Computer science

Definitions about computer science including computing fundamentals vocabulary, protocol and standards terminology, words about microprocessors and terms used in electronics.

Electronics

Terms related to electronics, including definitions about electrical components and words and phrases about computers, laptops parts, digital cameras, televisions and home appliances.

  • What is quantum entanglement and how does it work?

    Quantum entanglement is a foundational phenomenon in quantum mechanics where two or more particles become interconnected in such a way that the state of one particle instantly influences the state of the other, regardless of the distance separating them.

  • What is an inductor?

    An inductor is a passive electronic component that temporarily stores energy in a magnetic field when electric current flows through the inductor's coil.

  • What is a capacitor (capacitance)?

    A capacitor is a passive electronic component that stores electrical charge.

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Internet technologies

This WhatIs.com glossary contains terms related to Internet technologies, including definitions about port numbers, standards and protocols and words and phrases about how the Internet works.

  • What is LARP (live-action role-playing)?

    LARP (live-action role-playing ), sometimes referred to as LARPing, is a form of gameplay where participants physically portray characters in a fictional setting.

  • What is FileZilla?

    FileZilla is a free, open source file transfer protocol (FTP) application that enables users to transfer files between local devices and remote servers.

  • What is short message service center (SMSC)?

    The short message service center (SMSC) is the portion of a mobile phone network that handles text message operations.

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IT standards and organizations

Terms related to information technology (IT) standards, including definitions about IT organizations and words and phrases about policies and compliance.

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Microprocessors

Terms related to microprocessors, including definitions about silicon chips and words and phrases about computer processors.

  • What is an inductor?

    An inductor is a passive electronic component that temporarily stores energy in a magnetic field when electric current flows through the inductor's coil.

  • What is an arithmetic logic unit (ALU) and how does it work?

    An arithmetic logic unit (ALU) is a part of a central processing unit (CPU) that carries out arithmetic and logic operations.

  • What is a quantum processing unit (QPU)?

    A quantum processing unit (QPU) is a hardware device that uses quantum mechanics -- such as superposition and entanglement-- to perform complex calculations on quantum information stored in quantum bits, or qubits.

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Robotics

Terms related to robotics, including definitions about consumer or manufacturing robots and words and phrases about stepper motor systems, XY positioning tables, automation and artificial intelligence.

  • What is a robo-advisor? Everything to know before using one

    A robo-advisor is a virtual financial advisor powered by artificial intelligence (AI) that employs an algorithm to deliver an automated selection of financial advisory services.

  • What is quantum superposition?

    Quantum superposition is the ability of a quantum system to act as if it is in multiple states at the same time until it is measured.

  • What is quantum theory?

    Quantum theory, or quantum mechanics, is the theoretical basis of modern physics that explains the nature and behavior of matter and energy on the subatomic level.

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