Glossary of Computing and Telecommunication Terms

A
Access Capability
A method for determining which workstatioyn, personal computer, or other CPE will next be able
to access the telecommunications network.
Access Line
That portion of a leased telephone line thaty permanently connects the user with the serving central
office or wire carrier.
Access Line or Subscriber Line
The circuit or channel between the demarcation point at the customer's premises and the serving
end or class 5 central office.
Access Time
The amount of time it takes the computer to find and read data from a disk or from memory. The
average access time for a hard disk is based on the time it takes the head to seek and find the
specified track, the time for the head to lock onto it and the time for the head to spin around until
the desired sector is beneath the head.
Accunet
Data-oriented digital services from AT&T Communications, including Accunet T1.5, terrestrial
wide-band at 1.544Mbps (formerly called T1); Accunet Reserved T1.5, satellite-based channels at
1.544Mbps primarily for video teleconferencing applications; Accunet Packet Services, packet-
switching services; Accunet Data phone Digital Services (DDS), private-line digital circuits at 2.4,
4.8, 9.6, and 56Kbps.
Access line
It is the line that links you to the public switched telephone network. If you have an access line,
you usually find a jack in your wall that allows you to plug in a phone or computer. The access
line itself is inside your walls, up to that plug.
Account
When you use a particular computer system, you are given an account, which includes a unique
user name and a password. You enter these when you login to the system. Some computer
systems, like PCs that were designed to be used by a single user, assume that anyone using the
machine is that user and do not allow formal accounts. With these machines, you may need an
account on a different system to take full advantage of the services offered over the network. To
get access to the computers maintained by Information Technology at SIUC, you will probably be
using either a Kerberos ID or a mainframe ID. Each has its own security criteria.
Active Partition
The partition on a hard disk that contains the boot and operating system. A single hard disk can be
partitioned into several logical disks such as drive C: drive D: and drive E: This can be done at the
initial formatting of the disk. Only one drive, usually drive C: can contain the active partition.
Adapter Boards (Adapter Cards)
The plug-in boards needed to drive monitors. Most monitor boards are Monochrome Graphic
Adapters (MGA), Color Graphic Adapters (CGA), Enhanced Graphic Adapters (EGA), or Video
Graphics Adapters (VGA).
Adaptive Differential Pulse Code Modulation (ADPCM)
A voice digitization technique requiring a bandwidth of 32 kbps.
Address
A unique name or number identifying a specific computer. Addresses are used in network
communications in transmitting messages to a particular machine. You can address a particular
person by associating their account with the address of the machine where they have the account.
For example, the "john" in john@[Link] is the account of an individual on the
machine "[Link]". This machine address is an IP (Internet Protocol) address. IP
addresses can also be expressed numerically, e.g., [Link] represents the same machine. The
verbal names are simply easier for people to [Link]
A set of numbers that uniquely identifies a data processing entity, such as a workstation in a
network, a location in computer memory, or the destination of a packet of data traveling through a
network.
A sequence of bits, a character, or a group of characters that identifies a network station, user, or
application; used mainly for routing purposes.
ADSL(asymmetric digital subscriber line)
This is one form of technology, which Bell hopes will really bring the "information highway" to
you over the telephone system, rather than through their competitors such as cable companies.
Setting aside all the technical stuff, ADSL allows very high-speed data movement over your
regular copper telephone line. It's called "asymmetric" because the speeds going INTO your house
or business are much greater than the speeds sent from you back up the line. Operating in this
"unbalanced" way makes sense because the large files requiring a lot of speed and bandwidth are
coming TO your computer screen, while all that's being sent back from you is a relatively small
amount of data -- the signal you send back down the line when you click your mouse or type on
your keyboard. ADSL is now available in Ottawa, Hull and Quebec City and some western
provinces. However, ADSL is not yet available anywhere in Northern Ontario.
Alternate provider (of local or long distance phone services)
A phone company other than the original Bell/Stentor companies now allowed because of the
loosening of competition rules to provide local or long distance telephone services to Canadians.
AT&T Canada, Sprint and MCI are examples of "alternate service providers."
Amplitude
The magnitude or strength of a waveform. The greater the amplitude, the greater the energy.
Analogue, analogue switches, analogue data speed
All telephone companies support a minimum analogue data speed over phone lines. If your
community telephone exchange has "analogue switching equipment" then you usually don't have
as many phone lines and can't get most of the faster technologies described in this supplement.
Even though phone lines from your home or office to the phone company's switching station are
analogue, much faster speeds are possible today over these lines because of "compression" a
system of cramming a lot more data into smaller packages before sending it over phone lines. See
also "digital" and "modem."
Anonymous FTP
A term used on the Internet for moving files around. FTP stands for "File Transfer Protocol." The
"anonymous" part means you can usually log on to a site and access data there without paying a
fee or registering.
Archie
A search tool used on the Internet that helps you find things, usually at FTP sites.
ASCII (American Standard Code for Information Interchange -- pronounced Ask-EE)
American Standard Code for Information Interchange. A standardized data encoding scheme
introduced to achieve compatibility between unlike computing/transmitting machinery. A "plain
ASCII" file typically contains only those characters on standard keyboards.
Possibly the best thing ever invented to break down barriers of misunderstanding around the
world, or between different kinds of computers. This standardized code allows plain text with no
formatting (like bold or italics) to be transferred over networks or around the world on the Internet.
The American Standard Code for Information Interchange is a universally recognized format used
mainly for 'text file' exchange. ASCII uses bits to represent different alphanumeric symbols (for
example, ABC, xyz,!, @, +, ABC) and control codes (for example, tab, backspace, carriage
return).
Asynchronous transfer mode (ATM)
Asynchronous" is a fancy word for "same." ATM is a switching technology that allows voice, data
and video information to be moved over the same (asynchronous) communications network.
Asynchronous Transfer Mode. ATM is an Internet protocol that transmits information in short,
fixed-length packets. It's "asynchronous" in the sense that you don't have to synchronize your
schedule with its transmission. To watch a favorite TV program, for example, you must either stop
what you're doing or tape the program on your VCR. You could then watch the tape on your VCR
when you choose, but of course you must have this intermediary device. To find a favorite scene,
you would need to scroll forward or backward through the tape. ATM is a different concept. You'll
be able to download any digitized information--a movie, a news broadcast--directly through a
broadband connection into your TV or computer, watch any portion you choose, or suspend
watching and return later, or instantly jump forward or backward to any segment of the
information. A networking technology that contains a flexible multiplexing and switching
technique, which provides variable bandwidth for local-area and wide-area networks. Unlike
ordinary synchronous configurations, ATM permits flexible allocation of available bandwidth for
data, voice, images and video. ATM uses a scalable architecture, making it easily upgradeable; it
allows a virtually unlimited number of users to have dedicated, high-speed connections with high-
performance network servers. Engineering studies indicated that ATM is capable of data rates of
622 Mbps over fiber optic cable (SMF and MMF) and 155 Mbps over Category 5 UTP copper.
Automatic number identification (ANI)
Technology, which figures out the number, you're calling from, allowing call completion and
billing without the need for operator intervention. In older telephone systems without analogue
switches, an operator might have to come on the line and ask for your phone number after you
made a long distance call. ANI eliminated that.
Alarm Indication Signal (AIS)
An AIS is a keep alive signal of continuous framed "ones" filling the unused bandwidth, and is
required by the network in the absence of a normal DS1 signal. An AIS is also known as a Blue
Alarm.
ALEC
Alternative Local Exchange Company, also called CLEC's in other states. Any company
certificated by the Commission to provide local exchange telecommunications service in Florida
on or after July 1, 1995.
Algorithm
A step-by-step procedure, scheme, formula, or method used to solve a problem or accomplish a
task. May be a subroutine in a software program.
Alphanumeric
Data that has both numerals and letters.
American National Standards Institute (ANSI)
The national standards body that represents the United States as an ISO member.
A standard adopted by MS-DOS for cursor positioning. It is used in the [Link] file for device
drivers.
American Standard Code For Information Interchange (ASCII)
An eight-level code for data transfer adopted by the American Standards Association to achieve
compatibility between data services.
Binary numbers from 0 to 127 that represent the upper and lowercase letters of the alphabet, the
numbers 0 to 9, and the several symbols found on a keyboard. A block of eight 0s and 1s are used
to represent all of these characters.
Analog
A form of information, which is represented by a continuous electromagnetic wave encoded so
that its power varies continuously with the power of a signal, received from a source (e.g., a source
of sound or light). Contrast to digital.
A signal in which the characteristic quantity representing information may at any instant assume
any value within a given range.
Transmission employing variable and continuous waveforms to represent information values.
Analogue (analog - US)
Pertaining to data that is transmitted in the form of a continuously varying electrical signal. The
pitch and volume of the caller's voice is represented by the analogue signal.
Analog/Digital (A/D)
An acronym that refers to analog-to-digital conversion.
Analog-To-Digital (A/D) & Digital-To-Analog (D/A) Converters
Devices that can change analog impulses into digital impulses and vice versa for use with digital
equipment. For example, a telephone modem changes digital impulses from a computer to analog
tones, which then travel over telephone lines to another telephone modem, where the analog tones
are changed back to digital impulses for the receiving computer.
Analog Gateway
A means of connecting dissimilar codec. Incoming digital signal from one type of codec is
decoded by a similar codec and converted to analog. The analog signal is then passed on to the
dissimilar coedc, coded, and decoded at the far end. Analog gateways achieve interoperability in a
non-standard environment, but have the disadvantages of degrading video and audio quality and
often reducing functionality.
Antenna
A structure, which transmits or receives electromagnetic signals.
Anti-Streaming Timer
Ability in a modem to ignore a Request to Send (RTS) signal from a data terminal if it is held on
for longer than a specified amount of time.
Aperture
Same as "diameter" of a parabolic dish.
Apogee
The highest point in a communications satellite's orbit.
Application Layer
In the OSI Model, the highest of the seven layers that are reflected in the ISDN standards being
developed by the CCITT. Functions of the Application Layer include the interface between the
user (person or program) and the communications network.
Application Oriented Layer
Layers 5, 6, and 7 of the OSI Reference Model. They are also referred to as the "Network
Independent" or "Communications" Layers. These layers are concerned with the protocols that
allow two end user application processes to interact with each other, normally through a range of
services offered by the local operating system.
Architecture
The principles that govern the design of hardware or software. Architecture typically describes
how a system is structured and how its components fit together. A system's architecture defines the
formats and procedures used for communication between components and with other systems.
ARPANET (Advanced Research Projects Agency Network)
One of the earliest networks. It provided a vehicle for networking research centers and universities.
ARPANET was the basis for the evolution of the Internet.
Area Code
The first three digits of a 10-digit telephone number. Designates a geographical area within which,
station numbers are sub grouped. Three-digit code designating a geographical division within the
North American Numbering Plan.
Assembly Language
A low-level machine language, made up of 0s and 1s.
Asynchronous
In data communications, transmission of individual characters, or bytes, of user data framed by
start and stop bits, from which a receiver derives the necessary timing for sampling bits; also
start/stop transmission.
Characteristic of any operation that is independent of a master clock or time signals.
Information that is sent or exchanged independent of any specific time.
A serial type of communication where one bit at a time is transmitted. The bits are usually sent in
blocks of eight 0s and 1s.
Transmission that is not related to a specific frequency or to the timing of the transmission facility;
transmission characterized by individual characters or bytes with start and stop bits from which a
receiver derives the necessary timing for sampling bits; start-stop transmission.
Attitude Control
Maintenance of a communications satellite's orientation with respect to the Earth and Sun.
Audio
Of or pertaining to electric current and phenomena of frequencies corresponding to normally
audible sound waves. These frequencies are approximately 16 to 20,000 Hertz.
Audio Bridge
Connects the telephones at remote sites, equalizes the noise distortion and background noise for a
live audio teleconference (audio conference).
Audio Channel
A channel capable of satisfactorily transmitting signal within the audio range. As a television term
audio channel refers to a channel transmitting the audio signal, which are generally, but not
necessarily, associated with video signals.
Audio conference
Two-way electronic communication (voice only) among three or more individuals or between two
or more groups in separate locations. Uses ordinary telephone lines or microwaves to allow several
sites to communicate at one time.
Audio Emphasis
In FM (Frequency Modulation) transmission systems audio emphasis in the base band signal path
as a filter whose function is to change the level to frequency characteristic of the base band signal.
The assumption in this type of transmission system is that the effects of high frequency noise
which is a characteristic of the transmission system can be reduced by increasing the transmitted
base band high frequencies and complementary attenuation of the receive base band high
frequencies.
Audio Graphics
Refers to the transmission of graphics and text information over a narrowband telecommunications
channel, such as a telephone line or sub carrier.
Audio Sub carrier
A sub carrier signal, which transmits audio for an accompanying video signal or independent
audio.
Average Picture Level (APL)
The average level of the picture signal during active scanning time integrated over a frame period
and expressed as a percentage of the blanking to reference white range.
B
B (Bearer) Channel
The ISDN communications channel that provides a means of transmitting and recording voice and
nonvoice information in real time and without changing message content. The B channel runs at 64
kbps. Voice information is digitally encoded using pulse modulation (PCM). Nonvoice
information may be circuit-switched synchronous data or packet-switched data.
Babble
Undesired and unintelligible signals inadvertently imposed on a desired audio signal.
Back Porch
That portion of the composite video signal, which lies between the trailing edge of the horizontal
sync pulse and the trailing edge of the corresponding blanking signal.
Bandwidth
The maximum frequency (range), measured in Hertz, between the two limiting frequencies of a
transmission channel; the range of frequencies that can be carried by a transmission medium
without undue distortion.
The difference between the highest and lowest frequencies of a transmission channel, expressed in
Hertz (Hz). In digital applications, the bandwidth is expressed as the number of bits per second
(bps) that can be transmitted over a channel.
The range of frequencies over which signal amplitude remains constant (within some limit) as it is
passed through a system. A measure of the information-carrying capacity of a communications
channel. The speed (bit rate or velocity) at which data can be transferred and presented.
Base band
The unmodulated signal that is delivered from a satellite receiver.
Refers to the composite video signal, as it exists before modulating the picture carrier. Composite
video distributed throughout a studio and used for recording is at base band.
Basic Input/Output System (BIOS)
The BIOS is responsible for handling the input/output operations of a computer.
Basic Rate Access (BRA) or Basic Rate Interface (BRI)
An access line or structure defined under ISDN as including two 64 kbps B channels and one 16
kbps D channel. This is the basic access structure for most ISDN connections. The configuration
for the digital transmits and receives channels and one D Channel (see B channel, D channel, S
interface, T interface).
Backbone
The main line that ties networks, phone systems or computers together. It's like the human
skeleton, with many small connections (called nodes or terminals), branching off from the
backbone.
Bandwidth
A way of measuring how much information flows through a line over a unit of time. Bandwidth
can be measured in various ways such as the number of bits transmitted per second (See bit rate).
Basic telephone service (sometimes called POTS: "plain old telephone service.")
What every Canadian is supposed to have. This refers to standard residential telephone service,
which is supposed to be provided to most Canadians. Current "basic service" features include:
hearing a dial tone when you pick up your phone; being able to call an operator when you need
one; getting your name listed in the phone book; getting repair service; being able to make local or
long distance calls be dialing direct instead of going through an operator.
Baud, baud rate
How transmission speed (bandwidth) is measured in the digital world. A rate of information flow.
Given in bits per second (bps), the rate is the highest number of single elements (bits) that can be
transferred between two devices in one second. A measurement of the speed or data transfer rate of
a communications line between the computer and printer, modem, or another computer.
The maximum number of signalling elements, or symbols, per second that are generated; may be
different from bps rate as several bits may be encoded per symbol, or baud, with advanced
encoding techniques such as phase-shift keying.
Beam
Comes from the science fiction show Star Trek, where people are "beamed" to another location. In
the world of the Internet, to "beam" usually means sending a file, as in "beam me over a copy of
that by e-mail, please!"
Beam Width
The angular coverage of an antenna beam.
Bearer Capability (BC)
Information element that indicates the bearer service of a call.
Bearer Services
The transport and switching services offered by ISDN central offices - i.e. B channel access.
Bearer services specify the transmission transport capabilities for a call and require only the
functions of the lowest three layers of the OSI Reference Model.
Beginners All Purpose Symbolic Instruction Code (BASIC)
A high-level programming language that was once popular.
Bell Canada
Sometimes called "Ma Bell." Canada's largest telecommunications company, serving
approximately nine million customers in Ontario and Quebec. Bell is regulated by the Canadian
Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) and is a member of Stentor -- an
alliance of Canada's major telephone companies.
Bell Operating Company (BOC)
One of 22 local companies spun off from AT&T as a result of divestiture.
Benchmark
A standard type of program against which similar programs can be compared.
Bi-directional
Of or relating to both directions. Most printers print in both directions, thereby saving the time it
takes to return to the other end of a line.
Binary Digits (Bits)
A binary unit of information that can have either of two values, 0 or 1. The basic way of storing
and transmitting digital information. Bits are represented electronically as specified voltages of
specified duration or specified voltage transitions.
The basis for calculations in computers; a numbering system having only two possible states (on or
off) as designated by 0 and 1.
Binary numbers are 0s and 1s.
Bipolar With 8 Zero Substitution (B8ZS)
A digital coding scheme which ensures that eight consecutive zero bits are never sent over a
channel. B8ZS meets the ones-density requirement for DS1 signals and allows 64 kilobit CCC (see
clear channel capability).
Bit
A binary digit, the representation of a signal, wave, or state, as either a binary zero or a one. Short
for "binary digit". A bit is the smallest possible unit of storage of computer information and can be
one of two values -- 0 and 1, low and high, or on and off.
Bit rate
The number of bits (binary digits) transmitted in a specified length of time, usually expressed in
bits per second (bps). This is considered the most accurate way of measuring the speed of your
modem (the device that connects your computer to the Internet). Most new computers now come
with modems operating at speeds of at least 28,800 bps.
Bit Error Rate (BER)
The percentage of received bits that are in error, relative to a specified amount of bits received;
usually expressed as a number referenced to a power of 10 (e.g. 1 in 105).
Bit Stream
A continuous string of bit positions occurring serially in time.
Bits Per Second (BPS)
It is a basic unit of measure for serial data transmission capacity. Kbps (kilobits per second)
represents thousands of bits per second; Gbps (gigabits per second) represents billions of bits per
second; Tbps (terabits per second) represents trillions of bits per second.
Bounce
Getting your e-mail sent back to you. This doesn't hurt. The reason your e-mail got bounced is
normally explained to you at the top of the message. It could be because of a typing error you
made in the address line, or the person you wrote to have changed her address, or some other glitch
out there on the Internet.
Bozo filter
A computer program that allows you to screen out e-mail messages you don't want. If someone is
annoying you, it's a great invention!
Bridge
Like bridges in highways and railways, a telecommunications "bridge" is used to connect several
telephone circuits (for conference calls) or to link up computer networks.
Broadband
Any system able to deliver multiple channels and/or services to its users or subscribers. Generally
refers to cable-television systems. Sometimes called wideband.
Broadband communications
Term characterizing both digital and analog transmission systems. Broadband communications is
generally understood to indicate either a fast data-rate digital system or a wide bandwidth analog
system.
Broadcasting
Sending audio and/or video signals to many points all at the same time. (See narrow casting)
Browser
Software you need to look things up on the Internet and World Wide Web. Popular browser
software packages are Netscape, Mosaic, and Microsoft Internet Explorer.
Bulletin board service (BBS)
An information database provided to anyone for a fee using one or more computers and dial-in
modems. Some BBS systems are very small, run by one person and only allowing a few users to
log on at once. Others are huge, with thousands of subscribers. A BBS usually has files for sharing
and message boards. With the evolution of the Internet in the 1990s, most BBSs also became
Internet Service Providers (ISPs).
Bypass
Something the telephone companies don't want you to do. It's not a heart bypass. It means making
phone calls other than through the publicly switched telephone network, from which the phone
companies make money. You can bypass the telephone network using voice software on the
Internet, or some companies route Canadian and overseas long distance calls through carriers in
the United States. While consumers save money from "bypassing," the local telephone network
suffers in the long run because if you're not paying long distance charges, there's no revenues
going to maintain and improve your local phone service.
Byte
In most computer systems, one byte=eight bits. A byte is the memory space needed to store one
letter of the alphabet. You will hear these terms a lot, particularly from geeks: kilobyte (KB) =
about a thousand bytes (1,024 bytes) megabyte (MB, or "megs") = about a million bytes
(1,048,576 bytes) gigabytes (GB, or "gigs") = 1,000 megabytes So if you hear someone say they
have a "2.4 gig hard drive" on their computer, then they can store 2,400 megabytes or more than 2
and a half BILLION bytes. That's enough space for about 200 copies of the Encyclopedia
Britannica.
Black Level
It is the level of picture signal corresponding to the maximum limit of the black peaks.
Black Peak
The maximum excursion of the picture in the black direction at the time of observation.
Blanking (Picture)
The portion of the composite video signal whose purpose is to render the vertical and horizontal
retrace invisible.
Blanking Level
That level of the composite video signal which separates the range of level containing picture
information from the range of level containing synchronization information. The setup is regarded
as part of the picture information.
Refers to the 0 IRE level which exists before and after horizontal sync and during the vertical
interval.
Blanking Pulse
A signal used to cut off the electron beam and thus remove the spot of light on the face of a
television picture tube or image tube.
A signal used to suppress the picture signal for a given length of time.
Blanking Signal
A specific series of blanking pulses.
Blocking
Distortion in the received video imagery characterized by rectangular or checkerboard patterns that
were not present in the original video imagery before transmission.
