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 HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface)?

    HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) is a proprietary specification designed to ensure compatibility between video and audio devices over a single digital interface.

  • Android OS

    Android OS is a Linux-based mobile operating system that primarily runs on smartphones and tablets.

  • What is attenuation?

    Attenuation is a general term referring to when any type of signal -- digital or analog -- reduces in strength.

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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 a smart home? Everything you need to know

    A smart home is a residence that uses internet-connected devices to enable the remote monitoring and management of appliances and systems, such as lighting and heating.

  • What is narrowband IoT (NB-IoT)?

    Narrowband IoT (NB-IoT) is a wireless internet of things (IoT) standard that uses low-power wide area network (LPWAN) technology.

  • What is an IoT gateway?

    An IoT gateway is a physical device or software program that serves as the connection point between the cloud and internet of things devices, such as controllers, sensors and smart devices.

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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.

  • What is HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface)?

    HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) is a proprietary specification designed to ensure compatibility between video and audio devices over a single digital interface.

  • What is the Common Information Model (CIM)?

    The Common Information Model (CIM) is a computer industry standard that defines device and application characteristics so system administrators and management programs can control devices and applications from different manufacturers.

  • What is cybersecurity?

    Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting systems, networks and data from digital threats.

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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.

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