Glossary

Letter: All

2.5mm headphone jack

A headset jack mainly found on cellular phones and other small devices. The jack supports combination microphone/earplug or microphone/headset devices. Also called subminiature or 3/32 inch jack.

3.5mm headphone jack

A headset jack found on many devices including portable audio players, tape recorders, computers, and some PDAs. This jack is generally used only for headphones or microphones, but not both at once, and, though present on some PDAs, is not generally present on mobile phones. Also called miniature or 1/8 inch headphone jacks.

3G

The third generation of mobile phone technologies. Devices supporting one of the many 3G technologies, such as WCDMA, HSDPA/HSUPA, or Foma, generally offer download/upload speeds comparable to some wired broadband connections.

3rd-party (application or developer)

A software or hardware developer other than Code Factory or the phone manufacturer. Also refers to hardware and software manufactured by such a developer.

6-dot computer Braille

A system of using six dots in computer Braille to represent ASCII characters. Each Braille cell has two columns of three dots each, numbered 1, 2, 3 down the left column, and 4, 5, 6 down the right column. Since there can only be 64 permutations of six dots (including the blank cell), not all characters are represented uniquely. For example, there is no way to distinguish lowercase and uppercase letters in this system. Click here for a full list of symbols and dot patterns in 6-dot computer Braille.

802.11a

A standard for rapid wireless transmission of data through radio frequencies at a theoretical rate of 54 megabits per second. Operating at the 5.8 gigahertz range of the frequency spectrum, 802.11a is not often available on portable devices and not often used in publicly accessible wireless installations but is used to some extent in corporate installations. Hardware which uses 802.11a is not necessarily compatible with any other wireless standard.

802.11b

A standard for wireless transmission of data through radio frequencies at a theoretical rate of 11 megabits per second. Operating at the 2.4 gigahertz range of the frequency spectrum, 802.11 b is sometimes referred to as Wi-Fi, and is often available on portable devices and generally used in publicly accessible wireless installations. Hardware which uses 802.11b is always compatible with 802.11g networks.

802.11e

A wireless standard enhancing the quality of video and audio transmitted or received over a wireless network. Click here for more information about 802.11e.

802.11g

A standard for rapid wireless transmission of data through radio frequencies at a theoretical rate of 54 megabits per second. Operating at the 2.4 gigahertz range of the frequency spectrum, 802.11g is sometimes referred to as Wi-Fi, and is often available on portable devices and generally used in publicly accessible wireless installations. Hardware which uses 802.11g is always compatible with 802.11b networks.

802.11i

A wireless standard for enhanced security through improved encryption on wireless networks, usually used by corporate wireless networks. Other features of 802.11i are key caching, which facilitates fast reconnection to the server for users who have temporarily gone offline, and pre-authentication, which allows fast roaming and is ideal for use with advanced applications like Voice over Internet Protocol. This specification is sometimes called WPA2. Click here for more information about 802.11i.

8-dot computer Braille

A system of using eight dots in computer Braille to represent ASCII characters. Each Braille cell has two columns of four dots each, numbered 1, 2, 3, 7 down the left column, and 4, 5, 6, 8 down the right. Since there are 256 permutations (including the blank cell), more characters are represented in this system than in six-dot computer Braille. For example, in the North American Computer Braille Code (NABCC), dot 7 is added to the dot patterns used for lowercase letters in order to write their uppercase equivalents.

A2DP (Advanced Audio Bluetooth Profile)

A Bluetooth profile which allows high-quality audio to be streamed, over Bluetooth, from one device to another. Generally used in cellular phones or on other PDAs and in Bluetooth headsets or headset/microphone combinations. To obtain the benefits of high quality audio through this profile, both the sending and receiving devices must support the profile. Also sometimes called Bluetooth Stereo, High-Quality Bluetooth Audio, or High Quality Audio.

Access key (menus)

A key pressed, when one has entered a menu, to select an option within that menu without having to navigate to, and select, the option using the arrow keys and enter or other navigation and selection keys.

