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 a semiconductor, and what is it used for?

    A semiconductor is a substance that can act as a conductor or insulator depending on other factors, enabling it to serve as a foundation for computers and other electronic devices.

  • What is neural radiance field (NeRF)?

    Neural radiance fields (NeRFs) use deep learning to turn 2D images of objects or scenes into detailed 3D representations by encoding the entire scene into an artificial neural network.

  • What are logic gates?

    A logic gate is a device that acts as a building block for digital circuits.

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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 User Datagram Protocol (UDP)?

    User Datagram Protocol (UDP) is a communications protocol primarily used to establish low-latency and loss-tolerating connections between applications on the internet.

  • What is pharming?

    Pharming is a scamming practice in which malicious code is installed on a PC or server, misdirecting users to fraudulent websites without their knowledge or consent.

  • What are social media metrics?

    Social media metrics are the various data points that can help a company gauge the impact of social media activity on its revenue.

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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 IT automation? A complete guide for IT teams

    IT automation is the use of instructions to create a clear, consistent and repeatable process that replaces an IT professional's manual work in data centers and cloud deployments.

  • What is the Server Message Block (SMB) protocol? How does it work?

    The Server Message Block (SMB) protocol is a client-server communication protocol used for sharing access to files, printers, serial ports and other resources on a network.

  • What is Clinical Document Architecture (CDA)?

    Clinical Document Architecture (CDA) is a popular, flexible markup standard developed by Health Level Seven International (HL7). CDA defines the structure of certain medical records, such as discharge summaries and progress notes, as a way to better exchange this information between providers and patients.

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Microprocessors

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

  • What is a semiconductor, and what is it used for?

    A semiconductor is a substance that can act as a conductor or insulator depending on other factors, enabling it to serve as a foundation for computers and other electronic devices.

  • What are logic gates?

    A logic gate is a device that acts as a building block for digital circuits.

  • What is pipelining?

    Pipelining is the process of a computer processor executing computer instructions as separate stages.

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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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