Computer terminology is a specialized and unique language. To the first-time or uninitiated computer owner, this “jargon” can be misleading or confusing.
Each issue, we’ll list some of the more common (and not so common) computer terms. These highly simplified definitions will help you better understand your computer and its “lingo”. Spend a few minutes to learn these terms, and you’ll soon be talking like a computer professional.
Backup (tape or disc) — Copy of a program on a tape cassette or disc. The program is copied from the master onto a spare cassette or disc to prevent the loss of the program in case the master is somehow damaged or destroyed.
Chip — One or more chips usually comprise a major part of the CPU. A chip is a manufactured silicone wafer, upon which certain operating functions (i.e., operating system program) have been etched.
Data Entry Field — An area on the screen into which data is entered either by the user’s use of the keyboard or automatically by the computer. The data is displayed in the field as it is entered. This allows the user to verify that the data has been entered correctly.
Enter — In the TIMEX Sinclair Personal Computer, ENTER is a keyboard command which tells the computer that you’ve finished a certain operation (i.e., input data at the keyboard). (It is analagous to an ACCEPT command.)
Execute — the computer’s action of carrying out a particular instruction (e.g., running a program).
Hard Copy — Data, in the computer, which is reproduced onto paper by the printer.
Inverse — A character (can be a series of characters consisting of letter(s), number(s), or special character(s) ) which is displayed on the screen or printed on hard copy as a white figure in a black background.
Main Frame — Used to describe the physically large, very powerful, very expensive computer systems.
Main Menu — The place from which all operations of a particular software application are begun. This Main Menu is a screen display which lists a number of options. The user selects an option by pressing the numbered keyboard key which corresponds to the number of the option.
Master (tape or disc) — Original program recorded onto a storage media such as a tape cassette or disc.
Operating System — Software in ROM (read only) memory, that permits the computer to perform its various functions and operations. Since it is contained in the ROM memory, it can neither be amended or altered by the operator.
Syntax — Rules that apply to the manner in which a program statement should be written. The TIMEX Sinclair Personal Computer will display a syntax cursor(s) if the format of the statement is incorrect.