For example, a script could check that a date you’ve entered is valid, or move words across the screen.
Scroll
When a document, an image or a list of items filenames, fonts is too long to display in a window you can scroll up or down by clicking on the window’s scroll bar (also called the vertical scroll bar).
Scroll bar
The section of a window normally grey with a slider control you must use to scroll around when the window’s contents are too large to display at once.
Search engine
A site on the net that indexes the names and addresses of other sites. It enables you to search for sites containing certain keywords, or sometimes even to ask a question in normal language.
You’ve probably heard of Yahoo!, Excite, AltaVista, Lycos, WebCrawler, Infoseek and other Internet search engines. There are literally dozens of these tools to help you locate what you’re looking for. The trick is, though, is understanding how they work, so you can use the right tool for the job. Directories, such as Yahoo!, are good at identifying general information. They group web sites together under similar categories, such as Internet tutorials, English universities and
Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
A method or group of tactics applied to get a website listed on the first page of a search engine results page for certain keywords. The purpose of this is to funnel the optimum amount of traffic to your site so you can increase income from your website.
Search query
The text given to a search engine which forms your search on the world wide web. It can be one or several keywords, use special codes, or even be a natural question.
Security certificate
A piece of data sent from one computer to another designed to prove the authenticity or security of information on the internet.
Selection tool
In graphics and page layout programs, the icon for this often looks like the dotted outline of a square. This tool allows you to select items by drawing a square or rectangular shape around them. Once selected, you can manipulate them all at once.
Server
A computer on a network (such as the internet) that stores shared information. Servers can also manage shared resources, such as printers.
Set-top box
A device that enables a TV set to receive digital TV broadcasts.
Shareware
Programs that you can try out free before deciding whether to buy them or not. Usually much cheaper than conventional software, shareware programs are usually written by individuals and distributed not through shops but via the internet. Most shareware is first supplied as a trial version, which may work fully for a set number of days or may have some features disabled.
Shockwave
Technology developed by Macromedia that allows web pages to contain interactive multimedia. Typical uses include animations and games.
Shortcut
A file that acts as a link to something else, such as a program file or disk drive. Double-clicking a shortcut is the same as double-clicking the original file, so they can be placed on the Desktop as a quick way to start programs.
Sim
Simulation. Used when referring to the simulation game genre.
Simulations
Games that simulate real life, with the most popular being flight simulators.
Site
Short for website. A linked group of one or more web pages, normally dealing with a particular subject or by a single author. Each page or site has its own distinctive URL (universal resource locator) or ‘address’. This is usually prefixed by the letters www, standing for world wide web.
Skin
a different, purely cosmetic appearance for an application.
Slider bar
A control which allows you to change a setting by clicking and ‘dragging’ a slider.
SMS
Short Messaging Service. More commonly called text messaging.
SMTP
Simple Mail Transfer Protocol. A standard for sending email messages. SMTP is nowlargely reserved for sending messages rather than receiving them.
Software
Any program or group of programs which tells hardware how it should perform, including operating systems such as Windows, word processors, DTP applications and games.
Spam
Junk email sent to large groups of people offering such things as money-spinning ideas, holidays, and so on. Named after the Monty Python Spam song.
Spyware
Software installed (usually surreptitiously) as part of another application installation specifically to monitor and report back on a computer’s use.
Start page
The page that appears when you first start your web browsing program. Also known as the home page, it is user-selectable.
Storyboard
A series of sketches that symbolise specific scenes from a film or video project, used to help map out ideas in advance.
Streamed
When data flows to your PC as needed. Broadcasts over the internet are often streamed so that you don’t have to download a whole file before you start listening or watching. However, you cannot generally download streamed files to your hard disk to watch or listen to them later.
Streaming
When data flows to your PC as needed.
Stylus
A plastic pointer styled like a pen, used for operating palmtop computers (PDAs) with touch-sensitive screens.