Access key (web page)

A key, or combination of keys, pressed from anywhere on the Code Factory site, which immediately brings the user to a link on the current page pointing to a specified part of that page or the website. Note, however, that access keys only places focus on the link which needs to be activated by pressing enter. For example, the access key for the “Contact us” link is Alt+c. This key places focus on a link which, when activated, opens the page showing the different ways of contacting Code Factory.

Activation (Code Factory product)

A software token, downloaded to a device, which allows a licensed Code Factory product to run on that device. Activations may be obtained for a particular device, or moved among devices, through the internet or by SMS. Click here for more information on activations.

ActiveSync

The software used to synchronize a Windows Mobile device’s contacts, email, tasks, notes, and other information with a computer running Microsoft Windows XP or earlier. Click here for more information about ActiveSync.

Add-on

Software or hardware that can be used with Code Factory screen readers and screen magnifiers to expand the functionality of the mobile device.

Application (software)

Any software that performs a task on a device or computer.

ARM processor

A processor architecture initially developed by Advanced RISC Machines, Ltd, and used extensively today in consumer electronic devices such as mobile phones, multimedia players, pocket calculators and personal digital assistants. The Xscale and TI-Omap processors all conform to the ARM processor architecture, and the architecture comes in many different versions, most popularly Arm and ARM11. ARM9 chips generally function more slowly than the faster ARM11 chips.

Arrow key

A key on a device or computer keyboard used to move the cursor or selection pointer in a specified direction. Note that this key can take many forms on a mobile device, and need not look like an arrow key on a computer. It can appear as a joystick, jog dial, D-pad, or in several other forms. It allows the user to navigate the cursor around the screen by moving it up, down, or to the left or right.

Audio book

A narration or dramatization of a book. Depending on their format, audio books can be played on all computers and most portable devices.

Audio stream

Audio which is downloaded from the internet and played as it is downloaded. Audio streams come in many file formats most of which can be played on all computers and most portable devices.

Authentication (Bluetooth or Wi-Fi)

A method and username, password, or both used to connect either to a Bluetooth device or to a wireless network for security purposes to prevent unauthorized use of the Bluetooth device or wireless network.

Auto-focus (camera)

A feature of some cameras which allows them to obtain and continuously maintain focus on a subject automatically rather than requiring the person taking the picture to focus the camera, and maintain the focus, on the person or object which needs to be in the picture.

Auto-sliding QWERTY keyboard

A spring-loaded keyboard which slides out from under a mobile device’ screen very easily. All the user need do is press the two halves of the phone away from one another quite slightly and the keyboard will slide out on its own.

Background (window)

When an application or control such as a dialog, menu or list opens, a rectangular viewable area called a “window” is shown on the screen containing all the text and icons of that application or control. However, other items are still shown outside this window such as the status icons, taskbar, Start button, clock, etc. The background consists of all screen contents displayed outside this window. Alternatively, programs which run in the background are those which are not currently being used or displayed on the screen but are still loaded in memory. See minimize to background.

Backlight

A light coming from within a computer or mobile device screen which makes it easier to read when there is insufficient light in the environment. The duration and intensity of the backlight is generally controlled through software. Reducing its duration and intensity may increase battery life. Newer phone models also include a keyboard backlight which refers to the light on the keyboard or keypad area itself, making it easy to see the keys to be pressed when there is not enough light in the surrounding.

Battery level

The reporting of a battery’s remaining power as a percentage of its full charge. This is displayed visually on the screen using indicator bars, where x number of bars (e.g., seven) will be the maximum indication meaning that the battery is fully charged. Mobile Speak may read the battery level as a percent value or in terms of the number of bars.

Beam (infrared)

To send a file from one computer or device via Infrared signals to another computer or device.

Beta build

An edition of software which is not yet released but is given to a group of people to test for problems and to solicit their suggestions.

Beta cycle

The time in which one specific version of a given software package is tested before its final release.

Beta testing

The use of beta builds during a beta cycle when beta testers can report problems with that build, as well as make suggestions to improve implemented features. Click here to become a beta tester of Code Factory products.

BKS (file format)

A file format used for compression and protection of books by Bookshare.org. Click here for more information about BKS files.

Blackberry Connect

A program which allows any mobile device supporting it to connect to a Blackberry server and use its functions, including push email and easy email synchronization. Click here for more information about Blackberry Connect.

