Glossary

Bit rate

The speed at which bits are transmitted, usually expressed as bits per second (BPS).

Block

Group of characters treated as a unit for the purpose of data transmission.

BPS

An acronym for Bits Per Second. Transmission rate of binary numbers. Compare with Baud.

Break

A special, non-data signal used by computer equipment to interrupt some processes.

Buffer

Temporary storage area used to compensate for a difference in the rate of data flow into and out of a device.

Bulletin Board

A generic term covering a wide variety of on line information services. Many bulletin boards are open to the public, run at no cost to users and provide the ability to download public domain software and exchange electronic mail.

Byte

A grouping of bits to specify a single character usually consisting of eight consecutive bits. See also Bit.

C

Carrier signal

An analog signal of known specifications, such as level and frequency, which is modulated by another signal containing information to be transmitted. This is the high-pitched sound you can hear when you first connect to a remote system.

Carrier Detect

An RS-232 interface signal from the modem to a terminal or personal computer indicating that the modem is receiving a signal from a remote modem. See also DCD.

Channel

An electronic communications path. A voice grade channel generally ranges from 300 to 4000 Hz.

Character

A letter, number or other symbol contained in a message or used in a control function. See Byte.

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