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Character Set
The characters that can be coded or used by a particular machine.
Clear to Send (CTS)
An RS-232 control signal sent by the DCE to indicate that the DTE may begin a transmission.
Clock
Source of timing signals used in synchronous transmission.
Code
A predefined set of rules specifying the way data is to be represented by the transmitting and
receiving device.
Common Carrier
Telephone company that furnishes communications services to the general public.
Conditioning
The addition of equipment to a leased voice-grade line to improve the transmission
characteristics of the line.
Conferencing
A form of bulletin board that allows real-time communication between multiple users. In the
U.S.A., conferencing systems have been established to allow large numbers of individuals to
simultaneously discuss a wide range of specialised topics and interests.
Connector
A physical devices, such as a plug, socket or jack, used to connect one hardware component of a
system to another. A connector may also be called a port.
Connect Time
The amount of time spent on line with an information service.
Console
Part of a computer system, usually a video display terminal, used by the operator to
communicate with the computer.
Contention
Condition arising when two or more devices try to transmit at the same time using the same
channel.