Blooming
An increase in the size of the spot on a picture monitor screen resulting in apparent defocusion in
the highlights of the picture. Blooming may be due to halation of the florescent screen or electrical
effects on the electron beam.
Blurring (Smearing)
Distortion in the received video imagery characterized by reduced sharpness of edges and detail
that were present in the original video imagery before transmission.
Bootstrap (Boot)
When a computer is turned on, all the memory and other internal operators have to be set or
configured. The bootstrap configures the peripherals and system for operation.
Bounce
Unnatural sudden variation in brightness of the television picture.
Breathing
Unnatural variation at a slow regular rate in the brightness of a television picture.
Breezeway
The portion of the video signal which lies between the trailing edge of the horizontal sync pulse
and the start of burst. Breezeway is part of back porch.
Bridge
A device that is designed to interconnect with three or more telecommunications channels, such as
telephone lines.
Brightness
Overall DC (direct current) voltage level of the video signal. Brightness control is an adjustment of
setup (black level, black reference).
Broadband (Wideband)
A telecommunications medium that carries high frequency signals; includes television frequencies
of three to six megahertz (MHz).
A fiber-based technology characterized by extremely high bandwidths (typically 100 mbps and
higher).
Broadcast
Transmission of information in one direction that is available to an undifferentiated audience.
Broadcast Television System Committee (BTSC)
A committee of the Electronic Industries Association whose name has been given to a television
stereo sound system. (see also Second Audio Program (SAP)).
Broadcast Television Standards Committee (BTSC)
The group that worked out the format for MTS. It is the name by which the TV stereo audio
signals are commonly known.
Broad Pulses
Another name for the vertical synchronizing pulses in the center of the vertical interval. These
pulses are long enough to be distinguished from all others, and are the part of the signal actually
detected by vertical sync separators.
Bubble Memory
A non-volatile type of memory that is created by the magnetization of small bits of ferrous
material.
Buffer
Usually some discrete amount of memory that is used to hold data, so that a peripheral may
function and the computer can process other data.
Burst
A small reference packet of the subcarrier sine wave, typically eight or nine cycles, which is sent
on every line of video. Since the carrier is suppressed, this phase and frequency reference is
required for synchronous demodulation of the color information in the receiver.
Bus
Wires or circuits that connect a number of devices together.
Byte
A group of eight bits, that typically represent a single character. In data communications, a byte is
also often called an octet, which is any group of eight bits that function as a unit of information.
A byte is eight bits, or a block of eight 0s and 1s. It takes one byte to make a single character.
Bandwidth
The maximum units of data that can be transmitted per second through a channel. Measured in
hertz in an analogue system and in bits per second in digital systems.
Binary
Pertaining to a numbering system with a base of two (as compared to 10's in the decimal system),
consisting of the values "0" and "1".
Binary File: Any file that is not a plain-text file is a binary file. When transferring these files, you
must use binary mode to avoid strange changes to the file.
Browser: Software that lets you display text and images stored on "pages" around the Internet.
Examples include Netscape, Mosaic, and Microsoft's Internet Explorer.
Broadband
A high-capacity communications circuit/path. It usually implies a speed greater than 1.544 Mbps.
C
Cable :In the world of telephone companies, a cable is one or more insulated wires inside a
common protective wrapper. If you're having a phone line installed, the phone company will tell
you they're running a "cable" to your home or office. Don't confuse this with coaxial cable, a
special form of cable used by "cable tv" firms. Coaxial cable is made up of one or more tubes, each
of which has a wire inside (and thus insulated from) other wires around it. This makes it possible
to run many more circuits through a coaxial cable using a system called "multiplexing." (See
multiplexing.)
Cable Television System (CATV)
A broadband communications system capable of delivering multiple channels of programming
from a set of centralized satellite and off-air antennae, generally by coaxial cable, to a community.
Many cable-television designs integrate fiber-optic and microwave links.
Carrier
A telecommunications company that offers communications services to the general public via
shared circuits at published tariff rates. In the United States, the Federal Communications
Commission or various state public-utility commissions regulate common carriers.
CD-ROM
An acronym for "compact disk-read only memory." An optical-storage device, identical to those
used to record music, that holds roughly 600 times as much data--including text, graphics, sound,
and video--as a standard computer floppy disk.
Coaxial cable
A type of cable used for broadband data and cable systems. Also known as "coax."
Cable modems
Several cable television companies are experimenting with a technology called WAVE that will
permit high speed access to a host of information services, including the Internet. The service is
delivered through the cable lines now reaching about 90% of Canadian homes. Current cable
modems operate at speeds of up to 500 Kbps. However, this bandwidth is shared with other users
on the system so you might not experience a sustained flow at that speed. The telephone
companies also question how "private" the transmissions are over cable modems, but the cable
companies dispute this. In order to subscribe to a cable modem type of telecommunications service
there must be a cable television service provider offering this service where you are. Right now, no
cable company in Northern Ontario is doing this, but it could come soon.
Called line identification, calling line identification, "caller ID"
Technology which allows you to see the telephone number of an incoming call and allows people
you are calling to see your number when you call them. This is useful if you are being annoyed by
someone, or don't want to speak to someone right at that moment, you can see who's calling before
you pick up the receiver. You can also use it to dazzle your friends and say "hello, Jane" when you
answer (before Jane has a chance to speak), because you know it's Jane calling.
Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC)
The federal regulator for commercial radio and television broadcasters, cable TV and
telecommunications companies. In the last 10-15 years, the CRTC has been lessening its
regulatory control over these industries. This is known as "deregulation." The CRTC has also
opened the door to competition -- not just for long distance carriers, but also for local phone
service.
Cancom
Cancom is a provider of video and data services throughout Canada using VSAT technology.
CD-ROM
Stands for Compact Disk, Read-Only Memory. One CD-ROM on your computer can hold the
same amount of data as about 1,500 floppy disks. CD-ROMs are quite popular for interactive
media that need audio, pictures and text all at the same time. However, more and more "libraries"
with mostly text information are being issued on CD-ROM. For example, the entire report of the
Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples is available on CD-ROM. The same disk holds not only
the five volumes of the report, but thousands of pages of transcripts of all the years of the
Commission's hearings, plus the full text of over 200 studies done for the Commission. This is the
equivalent of all the stuff on a large bookcase stuffed on to one shiny silver disk.
Cellular
A mobile telephone system that uses radio waves to provide coverage in certain geographic areas
or "cells". These cells are usually adjacent to each other and combine to offer continuous coverage
over wide areas such as entire cities or highway corridors. (See telephone, cellular.)
Central office switching center
The place where your phone line is linked up with all the other phone lines in your area, and out to
the rest of the world. If you have fibre optic lines running to the "central office switch" in your
area, you also need a "digital platform" installed in order to take advantage of all the optional
calling features and other advantages of digital such as faster and more dependable call set-up and
quieter lines. If your community doesn't have a digital platform, you have old switches left over
from the 1960s and 70s, called analogue. Analogue systems transmit your voice exactly as you
hear it, and are nearly useless for modern data transmissions. Digital switches bundle up voice and
data into small packages for quick movement along the lines, then unpack them at the other end.
Central processing unit (CPU)
The brains of a computer, or where all the "thinking" (processing of bits of data) gets done.
Centrex
A multi-line telephone service offered by telephone companies which is located in the phone
companies switching station (central office), instead of customer-owned Private Branch Exchange
equipment. This service is usually leased and permits call transfer, call forwarding, and links
between customers' telephone [Link]
An electrical transmission path between two or more stations. Channels may be furnished by wire,
radio, fiber or a combination of all three. (See also five hundred channel universe)
Channel capacity
Channel capacity is generally measured in bits per second (like bandwidth) but may be stated in
many other ways. For example, a channel might be described as being able to carry so many voice
conversations or television signals.
Chat and talk
A computer program that allows you to "talk" on line with one or more people over the Internet,
by typing on your keyboard. There are places on the Internet called "chat rooms" where you can do
this.
Circuit
A physical transmission path between two or more points. (See channel.)
Client-server computing
Putting large and small computers together in a network so a smaller computer (a client) can send
and receive data from a larger computer (the server). For example, in a grocery store items are
scanned in at check-out counters. The data collected at these smaller client stations is then relayed
to a larger server, where all the information is tallied up. From the files on the server, the owner of
the grocery store can figure out what's been sold, and what needs to be ordered to keep the shelves
full. In an office like Wawatay News, our server enables us to share the files back and forth we
need to produce the newspaper, since one computer is doing the ads while other (client) computers
are used for news stories, photos and translations.
Computerphobe
Someone who is afraid to use a computer
Copyright
The legal right of an owner to grant permission to copy his or her original work. For example,
someone who writes a story for our newspaper owns the "right to copy" to her writing, but we pay
her for the right to use it in the paper. An author's "copyright" exists for 50 years after the author
dies, then the material is no longer legally protected and becomes what is called "in the public
domain." For example, all the works of William Shakespeare are now "public domain." Copyright
is important on the Internet because national and international laws protect the owners of all
photos, written text and audiovisual materials you find. You can look at this material and even
download it to your computer, but any other use of the material is a violation of the owner's
copyright and is the same as stealing.
Collect call
A type of phone call where the person being called agrees to pay the charges. This is also referred
to as "reversing the charges." Parents are used to getting these from kids living away from home.
Communications satellite
A device sent up into space used to relay telecommunications signals between two or more points.
The main advantage of satellites is the relatively low cost of the earth station equipment needed to
link up with satellites compared to stringing wire or fibre optic cable over very long distances.
Competition
Once upon a time not long ago, there wasn't any competition in telecommunications. "Ma Bell"
and other phone companies had a monopoly on all phone service, cable companies had monopolies
on cable TV, etc. But all this started to change on August 5, 1980, when the Canadian Radio-
Television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) opened the door to competition by
ruling that subscribers can link up any equipment they want to their phone lines, not just
equipment rented from phone companies. Since that ruling, the phone companies provide an
access line up to your home or business, but what you do with those lines after that is up to you.
You can buy your own phone system and plug it in to the access line, or rent a system. The choice
is yours. On May 1 1997, the CRTC completely opened the door to competition by ruling that
providing consumers with local phone service (access lines) was now open to competition, and
phone companies could in turn compete by providing cable TV-type services. (See convergence.)
Convergence
The mixing together of television, computer, telephone, radio, cable and wireless technologies.
Before competition, all these technologies used to operate completely on their own, each supplying
the consumer with a distinct service. The phone company brought you phone service, a cable
company brought you television, and you got your computer or digital phone from others. Digital
technology is changing all this, making it possible for anything -- a voice over a phone line, a TV
picture and accompanying sound, data from your computer -- to be reduced to digital "bits" and
send over any kind of access line. This means that some day, the phone will ring and you will
answer by talking to your computer screen, which will also be the place you can watch a movie or
the news.
Cybernaut
Someone who travels into cyberspace by using the Internet. Put the word "astronaut" together with
the word "cyberspace" (below)
Cyberspace
Where you go when you're on the Internet. The term was invented by the author William Gibson
and first used in his 1984 novel Neuromancer. The prefix cyber- is now commonly added to many
other words to create new words such as cyberpunk (the type of novel written by people like Mr.
Gibson) and cyberlingo (the language spoken by people out in cyberspace).
CAN: Campus Area Network. This is the fiber-optic cable "backbone" linking campus buildings
to each other and to external networks like the Internet.
Cable-Ready TV
A television receiver that is equipped to directly tune to CATV channel frequencies; however, a
"descrambler" may still be required on certain CATV systems that carry coded or scrambled
signals. Normally, TV receivers are not equipped with such devices.
Cache Memory
A high speed buffer set up in memory to hold data that is being read from the hard disks. Often a
program will request the same data from the disk repeatedly, and using caching will considerably
speed up access time.
Camera Control Unit (CCU)
Remote control device for video camera usually placed in the editing suite. Controls usually
include video levels, color balancing, and iris control.
Card
An assembly of components that can be tested, removed, and replaced as a unit. Usually refers to a
single unit without piggybacks connected to it. Also called a PC Board.
Carrier Sense Multiple Access/Collision Detection (CSMA/CD)
A technique for controlling access of multiple devices to local area networks such as Ethernet.
Under CSMA, the network senses a request from a device for network access (carrier sense). If
two devices request simultaneous network access (collision), each device retransmits after a brief,
preset delay. Because each device on the network has a different delay, the collision will not recur.
Carrier Signal
A continuous waveform that is capable of being modulated to convey information. The signal
conveys no information until its amplitude, frequency, or phase is changed (modulated). The
changes in the signal convey the information.
Carrier-To-Noise Ratio (CNR)
The ratio of the video carrier signal level to the Root Mean Square (RMS) noise level, expressed in
dB.5
Carrier-To-Third Order Intermodulation Ratio (C/IM)
Often referred to as "triple beat," it is the simultaneous pulse of two or three signal carriers to
produce a spurious carrier, caused by third-order distortion characteristics of an amplifier. C/IM is
usually associated with AM systems and is not evident in either FM or digital transport systems.
Central Office (CO)
The telephone company switching facility or center, at which subscribers' local loops terminate. It
handles a specific geographic area, identified by the first three digits of the local telephone
number. Since divestiture, these are the facilities of the local Bell operating company.
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The main operating portion of a computer that performs all system functions as directed by the
user or a peripheral.
Centrex
A telephone company switching service that uses central office switching equipment and to which
customers connect by individual access lines.
Centronics Parallel Port
A system of 8-bit parallel transmission first used by the Centronics Company and has become a
standard default printer output for IBM computers.
Channel
A physical or logical path allowing the transmission of information; the path connecting a data
source and a data receiver.
A radio frequency assignment (which is dependent upon the frequency band and geographic
location).
Part of a circuit path through several entities in a communications systems. A channel runs
between two nodes.
Channel Bank
Equipment typically located in a telephone central office that performs multiplexing of lower
speed channels into a higher speed composite channel. The channel bank also detects and transmits
signaling information for each channel and transmits framing information so time slots allocated to
each channel can be identified by the receiver.
Channel Coding
Code conversion of a source-coded signal into a signal that is matched to the characteristics of the
transmission channel.
Channel Service Unit (CSU)
A component of customer premises equipment (CPE) used to terminate a digital, such as DDS,
SynchroNet, or MegaLink at the customer site. CSU performs certain line-conditioning functions,
ensures network compliance per FCC rules, responds to loop back commands from the central
office, ensures proper ones density in the transmitted bit stream, and performs bipolar violation
correction.
Channel Switching
The capability to change communications links for the physical path of information flow between
two end users. A link is established by dialing a "channel".
Character Generator (CG)
Device that allows you to generate text for use in video productions.
Chip
A integrated circuit, usually made from a silicon wafer. It is microscopically etched and has
thousands of transistors and semiconductors in a very small area.
Chroma Gain
The voltage levels of the colors. How intense the colors of the active picture are.
Chrominance
The chrominance component of the video picture information which includes burst phase (hue)
and chroma gain (saturation). The video picture information contains two components: luminance
(brightness and contrast) and chrominance (hue and saturation).
Chrominance refers to the color information in a television picture.
Color Information portion of signal.
Chrominance Nonlinear Gain
The departure from proportionality in amplitude of the chrominance sub carrier, measured at the
output, as the amplitude of the sub carrier is varied, at a given luminance level and APL, at the
input.
Circuit-Switched Digital Capability (CSDC)
CSDC is AT&T's 56 kbps PSDS offering on a 1AESS.
Circuit Switching
The process of establishing and maintaining a circuit between two users on demand, such that the
users have exclusive use of the circuit until the connection is released.
Clamping
The process of re-establishing the dc level of the picture at the beginning of each scan line.
Clear Channel
A characteristic of a transmission path providing the full bandwidth of the path for user
information. This characteristic applies to digital telephone circuits that do not require that some
portion of the channel be reserved for framing or control bits.
Clear Channel Capability (CCC)
The ability to transmit any bit pattern of user information. ISDN B channels provide 64 kilobit
CCC because ISDN uses out-of-band signaling and uses B8ZS to assure ones density.
Clipboard
A holding place for temporarily storing text or graphics (usually in memory).
Clipping
The removal of that portion of the signal below or above a pre-set level.
Clock
The operations of a computer are based on very critical timing, so they use a crystal to control their
internal clocks. The standard frequency for the PC and XT is 4.77 MHz (million cycles per
second).
An oscillator-generated signal that provides a timing reference for a transmission link; used to
control the timing of functions as sample interval, signalling rate, and duration of signal elements;
an "enclosed" digital network typically has only one "master" clock.
Closed Circuit Television
Not for broadcast to the public. May be transmitted over the air, but not by regular television
channels. Most usual form of delivery is a cable distribution system.
Cluster
Two or more sectors on a track of a disk. Each track of a floppy disk is divided into sectors.
Coaxial Cable
A metal cable consisting of a conductor in the form of a tube which can carry broadband signals by
guiding high-frequency electromagnetic radiation.
The most commonly used means of signal distribution, consisting of a center conductor and a
cylindrical outer conductor (shield), with a dielectric material inside to insulate the center
conductor from the shield.
Code Book
Indicated mapping of input to output encoding.
Code Element
Smallest unit to form a code word, in the case of binary coding; bit.
Coder/Decoder (CODEC)
An integrated circuit (IC) or circuit made of ICs that performs a specific analog-to-digital and
digital-to-analog conversion, such as conversion of an analog signal to a 64 kbps digital bit stream
or an analog television signal to a digital format.
Code Word
Block of a predetermined number of code elements, in the case of a word length with 8 bits; byte.
Co-Located
Multiple communications satellites sharing (approximately) the same location.
Color Bars
A picture containing bands of color with fixed amplitudes and saturations, together with white and
black references.
Color Black
A video signal that contains horizontal, vertical, and color synchronizing information. Known as
composite video, color black produces a black screen when viewed on a video monitor.
Color Burst
A burst of color subcarrier frequency on the back porch of the composite color signal. This serves
as a color synchronizing signal to establish a frequency and phase reference for the chrominance
signal.
Combiner
A passive device which permits the addition of several signals into one (combined) output, with a
high degree of isolation between individual inputs. Sometimes referred to as a "combining
network."
Common Carrier (CC)
A supplier of transmission facilities or services to the general public that has the control or
authority to provide the services through the appropriate regulatory procedures and is bound to
adhere to the applicable operating rules.
In the United States, any supplier of transmission facilities or services to the general public that is
authorized to provide such facilities or services by the appropriate regulatory authority and bound
to adhere to the applicable operating rules, such as making services available at a common price
and on a nondiscriminatory basis.
Common Channel Interoffice Signaling (CCIS)
A mechanism for transferring control information between central offices. The control and
signaling for a group of trunks between telephone central offices are carried in a separate dedicated
channel (see common channel signaling).
Common Channel Signaling (CCS)
A way of providing the interexchange signaling capabilities required for an ISDN using out-of-
band signaling. CCS provides greater flexibility and information content than in-band systems for
interexchange signaling.
Communications Satellite
A "relay system" in orbit above the earth's surface for telecommunications signals such as voice,
video and data; requires earth stations to transmit and receive the signals at the ground locations
(downlinks). Commonly called a "bird."
Companding
The combination of compressing and expanding carried out successively on the same signal at two
different points of the transmission path.
Component Coding
Coding where the three components of an analog color signal are converted separately into a
digital signal format.
Component Video
Video which exists in the form of three separate signals, all of which are required in order to
completely specify the color picture.
Composite Baseband
The picture signal plus blanking and all synchronizing signal and FM subcarriers combined into
one signal.
Composite Coding
Coding where the complete analog color signal (composite color signal) is converted into a digital
signal format.
Composite Video
A less expensive monitor system that combines all the colors into a single input line.
Compressed Video
Video images that have been processed to remove redundant information, thereby reducing the
amount of bandwidth required to transmit them over a telecommunications channel.
Compression
Reduction in the amount of information to accomodate cost-effective digital transmission.
Computer Conferencing
Allows users to communicate with other systems via a computer network. The transmission of
data, text, questions and answers can be accomplished quickly and easily. Computer conferences
can be either synchronous or asynchronous. The former requires that all participants be on-line
simultaneously. An asynchronous system allows participants to access at their convenience,
thereby avoiding "telephone tag."
Consultative Committee For International Telephony & Telegraphy (CCITT)
An international standards organization established through the United Nations. It has been the
focus for ISDN planning since 1976.
Contention
Competition among customer channels, on a first in/first out basis, for the right to use a
transmission channel, whether a PBX circuit, a computer port, or a time slot, within a digital
facility.
Contour Distortion
A visual defect arising from quantizing a picture. A gradual change of chrominance and/or
luminance between areas is replaced by a series of abrupt chrominance and/or luminance changes.
Contrast
The range of light-to-dark values of the image which are proportional to the voltage difference
between the black and white voltage levels of the video signal. The contrast control is an
adjustment of video gain (white bar, white reference).
Control Characters
Any transmitted characters, not message or user data, used to control or facilitate data transmission
between data terminal equipment (DTE); includes extra characters associated with addressing,
polling, message delimiting and blocking, framing, synchronization, and error checking.
Controlled Slip Event
The occurrence of a replication or deletion of one DS1 frame by the receiving equipment, and is
counted as one event. Occurs when the difference in the timing between the synchronous receiving
equipment and the received signal is of such a magnitude that it exhausts the buffer capability of
the equipment.
Coprocessor
Usually a 8087 or 80287 that works in conjunction with the CPU and vastly speeds up some
operations.
Copy Protection
A system that prevents a diskette from being copied.
Country Code
The combination of one, two, or three digits characterizing the called country, as further defined in
CCITT Recommendation E.163.