Sub-head
Smaller than a headline, but larger than ordinary text, sub-heads break up long stretches of text and help readers navigate round more easily.
Surfing
Popular metaphor used for describing someone exploring the world wide web.
S-Video
A higher-quality video connection that carries brightness and colour information separately. Usually found on high-end camcorders and on some graphics and TV tuner cards.
System date
This is the date used by the DOS and Windows operating systems. Programs that need to know the date should ask DOS or Windows for the system date, not look directly at the clock.
System disk
This is a disk that contains all the programs you need to get your PC working, with enough system files to make it boot up and allow you access to the disk drives
System files
The files that run when the computer starts up, usually containing essential instructions to make installed hardware and software to run properly. The autoexec. bat and config. sys files are system files.
System software
Controls the hardware and manages the applications on your PC.
System Tools menu
This folder can be found by clicking the Windows Start button, then looking within Programs/Accessories. In it you will find a number of utilities which are useful for maintaining and troubleshooting your copy of Windows.
System Tray
Found on the far right of your taskbar, the system tray displays icons showing which programs are always running in Windows, such as an anti-virus program.
Tab
Dialogue boxes often combine settings for different associated functions. Each ‘page’ of settings is separated by a tab, as though it were sheets of paper filed away and separated by tabbed dividers.
Tag
Part of the syntax of HTML, the language used to define web pages, tags assign attributes such as colour and position to each of the elements of a web page.
Taskbar
The bar that runs along the bottom of the screen in versions of Windows from 95 onwards. It includes the Start button and System Tray, and contains icons for programs that are running.
TCP/IP
Transmission control protocol/internet protocol. The protocol used to transfer data and information from one internet-connected computer to another.
Template
A web page design, document or a spreadsheet that contains all the required formatting for a particular style or type of document. This ‘master’ can then be used over and over and again, merely filling in the newly changed information or text each time.
Temporary Internet Files
A cache (pronounced like cash), temporarily stores the information on a page in your computer. When you first request a page from the server, the browser (Netscape or Internet Explorer) checks to see if the page has been previously cached in your computer.
Text and picture boxes
Empty frames designed to hold either words or pictures. They are used in many page layout and graphics programs, and some word processors, to exactly position text or graphic elements on a page.
Thumbnail
A small (usually postage stamp-size) image used to give a quick preview of a much larger image.
TIFF
Tagged Image File Format. A standard file format used to store graphic images. It can handle monochrome, grey-scale, 8-bit or 24-bit color images. TIFF images can be compressed without any loss of detail.
Timing out
Your browser sets a time limit on how long it will try to download a web page before determining that it cannot access the appropriate server. If web access is very slow, you are likely to be ‘timed out’.
Toolbar
A strip of icons that runs across the top of most Windows applications. Used to provide quick access to certain important features, such as saving and printing.
Toolbox
The software equivalent of a mechanic’s toolkit. An program’s toolbox should contain everything necessary to complete the task in hand. In an image-editing application, the toolbox will have a selection of drawing, colorings and editing tools.
Top-level domain
The suffix after the final ‘. ‘ in a website (or ‘domain’) name. The most common top level domain is ‘. com’ for ‘commercial’. Other examples include ‘. co.
Traffic
the amount of information being carried by a communication device (usually the internet) at any one time
Traffic Exchanges
Advertising services whereby you visit other member’s websites in exchange for traffic credits and other member’s visiting your website.
TrueType
An outline font technology developed jointly by Microsoft and Apple. It enables typefaces to be displayed on screen exactly as they will print, and allows them to print to best effect on different resolution devices.
Typeface
Sometimes called fonts, thousands of different typefaces are available, each with its own individual letter shapes and characteristics.
Undo
A command in most programs which reverses your last action. The undo command can really get you out of trouble if you have made a catastrophic error.
Uninstall
The process of removing unwanted applications from your PC. You might want to do this to free up hard disk space, or simply because you no longer use the program. Most programs have their own uninstall routine, or you can use Windows’ uninstall command from Control Panel.
