Jargon Buster
32bit/64bit
A measure of how much data a PC can process at once. Most older computers are 32bit, more modern ones are 64bit.
3G/4G/5G
Technologies that deliver faster mobile broadband.
404 error
Also called a ‘Not Found’ error, it means a web server can’t show the web page you requested – often because the URL is wrong.
4K
Video with a resolution of at least 3840x2160 pixels.
AAC
Advanced Audio Coding. A type of music file.
Augmented reality
Lets you view the real world on a screen and add virtual elements.
Bandwidth
A measure of how much data can be transferred through a connection at one time.
Benchmarking
Comparing software and products with an accepted standard.
Beta
A version of software that’s being tested. Beta versions are often released so problems can be ironed out.
BIOS
Basic Input-Output System. Software built into every PC that connects the vital components.
Bitrate
A measure of data transfer speed, or of the quality of digital video or audio files.
Bloatware
Unwanted software built into a new device.
Bot
Automated software designed to perform specific tasks.
Cache
A temporary space for storing information.
cd/m2
Candela per square metre. Standard unit of brightness.
Core
Units on a processor that carry out program instructions.