Messages Words and symbols appearing on the display panel which tell you the kind of
information required, the result of a process or if an error has occurred.
Modem Short for modulator/demodulator; a device that converts digital data to analog
signals (for transmission over telephone wires) and analog signals back to
digital data.
Network An interconnected group of systems, terminals or data facilities that route
numerous transactions and data to the proper terminals and host computers.
Nonvolatile Memory Memory that retains its contents when power is turned off or lost.
Packet A group of bits transmitted as a complete package on a packet-switched
network. Often called a message.
Parameters Information stored in memory that sets up the device for use with
transactions and other operations.
Password A confidential code used to gain access to terminal memory or a host
computer.
PC IBM PC or compatible personal computer used to download applications and
data to the terminal. A PC can also be used as a local or remote host
computer.
Peripheral An attached device (e.g. a printer or PIN Pad), not the central processing
device or computer; typically used for I/O.
PIN Personal Identification Number. A 4- to 16-digit confidential code or electronic
signature used by card holders to identify themselves as the proper users of
a credit or debit card to the host computer.
PINpad Device A Personal Identification Number input device used for entering a private
identification code to validate a transaction.
Port An interface device capable of attaching to a peripheral, computer, network
or other electronic device.
POS Terminal A terminal used at the Point-Of-Sale (POS) that can process transactions
and communicate transaction information with a larger remote computer
directly or through a network.
Glossary
TRANZ 460 Terminal Glossary - 5