Crop
To trim the edges of a photo or graphics image to make it fit in an allocated space, for artistic
purposes or to emphasize a certain portion.
Cross Modulation
A form of distortion wherein the modulation of an interfering signal appears as a modulation of the
desired signal (usually caused by third-order nonlinearities).
Crosstalk
An undesired signal inadvertently imposed on a desired signal, the signal being from the same
system, of a similar nature and intelligibly reproduced.
Current Directory
The directory of a disk that is in use at that time.
Cursor
The blinking spot (normally) on the screen that indicates where the next character will be placed.
Customer Premises Equipment (CPE)
Equipment that interfaces with the telephone network, physically resides at the customer's
location, and is owned by the customer. It includes customers' telephone sets, terminals, and most,
but not all, of the gear referred to as network channel terminating equipment (NCTE).
Cyclic Redundancy Check (CRC)
A method of error detection, where the code elements of a data block to be protected are used as
coefficients of a polynomial, which is a modulo-2-divided by a prescribed generator polynomial.
The remainder left after division is transmitted as a block check character sequence.
Client/Server: A computing paradigm that divides the workload between client software, usually
stored on your desktop computer, and server software, usually stored on a remote computer
elsewhere on campus or anywhere in the world. (See the definition of "remote" below.) The client
portion on your desktop usually lets you customize screen fonts, colors, which programs interpret
sounds and images, and so on. The word "server" is currently used to describe both the software
that communicates with clients and the computer it resides on. Typically, the client on your
desktop computer sends a request to a server over whatever network(s) are involved, the server
responds to the request (e.g., a file server may download a file), and then breaks the connection
with your client and responds or awaits the next client's request. The process is "transparent" to
users, meaning these intercomputer communications are hidden from you. The client-server
paradigm is discussed in greater detail in a supporting document.
Carrier - 1
A telecommunications provider which owns its own switching equipment that it rents, leases or
sells to the public for a set fee.
Carrier - 2
A radio wave which is modulated by another signal for transmission over the airways (see also
Modulation).
Central Office (CO)
A telephone company switching center, in which is found a telephone switch that connects to
customers' telephone lines.
Channel
A path used to send signals in a communications system.
Common Channel Signalling (CCS)
A network of high speed links, connecting Digital Multiplex Systems (DMS). Information such as
'on-hook', 'off-hook', and telephone numbers are carried over common channels.
Channel Bank
The terminal equipment used to combine 12 or 24 voice channels together.
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The "brain" of a computer which contains the circuitry that interprets information and executes
instructions.
Coax
The abbreviation for coaxial cable.
Call Aggregator: Any person or entity that provides telecommunications service to the transient
public, including but not limited to hotels, motels, resort condominiums, schools, nursing homes,
hospitals, and rooming houses.
Central Office
A location where there is an assembly of equipment that establishes the connections between
subscriber lines, trunks, switched access circuits, private line facilities, and special access facilities
with the rest of the telephone network.
Central Office Code
The first three digits (NXX) of the seven-digit telephone number assigned to a customer's
telephone exchange service.
Commission
The Florida Public Service Commission.
Company, Telephone Company, Telecommunications Company, Utility
These terms may be used interchangeably herein and refer to any person, firm, partnership or
corporation engaged in the business of furnishing two-way telecommunications service to the
public for hire under the jurisdiction of the Commission.
Completed Call
A call which has been switched through an established path so that two-way conversation or data
transmission is possible.
D
D (director) Channel
The telecommunications channel in ISDN to be used for signaling and control, and optionally for
packet-switched user information. The D channel is mainly used to invoke change. Placing of
calls, allocation of channels, call establishment, and disconnects are done using the D channel.
From customer terminal to the central office, the D channel for basic rate service will be 16 kbps;
for primary rate service and between central offices it will be 64 kbps.
DataBeam
Sends drawings, pictures, graphics, written messages over telephone lines to up to eight other sites
equipped with the same machine and receives their responses such as revisions to a drawing. May
use as an electronic flip chart. Will produce a print out that can be scanned back in or copied for
handouts.
Data Communications Equipment (DCE)
Provides the signal conversion, connection control, and coding required for communication
between data terminal equipment and data circuits; may be independent (e.g., a modem) or an
integral part of a computer.
Data Frame
A repeating sequence in which channel data is multiplexed into an aggregate data stream.
Data Link Layer
In the OSI Model, the network processing entity that establishes, maintains, and releases data link
connections between elements in a network. This layer ensures reliable transport of information
between communicating devices.
Data Network Identification Code (DNIC)
A four digit number representing a Data Network.
DataPath
NTI's 56 kbps PSDS offering on a DMS-100, used to provide BellSouth's AccuPulse Service.
DataPhone Digital Service (DDS)
Private-line digital service offered by intra-LATA by BOCs, inter-LATA by AT&T
Communications, with data rates typically at 2.4, 4.8, 9.6, and 56Kbps; now a part of the services
listed by AT&T under the Accunet family of offerings.
Data Service Unit (DSU)
A component of customer premises equipment (CPE) used to interface to a digital circuit, such as
DDS or T-1. It is now generally combined with a CSU. The DSU performs conversion of
customer's data stream to bipolar format for transmission.
Data Stream 0 (DS0)
Also called a Digital Signal level 0, DS0 is a 64 kbps standard digital telecommunications channel.
Data Stream 1 (DS1)
Also called a Digital Signal level 1, DS1 is a 1.45 mbps digital signal carried on a T-1 facility. It is
made up of 24 DS0 channels.
Decibel (dB)
A unit measuring the relative strength of sound.
Dedicated access line
A direct, permanent connection between a phone or computer and something else outside. For
example, a branch office might have a dedicated access line to the company's head office, for
phone calls, data, or both.
Demodulation, demodulator
Demodulation converts data back and forth between digital and analogue. A demodulator is the
technology that does this. (See modulation, modem.)
Dial pulse (DP), or pulse dialing
Once upon a time, telephones had a circular dial and when you chose a number and let go, a series
of clicking sounds were sent over the line. This was known as "rotary" dialing. Some systems still
need to hear those sounds, even though you might have a touch-tone phone or want to hook up
your computer modem to that kind of phone system. So you simulate a signal to sound like the
clicks. For obvious reasons, this kind of "pulse" system is much slower than systems which use
tones to communicate numbers.

Dial up
How most people hook into telecommunications networks. If you are making a telephone call to
talk, or telling your computer modem to dial somewhere and log on, then you "dial up" a number.
The only alternative to making a dial up connection is to have a dedicated or fixed line.
Digital
A function that operates in discrete steps as contrasted with a continuous, or analog, function.
Digital computers manipulate numbers encoded in binary (on-off) forms, while analog computers
sum continuously varying forms. Digital communications is the transmission of information using
discontinuous, discrete electrical or electromagnetic signals that change in frequency, polarity, or
amplitude. Analog forms may be encoded for transmission on digital communications systems.
Distance Learning
Providing scholastic instruction to one or more remote locations from an originating classroom.
This may be either one-way video with two-way audio or two-way video and audio. The
transmission may be via satellite, cable TV, or switched networks.
Digital compression
Techniques used to compress digital information so it can be sent using less bandwidth.
Digital data speed
This is the highest transmission speed of digital data service available to a subscriber. In some
cases, the access line must be set up in a special way and/or dedicated for the subscriber. However
some data lines are available on a "dial-up-as-needed" basis.
Digital switched network (DSN)
A high-speed digital switched public network which allows access to a wide range of services such
as telecommuting, videoconferencing, telemedicine, distance education and criminal identification
at prevailing long distance rates and discounts. (See also Integrated Services Digital Network, or
ISDN.)
Digital transmission
A system for sending information over access lines where sound waves and other information are
transmitted in a series of on and off pulses, or beeps. This type of transmission is sharper, clearer
and quieter than analogue transmission. (See analogue.)
Digitize
The way to convert analogue signals to digital form.
Direct distance dialing (DDD)
A telephone system which enables you to make a long distance call without using an operator.
Download
Transferring a file from somewhere else (like over the Internet) "down" to your computer.
down time
The period during which a computer or some other device is not working at all, or malfunctioning.
In many offices, down time means going out for coffee.
DC-Coupled
A connection configured so that both the signal (AC component) and the constant voltage on
which it is riding (DC component) are passed through.
DC Restorer
A circuit used in picture monitors and waveform monitors to clamp one point of the waveform to a
fixed DC level.
Decibel (dB)
A decibel is a logarithmic unit used to describe signal ratios.
Decoder
Device that reconstructs or "unscrambles" an encrypted signal.
Decoding
Process of converting code words into corresponding signal values.
Decryption
Code conversion of digitally coded signal values in order to cancel encryption.
Dedicated Lines
Leased telecommunications circuits that are devoted to a specific application; a circuit designated
for exclusive use by two users.
Definition
Distinctness or clarity of detail (synonymous with resolution).
Clarity of audio transmission and reception making possible the aural identification of various
musical units in an orchestra.
Delta Modulation (DM)
A differential pulse code modulation, where the polarity of the difference between the actual
sample value and a prediction value is transmitted only by one bit.
Demodulation
In general, this term refers to any device which recovers the original signal after it has been
modulated onto a high frequency carrier.
Derived Local Channel
The ability to combine two distinct transmissions (voice and data) over a single facility.
Detail
The smallest resolvable or distinguishable information in a television picture.
Dialogue Box
A window or full-screen display that pops up in response to a command.
Dial-Up Data
The process of and equipment or facilities used to establish a temporary connection between data
communications devices by using the switched telephone network.
Differential Coding
Method of source coding, where the difference between the present sample value allocated to a
picture element and a prediction value is transmitted.
Differential Gain
The change in amplitude of the subcarrier (chrominance) signal as the luminance signal is varied
from blanking to white level.
Differential Pulse Code Modulation (DPCM)
A pulse code modulation in which the coded value transmitted for each sample represents the
quantized difference between the present sample value and a prediction value. For signals having
strong correlation between successive samples, a reduction of information can be attained, since
fewer levels may be used to quantize differences than would be required for quantizing sample
values with comparable precision.
Digital
A form of information that is represented by signals encoded as a series of discrete numbers,
intervals or steps, as contrasted to continuous or analog circuits.
Digital Cross-Connect
A new generation of central office switching equipment that allows T-1 carrier facility or any of
the subchannels to be switched or cross-connected to another T-1 carrier. Though originally
designed to allow access to individual T-1 channels for diagnostics, the equipment also supports
switched digital services such as FlexServe.
Digital Multiplex Hierarchy
A series of digital multiplexes defined by CCITT graded to combine at one level a defined number
of digital signals, each having a digit rate prescribed for a lower level, into a digital signal having a
prescribed digit rate.
Digital Network
A telecommunications network where information is encoded in binary form. Digital networks
encode voice communications in binary form and eliminate the need for modems for data
communications. Digital networks are typically more flexible and more reliable than analog
networks.
Digital Signal Level 0 (DS0)
Designates a 64Kbps digital signal, a channel, comprised of 8,000 8-bit bytes of customer data.
Digital Signal Level 1 (DS1)
Designates the the combination of 24 DS0 channels plus overhead bits into a 1.544Mbps T1 data
stream.
Digital Switching
The process of establishing and maintaining a connection, under stored program control, where
binary-encoded information is routed between two or more end-users.
Digital Terminating Equipment (DTE)
Customer premise equipment; includes the DSU functionality which may or may not be physically
incorporated into the same equipment package as other DTE functions at the maufacturers' or
customers' option.
Digital-To-Analog (D/A)
An acronym that refers to digital-to-analog conversion.
Digital Transport
A portion of the telecommunications network using digital methods for the transmission of signals
from one point to another to complete transmission service channel. A transmission service
channel may have one or more digital transport portion(s).
Direct Broadcast Satellite (DBS)
A satellite designed with sufficient power so that inexpensive earth stations can be used for direct
residential reception.
Direct Memory Access (DMA)
Some parts of the computer, such as the disk drives, can exchange data directly with the RAM
without having to go through the CPU.
Dish
A parabolic antenna that is the primary element of a satellite earth station.
Dispersal Frequency
The dispersal frequency is the repetition rate of the signal used to spread concentrated RF energy
in the spectrum of a modulated video carrier to reduce the interference effects upon other signals
located in the same region. The frequency is normally locked to the incoming video at one half the
field rate.
Distance Learning
Describes all forms of education and training in which the learner is normally in a different
location from the teacher.
Distribution Amplifier (DA)
Device used to multiply (fan out) a video signal. May also include delay and/or cable equalization
capabilities.
Distribution System
That part of a CATV system that carries signals from the head-end to subscribers' receivers. More
specifically, it is regarded as the portion of the system that starts from the bridging amplifiers.
Dithering Signal
A periodically or randomly varying signal added to the picture signal before or after digitization in
order to reduce the contour distortion caused by quantizing.
Domestic Satellite
A satellite that provides communications services primarily to one nation.
Down Converter
An electronic device which changes a high frequency microwave signal into one which can be
received by a conventional television set.
Downlink
An earth station that receives satellite signals.
Downstream
Direction of transmission from central distribution point to the subscriber(s) (see differential pulse
code modulation (DPCM)).
Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM)
A type of memory that must constantly be refreshed, or recharged. The primary type of memory
used in computers.
Database: A collection of information organized around a common subject. Its purpose is to
provide the data that programs request as they run. The SIUC CWIS actually includes a document
database. When you use the "Search All of the Menus" option on a keyword like "dawgbytes," the
search program actually generates your own "database" of documents "on the fly."
Domain Name (or Domain Name System, DNS: A system for delegating address authority. To
address a unique machine, a unique address is needed. Since any machine may be connected to a
network that is worldwide, this address must be globally unique. It would be impossible for any
single agency to directly administer all these addresses around the world. The Domain Name
System establishes a separate domain for each country. Within each country, separate domains are
established for each organization (academic, corporate, governmental, etc.). Within each
organization, separate subdomains are established. Typically, the address of a machine is a list of
the domains it is a member of, separated by periods. The most common domain names are:
.com is used for most businesses/commercial sites
.org is used for organizations
.edu is used for educational organizations
.gov is used for nonmilitary US government sites
.mil is used for US military [Link] is used for Net service providers
Foreign domains can be identified by the following:
ca Canada
fr France
ru Russia
es Spain
ni Nicaragua
uk United Kingdom
fi Finland
mx Mexico
us United States
DOS
Disk Operating System. An operating system (the OS in DOS) is the interface between human and
microprocessor (or "chip"). It translates the commands you type in into the machine language the
microprocessor speaks. DOS was developed by Microsoft in the early 1980s for the Intel
processor. Today, such popular graphic "shells" like Microsoft's Windows and IBM's OS/2 run on
top of DOS.
Download
Transmitting information "down" from a remote computer. The term is a leftover from the
mainframe computing paradigm, wherein a massive central host computer transmitted files "down"
to a small, "dumb" terminal. The vertical nature of the term is meaningless now, since some
microcomputers are more powerful than mainframes, and file sharing now takes place between
"parallel" equals in the client/server paradigm. In the most common file transfer protocol (FTP),
the command to "download" a file actually is GET, which gets a copy of a file from a remote host
and stores it on your local machine. You can read more about FTP in a separate document.
Dedicated Facility
A transmission circuit which is permanently for the exclusive use of a customer or a pair of
customers.
Decoded
Converted (as in data) back to its original state, i.e. before having been encoded.
Diaphragm
A vibrating disk.
Digital
Pertaining to data in the form of a sequence of ones and zeros (bits) which is stored and interpreted
by a network.
E
Earth Station (Earth Terminal)
A terrestrial device, usually with a large parabolic antenna or dish, which can send signals to or
receive signals from one or more satellites.
Echo Canceler
A device used in satellite communications to eliminate echo in audio transmission.
Edge Business
A visual defect caused by sampling and quantizing showing on the contours of a picture as
apparently random fluctuating irregularities.
The deterioration of motion video such that the outlines of moving objects are displayed with
randomly varying activity.
Electro-Mechanical Pen
A device that has an electronic pen with a mechanical arm for producing free-hand information
that can be sent over a telecommunications channel.
Electronic Blackboard
A device that looks like an ordinary blackboard but that has a special conductive surface for
producing free-hand information that can be sent over a telecommunications channel.
Electronic Mail
Communications between individuals or groups via a computer network.
Electronic mail (E-mail)
The delivery of correspondence, including graphics, by electronic means, usually by
interconnecting computers, word processors, or facsimile equipment.
Ethernet
A form of LAN data link that uses IEEE 802.3/ISO 8802-3 carrier-sense multiple access with
collision detection (CSMA/CD) standards. Ethernet LANs are typically wired in a star with a
central wiring hub and stations are attached to a common transmission facility, such as twisted-pair
cable or coaxial cable. 10 BaseT Ethernet has a transmission speed of 10 Mbps.
Electronics-To-Electronics (E-To-E)
The mode obtained when a VCR is set to record but the tape is not running. Means that the VCR is
processing all of the signals that it would normally use during recording and playback, but without
actually recording onto tape.
Earth station
What's needed on the the ground to send and receive traffic to and from a satellite up in space.
E-mail
The "e" here stands for "electronic." This kind of mail is becoming very popular, and is the largest
part of all the traffic on the Internet. Sending and receiving e-mail is much like regular (or "snail")
mail, in that you need an address for both ends and an envelope to send it in. To get an e-mail
address, you need an account with an Internet Service Provider (ISP). You don't necessarily need
your own computer, because several public libraries and schools have places where you can send
and receive your e-mail. You type a message just like a regular letter, then send if off. The main
advantages of e-mail are speed and cost. Messages are delivered in minutes, whether they're going
across the street or the other side of the world. The cost is usually next to nothing, other than the
fees you pay to your ISP.
Encryption
Also known as "scrambling." Useful for security reasons, encryption changes regular text you type
into a coded signal. Spies are not the only people who need encryption. Doing business over the
Internet means using credit card numbers, bank account numbers, etc. and these need to be
encrypted to protect consumers.
Exchange
A basic unit for the administration of telephone service which generally includes everyone in one
town plus adjacent areas. There can be more than one exchange within a larger town or [Link]
territory served by an exchange, within which local rates apply, is known as the exchange area or
local service area. The CRTC recently approved applications by the phone companies to widen
several local service areas, so for example residents of Sioux Lookout will no longer have to pay
long distance charges to call Dryden.
Elevation
The altitude of a satellite above the horizon, measured in degrees.
Encoded Subcarrier
A reference system created by Grass Valley Group to provide exact color timing information.
Encoder
A device that electronically alters a signal (encrypts) so that it can be clearly seen only by
recipients that have a decoder which reverses the encryption process.
Encryption
The process of electronically altering or "scrambling" a signal. Encryption is usually used as a
security method for satellite transmissions.
Code conversion of digitally coded signal values, performed, in general, without any increase of
bit rate, in order to prevent unauthorized reception of a signal. Often a specific code or "key" is
required to restore the original data.
End-User
The ultimate consumer of a service.
Enhanced Expanded Memory Specification (EEMS)
A specification for adding expanded memory put forth by AST, Quadram and Ashton-Tate (AQA
EEMS).
Enhanced Graphics Adapter (EGA)
Board used for high resolution monitors that can provide 640 x 350 pixel resolution.
Enhanced Small Disk Interface (ESDI)
A hard disk interface that allows data to be transferred to and from the disk at a rate of 10 mbps.
Envelope Detection
A demodulation process in which the shape of the RF envelope is sensed. This is the process used
by a diode detector.
Equalizing Pulses
Pulses of approximately half the width and occurring at twice the frequency of the horizontal
synchronizing pulses and occurring immediately before and after the vertical synchronizing pulses.
Error Concealment
Measures taken to reduce the subjective effects of erroneous code words when they cannot be
corrected. By using an error-detecting code for transmission, those code words being detected as
erroneous, are substituted with code words that, for example, may be obtained by averaging out
neighboring sample values.
Error Correction
Technique of transmitting a small amount of redundancy to the coded information that can be used
to restore the integrity of corrupted received data.
Error Detection
Process of detecting errors affecting a digital transmission. By a suitable selection of a redundant
transmission code, those code words being affected by transmission errors can be detected as being
erroneous.
Error Free Second (EFS)
A second in which no error event has been detected.
Error Rate
The ratio of the number of incorrectly received code elements, code words or blocks to the total
number received. Consequently, distinction is made between bit, word or block error rate.
Ethernet
A popular local network design, which is the trademarked product of Xerox Corporation. It is
characterized by 10 mbps baseband transmission over a coaxial cable and employs CMSA/CD for
access control.
Exchange Termination (ET)
Contains at least the Layer 2 and 3 network functions. In the U.S., the ET typically includes the
Line Termination (LT) in the CO, and is responsible for multiplexing and demultiplexing the B
and D channels, and routing bit streams to the appropriate destinations within the switch.
Expanded Memory
Memory that can be added to a computer, and can only be accessed through special software.
Expanded Memory Specification (EMS)
A specification for adding expanded memory put forth by Lotus, Intel, and Microsoft (LIM EMS).
Expansion Boards
Boards that can be plugged into one of the [expansion] slots on the motherboard to add memory or
other functions.
Extended Definition Television (EDTV)
Refers to a number of different improvements that modify NTSC emissions but that are NTSC
receiver-compatible. These changes may include one or more of the following:
Wide aspect ratio.
Extended picture definition at a level less than twice the horizontal and vertical emitted
resolution of standard NTSC.
Any applicable improvements of IDTV.
Extended Memory
Memory that can be added to an 80286 or 80386 that is addressable with the OS/2 operating
system.
