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ADC Definition

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ADC Definition

ADC Definition

Stands for “Analog-to-Digital Converter.” Since computers only process digital information, they require digital input. Therefore, if an analog input is sent to a computer, an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) is required. This device can take an analog signal, such as an electrical current, and digitize it into a binary format that the computer can understand.

A common use for an ADC is to convert analog video to a digital format. For example, video recorded on 8mm film or a VHS tape is stored in an analog format. In order to transfer the video to a computer, the video must be converted to a digital format. This can be done using an ADC video conversion box, which typically has composite video inputs and a Firewire output. Some digital camcorders that have analog inputs can also be used to convert video from analog to digital.

ADCs may also be used to convert analog audio streams. For example, if you want to record sounds from a microphone, the audio must be converted from the microphone’s analog signal into a digital signal that the computer can understand. This is why all sound cards that have an analog audio input also require an ADC that converts the incoming audio signal to a digital format. The accuracy of the audio conversion depends on the sampling rate used in the conversion process. Higher sampling rates provide a better estimation of the analog signal, and therefore produce a higher-quality sound.

While ADCs convert analog inputs into a digital format that computers can recognize, sometimes a computer must output an analog signal. For this type of conversion, a digital-to-analog converter (DAC) is used.

NOTE: ADC can also stand for “Apple Display Connector,” which was a proprietary video connector developed by Apple. It combined DVI, USB, and AC power into a single cable. Apple stopped producing computers with ADC ports in 2004 in favor of the standard DVI connection.

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I/O Definition

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I/O Definition

I/O Definition
I/O Definition

Stands for “Input/Output” and is pronounced simply “eye-oh.” Computers are based on the fundamental idea that every input results in an output. For example, if you are running a word processor program and type a sentence on your keyboard, the text will appear on the screen. The keyboard is an input device and the screen is an output device. You might also print the text using a printer, which is another output device. The computer’s CPU handles all the I/O operations, sending the data it receives to the correct path. The path may be to the video card, to the hard drive, or to the RAM, just to name a few.

The ports on the outside of a computer are commonly referred to as “I/O ports” because they are what connect input and output devices to the computer. Software developers use I/O to describe how a program will function, depending on what a user enters. For example, if the user presses the space bar key in a game, say “Super Jumper Man,” the character on the screen will jump. Multiply that by several thousand other scenarios of user input and you have yourself a computer game.

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RFID Definition

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RFID Definition

rfid-definition

Stands for “Radio-Frequency Identification.” RFID is a system used to track objects, people, or animals using tags that respond to radio waves. RFID tags are integrated circuits that include a small antenna. The are typically small enough that they are not easily noticeable and therefore can be placed on many types of objects.

Like UPC labels, RFID tags are often used to uniquely identify the object they are attached to. However, unlike UPCs, RFID tags don’t need to be scanned directly with a laser scanner. Instead, they can be recorded by simply placing the tag within the range of an RFID radio transmitter. This makes it possible to quickly scan several items or to locate a specific product surrounded by many other items.

RFID tags have many different uses. Some examples include:

  • Merchandise tags – These tags are attached to clothing, electronics, and other products to prevent theft from retail stores. These tags are typically deactivated at the place of checkout. Tags that have not been deactivated will sound the alarm system near the store’s exit.
  • Inventory management – Products stored in warehouses may be given RFID tags so they can be located more easily.
  • Airplane luggage – RFID tags may be placed on checked bags so they can be easily tracked and located.
  • Toll booth passes – E-ZPass and I-Pass receivers may be placed in automobiles, allowing cars and trucks to pass through toll booths without needing to stop. This enables drivers to make toll payments automatically.
  • Credit cards – Some credit cards have built-in RFIDs so they can be “waved” rather than “swiped” near compatible readers. The SpeedPass wand is an example of an RFID-only payment device.
  • Animal tags – RFID tags can be placed pet collars to make help identify pets if they are lost. Tags may also be placed on birds and other animals to help track them for research purposes.

The above list includes just a few of the applications of radio-frequency identification. There are many other existing and potential applications for RFID tags as well.

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Network Definition

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Network Definition

Network Definition

Network Definition: A network consists of multiple devices that communicate with one another. It can be as small as two computers or as large as billions of devices. While a traditional network is comprised of desktop computers, modern networks may include laptops, tablets, smartphones, televisions, gaming consoles, smart appliances, and other electronics.

Many types of networks exist, but they fall under two primary categories: LANs and WANs.

LAN (Local Area Network)

A local area network is limited to a specific area, such as a home, office, or campus. A home network may have a single router that offers both wired and wireless connections. For example, a computer may connect to the router via Ethernet, while smartphones and tablets connect to the router via Wi-Fi. All devices connected to the router share the same network and often the same Internet connection.

A larger network, such as the network of an educational institution, may be comprised of many switches, hubs, and Ethernet cables. It may also include multiple wireless access points and wireless repeaters that provide wireless access to the network. While this type of network is much more complex than a home network, it is still considered a LAN since it is limited to a specific location.

WAN (Wide Area Network)

A wide area network is not limited to a single area, but spans multiple locations. WANs are often comprised of multiple LANs that are connected over the Internet. A company WAN, for example, may extend from the headquarters to other offices around the world. Access to WANs may be limited using authentication, firewalls, and other security measures. The Internet itself is the largest WAN since it encompasses all locations connected to the Internet.