Double Click Definition Double clicking involves clicking your mouse button quickly two times. To perform a double click, and not just two clicks, the mouse button must be pressed twice within a very short time, typically about half a second. Most operating systems allow you to lengthen or shorten the maximum time allowed for a double click, using the Mouse Control Panel or System Preference. A double click is recognized by your computer as a specific command, just like pressing a key on your k...

Cache Definition Cache, which is pronounced "cash" (not "catch" or "cashay"), stores recently used information so that it can be quickly accessed at a later time. Computers incorporate several different types of caching in order to run more efficiently, thereby improving performance. Common types of caches include browser cache, disk cache, memory cache, and processor cache. Browser cache - Most web browsers cache webpage data by default. For example, when you visit a webpage, the browser may...

Binary Definition Binary (or base-2) a numeric system that only uses two digits — 0 and 1. Computers operate in binary, meaning they store data and perform calculations using only zeros and ones. A single binary digit can only represent True (1) or False (0) in boolean logic. However, multiple binary digits can be used to represent large numbers and perform complex functions. In fact, any integer can be represented in binary. Below is a list of several decimal (or "base-10") numbers represente...

Boot Sequence Definition Each time a computer boots up, it goes through an initial series of processes. This sequence of events is aptly named a "boot sequence." During the boot sequence, the computer activates the necessary hardware components and loads the appropriate software so that a user can interact with the machine. The boot sequence starts by accessing the the computer's BIOS on Windows PCs or the system ROM on a Macintosh. The BIOS and ROM contain basic instructions that tell the comp...

Peopleware Definition Computers operate using a combination of hardware and software. However, without user interaction, most computers would be useless machines. Therefore, "peopleware" is sometimes considered a third aspect that takes into account the importance of humans in the computing process. Peopleware is less tangible than hardware or software, since it can refer to many different things. Examples of peopleware include individual people, groups of people, project teams, businesses, dev...

Ergonomics Definition Ergonomics is the study of how humans interact with manmade objects. The goal of ergonomics is to create an environment that is well-suited to a user's physical needs. While ergonomics is relevant in many areas, it is commonly applied to the workplace environment. For example, ergonomics is often used to create comfortable workstations for employees. This may involve choosing customized desks and chairs that fit each individual's body type. It may also include providing em...

QWERTY Definition QWERTY (pronounced "quirty") is an adjective used to describe standard Western (or Latin-based) keyboards. If you look at your keyboard, and the first six letters under the numbers are Q-W-E-R-T-Y, then you have a QWERTY keyboard. Nearly all keyboards used in the western hemisphere have a QWERTY layout. Some countries use slightly modified versions, such as the Swedish keyboard, which includes the letters Å, Ä, and Ö and the Spanish keyboard, which contains the letters Ñ and Ç...

ANSI Definition Stands for "American National Standards Institute." ANSI is a U.S.-based non-profit organization that works to develop and promote standards in the United States and around the world. By standardizing new products and technologies, ANSI both strengthens the United States' position in the global marketplace and helps ensure product integrity and safety. ANSI was originally called the "American Engineering Standards Committee" (AESC), which was formed in 1918. The AESC worked with...

CAD Definition Stands for "Computer-Aided Design." CAD is the use of computers to create 2D and 3D designs. Common types of CAD include two-dimensional layout design and three-dimensional modeling. 2D CAD has many applications, but it is commonly used to design vector-based layouts. For example, architects may use CAD software to create overhead views of building floor plans and outdoor landscapes. These layouts, which contain vector graphics, can be scaled to different sizes, which may be u...

Standalone Definition A standalone device is able to function independently of other hardware. This means it is not integrated into another device. For example, a TiVo box that can record television programs is a standalone device, while a DVR that is integrated into a digital cable box is not standalone. Integrated devices are typically less expensive than multiple standalone products that perform the same functions. However, using standalone hardware typically allows the user greater customiza...