Extended Superframe
Data carried over a T-carrier is divided into frames containing 24 8-bit channels (for a total of 192
bits) of data and one framing bit. The framing bit indicates the division between frames. Groups of
12 frames are called superframes, and the bit patterns of the framing bits in a superframe allow the
identification of special frames that are taken from the frames of user data and carry signaling
information. An extended superframe is a sequence of 24 frames. The patterns of framing bits in
an extended superframe add error detection and network monitoring functions to user and
signaling frame identification.
Extended Superframe Format (ESF)
An extension of the D4 framing format, combining 24 frames of 193 bits each into an extended
superframe, and providing improved performance monitoring capabilities and protection against
false framing.
External Commands
DOS commands that are not loaded into memory when the computer is booted.
END USER
The occupant of the premises who uses and pays for the telephone service received and does not
resale it to others.
EXCHANGE
The entire telephone plant and facilities used in providing telephone service to subscribers located
in an exchange area. An exchange may include more than one central office unit.
EXCHANGE (SERVICE) AREA
The territory of a local exchange company (LEC) within which local telephone service is furnished
at the exchange rates applicable within that area.
EXTENDED AREA SERVICE
A type of telephone service whereby subscribers of a given exchange or area may complete calls
to, and receive messages from, one or more other exchanges or areas without toll charges, or
complete calls to one or more other exchanges or areas without toll message charges.
E-Mail
Electronic Mail. An electronic way to exchange notes, documents, and other data between users of
the same or different computing systems. E-mail delivery is divided into two portions: a delivery
agent and a user agent. The delivery agent uses SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol) to route
mail between "post offices." The user agent is used by the user to access their own mail from a
post office and display it for reading. It is also used to create and send e-mail. Popular user agents
include Eudora, NuPOP, Elm, and PINE. We discuss electronic mail in greater depth in other
documentation.
Electro-magnetical Interference
Interference (noise) induced on a system by energy radiating from an electrical source such as a
motor.
F
Facsimile (fax)
A way to send a letter, pictures, maps or anything else on paper over telephone lines. Each page is
scanned at the machine at one end, broken down to digital data so it can be sent over phone lines,
then reconstructed at the other end to its original form. Many people have separate fax machines,
but you can also use a computer for faxing.
Fast Ethernet
Term used to describe the standards used to define 100 Mbps version of the CMSA/CD (Ethernet)
standard.
Fiber Distributed Data Interface (FDDI)
A networking technology that uses a dual ring topology often with dual networking equipment
(concentrators, etc.). FDDI facilitates redundancy and protection of the network. If a device fails,
the primary and secondary rings enter a "wrap" state to form a logical connection and thus
maintain the logical ring in the event of a link failure. FDDI is capable of data rates of 100 Mbps
over fiber optic cable (SMF and MMF). FDDI LAN standards were developed by subcommittee
X3T9.5 of ANSI.
Fiber-optic cable
A cable containing one or more optical fibers.
Fiber optics
The technology of guiding and projecting light for use as a communications medium. Hair- thin
glass fibers that allow light beams to be bent and reflected with low levels of loss and interference
are known as "glass optical wave guides" or simply "optical fibers."
Fiber optics transmission system (FOTS)
A system which uses glass fibers the size of human hairs through which light is transmitted. By
changing the patterns of light sent through the lines, information is transmitted. These signals are
read by light-sensitive devices. Fibre optics generally allow for a much greater speed and
bandwidth than transmitting over regular wires, microwave or satellite transmission methods.
File
The electronic equivalent of a paper file folder, containing sheets of paper. A file on a computer
can be a text document, photos, accounting data, or even a computer program.
File server
A computer whose main function is to store files for a network. (See client-server computing)
Filter
Software which restricts users from accessing certain data bases or places on the Internet. Parents,
for example, might want to use a filter to stop children from accessing pornographic material on
the Internet.
Five hundred channel universe
This term is often used to refer to the explosion of television signals becoming available by cable,
satellite or any other means. The actual number of channels that systems might make available in
the future is impossible to predict so accurately, but it will be several hundred.
Flame
Sending harsh, critical e-mail to someone.
Flat rate service
A service provided at a fixed monthly charge regardless of usage.
Footprint The geographical area covered by a particular satellite.
Frame relay
A high-speed data service.
FreeNet
A community-based, non-profit, electronic communications network, set up to provide members of
a community free or relatively inexpensive access to public information and access to the Internet.
For a good list of "Free-Net Access Points" all over the world, check out the Web site
[Link] Telecommunities Canada, Inc, which represents most FreeNets in
Canada has a web site at [Link]
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
FAQ files are made up of questions and answers which have come in often and are compiled for
reference on a web site or data base. If you are new to a Web site or discussion group on the
Internet, it's a good idea to read all the posted FAQ files before you send in your own question,
since someone may have already asked your question and received an answer.
Facsimile (FAX)
The communications process in which graphics or text documents are scanned and digitized,
transmitted over a telephone line, and reconstructed by a receiver.
Fading
A progressive deterioration of picture quality due to increasing losses in an electromagnetic (radio)
propagation path.
Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
An independent government agency established by the communications Act of 1934 to regulate
the broadcasting industry. The commission later assumed authority over cable. The FCC is
administered by seven commissioners and reports to Congress. The FCC assigns broadcasting
frequencies, licenses stations, and oversees interstate communications.
Feeder Line
The cable running between bridgers, line extenders, and taps.
Fiber Optics
Transmission of video, audio or data signals by light waves through fine, transparent fibers, made
of glass or plastic.
Field
One of the two or more equal parts into which a frame is divided in interlaced scanning.
In interlaced scan systems, the information for one picture is divided up into two fields. Each field
contains one half of the lines required to produce the entire picture. Adjacent lines in the picture
are in alternate fields.
Field Frequency
The number of times per second the field is scanned.
Field Time Distortion
Linear waveform distortion occurring in the time domain of the television field.
File Allocation Table (FAT)
This is the table on a disk that DOS uses to keep track of all parts of a file.
File Transfer Protocol (FTP)
Communications protocol used to copy files from one computer to another.
Fill
The video information that fills the "hole" cut in the video picture by the key signal.
Filtering
Eliminating parts of data.
Flare
Unnatural white or colored margins of a television picture.
Flash
Momentary disturbance of a major area of a television picture of such duration that the real
impairment cannot be identified.
FM Mono Sensitivity
The measure of how well a tuner can pick up weak stations. The unit of measure is decibel
femtowatt (dBf), which compares the signal strength required for reception to a reference of one
femtowatt. Smaller values indicate greater sensitivity.
FM Stereo Separation
Measures a tuner's ability to separate the left and right channels of a stereo broadcast. The unit of
measure is the decibel (dB), with larger numbers indicating greater separation.
Foldover Distortion
Signal distortion arising from those parts of the aliasing components that fall within the spectrum
of the original signal.
Footprint
Areas of the earth covered by a satellite transmission beam.
Refers to signal interference of a satellite transmission due to an overlapping signal from a nearby
satellite broadcasting on the same frequency.
Foreign Exchange (FX)
A special line arrangement where calls to a phone number at a distant location are switched
through the network to be answered at the customer's local location. FX lines allow customers to
have many "local" phone numbers and reduce their need for 800 numbers, accepting collect calls,
etc.
Fragmentation
If a disk has several records that have been changed several times, there are bits of the files on
several different tracks and sectors. This slows down reading and writing of the files because the
head has to move back and forth to the various tracks.
Frame
A set of consecutive time slots each consisting of a definite number of code words.
Contains all the information required for a complete picture. For interlaced scan systems, there are
two fields in a frame.
One complete picture consisting of two fields of interlaced scanning lines.
In motion video, a single image.
Frame Alignment Word
A special code word mainly used to identify the positions of the time slots within a frame.
Frame Cuts
Video imagery where adjacent frames are highly uncorrelated.
Frame Frequency
The number of times per second a frame is scanned.
Freeze-Frame Video
A device that transmits and/or receives still video pictures over a narrowband or mediumband
telecommunications channel.
May refer specifically to a still frame video unit that "grabs" an image from a camera or other
video source and "freezes" it in a fraction of a second.
Frequency
The rate at which a current alternates, measured in Hertz on a telecommunications medium.
Frequency Bandwidth
The portion of the audible band 20 to 20,000 Hertz over which the power output was measured.
Frequency Division Multiplexing (FDM)
A method of multiplexing or combining many channels on a single radio frequency (RF) carrier.
The channels are separated, in frequency, and are carried on "subcarriers."
Frequency Modulation (FM)
A system of modulation wherein the instantaneous [radio] frequency varies in proportion to the
instantaneous amplitude of the modulating signal, and the instantaneous radio frequency is
independent of the modulating signal frequency. FM is the process by which the frequency of a
carrier signal is varied in proportion to the signal of interest. In the NTSC television system, audio
information is transmitted using FM.
Frequency Response
Shows how much of the audible range (from 20 to 20,000 Hertz) that can be reproduced.
Front End Processor (FEP)
A dedicated computer linked to one or more host computers or multiuser minicomputers; performs
data communications functions and reduces the communications control overhead of the host
computer(s).
Front Porch
That portion of a composite video signal which lies between the leading edge of the horizontal
blanking pulse and the leading edge of the corresponding sync pulse.
The portion of the video signal between the end of active picture time and the leading edge of
horizontal synch.
Full Duplex
A communication channel over which both transmission and reception are possible in two
directions simultaneously.
Full Motion Video
Television transmission where images are sent and displayed in real time and motion is
continuous. Compare this with slow scan video, which can transmit only single frames of video
images.
Functional Signaling
A signaling system under ISDN that assumes intelligent terminals. Functional signaling allows the
terminal, rather than the central office, to monitor call status and send appropriate signals to the
central office for action. Initially functional signaling will be limited to basic call set-up
procedures (see stimulus signaling).
Fusible Link
Thin printed circuit fuses on pc boards that open if ground potential exceeds 0.25 Vrms between
pc board and peripheral equipment.
Facilities Based
An ALEC that has its own transmission and/or switching equipment or other elements of
equipment and does not rely on others to provide this service or purchases unbundled network
elements from the LEC.
Foreign Exchange Services
A classification of LEC exchange service furnished under tariff provisions whereby a subscriber
may be provided telephone service from an exchange other than the one from which he would
normally be served.
Feature Groups
Separate switching arrangements available from local exchange carrier (LEC) end central offices
to interexchange (long distance) carriers. These switching arrangements allow the end users to
make toll calls via their chosen long distance carrier.
Feature Group A
Line side connections presently serving specialized Common carriers.
Feature Group B
Trunk side connections without equal digit or code dialing.
Feature Group C
Trunk side connections presently serving AT&T.
Feature Group D
The class of service associated with equal access arrangements, which is a trunk-side connection
provided by the LECs. FGD allows phone users in the United States to pick up the telephone
and dial 1+ to place a long distance call.
Flow Control (XON/XOFF)
This modem feature often reserves certain control characters (i.e., CTRL+c, CTRL+s, etc.) that
lets the communications software manage the flow of data between your computer and the remote
computer. These control characters are also used by many programs, such as the Emacs editor. If
your modem has XON/XOFF turned on, it will intercept these control characters and prevent them
from being sent to the file you are trying to edit.
FTP
File Transfer Protocol. An executable program (or a command) that handles the details of
connecting with and retrieving data from remote servers. The FTP and Telnet commands are the
two most important included in the TCP/IP (Transfer Control Protocol/Internet Protocol)
communications software.
Frequency
Amount of times per second an electromagnetic wave completes a full cycle. One Hertz (Hz)
equals one cycle per second.
G
Gateway: A connection between two networks. The connection may be between physical
networks, logical networks, or network services. A combination of hardware and software that
bridges two different communications networks, permitting users on each network to exchange
information.
General Tariff
The official published rates and rules provided by a telecommunications common carrier.
Geostationary orbit
A method of keeping a satellite parked over the same spot on earth all the time. The satellite is put
into an orbit so it travels around the earth at the same speed as the earth is turning on its axis. From
earth, the satellite thus appears to be parked.
Graphical user interface (GUI)
Software which allows you to execute commands by pointing to icons or symbols on your screen
and clicking a button on your computer's mouse. Most computer systems now have GUI systems
like Windows, so users don't have to know complicated computer commands to run a program.
Geek
By memorizing this glossary you could become one. If you are unsure of the definition ask your
friends if there is a possibility that you qualify.
Gopher: A menu-based client/server information retrieval system for managing information
within a local site, like SIUC, and for making telecommunication links to other Gophers around
the world. This suite of programs was named for the University of Minnesota's mascot, and also
because its telecommunication function "tunnels" throughout the Internet. There are Gopher
Browser Clients that know about at least one Gopher server and that will access a Menu of choices
from that server. You may make selections from the Menu to access other documents and services
around the Internet. One of the SIUC CWIS systems is a Gopher server. Gopher Browser Clients
cannot access WWW documents. Gopher is an older system than WWW, so WWW knows about
Gopher, but Gopher does not know about WWW.
Gain
An increase in signal power in transmission from one point to another, usually expressed in
decibels.
Game Port
An input/output (I/O) port for joysticks, trackballs, paddles, and other devices.
Gamma
Since picture monitors have a non-linear relationship between the input voltage and brightness, the
signal must be correspondingly predistorted. Gamma correction is always done at the source in
television systems.
Gateway
The software and hardware that interconnects two otherwise incompatible networks. It performs
extensive protocol conversion to assure compatibility at all levels.
Gen-Lock
A technique which permits referencing the local master synchronizing generator to outside
equipment.
The process of locking both sync and burst of one signal to sync and burst of another, making the
two signals synchronous.
Geostationary Orbit
An orbital path approximately 22,300 miles above the earth in which the satellite revolves around
the Earth at the same speed the earth rotates, once every 24 hours. To an observer on earth, the
satellite appears to hang in one fixed location in the sky.
Geosynchronous Orbit
An orbit whose period exactly matches the Earth's rotation rate (about 24 hours).
Glitch
An unexpected electrical spike or static discharge that can cause loss of data.
Global
A character of group of characters that appear throughout an entire document or program.
Gopher
Information retrieval system with a universal and friendly interface.
Granular Noise
A visual defect caused by quantizing errors with differential coding and showing as fluctuations of
the luminance and/or chrominance level.
Graticule
The scale which is used to quantify the information on a waveform monitor or vectorscope display.
Grey Scale
The number of shades of grey that represent a monochrome (single color) picture.
Ground
An electrical connection or common conductor that, at some point, connects to the earth.
GHz (Gigahertz)
1,000 MHz-one billion hertz.
H
Hacker
A computer user who illegally visits other people's computer systems to look around, or cause
harm. Outside the world of computers and telecommunications, hackers would be called
trespassers or vandals.
Handshaking
When you use your fax or computer modem to call out and make a connection, you hear a series of
high-pitched screeches and whines. This noise called "handshaking" is the electronic protocol the
fax or modem needs to do with the other end to establish a connection
Hardware
The electrical and mechanical equipment used in telecommunications and computer systems.
Contrasted with software, hardware is the programs and files that are in the equipment.
Headend
The control center of a cable-television system, where incoming signals are amplified, converted,
processed, and combined into a common cable for transmission to subscribers.
Hypermedia
A nonlinear way of presenting information that allows users to access related works or images
from a single computer screen. For example, a user reading an encyclopedia entry on jazz could
also hear excerpts from recordings, read biographies of jazz artists, and view photos of them.
Apple Computer Inc.'s Hypercard is the best-known example of hypermedia. Presumably, this type
of interface is similar to normal human cognitive processes. Also known as "hypertext."
High speed
Refers to data communications systems operating at speeds above 9,600 bits per second. (See low
speed, medium speed)
Home page
On a World Wide Web (WWW) website, the first page you see on the site - the first, main or
greeting page.
Host
A computer that can be used by several other computers.
Hypertext/hyperlink
A highlighted word or phrase in a document set up in such a way so that when you click on it, you
are taken to that place or information on the Internet. For example, if you visit Wawatay's web site
([Link] and click on the hypertext word "newspaper," you jump to the latest
edition of Wawatay News.
Hypertext markup language (html)
The computer language used to create World Wide Web (WWW) pages or sites.
H10 Channel
An ISDN communications channel for high bandwidth data-handling capabilities (such as fast
facsimile, video, teleconferencing). Defined by the CCITT as having a channel capacity of 384
kbps, which is one-fourth of a T-1 carrier capacity.
H11 Channel (T-1)
An ISDN communications channel for high bandwidth data-handling capabilities (such as fast
facsimile, video, teleconferencing). Defined by the CCITT as having a channel capacity of 1.536
mbps to be carried over a T-1 carrier.
H12 Channel
The European counterpart of the H11 channel. An H12 channel carries 1.920 mbps over the
European standard T-1 carrier.
H21 Channel
ISDN Channel carrying 35 megabits per second (mbps).
H22 Channel (T-3)
ISDN channel carrying 45 megabits per second (mbps).
H4
ISDN channel carrying 135 megabits per second (mbps).
Half-Duplex
A communications channel over which both transmission and reception are possible but only in
one direction at a time.
Handshaking
A protocol between systems, usually the printer and the computer, to indicate readiness to
communicate with each other.
Harmonically Related Carriers (HRC)
All channels in a cable system are synchronized and spaced exactly 6 MHz apart.
Harmonic Distortion
Caused by non-linearities in a television system.
Head-End
The electronic equipment located at the start of a cable system, usually including terrestrial and
earth station receiving antennas, preamplifiers, frequency converters, demodulators, modulators,
scramblers, descramblers, and related equipment.
Hexadecimal (Hex)
A number system that uses the base 16. Most memory locations are in hexadecimal notation.
Hidden Files
Files that do not show up in a normal directory display.
High Definition Television (HDTV)
Refers to television systems with approximately twice the horizontal and vertical emitted
resolution of standard NTSC.
Higher Layer Functions
In the seven-layer OSI Model, layers 4 through 7 provide higher layer functions, which manage
and control data communications applications, such as teletext, videotext, and electronic mail.
Hit
A distinctive sound of very short duration heard from a sound monitor.
Horizontal Blanking
The entire time between the end of the active picture time of one line and the beginning of active
picture time of the next line.
Horizontal Blanking Interval
The interval from the end of the picture information on one line to the start of the picture
information on the following line. During this period combined blanking and synchronizing pulses
are transmitted.
Horizontal Retrace
The return of the electron beam from the right to the left side of the raster after the scanning of one
line.
Horizontal Synch
The -40 IRE pulse occurring at the beginning of each line. This pulse signals the picture monitor to
go back to the left side of the screen and trace another horizontal line of picture information.
Hue
The attribute of color perception that determines whether the color is red, yellow, green, blue,
purple, etc.
The "tint" of the colors themselves.
Hum
A low-pitched undesired tone or tones, consisting of fundamental and/or several harmonically
related frequencies, usually caused by electrical disturbances at the power supply frequency.
Hybrid Differential Pulse Code Modulation (HDPCM)
General term for describing combined coding techniques including differential pulse code
modulation. Typical is the combination of DPCM and PCM where the code words for the
quantized difference between the actual sample value and the prediction value alternate in a
prescribed succession with code words for the quantized signal value of the actual sample.
Hybrid System
A system that combines two or more communications technologies (e.g., a system that integrates
freeze-frame video images and an electronic tablet for free-hand drawings).
Hertz (Hz)
Named after the German physicist Heinrich R. Hertz, a unit of frequency equal to one cycle per
second.
Hierarchy
Data arranged in an organized series consisting of graded levels.
Home Page: The beginning page or document specified in a URL. For example, [Link]
points to SIUC's home page; [Link]/cwis points to the CWIS team's home page. Other
pages are pointed to from the home page.
Host: Another name for a computer. This name originated when the only computers were big
computers with many users connected to them. In that context, "host" made sense, since the big
computer (e.g., a mainframe) "hosted" all users. In a modern, peer-to-peer network like the
Internet, every machine is a peer. Therefore, in a modern network, every machine is also a host
and "hosts" one or more users. A centralized computer which supplies data to PCs on a network, or
a centralized telephone switch which provides switching services to several smaller remotes
Hypertext: This concept has actually been around more than fifty years. Hypertext is text that
contains links (often called "hotlinks") from words or phrases to other documents that elaborate,
explain, or otherwise follow a thought embodied in the linking word or phrase. For example, we
might highlight the word "links" above. Clicking on that word would then connect you--via the
HyperText Transport Protocol (HTTP)--to a fuller discussion of the linking concept in a separate
document. This second document might reside on your own computer or on a computer half a
world away. Note that our definition of "document" includes text, images, sound, and video in any
combination..
Hubs
A device used to centralize where all nodes are wired in a LAN.
Hybrid
A device used in communication networks that converts a four wire voice circuit into a two wire
circuit.
I
Icon
A graphic representation of a file or a command that is displayed on the screen. A mouse can be
pointed at an icon (and clicked) and the command will be executed.
Image Persistence
The appearance of earlier faded video frames of a moving and/or changing object within the
current frame.
Improved Definition Television (IDTV)
Refers to improvements to NTSC television which remain within the general parameters of NTSC
emission standards and, as such, would require little or no FCC action. Improvements made be
made at the source and/or at the television receiver and may include improvements in encoding,
filtering, ghost cancellation, and other parameters that may be transmitted and received as standard
NTSC.
Impulsive Noise
Noise characterized by non-overlapping transient disturbances commonly introduced by devices
such as switches and relays.
In-Band Signaling
Signaling that occurs over the same channel that carries user information. Contrast this with out-
of-band signaling.
Inclination
The angle between the Earth's equatorial plane and the orbit plane of a communications satellite.