Uninstaller
A utility that removes Windows programs properly by deleting not just the main program and its folders, but also the smaller ancillary files that are scattered round the hard disk. It should also remove any entries that have been made in your PC’s Registry and system files.
Uninstalling
Process of removing programs from your computer.
Universal Serial Bus (USB)
A standard which allows quick and easy connection of external peripherals such as scanners and printers to your PC. It supports plug and play, and devices can be added or removed with your PC switched on.
Unix
A robust, very stable operating system often used by businesses on powerful workstations and large computers, especially when it is important that applications do not crash. The free Linux operating system is a derivative of Unix.
Upgrade
To improve the performance or specification of your computer by adding more memory, a larger hard disk or making another improvement. Software can also upgraded, usually by updating it to the latest version.
Uploading
The process of transferring information to another computer, often for publishing on the internet as a web page. The process normally involves using the File Transfer Protocol, or FTP.
URL
Uniform Resource Locator. The unique address of a web page you visit, enabling it to be found from any other computer connected to the internet.
Usenet
Short for users’ network, a collection of public groups of messages newsgroups which is accessible to a wide variety of computer systems worldwide, both on and off the internet. The act of writing a message that appears on Usenet is called posting. Newsgroups belong to hierarchies, usually divided by geography and interest. For example, news://uk. rec. cycling is a UK-based newsgroup about recreational cycling.
User interface
This is the face of a computer program what it looks like to the person sitting in front of the monitor, and how it is used. Windows and the Apple Macintosh have a Graphical User Interface (GUI) which is easier to use than a purely text-based interface like MS-DOS.
Utility
A program that performs specific tasks on your PC, such as optimising memory use or compressing disk space.
Video-conferencing
Linking two or more PCs to capture and display video and audio in real time so distant people can see as well as talk to each other.
Virtual memory
A reserved area of hard disk space that your PC can use as ‘virtual’ memory, or RAM, whenever it is running short of the genuine article. Also called a swapfile, this allows you to have more programs open at once but will be slower than having an equivalent amount of real RAM.
Virtual reality
An artificial environment created using a computer. Virtual realities are usually ‘explored’ using such things as 3D goggles to give the impression that the user is ‘inside’ the virtual world.
Virus
A malicious computer program designed to cause at best annoyance and at worst, damage to computer data. Viruses usually spread from computer to computer by ‘infecting’ files that are passed between them, or by automatically sending an email to everyone in your address book. They are often hidden in innocuous-looking files or email attachments, and may lie dormant waiting for a trigger date or event before they launch.
Virus checker
A software program specifically designed to scan files, such as those on a floppy desk or received via email, for viruses that may damage your PC. Most virus scanners will warn you of viruses as well as attempting to remove or at least neutralise them. Beware that for full effectiveness you must update your virus checker frequently.
WAV file
Also known as a Wave file and saved with a. WAV extension. An audio file, used for recording music and other sounds to disk. Because they are uncompressed, WAV files can be very large. The file format was developed by Microsoft and IBM.
Web
Also known as the world wide web or WWW. The web is a collection of online documents housed on server computers around the world, and forms the most visible and easily accessible part of the internet. These are accessed via a web browser. Web pages typically feature text, graphics and photographs, and often video and audio clips. Each page or site has its own distinctive URL or ‘address’. This is usually prefixed by the letters www, standing for world wide web.
Web browser
A software program developed for navigating the internet, particularly the world wide web. The two most common browsers are Internet Explorer and Netscape Navigator.
Webmaster
Person who creates and maintains a website
Web pages
The online documents stored on internet servers. They link text and images, and often video or audio clips into a coherent whole. Each one can be accessed by typing in its address.
Web space
An area of disk space on an internet server. This may be on your own machine or rented from an Internet Service Provider. This space can then be used to store web pages for display on the internet.