Infobot, mailbot
Like a robot, these are automated e-mail systems which immediately return information when you
ask for it, without human intervention. For example, if you ask an infobot for a FAQ (list of
frequently asked questions and answers) it will automatically send the document to your e-mail
address.
Information highway
A network made up of many connected networks which has the capacity to carry high-speed
services including data, image and interactive video communication. This term is often confused
with the Internet, which is comparatively slow. Some people argue we don't have an "information
highway" yet built in North America, because it's still under construction.
Infotainment
The blending of information, education and entertainment services.
Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN)
A telecommunications service that links you directly to the telephone company's digital network.
While the telephone company's network and switching offices are almost totally digital, the access
lines or "local loops" that link individual businesses and homes to this network are almost always
analogue. This means that when you initiate a phone, fax or modem transmission, it is carried in
analogue form along an access line to a telephone company's switching office. There, it is
converted to digital form. With ISDN, your access line is fully digital. In other words, ISDN
provides a completely digital link making possible the simultaneous, high-speed transmission of
voice, data, still image and video signals over a single telephone line. The multiple channels of
ISDN let you carry out more than one application at a time, and change the configuration within
minutes as your demands change. ISDN is available now only in cities such as Thunder Bay, Sault
Ste. Marie, Sudbury and North Bay but may be expanding as the demand grows. It may also be
phased out and replaced by faster, more cost effective technologies. A public-switched network
providing digital connections for the concurrent transmission of voice, video, data, and images.
Often seen as a technological bridge between the current telephone system and an upgraded,
broadband network.
Interactive media
New telecommunications systems designed to permit two-way communications between
televisions or computers in one location with software stored on a central computer. Can also
allow individuals in distant locations to communicate, teach, or learn from one another.
Interactive Television (ITV)
Two-way communications using a television as a display. Uses include entertainment, information
retrieval, education, and shopping.
Internet
A widely used public computer network, initially developed by the U.S. military, that links smaller
computer networks and allows users on different electronic-mail systems to communicate with one
another on a global scale.
Internet Protocol (IP)
In TCP/IP, a connection Internet layer protocol that provides a best-efforts datagram delivery
service. Note the functional layer (TCP/IP) corresponds to the OSI model network layer. The
Internet layer provides routing and relaying functions that are used when data must be passed from
a host to some other network in the Internet. It operates in the source and destination hosts and in
all the routers along the path between the hosts.
Interactive television
The ability to "talk back" to your TV so you can send information back to your cable company and
do things like buy pay-per-view programs, join a game, or buy things.
International Telecommunications Union (ITU)
An organization set up to promote worldwide standards and the development of linked networks
throughout the world. Without the ITU, it would not be possible to make phone calls between
continents.
Internet, the Internet
An internet, with a small i, is any network of computers, large or small. The Internet (capital I)
refers the global network connecting thousands of networks and tens of millions of computers
around the world. Originally set up by the U.S. Defense Department during the Cold War, the
Internet is now administered by an independent organization.
Internet Service Provider (ISP)
A company or non-profit organization providing access to the Internet. If you have an ISP within
your local calling area or through a toll-free number, then you won't have to pay long distance
charges every time you log on to the Internet. If you don't have to pay long distance charges, most
ISPs provide time on the Internet for 10 cents an hour or less.
Internaut
Anyone using the Internet. (See also cybernaut)
Intertoll trunk
A line linking the switching offices of different telephone exchanges used to route long distance
calls.
Input/Output (I/O)
The process of transmitting information from an external source to a data processing device or
from the device to an external source.
Institute of Radio Engineers (IRE)
Units of measurement dividing the area between the bottom of sync and white level into 140 equal
units. 140 IRE equals one volt peak-to-peak.
Instructional Technology
A complex, integrated process involving people, procedures, ideas, devices, and organization, for
analyzing problems and devising, implementing, evaluating, and managing solutions to those
problems in situations in which learning is purposive and controlled (Association for Educational
Technology and Communications (AECT)).
Instructional Television Fixed Service (ITFS)
A band of 28 microwave channels reserved by the federal government for educational and non-
commercial use requiring special antennas and down-converters.
Integrated Circuit (IC)
A solid-state electronic device typically containing multiple transistors and other simple devices
integrated to perform a complex electronic function.
Integrated Digital Network (IDN)
A network that can transmit or receive both voice and data information digitally. This network
provides the ability to access a variety of services.
Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN)
A network, evolved from the telephony Integrated Digital Network (IDN), that provides end-to-
end digital connectivity to support a wide range of services, including voice and nonvoice services,
to which users have access by a limited set of standard multipurpose customer interfaces. It is a
telecommunications network driven by the communications needs (both voice and nonvoice) of
the customers.
Integrated Voice/Data Terminal (IVDT)
One of a family of devices that features a terminal keyboard/display and voice telephone
instrument. IVDTs allow simultaneous voice and data communications over a single access line.
Intelligent Network Element (INE)
Elements of a telecommunications network that are under stored program control.
Interactive
A way of describing time-dependent data communications, typically where a user enters data and
waits for a response from the destination before continuing.
Interactive Media
Refers to telecommunications channels that allow the two-way exchange of information.
Intercarrier Sound
A method used to recover audio information in the NTSC system.
Interexchange Carrier (IEC)
Since divestiture, any carrier registered with the FCC that is authorized to carry customer
transmissions between LATAs interstate or, if approved by a state public utility commission,
intrastate. It includes such carriers as AT&T Communications, Satellite Business Systems, MCI,
and Sprint.
Interface
A common boundary between two systems over which the intersystem communication occurs. A
physical point of demarcation between two dissimilar devices where the electrical signals,
connectors, timing, and handshaking are defined. The conceptual point at which procedures, codes,
and protocols enable two entities to exchange information.
A piece of hardware or a set of rules that allows communications between two systems.
Inter-Frame Coding
Method of source coding where, in order to save transmission capacity, the temporal correlation of
moving pictures is used for data reduction.
Interlaced Scanning
A scanning process in which the distance from the center-to-center of successively scanned lines in
the same field is twice the normal line displacement, and in which the adjacent lines belong to
different fields.
Interleaving (Shuffling)
Process of changing the bit pattern of a stream of code words, usually as part of the channel
coding, in order to reduce the influence of error bursts that may occur during transmission.
Internal Commands
DOS commands that are loaded into memory when the computer is booted.
International Standards Organization (ISO)
An organization responsible for developing the seven layer Open Systems Interconnection
Reference Model, which is reflected in the ISDN standards now being developed by the CCITT.
Interpolation
Technique of reconstructing missing or omitted samples out of samples that surround that sample
spatially and/or temporally.
Interpreter
A program that translates high level languages into machine readable code.
Interworking
Communications between two or more telecommunications networks. This may or may not
involve a difference in signaling or protocol elements supported by each network.
Interworking Functions
Functions that allow the connection ISDNs to other ISDNs and to non-ISDN networks.
Intra-Frame Coding
Method of source coding, applicable to still pictures or pictures that may be considered as still,
where the spatial correlation within a picture is used for data reduction in order to save
transmission capacity.
IRE Roll-Off
Specific gain/frequency characteristic of a filter.
IRE Scale
An oscilloscope or waveform monitor scale, extending from -40 to +100 units.
I-Series
CCITT recommendations on ISDN.
Isotropic Antenna
A theoretical antenna that radiates or receives the same amount of signal in all directions.
Information Service
Telephone calls made to 900 or 976 type services, but does not include Internet services.
Interexchange (Long Distance) Company (IXC)
Any telephone company, as defined in Section 364.02(12), F.S. (excluding Payphone Providers),
which provides telecommunications service between local calling areas as described in the
approved tariffs of individual local exchange companies (LECs).
Inter-Office Call
A telephone call originating in one central office but terminating in another central office, both of
which are in the same designated exchange area.
Intra-Office Call
A telephone call originating and terminating within the same central office.
Intra-State Toll Message
Toll messages which originate and terminate within Florida.
Internet
A global network of networks. The SIU campus network is a part of the Internet, and all Internet
services are available on campus. To use Internet services you must have TCP/IP network software
on your machine. This is the common language that lets data be transferred between unlike
computers. Internet services are also available on the SIU dial-up at (618) 453-3500. To dial-up,
you must also have SLIP (Serial Line Interface Protocol) or PPP (Point-to-Point Protocol) software
on your machine (both are usually included in the TCP/IP suite).
IRC
Internet Relay Chat. This service lets groups converse with each other in real time across the
Internet. It is a sort of e-mail facility with a built-in broadcast function that automatically sends
your message to other users logged into the same discussion. Some call it the keyboard equivalent
of Citizens Band radio.
ISP
Internet Service Provider. An organization, such as a private business or an educational institution,
that provides a linkage to the Internet "backbone."
Interface
A common boundary between two pieces of equipment where they join together, enabling them to
exchange information.
J
Jerkiness
The original smooth and continuous motion is perceived as a series of distinct "snapshots."
Jitter
Short-term variations of the sampling instants from their ideal positions in time.
An unsteady television picture usually attributed to one of the following: improper synchronizing
lines, groups of lines, or entire fields.
Judder
Undesired cyclic changes in intensity and temporal aliasing disturbances affecting the fidelity of
motion rendition resulting from "beats" between two or more temporal sampling rates.
Justification
Process of changing data rate of a digitally coded signal, usually without loss of information, in
order to match it to a transmission rate different from its own inherent rate.
K
K
Kilo. Notation for one thousand.
KBPS
Kilobits per second (e.g. Kb/s, Kbit/s, kbps, kb/s).
KET Star Channels
Satellite delivered instruction with phone line return to the instructor. The phone line can handle
voice or data transmissions generated from the computer driven response pads. Student responses
to the teacher presented questions are automatically tabulated and seen by the instructor as a bar
chart, who can then determine in what direction to proceed with the instruction.
Key
A signal that can electronically "cut a hole" in the video picture to allow for insertion of other
elements such as text or a smaller video picture.
L
Lagging Chrominance
The chrominance signal lags the luminance signal. In a color picture monitor, the colors will
appear to the right of the image.
Layer
In the OSI Reference Model, it refers to a set of related data communications functions that makes
up one level of a hierarchy of functions.
Leading Chrominance
The chrominance signal leads the luminance signal. In a color picture monitor, the colors will
appear to the left of the image.
Leased line
A telecommunications channel leased between two or more points at a flat monthly rate.
Line
A communications channel. Also called a circuit, trunk or facility. It often refers to access to the
public switched telephone network (e.g., residence line, individual business line).
Link
A path between two stations, channels or parts of a communications system. For example, if you
are calling up your Internet Service Provider over a regular telephone line, your computer modem
forms a "link" with the ISP until you hang up.
Listservice, listserver
A special e-mail system on the Internet where anything that's mailed to the listserver gets mailed
back automatically to everyone on the mailing list. Most often, this system is used to send mail to
people with some common interest.
Local area network (LAN)
A way of connecting several computers together that are located close to each other, either in the
same room or building, so that they can share files through a server and share devices like printers
and copiers. A special linkage of computers or other communications devices into their own
network for use by an individual or organization, such as a schoolwide network.
Local exchange carrier
Your local telephone company -- the one that provides you with access lines. In Thunder Bay,
Kenora and Dryden, the local exchange carriers are municipally owned telephone companies. In
most of Ontario and Québec, the local exchange carrier is Bell Canada.
Local loop
A line connecting you to your local phone company's central office/switching centre.
Local measured service (LMS)
A pricing structure for local calls which requires customers to pay according to usage, rather than
simply paying a flat monthly fee. There is a lot of consumer resistance to this, since it would mean
a charge for every local phone call. North Americans are used to making "free" local calls, while
most of the rest of the world has some form of LMS, like pay phones.
Local multipoint communication systems (LMCS)
A wireless service capable of carrying basic and advanced communication services such as
"wireless" cable TV, high speed Internet access, video conferencing and various other multimedia
programming. First Nations in the far north which don't have a system of wires presently
connecting all homes and offices in the community may want to consider installing some form of
LMCS instead of wiring the community. Present LMCS technology operates within a 4-5 km
radius but relay points can be set up to cover wider areas. In an LMCS community, homes and
businesses send and receive the signals through small, unobtrusive antennae plus the associated
electronics that are about the size of a shoe box. Although there are no LMCS systems operating in
Northern Ontario at this time, three wide area LMCS licenses were awarded in November 1996.
Licenses were awarded to CellularVision Canada Ltd. for systems in North Bay, Sault Ste. Marie,
Sudbury, and Timmins; to Digital Vision Communications Inc. for a system in Thunder Bay; and
to Regional Vision Inc. for systems in Dryden, Elliot Lake, Fort Frances, Kapuskasing, Kenora,
Kirkland Lake, Parry Sound, and Sioux Lookout. The costs of using an LMCS service should be
competitive with a "wired" service provider.
Low speed
Data communications systems operating at speeds of less than 2,400 bits per second (bps). (See
high speed, medium speed.)
Leased Line
A dedicated circuit, typically supplied by the telephone company, that permanently connects two
or more user locations. It is generally voice-grade and supports voice communications or data
communications using modems.
Least Significant Bit (LSB)
Code element of least significance within a code word used to represent a sample value.
Light Pen
A pen-like device that contains a photosensitive cell and small aperture lens that produces or
detects electronic signals; can be used to write free-hand directly on a TV screen or to enter, edit,
and position computer text or graphics.
Linear Waveform Distortion
The distortion of the shape of the video waveform signal, where this distortion is independent of
the amplitude of the signal. For ease of measurement these distortions are grouped into three
categories:
short-time waveform distortion.
line-time waveform distortion.
field-time waveform distortion.
Line Code Violation Event
For an AMI-coded signal, this is the occurrence of a received bipolar violation. For a B8ZS-coded
signal, it is the occurrence of a received bipolar violation that is not part of the associated zero-
substitution code.
Line Frequency
The number of times per second that the scanning spot crosses a fixed vertical line in one
direction.
Line Termination (LT)
Contains at least the transmit and receive functions terminating one end of as digital transmission
system. The LT is typically the location of the line card in the CO, and is the network counterpart
of the NT1.
Link
The combination of communication devices, media and software intelligence that is required to
effect data communications.
Link Access Procedure-Balanced (LAPB)
The name given to the Layer 2 procedures of the X.25 protocol.
Link Access Procedure: D-Channel (LAPD)
The name given to the Data Link Layer procedures described in CCITT Recommendation Q.920
and Q.921.
Local Access And Transport Area (LATA)
One of 161 local telephone serving areas in the United States, generally encompassing a
metropolitan area or its equivalent in terms of numbers of telephone subscribers. The LATAs that
were established as a result of the Bell divestiture now distinguish local from long-distance
service. Circuits with both end-points within the LATA (intraLATA) are generally the
responsibility of the local telephone company. Circuits that cross LATA boundaries (interLATA)
are passed on to an interexchange (long-distance) carrier, such as AT&T, MCI, or Sprint.
Local Area Network (LAN)
A high-speed data communications network with limited geographic range; typically a single
building or campus. LANs connect computers of all sizes, terminals, workstations, and peripherals
such as mass memory storage (hard disks) and printers. The transmission medium may be coaxial
cable, twisted pair wire, or optical fiber.
A system in which several computers are tied together or to a central server.
Local Loop
Also referred to as the "Last Mile", the local loop is getting the signal from the receive site to the
viewing room. Microwave, fiber optics, cable and sometimes broadcast are used to distribute the
signal.
The wire pair that connects a subscriber to a telephone company end office. The loop typically
consist of a single pair of wires, though two-wire local loops are common, especially with leased
voice-grade circuits.
Loopback
Diagnostic procedure used for transmission devices; a test message is sent to a device being tested,
which is then sent back to the originator and compared with the original transmission; loopback
testing may be within a locally attached device or conducted remotely over a communications
circuit.
Loop-Through
A video signal entering a piece of equipment is returned to the outside world for further use.
Loss of Signal (LOS)
Occurs when a DSU senses an absence of signal (no signal) from either side for more than 150
milliseconds when in the AT&T mode, or 175 bit periods when in the ANSI mode. A network
signal with loss greater than 30 dB (ñ 2.5 dB) is considered no signal, while an equipment signal
with consecutive zeros is considered no signal. In response to receiving an LOS from one side, the
DSU returns a Yellow Alarm, and transmits an AIS to the other side.
Lower Level Functions (LLF)
In the seven-layer OSI Model, layers 1 through 3 provide the lower level functions that control the
flow of user information through the network.
Low Level Format (Initialize)
Most hard disks must have a preliminary low level format performed before DOS formatting.
Low Level Language
A machine-level language, usually in binary digits, that interfaces directly with the CPU of a
computer.
Low Noise Amplifier (LNA)
A special amplifier that boosts the satellite signal while contributing a negligible amount of noise.
Luminance (Y)
The luminance component of the video picture information which includes setup but does not
include color information. The video picture includes two components:
luminance (brightness and contrast).
chrominance (hue and saturation).
The signal which represents brightness, or the amount of light in the picture. This is the only signal
required for black and white pictures.
Luminance Signal
That portion of the television signal which conveys the brightness (luminance) information. LAN:
Local Area Network. Typically, a group of microcomputer users, such as a department or building,
whose workstations are linked together to share resources. A LAN at SIUC is usually connected to
the CAN, which is a part of the Internet.
Listserv
A listserv maintains a mailing list of subscribers. Whenever a query or comment is sent to the
listserv, the listserv e-mails a copy to each subscriber. This is a good way to disseminate
information when the subscribers want all comments and are scattered around the world. This
function has been largely supplanted by news groups on the Internet. SIUC once ran a listserv on
its mainframe computer; it has since been moved to a Unix-based server. You can read about the
how to join the listserv at this link.
Local Access And Transport Area (Lata) Or Market Area
A geographical area, which is loosely based on Standard Metropolitan Statistical Areas (SMSAs),
within which a LEC may transport telecommunication signals.
Local Exchange Telecommunications Company (LEC)
Any company certificated by the Commission to provide local exchange telecommunications
service in Florida on or before June 30, 1995.
Local Provider (LP)
Any telecommunications company providing local telecommunications service, excluding pay
telephone providers and call aggregators.
Local Service Area Or Local Calling Area
The area within which telephone service is furnished to subscribers under a specific schedule of
rates and without toll charges. A LECs local service area may include one or more exchange areas
or portions of exchange areas.
Local Toll Provider (LTP)
Any telecommunications company providing intraLATA or intramarket area long distance
telecommunications service.
Login/Logon: A system for identifying yourself as a valid user of the system. This is done by
entering your account information (ID and password) when requested by the host. The exact form
of the request varies from host to host.
Logoff/Logout: A procedure for terminating an interactive session on a host computer that was
initiated with a login/logon procedure. This frees all the resources that you were using and makes
the connection available to another user. Failure to logoff/logout after a session means your
session will most likely terminate abnormally, which may cause loss of data or work.
Logical
The electronics involved with adding/subtracting 1`s and 0`s is called binary logic. A "1" or a "0"
generated by the electronics is called a logical 1 or 0.
M
Medium speed
Refers to data communications systems operating at and above 2,400 bits per second up to the
speed limit obtainable on a voice grade channel (9,600 bps). (See high speed, low speed.)
Microwave transmission system
A high-capacity transmission system that sends information using high-frequency radio signals
called microwaves. Originally, microwave systems offered only analogue transmission. Today,
microwave systems can be upgraded to digital.
Mobile communications
A wireless form of communication in which voice and data information is sent and received via
microwaves. Mobile communications allow individuals to talk to each other and/or send and
receive data while moving from place to place. Some examples of mobile communications are
cellular and digital cordless telephones, pagers and telephones at your seat on an airplane.
Modem
Computers generate data in digital form. To send this digital stuff over an analogue phone line, the
data has to be converted. A modem does this. Literally, "mo-dem" is a contracted form of the
words "modulate-demodulate" because it is converting (modulating) data back and forth between
analogue and digital formats.
MSAT
The world's most powerful communications satellite, operated by Telesat Mobile Incorporated.
The system can send and receive voice, fax, data and and advanced digital communications to and
from any equipped station in North America, fixed or mobile. MSAT was once thought to be "the
answer" for improving telephone service in remote Northern Ontario communities, but the high
cost of units and the $2 per-minute usage charges made the systems only affordable by large
companies, such as mines.
Multimedia
A simultaneous combination of text, data, voice, graphics, photographs, video and audio.
Multiplexing
A way of combining several communication channels into one.
Multipoint
A line or channel connecting more than two service points. Don't confuse this with broadcasting,
which sends signals out all over the place within a defined area so that anyone with a receiver in
that area can pick up the signal. A multi-point system would be more selective, with a fixed
number of transmission points with defined addresses. If radio stations used "multi-point" systems,
listeners would lose the signal every time they moved the radio in their car and have to call up the
radio station and tell them the new location.
Mean Time Before Failure (MTBF)
An average of the time between failures, usually used in describing a hard disk or other
components.
Megabyte
The basic unit of mass storage and data transfer. Refers to one million bytes of information (e.g.,
"M", Mbps, Mbit/s).
Menu
A list of choices or options (displayed on a monitor).
Microphonia Bars
Light and dark horizontal bars in a television picture which generally move erratically in a vertical
direction, caused by mechanical vibration of the elements of an electron tube.
Microwave
High-frequency radio waves used for the transmission of audio, voice, or data. Requires a clear
line-of-sight between transmitter and receiver.
Mix (Dissolve, Fade)
A transition between two video signals in which one signal is faded down as the other signal is
faded up.
Modified Frequency Modulation (MFM)
The scheme for the standard method of recording data on hard disks (see run length limited
(RLL)).
Modulate
A process imposing message information on a carrier by varying the amplitude, frequency, or
phase of a wave.