Web-authoring program
A piece of software designed to make it easier to create a web page or site. Often with sophisticated functions built in, such programs create the HTML code automatically and allow you to concentrate on the design of the site. Examples include Microsoft FrontPage and Macromedia DreamWeaver.
Webcam
A video camera designed to connect to your PC. It can be used to record video clips which you can send by email, or to transmit images directly over the internet for video-conferencing.
Webring
A loose collective of websites run by enthusiasts that focus on a particular subject and link to each other.
Website
A linked group of one or more web pages, normally dealing with a particular subject or by a single author. Each page or site has its own distinctive URL or ‘address’. This is usually prefixed by the letters www, standing for world wide web.
 Web Widgets
a portable chunk of code that can be installed and executed within any separate HTML-based web page by an end user without requiring additional compilation.
Wildcard
A character that can be subsituted for one or more characters in a web search, much like the blank tile in Scrabble.
Windows
The operating system found on virtually all modern PCs. It allows you to control your computer and to run programs that let you perform particular tasks.
Wizard
An automated online ‘assistant’ designed to guide you, step-by-step, through a potentially complex process such as faxing, creating a template or changing software options.
WMA
Windows Media Audio. A compressed digital music format developed by Microsoft and played back through the latest versions of Windows Media Player. It allows secure encoding of music tracks but is less widely used than MP3.
WMV
Windows Media Video. A Microsoft file format for video.
Word processor
A software application for preparing largely text-based documents, from basic letters to company newsletters and reports. Most word processors go far beyond simple typing, allowing you to add pictures and text effects, link to other documents, and check your spelling and grammar automatically. Common word processors include Microsoft Word and Lotus Word Pro.
WordArt
A feature in Microsoft Word that allows you to apply a whole range of special effects to text.
WordPad
A basic word-processing program included with Windows. It has few sophisticated features but can be used for simple documents without problems. To find it, click on Start/Accessories/WordPad.
Workgroup
A team of people who work together on a task. All of the members of the team use computers connected to a network, which allows them to share files, schedule meetings and send emails between their PCs.
Worm
A program that transmits and copies itself over a computer network, such as the internet. Not all worms are harmful but many are. Worms are often mislabelled as viruses — worms cannot attach themselves (or ‘infect’) other files, viruses can.
WYSIWYG
What You See Is What You Get. Used in word processors, desktop publishing packages, web-authoring software and the like to signify that the on-screen image of your page is the same as the printed output or published web pages. Non-WYSIWYG programs generally force you to use control codes which only take effect on printing: you cannot see the results on screen as you work.
X-axis
The bottom edge of a chart or graph. It is normally used to plot dates or timescales. The left-hand edge is the Y-axis and may be used to show numbers or amounts.
XG
An extension to the General MIDI standard. Developed by Yamaha, it offers more voices and effects, allowing samples to be played with great expression.
XML
eXtensible Markup Language. A way of tagging documents for display on different types of machine across the internet. It is more flexible than HTML, the most common standard, because it allows developers to define their own specialised tags or formatting codes.
Y axis
The left-hand edge of a chart or graph. It is normally used to plot numbers or amounts. The bottom edge is the X-axis and may be used to show dates or timescales.
Zip drive
A high-capacity disk drive designed by Iomega capable of storing 100 or 250Mb of information on sturdy pocket-sized disks. These can be used for back-up, as extra storage or to transfer files between machines or users. Zip drives can be built into your PC or connected externally, using a USB, parallel or SCSI link.
ZIP file
A file or files that have been compressed using a program like PKZip or WinZip to save disk space or to make them quicker to email. Bitmap image files compress particularly well.
Zipping
Compressing a file using a program such as PKZip or WinZip to reduce the space it takes up. Unzipping is the process of decompressing the file to its original form.
Zone
In OCR software, a scanned area which is designated as containing a particular type of information, either image or text. Examples include a picture caption or a column of text.
Zoom
In image-editing, the tool, normally shown as a magnifying glass, which lets you enlarge an area of the picture so you can see finer detail and work on it more easily.