In television terms, indication of the presence of chrominance information.
A process which allows signal information to be moved to other frequencies in order to facilitate
transmission or frequency-domain multiplexing.
Modulator
A device which converts the video signal and audio signal onto a viewable television channel.
Modulator/Demodulator (MODEM)
A device that enables digital data to be sent over analog transmission facilities. At the receiving
end another modem reconverts the analog signal to digital data.
Moire
A rippling and flickering reproduction of straight lines.
Monochrome
A television picture with only luminance information.
Mosquito Noise
The quantizing noise generated by the block processing of moving objects the gives the
appearance of small moving objects.
Most Significant Bit (MSB)
Code element of most significance within a code word used to represent a sample value.
Motion Response Degradation
The deterioration of motion video such that the received video imagery has suffered a loss of
spatio-temporal resolution.
Motion Video
Video imagery that conveys movement.
Mouse
A small pointing device that can control the cursor and move it anywhere on the screen, and
usually has two or three buttons that can be assigned various functions.
Multichannel Television Sound (MTS)
FCC authorized system for providing stereo, secondary, and PRO sound on TV channels.
Multiplex
The interleaving of message elements (bits and characters) from a variety of data sources into one
or more combined signals.
Multiplexer (MUX)
A device that combines information from several users into a single stream of information. Any
multiport device that allows two or more users to share a common physical transmission medium.
Any multiport device that allows two or more users to share a common physical transmission
medium; employed in pairs, one at each end of the communications channel, where each device
performs both multiplexing of the multiple user inputs and demultiplexing of the channel back into
the separate user data streams.
Multipoint Control Unit (MCU)
A switching device commonly used to switch and control a Video Teleconferencing Network.
MAC - (Medium Access Control)
Internationally unique hardware identification address that is assigned to the NIC (Network
Interface Card) which interfaces the node to the LAN.
Mainframe: This word represents an entire computing paradigm. Typically, mainframe computers
are very large, are housed in a central, secure location, and offer memory and disk-storage
capacities that desktop microcomputers heretofore could not match. Historically, SIUC
mainframes have been set up to handle (1) noninteractive (sometimes called "batch") computing
jobs through the Multiple Virtual Storage (MVS) operating system and (2) multiuser, interactive
computing through networked workstations and dumb terminals. Microcomputers have shrunk in
size, dropped in price, and grown in memory and disk capacity, and they now approach the lower-
end mainframes in computing power. The time-sharing paradigm used by the mainframe has been
replaced with the client/server paradigm.
Modem: MOdulator/DEModulator. This piece of hardware and the software that drives it allows
computer data to be transmitted over telephone lines originally designed to carry only voice
signals. A modem modulates your computer's electronic signals and sends it out through your
telephone line, and a modem on the receiving computer demodulates the signals back into data it
can read.
Multimedia: Programs synchronize multiple media and play them back on your computer screen.
Typically, sound, images, animated sequences, and text are read from CD-ROM disks and are
simultaneously reproduced on your computer screen. Multimedia transforms your computer into a
"smart television," allowing you to stop, start, or save to disk information as it appears on your
screen.
Modulate
To vary the amplitude, frequency or phase of a carrier wave in order to transmit information.
Multiplex
To transmit more than one message at one time on a single communications channel.
N
Narrowband
The copper-based technology of today's services.
A telecommunications medium that carries lower frequency signals.
Narrowcasting
Programming to smaller audiences with specialized interests.
National Television System Committee (NTSC)
The organization which developed the television standard currently in use in the United States,
Canada, and Japan, and is generally used to refer to that standard.
National Information Infrastructure (NII)
A broad proposal for the federal government to establish standards and governing bodies for the
transmission of digital data. Most provisions of the NII are still being debated.
National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA)
An office of the U.S. Commerce Department that is designated to provide "seed grants" to support
experimental education and other public-benefit uses of the NII.
Network
The circuits over which computers or other devices are connected with one another, such as over a
telephone network.
Network
A series of points, nodes, or stations connected by communications channels. The assembly of
equipment through which connections are made between voice and/or data stations.
Network Architecture
A set of design principles, including the organization of functions and the description of data
formats and procedures, used as the basis for the design and implementation of a communications
network (see architecture).
National (Significant) Number (NSN)
The number that permits a user to obtain a subscriber in the same country (or group of countries,
included in one integrated numbering plan) but outside the same local network or numbering area.
Network Channel Terminating Equipment (NCTE)
Equipment that is designated for terminating a telephone circuit or facility at the customer's
premises.
Network Dependent Layers
Layers 1, 2, and 3 of the OSI Reference Model. They are also referred to as the "Connection" or
"Access" Layers. These layers are concerned with the protocols associated with the data
communication network being used to link two communicating computers together.
Network Interface Standard
A set of standards or guidelines used to control the interactions between devices in a
communications network.
Network Layer
In the OSI Model, the entity that services the transport layer. The network layer is responsible for
ensuring that data passed to it from the transport layer is routed for delivery through the network.
Network Termination (NT)
Equipment that provides the functions necessary for a terminal to gain access to the network.
Network termination provides essential functions for signal transmission.
Node
A point where one or more functional units interconnect transmission lines (ISO); a physical
device that allows for the transmission of data within a network; an end point of a link or a
junction common to two or more links in a network (IBM SNA); typically includes host
processors, communications controllers, cluster controllers, and terminals.
Noise
An extraneous electrical disturbance tending to interfere with the normal reception of a transmitted
signals.
Undesired sound or sounds.
Sounds which are non-periodic and generally have random pitch and loudness characteristics.
Non-Linear Distortion
Refers to distortions which are amplitude-dependent.
Non-Orthogonal Sampling
Sampling of a picture where the sampling instants in one line with those sampling instants in the
temporarily adjacent lines of the same field and/or in the spatially adjacent lines of the preceding
field do not form an arrangement perpendicular to the line direction.
Non-Uniform Quantizing
Quantizing in which the quantizing intervals are not all equal.
NT1
Network channel termination equipment that meets a specific ISDN standard. NT1 equipment
terminates the network at the customer's premises but does not provide switching or control (see
network channel terminating equipment).
NT2
Network termination equipment that meets a specific ISDN standard. NT2 equipment connects
terminal equipment to the NT1 network channel termination. NT2 can provide switching and
control capabilities. NT1 functions can be built into NT2 equipment.
Narrowcasting
Sending out radio and television programs for a special or smaller part of the larger, general
audience. The programs are still "broadcast" so anyone can receive them, but only those with the
particular (narrow) interest of the program are likely to be watching. Examples of "narrowcasting"
include the Golf Channel for golfers and ethnic language programming.
Netiquette
Rules on conduct for Internet users. If you repeatedly violate netiquette rules, you could be flamed,
banned from a discussion group, or have your user account cancelled if the violations are severe
enough.
Netizens
People who use the Internet.
Net surfer, net surfing
Similar to a TV watcher who constantly changes channels with a remote (channel surfing), net
surfers are always visiting sites on the Internet
Network
A series of linked stations or computer terminals. The links on a network can be wires or wireless,
dedicated or dial-up.
Newbie
A newcomer to the world of the Internet, e-mail, discussion groups, etc. If you are making your
first posting to a discussion group, admitting you are a "newbie" will likely help, because then
friendly folks might help you out.
Nine-one-one (911)
The three-digit number designated for public use throughout North America to report an
emergency or request emergency services such as police, fire department or ambulance. Not all
phone systems have 911 service, because before it can be set up, all emergency services have to
work together create a central place where all 911 calls can be handled. As a result, there is 911
service in most large cities, but not in rural parts of Canada.
Node
The point in a transmission system or network where lines or trunks from many sources come
together.
Numbering plan area (NPA), area code
The three digits of a telephone number usually referred to as the "area code". Here is an example,
using the full phone number for Wawatay Native Communications Society:
1-807-737-2951
1: The number known around the world for North America.
807: The area code, or NPA.
737: The local exchange for Sioux Lookout.
2951: The distinct number for the line which connects Wawatay to our local exchange (737).
To save time, if you ask someone in Sioux Lookout for their phone or fax number, they just give
you the last four digits (2951), since we all take the first seven digits (1-807-737) for granted since
they're the same for everyone in town.
Null Modem (Cable)
A cable with certain pairs of wires crossed over to facilitate communications with serial devices
(usually a modem).
Nameserver: Each machine on the Internet must have a unique address. The Internet stores this
address as a number, e.g., [Link]. This number is difficult for people to work with,
however, so a verbal version of each numerical address is also created, e.g., [Link].
When you use this name, such as to send e-mail to john@[Link], it must be
matched with the numerical address the computer understands. In the early days of the Internet, a
"look-up" table was stored on each machine. Now, a nameserver is assigned for each LAN. This
nameserver knows about its own network. Each nameserver knows about a domain nameserver
that it goes to for addresses it does not know. The domain nameserver in turn knows about the
master servers for the Internet. When you use an address that your local nameserver does not
know, it forwards the request to the next-higher level of nameserver, until the server is found that
is responsible for addresses in that local network.
Network: Interconnected computers. Three networks have already been defined here: the LAN,
the CAN, and the Internet. Sometimes the term WAN (Wide Area Network) is also used. The size
of the network may vary, but the critical element is the communication protocol used to allow
different types of computers to exchange messages and data. Two computers may be on the same
physical network, but they can't "see" each other unless they are using the same network protocol
(see the Protocol definition below).
NFS: Network File System. This is a virtual disk storage system that uses TCP/IP protocol to
allow computers on a network to share files and disk space in such a way that it appears to the user
as a single, seamless file system.
Network
A framework of several telephone switches which together, permit seamless transmission of
telephone calls.
Network Processor
A centrally located computer which monitors national voice traffic.
NSFnet (National Science Foundation Network)
A highspeed network that forms part of the Internet backbone.
O
Ones Density
DS1 signals may contain no more than 15 consecutive zero bits and must average 12.5% one bits.
Too many consecutive zero bits result in a zero voltage on the transmission line. Changes in
voltage (provided by the frequent alternation of zero bits and one bits) is required to prevent loss
of synchronization between repeaters on T-carrier lines.
On-line
Being actively connected to a network or computer system; usually being able interactively to
exchange data, commands, and information.
Open-network architecture
An industrywide standard that allows different telecommunications vendors to interconnect with a
network. The industry standard is the OSI Model, a seven-layer reference model for Open Systems
Interconnection, developed by the members of the International Organization for Standardization
(ISO).
Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) Reference Model
A set of design principles to guide the development of data communications standards. These
standards are intended to allow equipment from different vendors to communicate using a
common set of protocols. The OSI Reference Model divides data communication functions into
seven levels or layers. The CCITT has used the OSI Reference Model to guide development of
ISDN standards. ISDN addresses the three lowest layers of the OSI Reference Model that are
concerned with the physical circuit, transfer of information, and routing and switching of
transmission paths.
Open System Interconnection (OSI) Standards
The International Standards Organization (ISO) has established the Open System Interconnection
(OSI) Reference Model. The reference model promotes a way of developing standards to allow
different vendors to design and build data communications equipment that is completely
compatible at all levels (see open systems interconnection (OSI) reference model).
Optical Fiber
Any filament or fiber made of optically transparent materials that is used to transmit laser or LED-
generated light signals. Optical fiber usually consists of a core, which carries the signal, and
cladding, a substance with a slightly higher refractive index than the core, which surrounds the
core and reflects the light signal back into it.
Orbit Altitude
The height of a communications satellite above the earth's surface.
Orbit Period
The time for a satellite to make one full revolution in its orbit.
Orbit Spacing
The angular separation (measured in degrees) of longitude between satellites using the same
frequency and covering overlapping areas (see footprint).
Orthogonal Sampling
Sampling of a picture where the sampling instants in one line with those sampling instants in the
temporarily adjacent lines of the same field and/or in the spatially adjacent lines of the preceding
field form an arrangement perpendicular to the line direction.
Optional Calling Services
Services you can buy from the phone company to manage your calls such as call display, call
waiting, 3-way calling, speed calling, call forwarding, etc. Services like this are only offered after
your local exchange has a digital switch.
OS/2
A new operating system that allows 80286 and 80386 computers to address huge amounts of
memory, removing many limitations imposed by MS-DOS.
Out-Of-Band Signaling
An additional signal sent in a separate channel from the information-carrying signal. Out-of-band
signaling is a method used to monitor the status of voice and data calls in ISDN (see in-band
signaling).
Out of Frame State (OOF)
Begins when any two out of four or two out of five consecutive framing bits received from either
side are incorrect. In response to receiving an OOF from one side, the DSU returns a Yellow
alarm, and transmits an AIS to the other side. A Red alarm signal occurs when an OOF state exists
for more than 2.5 seconds. An OOF state ends when reframe occurs.
Overshoot
An excessive response to a unidirectional voltage change, and are usually detected by a waveform
monitor.
Octet
A byte composed of eight binary characters (bits).
Optical Carrier (OC)
The speed rate of an optical transmission, according to the SONET standard.
OS/2: IBM's GUI (Graphical User Interface) operating system. It provides mouse-selectable
(point-and-click) icons and menus and data-sharing between applications.
P
Packet
A group of digital bits put together in a bundle or packet to make transmission faster. One little
packet includes not only your data (such as what you type on your computer screen) but also
control information such as a source and destination address and an identification number. These
clever little packets also have "error control information" which help the receiver check to see if
the packet made it safe and sound to the other end. If it didn't, then an error message is sent back
down the line so another attempt can be made to send that same packet over again. The built-in
address information helps stray packets find their way if they're split up from other packets during
your transmission. Bundled up like this, the packets making up your transmission can be mixed up
with packets from everyone else in the same line and then sorted out correctly when the correct
destination is reached at the other end.
Party line
An access line serving more than one customer. Not desirable for modern data connections, which
tie up lines for long periods at a time. The opposite of a party line is a private line.
Pay-per-view
A system which lets you select and watch the TV program of your choice, for a fee. Movies and
live sports events are widely available on most pay-per-view services. (See also video-on-demand)
Person-to-person call
A type of long distance call that costs more to make than a station-to-station call because your bill
for the call only starts when the person you've asked for on the call begins speaking. In a station to
station call, your bill for that call starts from the moment anyone picks up at the other end.
Personal communications services (PCS) or personal digital phones
This is a new wireless technology licensed in December 1995 now available in larger cities in
Canada as an alternative to cellular phones. The digital phones are small (about the size of a pack
of cigarettes) and offer many of the features that regular wired telephones users enjoy such as call
display, call forward, E-mail, faxing etc.
Personal computer (PC)
A micro-computer, used at home or at work.
Personalized response system (PRS): A computer assistance system which permits operators to
pre-record a greeting to customers and other frequently used messages, thereby relieving stress on
their voices.
Port :An entrance or access point to a computer. Your computer is hooked up to devices like a
printer or a modem through its different ports.
Private line :A telephone line for the private use of one customer.
Private network: Any network that is designed and operated exclusively for a particular person,
organization or group of users. For example, Wawatay has a private network linking together the
computers in the organization. That same private network has a public access point, called a "web
site," available over the Internet at [Link] If you reach our web site, you can
access the files we've put there for public consumption, but not any private files.
Protocol
A formal set of conventions governing how communication systems can talk to each other.
Public data network
A network established and operated by a telecommunications company for the specific purpose of
providing data transmission services to the public.
Publicly switched telephone network (PSTN): The worldwide dial-up telephone network or a
portion of that network. For example, the part operated by Bell Canada. Whatever system you own
should be linked somehow to the PSTN so you can make long distance phone calls, or go on the
Internet.
Packet
A group of bits, including address, data and control elements, that are switched and transmitted as
a unit. Packet refers mainly to the structure and format defined with the CCITT X.25
recommendations. Multiple packets may be required to carry one complete document or a lengthy
block of information.
Packet Assembler/Disassembler (PAD)
Network interface device that allows multiple asynchronous and/or synchronous terminals or host-
computer ports to interface to a packet-switching network. PADs offer protocol conversion to
allow user terminals not equipped for packet switching to communicate over a packet-switched
network. PADs allow connected user stations to open and close sessions with a remote host and to
set specific transmission parameters.
Packet Mode
An information transmission mode supported by the ISDN standards. In packet mode, equipment
will use packet-switching techniques to transmit information in X.25 packets.
Packet Switching
A data transmission technique wherein user information is segmented and routed in discrete data
units called packets, each with its own appended control information for routing, sequencing, and
error checking. Packet switching allows a communications channel to be shared by many users,
each using the circuit only for the time required to transmit a single packet.
Parallel-To-Serial Converter
Circuit or device in which a group of code elements, all of which are presented simultaneously, is
converted into a corresponding sequence of code elements.
Parallel Transmission
Method of transmission of a digitally coded signal where at least two distinct transmission paths
are used for the simultaneous transmission of the code elements representing the code words of a
digital signal.
A system that uses eight lines to send eight bits at a time, or one whole byte.
Parity Bit
Code element appended to a code word for the purpose of error detection. The value of this parity
bit is chosen such that the total number of code elements to which the number (1) is allocated
yields a prescribed parity. This parity can be even or odd.
An additional non-information bit appended to a group of bits, typically a 7- or 8-bit byte, which
indicates whether the number of ones in the group of bits is an odd or even number; a basic and
elementary mechanism for error checking.
Passive Bus
A path for the transfer of information between multiple terminal devices and a control point. The
path is a set of electrical conductors containing no active electronic segments. Under ISDN
standards, passive bus technology allows up to eight terminals to be connected to a single basic
rate access.
Peak Program Meter (PPM)
A peak level indicator used in the measurement of speech and music on sound program
transmissions (see vu meter).
Perigee
The lowest point in a communications satellite orbit.
Phase
The phase of the colors can be adjusted and this changes the "hue" or "tint" of the colors
themselves.
Phase Alternate Line (PAL)
Refers to the television system used in Europe and many other parts of the world. The phase of the
chrominance alternates from line to line to help cancel out phase errors.
Phase Modulation
A data transmission encoding method wherein the phase angle of the carrier wave is varied,
usually by 90 or 180 degrees, to represent a different bit value to the receiver; The encoding
technique used in phase shift keying. The process of changing the phase of a carrier waveform to
reflect digital (binary) information for the purpose of transmission over analog lines.
Physical Layer
Within the OSI model, the lowest level of network processing concerned with electrical,
mechanical, and handshaking procedures that connect a device to a transmission medium.
Picture Element (PIXEL or PEL)
One of many monochrome or color "dots" that comprise a television picture.
The smallest distinguishable part of a picture.
One sample of digital picture information, and can refer to an individual sample of luminance or
chrominance, or to a collection of such samples if they are co-sited and together produce one
picture element.
Plasma Panel
A device that is used to display information. It has two glass plates separated by neon gas that
lights up in response to electronic signals.
Point Of Presence (POP)
Since divestiture, POP refers to the physical access location of an interLATA (long-distance)
common carrier. The point to which the local telephone company terminates subscribers' circuits
for long-distance dial-up or leased-line communications.
Polarization
The ability of electromagnetic waves to vibrate in different radial directions. Typically, horizontal
or vertical directions.
A characteristic of the electric field on an electromagnetic wave in space. Four types of
polarization are used with communications satellites: horizontal, vertical, right-hand circular, and
left-hand circular.
Port
A circuit in an electronic device for the input or output of signals.
A point of access into a computer, a network, or other electronic device; the physical or electrical
interface through which one gains access; the interface between a process and a communications
or transmission facility.
Power Output
The amount of continuous power produced.
Prediction
Process used to determine a prediction value out of the values of samples that are in the proximity
to the sample to be predicted. Depending on whether sample values in horizontal, horizontal and
vertical, vertical, or vertical and temporal direction are taken into consideration, distinction is
made between one-, two-, or three dimensional prediction.
Prediction Value
Sample value obtained by prediction.
Predictive Coding
Method or source coding using prediction. The prediction error resulting from the difference
between the prediction value and actual sample value is transmitted.
Presentation Layer
In the OSI model, the layer of processing that provides services to the application layer, allowing it
to interpret the data exchanged, as well as to structure data messages to be transmitted using a
specific display and control format.
Primary Rate Access (PRA) or Primary Rate Interface (PRI)
A higher speed S/T interface classification defined by the CCITT where the typical delivery
medium will be a T-carrier. The standard configuration for the digital transmit and receive
channels is 23 B channels and 1 D channel, where the D channel operates at 64 kbps (see B
channel, D channel, S interface, T interface).
An ISDN channel rate not to exceed 1.536 mbps.
Prime Focus
The type of feed in a parabolic dish antenna which is positioned above the dish as the antenna's
focul point.
Private Branch Exchange (PBX)
A telephone switch located on a customer's premises that primarily establishes voice-grade circuits
over tie trunks, between individual users and the switched telephone network. PBXs typically
provide switching within a customer's premises or over a limited local area and usually offer
enhanced features.
Private Line
A leased line, a nonswitched circuit connecting two or more end-user locations.
Private Network
A network established and operated by a private organization or corporation for users within that
organization or corporation.
PRO
A private audio channel used mostly by networks for special communications signals; for example,
special verbal instructions from director or producer.
Protocol
Formal set of rules governing the format, timing, sequencing, and error control of exchanged
messages between similar devices or between similar functions within a device. The protocol may
also include facilities for managing a communications link.
Public Packet-Switched Network (PPSN)
A network established and operated by communications common carriers or telecommunications
administrations for the provision of packet-switched facilities to the public.
Pulse Code Modulation (PCM)
A voice digitization technique requiring 64 kbps bandwidth. PCM is the ISDN standard for voice
communications.
Method of source coding where the code words are obtained by sampling, quantizing and coding
of the analog input signal.
Packets
An accumulation of 'bits', made up of data and control information, which is grouped together and
treated by the network as a single unit. The Packet is sent by one node to another across the
network. The term packet and frame are often interchanged.
PAY TELEPHONE SERVICE COMPANY: Any telephone company which provides pay
telephone service as defined in Section 364.3375, F.S.
PRICE LIST: Document filed with the Commission by an ALEC detailing services, rates, and
charges offered by the company to all potential customers.
Peripheral
With respect to the telephone switch, it is any equipment connected to, but not in the same
building as the local switch.
Phase
A variation in a signal, measured in degrees, from one reference point to another.
Pulse Code Modulation
A four step process that converts an analogue signal to a digital signal by sampling the signal,
quantizing it, encoding it, and multiplexing it with many other signals. The signal is converted
back to its original analogue state at the receiving end
Protocol: Communication rules or language. When computers communicate, their messages must
be put into a "packet" or envelope that both can recognize. These envelopes, like the postal
envelopes we are familiar with, must carry a return address and a destination address. The protocol
determines how and where these addresses appear within the packet. If the sending and receiving
protocols are not the same, the receiving machine will get the wrong address information from the
packet and fail to recognize its own messages. Some protocols in use at SIU are TCP/IP (Internet
protocol), SNA (IBM mainframe protocol), IPX (Novell netware protocol), DLR (DOS LAN
Requestor), and LocalTalk (Apple/Macintosh protocol). TCP/IP mediates communication between
these different protocols across the Internet. This explains why your Macintosh cannot talk to a
DOS server or why you cannot talk to the Internet without TCP/IP..
Q
Q-Series
CCITT recommendations on signaling, including SS7.
Quadrature AM
A process which allows two different signals to modulate a single carrier frequency.
Quadrature Distortion
Distortion resulting from the asymmetry of sidebands used in vestigial sideband television
transmission, and can be eliminated through the use of a synchronous modulator.
Quantizing
Process of dividing a continuous range of values into a finite number of distinct values.
Quantizing Noise
Distortion resulting from the process of quantizing, caused by the difference between the true
value and the quantized approximation.
Quarter Inch Cartridge Tape (QIC)
A width of tape used in tape backup systems.
Quasi-Random Signal (QRS) Test Pattern
An irregular pattern of bits used to test and measure network jitter, as defined in AT&T PUB
62411.
Quincunx Sampling
Non-orthoganol sampling where the sampling instants of one line lie exactly between the sampling
instants of the temporarily adjacent lines of the same field ("line quincux") and/or the spatially
adjacent lines of the preceding field ("field quincux").
R
Radio Frequency (RF)
In television applications, RF generally refers to the television signal after the picture carrier
modulation process.
Random Access Memory (RAM)
A volatile memory. Any data stored in RAM is lost when the power is off.
Random Noise
Thermal noise generated from electron motion within resistive elements of electronic equipment.
Rate Adaptation
A terminal adaptor protocol function, which assures that data from a non-ISDN terminal (TE2) is
transmitted across the S/T interface at an appropriate rate. As an example, an RS232C interface is
capable of 20 kbps. To communicate over a B channel requires adding extra bits to increase the
rate to 64 kbps, then removing the extra bits at the receiving end.
Read Only Memory (ROM)
Non-volatile memory that is not lost when the computer power is off.
Random access memory (RAM)
The place in your computer reserved by the system for your use, at any time (hence, randomly).
Read only memory (ROM)
The place in your computer reserved by the system for its own use, not yours. ROM is the place
where the computer carries out built-in instructions.
Router
A specialized switching device to link geographically separated local area networks and computer
systems.
Real-Time
A transmission or data processing operating mode where data is entered in an interactive session.
This pertains to an application where response to input is fast enough to affect subsequent input,
such as a process-control system or computer-aided design system.
Red Alarm Signal
A Locally detected failure that occurs when an OOF state exists for more than 2.5 seconds. In
response to receiving a Red alarm from one side, the DSU transmits a Yellow alarm to the other
side.
Red, Green, Blue (RGB)
The three primary colors used in color television's additive color reproduction system.
The three primary colors used in color monitors and televisions. Each color has its own electron
gun that shoots streams of electrons to the back of the monitor display and causes it to light up in
the various colors.
Redundancy Reduction
Method of reducing information where, as far as possible, only the non-redundant part of the
information is transmitted.
Reference Black Level
The level corresponding to the specified maximum excursion of the luminance signal in the black
direction.
Reference White Level
The level corresponding to the specified maximum excursion of the luminance signal in the white
direction.
Reflector
The antenna's main curved "dish," which collects and focuses signals onto the secondary reflector
or the feed.
Regional Bell Operating Company (RBOC)
One of seven regional holding companies created by the divestiture of AT&T in January 1984 that
handles financial matters and long-range strategic planning for the local subsidiaries.
Remote Terminal
Any device that connects ISDN terminal equipment to a distant ISDN central Office. These
devices allow customer access to ISDN even though the customer is not served by a nearby ISDN
central office.
Request to Send (RTS)
A signal to the sending modem that the terminal is ready to transmit; part of modem handshaking.
Resolution - Horizontal Resolution
The amount of resolvable detail in the horizontal direction in a picture. It is usually expressed as
the number of distinct vertical lines, alternately black and white, which can be seen in a distance
equal to picture height.
Resolution - Vertical Resolution
The amount of resolvable detail in the vertical direction in a picture. It is usually expressed as the
number of distinct horizontal lines, alternately black and white, which can theoretically be seen in
a picture.
Retiming
Adjustment of a local synchronizing generator which has been locked to a distant source,
permitting the local facility to use the distant source in real-time production through a video
switcher.
Ringing
Undesired damped oscillations occurring prior to or following an abrupt change in the luminance
signal level and appearing as closely spaced multiple images on a television picture. Also results
from the removal of signal components by a filter.
R Interface
An ISDN designation for any interface between terminal equipment that does not meet ISDN
interface standards and network termination equipment (see terminal adapters).
Roll-Off
A gradual attenuation of gain/frequency response at either or both ends of the transmission pass
band.
Routing
The process of selecting the correct circuit path for a message.
RS232C
A physical interface with associated electrical signaling between data communications equipment
(DCE) and data terminal equipment (DTE). This is the most commonly employed interface
between computers and modems.
Run Length Limited (RLL)
A scheme of hard disk recording that allows 50% more data to be recorded on a hard disk than the
standard MFM scheme.
R-Y
One of the color difference signals used in the NTSC system, obtained by subtracting luminance
from the red color signal. The R-Y signal drives the vertical axis of a vectorscope.
Regenerated
The restoring of a bit, which has been degraded by transmission impairments, to its original form.
Remote: This word is often used in phrases like "remote computer" or "remote host." In essence, it
means a computer other than the one your keyboard is physically connected to. The distance
implied in the word "remote" is misleading, because the other machine may be anywhere. Network
tools, like Telnet (defined below), can make it seem to you as if your keyboard were directly
connected to the other machine.
RESELLER: An ALEC that does not have certain facilities but purchases telecommunications
service from a LEC and then resells that service to others.
Routing
The assignment of the preferred path for information to travel in order to reach its destination on a
transmission network.
S
S Interface
An interface standard defined for the CCITT and used to connect ISDN terminal equipment (TE1)
or terminal adapters (TA) to network termination equipment that is capable of routing and
switching (NT2). The S interface is physically and electrically identical to the T interface.
Sampling
Process of obtaining a series of discrete instantaneous values of a signal, usually at regular
intervals.
Satellite Facility
Extends from the baseband input of the radio equipment at the transmit earth station to the
baseband output of the radio equipment at the receive earth station and is constructed of three
sections:
the transmit earth station.
the space segment.
the receive earth station.
Saturation
The vividness of color described by such terms as "pale," "pastel," "deep," etc. The greater the
amplitude of the chrominance signal, the greater the saturation.
The voltage levels of the colors; the intensity of the color levels of the active picture (chroma,
chroma gain, color).
The property of color which relates to the amount of white light in the color. Highly saturated
colors are vivid, while less saturated colors appear pastel.
Scan Converter
A device that converts video frequency signals to audio frequencies and vice versa; used in freeze-
frame video to transmit video signals over telephone lines.
SC/H Phased or Timed
The phase or time relationship of the subcarrier to (the leading edge of) horizontal sync.
Scrambling
Code conversion of digitally coded signal values performed, in general, without any increase in bit
rate by introducing a controlled disorganization of the signal values in order to improve the power
uniformity of the signal (see encryption).
Scrape
An apparently continuous sound composed of a rapid series of clicks.
Screen Density
The maximum number of accessible screen elements in a video display.
Search engine
A software program on the Internet that allows a user to look for something by keyword or topic.
Shareware
Computer software that is made available by the authors through computer bulletin boards (BBSs)
or over the Internet on a "free to try" basis. In other words, you can download the program with no
charge, but then after a certain trial period like 30 days you will be asked to register the program
by sending in a set fee.
Snail mail
Sending mail the old fashioned way, using the post office.
Software
Programs which run on a computer. The monitor, keyboard and the computer box (CPU) itself are
called hardware. They're useless without the software to run the machinery.
Station
One of the input or output points of a communications system.
Station-to-station call
A telephone call completed without the help of an operator (see person to person call).
Storage, memory
A device which can retain information.
Switchboard
Equipment used to manually connect telephone lines and [Link] Audio Program (SAP)
An additional monaural channel provided in the BTSC television stereo sound system (see
Broadcast Television System Committee).
Sequentiel Couleur avec Memoire (SECAM)
The television broadcast standard used in France.
Serial Copy Management System (SCMS)
A means of placing copyright assertion on compact discs (CD). A CD with copyright assertion
allows only one generation of digital copy.
Serial-To-Parallel Converter
Circuit or device in which a sequence of code elements is converted into a corresponding group of
code elements, all of which are presented simultaneously.
Serial Transmission
Method of transmission of a digitally coded signal where only one single transmission path is used
for the time-sequential transmission of the code elements representing the code words of a digital
signal.
The transmission of one bit at a time over a single line.
Service Access Point Identifier (SAPI)
The SAPI identifies a logical point at which data link layer services are provided by a data link
layer entity to a layer 3 entity.
Session Layer
In the OSI Model, the network-processing layer responsible for binding and unbinding logical
links between end-users and maintaining an orderly dialogue between them.
Set-Up
The separation between blanking level and reference black level.
In NTSC systems, video black is typically 7.5 IRE above the blanking level and is referred to as
the black set-up level, or simply as setup.
The specified base of the active picture signal which is at reference black level, called "setup"
because it is placed 7.5 IRE units above blanking (zero IRE).
Severely Errored Second (SES)
A second with 320 or more ESF error events. SESs are also processed to derive an unavailable
signal states.
Shared Visual Space
Refers to a system's capacity to allow participants to interact with a common graphics display area
(e.g., any person can change a display element, and that change is seen by all participants at all
locations).
Signaling System 7
The ISDN standard for common channel signaling for network control. Signaling system 7
operates over a separate set of channels to route user voice or data calls through the network.
Signaling system 7 can route calls between all the central office switches in a network and is used
to link (or interwork) ISDNs.
Signal-To-Noise Ratio (SNR)
The ratio of the signal power to the noise power, expressed in dB; usually a baseband signal
measurement. Higher values indicate less background noise.
Significance
Value represented by a definite code element within a code word.
Simplex
One-way data transmission, with no capability for changing direction.
Simulcast
To broadcast simultaneously on two different channels (paths).
Simultaneous Peripheral Operations On Line (SPOOL)
A spooler acts as a storage buffer for data which is then fed out to a printer or other device, while
the computer performs other tasks.
Sine-Squared Pulse
A test signal used principally to evaluate short-time waveform distortions.
Sing
A high-pitched spurious audible tone or a high-frequency spurious audio signal.
Single In-Line Memory Module (SIMM)
A row of nine small memory modules with a single row of pins, similar to the standard IC chip.
Slope Overload
Distortion arising from the inability of a differential signal coding system to follow rapid large-
amplitude changes in the analog input signal.
Slow Scan Video
A device that transmits and/or receives still video pictures over a narrowband telecommunications
channel.
Refers specifically to a still frame video unit that accepts an image from a camera remain
stationary for a number of seconds (see freeze-frame video).
Small Computer System Interface (SCSI)
A fast parallel hard disk interface system adopted by ANSI. The system allows multiple drives to
be connected, and supports a transfer rate of 1.2 mbps.
Smearing
Blurring of the vertical edges of images in a television picture.
Snow
Light gray or white and dark gray or black spots distributed throughout a television picture, used to
indicate that a picture has very high noise degradation.
Synchronous Optical Network (SONET)
Physical layer communication facilities, using fiber optics, on which broadband ISDN services are
based. OC-1 SONET provides 51 Mbps, OC-3 SONET provides a 155 Mbps data rate, OC-12
SONET provides a 622 Mbps data rate, and OC-48 SONET provides a 2.4 Gbps data rate.
Source
Video producing equipment such as cameras, tape recorders, graphics or character generators.
When copying a diskette, the origin, or diskette to be copied from.
Source Coding
Coding of the sample values of a picture signal, usually with the aim of reducing redundancy
and/or entropy of the signal.
Source Timing Modules
A synchronizing generator on a module that is used to adjust the timing of a specific piece of
source equipment, and is kept in time by a reference sync pulse generator.
Space
One of the two possible conditions of an information element (bit), an open line in a neutral
circuit.
Spatial Application
Emphasis is placed on attaining high spatial resolution, possibly at the expense of reduced
temporal positioning accuracy (or increased jerkiness). This application group is concerned with
the ability to read small characters and see fine detail in still video and/or motion video which
contains a very limited amount of motion.
Spike
An undesired short duration overshoot added to a unidirectional voltage change.
Spin Stabilization
Attitude control by spinning most or all of a communications satellite's exterior.
Splitter
A network that supplies signals to a number of outputs which are individually matched and
isolated from each other.
Staircase Video Waveform
A test signal consisting of a series of discrete steps of picture level resembling a staircase, usually
combined with blanking and synchronizing pulses.
Static Random Access Memory (SRAM)
Memory made up of transistors that remain in whatever state they are placed in, either on or off,
until changed or the power is removed.
Still Video
Video imagery that does not convey movement.
Stimulus Signaling
A signaling system under ISDN that uses central office intelligence to monitor call status.
Terminals send requests to the central office, and the central office takes the appropriate action
according to call status (see functional signaling).
Streaking
A picture condition in which objects appear extended horizontally beyond their normal boundaries.
The condition is more apparent at the vertical edges of objects when there is a sharp transition
from high to low luminance level or vice versa. Streaking is termed negative if the tonal
degradation is opposite that of the original figure (black following white) and positive if the tonal
degradation is the same as the original picture (white following white).
Subcarrier (SC)
A band of frequencies superimposed onto a main carrier frequency for transmitting video, audio
and/or data information.
A continuous sine wave, of extremely accurate frequency, used by source equipment to encode the
color information into the video signal, and has a frequency of 3.579545 MHz (usually referred to
as "3.58").
The modulation sidebands of the color subcarrier contain the R-Y and B-Y information.
Sub-Low Channels
Television channels between 5 MHz and 54 MHz.
Supplementary Features
Any features of ISDN-based telephone service beyond basic call set-up, such as selective call
forwarding.
Supplementary Service
A service that provides the network user with additional capabilities over elementary call control.
Synchronous
Data transmission where characters or bits are sent at a fixed rate, with the transmitting and
receiving devices synchronized. This synchronization eliminates the need for start and stop bits
basic to asynchronous transmission and significantly increases data throughput rates.
Synchronous Detection
A demodulation process in which the original signal is recovered by multiplying the modulated
signal with the output of a synchronous oscillator locked to the carrier.
Sync Level
The level of the tips of the synchronizing pulses referred to the blanking level.
Sync Pulse
Timing pulses added to a video signal to keep the entire video process synchronized in time.
Sync Pulse Generator (SPG)
Device that generates synchronizing pulses needed by source equipment.
System
A logical collection of computers, peripherals, software, service routines, accounting and control
procedures, terminals, and end-users organized to accomplish a set of specific functions.
Generally, systems may include networks, but only to the limited degree that these networks
connect users directly to system resources.
Systems Network Architecture (SNA)
IBM's popular layered communications protocol that controls information transmission through
data processing networks.
In IBM networks, the layered logical structure, formats, protocols, and procedures that govern
information transmission.
Server: See "Client/Server" above.
Spreadsheet/Worksheet: Applications, such as Lotus 1-2-3 or Excel, that allows you to enter data
into a matrix of columns and rows and manipulate it according to formulas of your choosing.
SLIP: Serial Line Interface Protocol. A protocol that lets your computer directly access the
Internet via a standard phone line and modem. The Point-to-Point Protocol PPP does the same, but
uses data compression and can compensate for noisy phone lines.
STM: Synchronous Transfer Mode. A transmission process by which information is transmitted
sequentially with respect to time.
Subscriber/Termination
A common eight wire bus to which all devices connect.
Synchronized
Referring to a communications transmission system where input and output signals are timed at
intervals that keep them operating in step with one another.
Synchronous
Occurring at the same time with regard to transmission systems, all locations are running off the
same clock source.
STATION: A telephone instrument consisting of a transmitter, receiver, and associated apparatus
so connected as to permit sending and/or receiving telephone messages.
SUBSCRIBER, CUSTOMER: Terms used interchangeably to mean any person, firm,
partnership, corporation, municipality, cooperative organization, or governmental agency supplied
with communication service by a telecommunications company.
SWITCHING CENTER: Location at which telephone traffic, either local or toll, is switched or
connected from one circuit or line to another. A local switching center may be comprised of
several central office units.
Switching System (or switch)
Communications equipment upon which each user has a unique address represented by his or her
phone number. In response to a telephone number, the switching system or switch, selects the
transmission path or circuit used to connect one user to another.
T
T-1
A term for a digital carrier facility used to transmit a DS1 formatted digital signal at 1.544 mbps.
1.5 mbps (H11 in ISDN).
T-2
A term for a digital carrier facility used to transmit a DS2 formatted digital carrier signal at 6.312
mbps.
T-3 Channel
45 mbps (H22 in ISDN).
T1 Line
Telecommunications line with bandwidth capacity of 1.54 Mbps.
T3 Line
Telecommunications line with bandwidth capacity of 45 Mbps.
Teleconference
The simultaneous visual and/or sound interconnection that allows individuals in two or more
locations to see and talk to one another in a long-distance conference arrangement.
10 BaseT
Shorthand notation for an IEEE/ISO CSMA/CD (Ethernet) LAN medium specification in which
the data rate is 10 Mbps, the transmission technique is baseband, and the maximum cable segment
length is 100 meters. 10 BASET-T is the CSMA/CD medium specification that specifies the use of
twisted-pair cable.
Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)
A set of communications protocols that grew out of a research project that was funded by the U.S.
Department of Defense. The TCP/IP networking scheme implements a peer-to- peer client-server
architecture. Any computing system in the network can run TCP/IP server software and can
provide services to any other computing system that runs complementary TCP/IP client software.
TAP
A coupling device that obtains CATV signals from the coaxial cable in the distribution feeder, and
connects it to the drop. Modern systems use directional couplers.
Tariff
The formal process whereby services and rates are established by and for communications
common carriers. Tariffs are submitted by carriers for government regulatory review, possible
amendment, and final approval.
T-Carrier
A time-division multiplexed transmission facility. It usually operates at an aggregate data rate of
1.544 mbps or higher. In its simplest form, a T-carrier system puts 24 digitized voice calls or
twenty-four 64 kbps data calls on two copper wire pairs.
TE1
ISDN designation for ISDN-compatible terminal equipment. TE1 connects to an ISDN by an S/T
interface.
TE2
ISDN designation for non-ISDN-compatible terminal equipment. Most current terminal
equipment, including analog telephones, digital data terminals, and large and small computers, are
not ISDN compatible and are, therefore, designated TE2. TE2 connects to an ISDN by an R
interface and appropriate terminal adapters.
Tearing
One or more horizontal lines in a television picture that are horizontally displaced in an irregular
manner.
A lateral displacement of the video lines due to sync instability. Visually it appears as though parts
of the images have been torn away.
Telco
Telephone company.
Telecommunications
The transmission or reception of signs, signals, images, sound or intelligence of any kind over
wires, by radio waves, or other technical system.

Telecommunications infrastructure
The underlying structure or framework of a telecommunications system such as cable, switching
equipment, amplifiers, etc. To use an analogy, the telecommunications traffic (voice, video, data)
is like cars and trucks. To go anywhere, these vehicles need an infrastructure, or the highway
system. In most First Nations in Northern Ontario, the telecommunications infrastructure is not in
great shape, so our "telecommunications traffic" can't travel very fast, or efficiently.

Telecommuting
Going to work electronically, rather than in person. Designers, consultants, writers, researchers,
and many other professions can now live anywhere -- not just in congested urban areas -- if they
have the right communications systems. Attracting telecommuters to the more humane lifestyles of
Northern Ontario is a real economic development opportunity.
Telegraphy
A communications system for sending signals using a telegraph key. Dots and dashes, or short and
long bursts, are used to produce letters in a language known as Morse code.

Telemarketing
Using the telephone as a marketing tool to reach customers.
Telephone
A device used mostly for voice communications. A telephone takes sound and converts it into
electrical waves, which can then be sent over communications channels.
Telephone, cellular
A cordless telephone. Messages are transferred from one point to another via radio waves. (See
cellular.)
Telesat Canada
Telesat offers broadcast and interactive voice, high and low speed data, and video conferencing
service to all of Ontario and most of Canada. Telesat offers a technology which seems to offer a lot
of promise for remote communities, known as Very Small Aperture Terminals or VSAT. Using
small 1-2 metre dishes built to withstand Canadian winters, VSAT systems are being installed in
Northern schools to hook classrooms up to the Internet. In southern communities, these small
dishes are common sights on the roofs of nationwide retailers, linking stores across the country
into one network.
Telnet
Software which allows you to get files from hundreds of data bases around the world, such as
libraries, universities and government agencies.
Terminal
A point where information can enter or leave a communications network. This means your
telephone is a terminal, not just your computer.
Toll carriers
Companies that provide long distance services. On June 12, 1992, the CRTC opened the door to
competition in long distance services.
Transmission system
What you need to move information from one location to another. This could be copper wire, fiber
optic lines, or radio waves.
Transponder
An electronic device on a satellite used to boost or amplify signals before sending them back to
earth.
Telecommunications
The use of wire, radio, optical, or other electromagnetic channels to transmit or receive signals for
audio, data, and/or video; communications over distances using electrical means.
Teleconferencing
Electronic communications between two or more groups, or three or more individuals, who are in
separate locations; includes communications via audio, data, and/or video systems.
Interactive communication between persons at one or more locations using electronic means.
Teleservice
An ISDN term for services that use both the capabilities of the network and the customer's
equipment. Teleservices provide the complete capability including termination equipment
functions for communications between users.
Teletext
A broadcasting service using several otherwise unused scanning lines (vertical blanking intervals)
between frames of television pictures to transmit information from a central database to receiving
television sets.
Television Receive Only (TVRO)
An earth station capable of receiving satellite television signals but not of transmitting them (see
downlink, earth station, uplink).
Earth station, usually located at the head-end, for collection of satellite transmitted program
material.
Telewriter
A general term that refers to an electronic device that produces free-hand information that can be
sent over a telecommunications channel, usually a telephone line.
Telnet
Tool used to connect directly to other computers.
Temporal Application
Emphasis is placed on temporal positioning accuracy (or reduced jerkiness), possibly at the
expense of reduced spatial resolution. This application group is concerned with the ability to
accurately distinguish such items as facial expressions and lip movements in face to face and/or
conference room settings.
Temporal Performance
A measure of the ability of a video transmission system to accurately reproduce moving scenes.
Terminal
A point in a network at which data can either enter or leave. A device, usually equipped with a
keyboard, often with a display, capable of sending and receiving data over a communications link.
An ISDN station set is also considered a terminal.
Terminal Adaptor (TA)
A device to interconnect present non-ISDN terminal equipment with the digital environment that
ISDN will use for voice, data, and image applications. (see R interface, S interface, T interface).
Terminal End Point Identifier (TEI)
The TEI is used to identify a specific connection endpoint within a service access point.
Terminal Equipment (TE)
TE1, TE2, etc.
Termination
In order to accurately send a signal through a transmission line, there must be an impedance at the
end which matches the impedance of the source and of the line itself. Amplitude errors and
reflections will otherwise result. Video is a 75 Ohm system, so a 75 Ohm terminator must be put at
the end of the signal path.
Thin
A qualifying adjective to describe the sound resulting from audio lacking low frequencies.
Thump
A low-frequency transient disturbance which is characterized audibly as a heavy, short, muffled,
undesired noise.
Tie Line
A leased or private dedicated telephone circuit provided by common carriers that links two points
together without using the public switched telephone network.
Tilt
The maximum variation of the amplitude of the window signal, line-bar signal, or other
rectangular waveform. Tilt is expressed as a percentage of the amplitude of the waveform at the
midpoint of its top.
Time Base Corrector
Device used to stabilize the timing of a tape machine so it will match other sources.
Time Slot
Time interval, uniquely defined, which occurs at regular, in general, periodic instants. In the case
of multiplex transmission, definitive time slots are allocated to each individual signal.
T Interface
An interface standard defined for the CCITT and used to connect switching and controlling
equipment (NT2), TE1s, or TAs to network channel termination equipment (NT1).
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD)
Measured as a percentage of the total output signal.
Transceiver
Digital transmitter/receiver.
A terminal that can both transmit and receive information.
Transform Coding
Method of coding a picture by diving each picture into sub-pictures, performing a linear
transformation on each sub-picture and then quantizing and coding the resulting coefficients.
Map statistically dependent pixels to independent coefficients.
Transient
Not permanent; of short duration.
A single or irregularly recurring spurious signal of such duration that detailed identification cannot
be made.
Transient Network
Any arrangement of network resources that requires interworking of two or more ISDNs to
connect two or more end-users. Example: Calls between two regions may require a transient
network composed of two regional ISDNs and an IEC ISDN.
Transmission
The dispatching of a signal, message, or other form of intelligence by wire, radio, telegraphy,
telephony, facsimile, or other means (ISO); a series of characters, messages or blocks, including
control information and user data; the signalling of data over communications channels.
Transmission Channel
The medium by which a signal is sent and received between separate locations.
Transmission Loss
The decrease in signal along a circuit due to resistance or impedance.
Transmission Service Channel
The one-way path between two designated points.
Transponder
The electronic circuits of a satellite which receive a signal from an earth station and amplify it and
transmit it back to other earth stations.
A microwave repeater employing active circuitry to provide amplification, frequency translation,
and transmission of an incoming signal. A satellite will contain one or more transponders which
normally have a fixed frequency difference between receiving and transmitting signals.
Transport Layer
In the OSI Model, the network processing entity responsible (in conjunction with the underlying
network, data link, and physical layers) for the end-to-end control of transmitted data and the
optimized use of network resources to ensure the end-to-end integrity of the signal path.
Transportation Trunk
A high quality multi-channel transmission system that links the head-end to the distribution
system(s) or to other (associated) head-ends.
Truncation
Removal of lower significant bits, possibly leading to errors.
Trunk Code
A digit or combination of digits characterizing the called numbering area within a country (or
group of countries, included in one integrated numbering plan). For North America, trunk codes
are 3-digit Numbering Plan Area (NPA) codes.
TCP/IP: Transfer Control Protocol/Internet Protocol. This is the communications protocol suite
used by the Internet (see Internet and Protocol above). A supporting document discusses TCP/IP in
detail, including a brief history.
Telnet: One of the executable programs usually included in a TCP/IP software package. This is an
Internet terminal emulation service for machines other than IBM mainframe-type machines.
Typically, this is the terminal emulation you use to access a remote system running the Unix
operating system. This terminal emulation uses the ASCII standard for encoding information. It
manages the details of logging in to a remote computer and interacts with it as if your keyboard
and monitor were directly attached to the remote computer. It emulates older-style non graphics
terminals but is still valuable because it uses so few network resources and allows you to work
effectively on distant machines. See the VT100 definition below. A separate document will also
tell you more about Telnet.
tn3270: A special Telnet program that emulates the special terminals used by IBM mainframe-
type computers. It emulates terminals in the IBM 3270 series that use the EBCDIC (Extended
Binary Coded Decimal Interchange Code) standard for encoding information.
Terminal Adapter
Electronic interface that makes non-ISDN devices look like ISDN.
Time-division multiplexing (TDM)
A method of combining and transmitting several digital signals over a single line.
Token Ring
A type of LAN with nodes connected in a ring. Each node constantly passes a "token" or control
message on to the next one. Only the node with the token can send a message.
Topology
Describes the physical layout and interaction of different facilities and services.
Transmission
The process of sending data from one place to be received at another.
TRUNK: A communication channel between central office units or entities, or private branch
exchanges. A high-capacity communications connection between two switching systems that
provides outgoing, incoming or both, service to telephone subscribers.
U
U Interface
An ISDN interface standard for connecting NT1 network channel termination equipment to the
network. The U interface is necessary in the United States because the NT1 network channel
termination equipment is considered customer premise equipment. The U interface ensures that
signals entering the network meet ISDN standards. The U interface provides for portability of
NT1s between different vendors' switches.
Universal resource locator (URL)The address you need to find a specific place on the Internet. If
someone gives you a URL starting with http:// then it's a World Wide Web (WWW) site and your
browser should be able to access it easily. For example, Wawatay's URL is
[Link]
Universal service
Traditionally defined as making affordable voice telephone service easily available. In the coming
years, it could be broadened to include other telecommunications services.
Upload
Sending a file from your computer "up" to another location, like over the Internet
Unavailable Signal State
Occurs when 10 consecutive severely ESs occur. Ends when 10 consecutive seconds of data are
processed and no severely ESs occur. For every second an unavailable signal state exists, a UAS
results.
Unbalanced Channel
Audio channel whose terminals are at different potentials with respect to ground.
Undershoot
An insufficient response to a unidirectional voltage change.
Uniform Quantizing
Quantizing in which all the quantizing intervals are equal.
Universal Service Order Code (USOC)
Accepted telecommunications industry code for identifying servicing arrangements provided by
telephone companies, and is used to identify the standard jack required for the equipment.
Unmodulated
When used to describe television test signals, this term refers to pulses and pedestals which do not
have high-frequency chrominance information added to them.
Uplink
An earth station that transmits a signal to a communications satellite.
Upstream
Direction of transmission from the subscriber(s) to the central distribution point.
Usenet News
A large collection of topic-specific discussion groups. Users read and post articles which are often
answered in a matter of hours.
UNBUNDLED NETWORK ELEMENTS (UNE): Physical and functional elements of the
network, e.g., NIDs (Network Interface Devices), local loops, switch ports, and dedicated common
transport facilities. UNE is a term used in negotiations between an ALEC and the LEC to describe
the various network components that will be used or leased by the ALEC from the LEC.
Unix: An interactive operating system developed at Bell Labs. This is the first operating system
that was developed as a portable system. This allows Unix to be used as an operating system on
almost any kind of computer. For example, we have Unix operating systems for PCs, Macintoshes,
Suns, and even IBM mainframes. TCP/IP was built into Unix even in its early days; the Internet
was originally intended to connect different Unix systems into a network. This link points to an
introduction and discussion of Unix.
URL: Uniform Resource Locator. A universal way of addressing sites and services around the
Internet, e.g., [Link]
Usenet: A worldwide Unix-based network that supports the distribution of messages. Like
BITNET, Usenet is a "store-and-forward" protocol and has been largely supplanted by the Internet
with its real-time capability.
V
Vacant Line
A horizontal line in the vertical blanking interval on which no information is present.
Vaporware
Products that are announced with much fanfare, but not yet market-ready.
Variable Word-Length Encoding
Techniques for reducing the bit rate that exploits the statistical properties of the quantized
prediction error signal or quantized transform coefficients. This is achieved by assigning a lower
number of bits for signal levels with a low frequency of reoccurrence.
Vector Quantization (VQ)
Mapping k dimension real vector to the nearest code book entry.
Vectorscope
A specialized oscilloscope which demodulates the video signal and presents a display of R-Y
versus B-Y. The angle and magnitude of the displayed vectors are respectively related to hue and
saturation.
Vertical Blanking Interval (Field Blanking Interval)
The interval of time which is provided at the end of the field picture signals primarily to allow for
the vertical sweep circuits in receivers to return the electron beam completely to the top of the
raster before the picture information of the next field begins. During this period equalizing and
vertical synchronizing pulses are transmitted.
Vertical Interval
The synchronizing information which appears between fields and signals the picture monitor to go
back to the top of the screen to begin another vertical scan.
Vertical Interval Test Signal (VITS)
Test signals inserted on one or more of the vacant lines in the vertical blanking intervals.
Video conferencing
Linking up with one or more people in different locations so that you can see each other, as well as
talk. To participate in a video conference, you normally have to go to special rooms with the
proper cameras, monitors and connections. It's also possible to use personal computers and special
software to set up video conferences right at your desk, if you have high speed telecommunication
lines.
Video-on-demand
A technology that allows people to order up video material stored in a remote database when ever
anyone wants it (i.e., on demand). In pay-per-view systems, the video material is shown on a
schedule set by the supplier, not the user. In video-on-demand systems, it's like getting a movie
from the video store. You're in charge. You can handle the "video on demand" just like a tape in
your VCR by stopping it, rewinding it, playing portions over again, and so on. Hundreds of users
can be doing this at the same time with the same video material on the central data base. The
CRTC granted the first video on demand licenses in Canada on July 2, 1997.
Virus
A mathematical formula designed by hackers to enter your computer via contact through disk
sharing, file transfers, bulletin boards, the Internet and other various other opportunities. A virus
will make your computer sick by changing files, hiding messages or even erasing all the files on
your computer.
Virtual
A computer-generated environment. For example, a teacher might reach out to students in several
different locations using a "virtual classroom" created by a computer network.
Visual display unit (VDU), display unit
A television screen or computer monitor which produces a data in such a way that you can see it.
Video
The visually displayed images of video teleconferencing/video telephony. of or pertaining to the
visually displayed images of video teleconferencing/video telephony.
Video Graphics Array (VGA)
An analog board for interfacing and driving an analog-type monitor.
Videoconferencing (Video Teleconferencing)
A full-color, full-motion video program transmitted live to a satellite; satellite retransmission to
sites on earth via broad beam; sites anywhere in the world receiving the signal and distributing the
program live to local audiences.
Electronic voice and video communication between two or more locations. It can be fully
interactive voice and video or two-way voice and one-way video. It includes full motion video,
compressed video and freeze-frame video.
The transmission of video signals capable of portraying motion and the accompanying audio
signals between two or more locations using digital transmission facilities.
Videodisc
A hard disc that stores information in microscopic "pits" indented into the surface; provides a
high-capacity storage medium of over 50,000 frames of information; used to store and retrieve
video, audio, and other information.
Video Emphasis
In FM transmission systems, in the baseband signal path is employed as a filter whose function is
to change the level to frequency characteristics of the baseband signal. The assumption in this type
of transmission system is that the effects of high frequency noise which is characteristic of the
transmission system can be reduced by increasing the transmitted baseband high frequencies and
complementary attenuation of the received baseband high frequencies.
Video Frame
A single frame of video.
Video Gain
Expressed on the waveform monitor by the voltage level of the whitest whites in the active picture
signal. Defined as the range of light-to-dark values of the image which are proportional to the
voltage difference between the black and white voltage levels of the video signal, and is related to
the contrast of the video image.
Video Imagery
A contiguous sequence of video frames.
Video Switcher
Device that allows transitions between different video pictures; may also contain special effects
generators.
VideoTelecom (VTEL)
Sends audio/video images, point to point (or multi-point), over a phone line (of fiber optic cable)
to a similar receiving machine. Live or taped video, computer generated images and printed
material may be sent both ways. The camera may be controlled for both ends from either end.
Participants can see and interact with one another.
Videotext
A device similar to teletext, except that information is delivered by telephone channels and a user
can interact with the database to select information for viewing (see teletext).
Virtual
Being such in essence or effect though not formally recognized or admitted (Webster).
Something that may be essentially present, but not in actual fact.
Virtual Circuit
In packet switching, network facilities that give the appearance to the user of an end-to-end
physical circuit without requiring a physical circuit to be held open for the duration of the
connection. A virtual circuit is a variable network connection where sequential user data packets
may be routed differently during the course of a "virtual connection," which allows sharing of
transmission facilities by many virtual circuits simultaneously.
A connection established between a channel from the calling DTE and a channel to the called DTE
before any data packets may be sent. May be a Switched Virtual Circuit (SVG) or a Permanent
Virtual Circuit (PVC).
Virtual Memory
A unique type of memory that can be larger than physical memory.
Virtual Space
Refers to a type of videoconference in which each participant is assigned a separate camera and is
seen on a separate monitor, large screen, or assigned spacial area.
Virus
Destructive code that is embedded in a computer program. The virus is usually self-replicating and
will often copy itself onto other programs.
Voice Actuated (Voice Activated)
The ability of a piece of equipment to become active in response to the sound of a person
speaking.
Voice-Grade Channel
A telecommunications circuit used primarily for speech transmission but suitable for the
transmission of analog or digital data or facsimile; typically supporting a frequency range of 300 to
3,400 Hz; also voice band.
Voice-Switching
An electrical technique for opening and closing a circuit in response to the presence or absence of
sound.
Volatile
Refers to memory units that lose stored information when power is lost.
Volume (VU)
A method of expressing the amplitude of a complex non-periodic signal such as speech.
V-Series
CCITT recommendations on Data Communications over the Telephone Network.
VU Meter
A volume indicator constructed and calibrated to indicate the volume in volume units (VU).
VT100: An ASCII terminal manufactured by Digital Equipment Company (DEC). This was a very
popular terminal in the 1960s and 1970s for use with Unix and other non-IBM systems. Since
almost every computer made could recognize and work with a VT100 terminal, all the terminal
emulation products designed to work with non-IBM computers offer a VT100 emulation. It has
become the de facto "lingua franca" of terminals.
W
WAIS
Wide Area Information Server. WAIS servers search for information spread around the Internet.
Users tell the WAIS servers which databases they wish to search, then specify one or more
keywords for the search. WAIS returns a list of articles matching the search criteria.
Wait State
Slower devices on the bus may not be able to respond at the same speed as the CPU, forcing the
CPU to "wait" for a response.
Waveform Monitor
A specialized oscilloscope for evaluating television signals.
Weighting Network
A network used in or with test equipment for the measurement of noise. The network attenuates
the various frequencies to simulate the subjective effect of noise.
Wideband
A communications channel offering a transmission bandwidth greater than a voice-grade channel.
Data transmission speeds on wideband facilities are typically in excess of 9.6 kbps and often at
rates such as 56 kbps and 1.544 mbps.
Wipe
A transition between two video signals that occurs in the shape of a selected pattern.
Wide area network (WAN)
A network which links computer systems together over a wide area, such as between different
towns or provinces. Similar in purpose to LANs (local area networks) which allow files to be
shared and data transferred over shorter distances. For example, the Nishnawbe-Aski Police
Service, with detachments all over the North, wants to establish a large WAN to link all its
detachment offices with headquarters. A LAN is usually linked together with fixed cables or wires,
while a WAN has to rely on links provided by the publicly switched telephone system.
Wired telephone service
Basic telephone service using wires. This wireline is often called the "local loop" or "twisted pair."
Wireless communication
Sending signals without a physical connection using technologies such as cordless telephones,
cellular telephones or microwaves.
World Wide Web (WWW)
Speaking technically, WWW refers to a system of hypertext standards for delivering and cross-
referencing documents from all across the Internet. The same term is also used to refer to the
popular, graphic-based part of the Internet. When WWW became widely available in the early
1990s,there was an explosion of Internet use. It's a graphical user interface system (GUI) allowing
for easy point-and-click navigation of the Internet. Before WWW, users had to use complex text
commands or less user-friendly software to move around on the Internet.
Internet tool that is capable of displaying both text and graphics in full color on the same page.
Before the web, users navigated the Internet using command-line interfaces and exchanged only
textual information. The WWW provides graphics, sound, video, an easy-to-use interface, and the
ability to follow hypertext links to other places on the Internet.
Wow & Flutter
Indicates how accurate a tape deck's playback speed is. Wow is slow, undesired fluctuations in the
pitch of reproduced sound, usually under 5 Hz. Flutter is caused by high frequency speed changes.
Wide-Area Network (WAN)
A network of computers spread out over a large geographical area (compare with local area
network). Florida, Kentucky, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Virginia have developed, or are
developing, statewide computer networks dedicated to education use.
World Wide Web (WWW)
An Internet service that lets users retrieve hypertext and graphics from various sites. Often just
called "the Web," it has become one of the most popular Internet services over the past two years.
WAN
Data communications network that serves users across a broad geographic area.
Windows: Microsoft's GUI (Graphical User Interface) that surrounds the DOS operating system.
Like other GUI interfaces, such as IBM's OS/2, Unix's XWindows, and the Macintosh' System
Seven, Windows allows mouse-selectable icons and menus and data-sharing between applications.
Winsock: This is short for "Windows Sockets API (Application Programming Interface)." If you
use a version of Microsoft Windows older than the "Windows 95" release, you must have a
Winsock program on your hard drive. This program creates a protected "socket" of memory in
your computer, from which it manages transactions between Windows applications and the
Internet. A locally written supporting document discusses Winsock in some depth. Much more
detailed information in the FAQ format can be found at the following remote site,
[Link]
Word Processor: A computer program to manipulate text. A word processor can create, edit, and
format electronic documents easily.
World Wide Web (WWW): This is a hypertext system that allows any document to refer to other
documents anywhere on the Internet where there is a World Wide Web server. To use the World
Wide Web, you need a WWW Browser (e.g., Netscape or Internet Explorer). This application
knows WWW protocol and the name of at least one WWW document. When you start the
application, it accesses that document. That document, in its turn, provides links to other
documents that are available on the Internet. Most browsers provide multimedia capabilities and
can display formatted text, images, and sounds.

X
X.25
A CCITT recommendation that specifies the interface between user data terminal equipment
(DTE) and packet-switching data communications equipment (DCE), which provides a user access
to an X.25 standard packet-switched network.
X.75
A packet-switching protocol that supports the interworking of multiple X.25 public packet-
switched networks. An enhanced version of the X.25 protocol allowing the packet handler in a
stored program control switch to communicate with a public packet-switched network.
X-Series
CCITT recommendations on Data Communications Networks.

Y
Yellow Alarm Signal
A remotely detected failure. Transmitted as a specific bit pattern contained in the data stream when
using D4 framing, or in the data link when using ESF framing. In response to receiving a Yellow
alarm from one side, the DSU transmits a Yellow alarm to the other side in the proper format (D4
or ESF).

Z
Zero Carrier Reference
A 120 IRE pulse in the vertical interval which is provided by the demodulator to supply a
reference for evaluating depth of modulation.