Blackberry-style QWERTY keyboard

A QWERTY keyboard integrated with the mobile phone where the keys are on the front part of the device, below the screen, without any cover. This type of keyboard is designed to allow typing of characters using the thumbs. Such keyboards can be found on mobile phones based on different platforms, but the term “Blackberry-style” is used mainly to describe thumb keyboards found on Windows Mobile Smartphones or devices that do not have touch-activated screens just like Blackberry devices.

Block (form factor)

A mobile device with a thick and roughly rectangular shape, like a block. Also called candy bar or monoblock.

Bluetooth

A method for transmitting data wirelessly over short distances, generally used by mobile phones, computers and peripheral devices. Bluetooth comes in four iterations: versions 1.1, 1.2, 2.0, and 2.1. Generally, the greater the version number, the greater the speed of data transfer and the greater the battery life of each device. Only devices supporting Bluetooth 2.0 are able to transfer stereo audio at high quality. All Bluetooth devices are compatible with one another, though the faster data transfers available in higher versions of the Bluetooth protocol are not available if one device is using a lower version of the protocol. That is, the data transfers will happen at the speed of which the slowest device in the network is capable.

Bookshare.org Unpack

The Bookshare (BKS) file format is used both for compression of the book and for its encryption and protection. Therefore, Bookshare.org unpack capability is required on any device that is to use BKS files and this ability is included in many Code Factory products, thus enabling the devices on which those products operate to download and read Bookshare files.

Braille

A system of dots used to tactually represent printed text. The system can be used for both input and output from a computer or portable computing device. Click here for more information about Braille.

Braille cell

A grouping of six or eight dots which represent one character in Braille. The dots are placed in two columns of three or four dots each, one column beside the other. Generally, the dots are numbered 1, 2,3, 7 down the left column and 4, 5, 6, 8 down the right column. Click here for more information on the Braille cell.

Braille cursor

A cursor which can be moved around a device’s interface without moving the system’s focus. This cursor is moved with a Braille device and the results of its movements are visible on the Braille device if it is capable of Braille output.

Braille device

A piece of hardware that is able to display output in Braille from, and/or allow the user to type in Braille to, a computer, PDA, or cell phone. Refreshable Braille terminals as well as Braille keyboards with or without an integrated Braille display are all Braille devices that a user of Code Factory products can use with a mobile device.

Braille grade

A type of Braille that uses dot patterns to represent characters or even words depending on the purpose of the Braille grade. For example, the computer Braille grade is used for one-to-one representation of each ASCII character shown on a computer screen. The grades of literary Braille are for use in conventional text where shortforms of groups of letters or whole words are represented by different Braille characters from the simplest (grade 1) to a system similar to stenography in print (grade 3). Code Factory products can display three grades of Braille: computer Braille (sometimes called grade 0) using 6-dot and 8-dot system, grade 1 Braille, and grade 2 Braille. A user can step from one type to another with a single command.

Braille interface

A user interface which consists of a Braille device that may be used on its own or with another device or computer, the commands used on the Braille device to perform functions, the method by which text can be entered or sent from the Braille device using Braille input, and the format used to represent information (typically from the connected computer or device) as output on the Braille display if available.

Braille panning

Since most Braille devices can display, at most, 80 characters of Braille at one time, a line of text shown on the visual display of a connected computer or device may take up more than one Braille display length. This means that the first part of the text that will fit in the Braille display will be shown first, and then the next part that will fit, so on and so forth. For example, if there are 80 characters in the visual line, using computer Braille where one Braille character corresponds to each text character will show this line of text in one line using a Braille display with 80 cells, two lines of 40 cells, 4 lines of 24 cells, and seven lines on the much shorter 12-cell display. The movement from one part of a text line displayed on the Braille display to another so that the full line or screen can be viewed is known as panning, and the buttons, wheels, or keys which enable this movement are known as panning keys.

Braille translation table

The information that instructs software on how printed characters are to be displayed in Braille and as to which Braille grade to use when displaying the characters.

BRF (file format)

A file format which contains text already translated into one of the Braille types. The file’s contents can be displayed on a Braille device or, with certain Code Factory products, spoken by a speech synthesizer.

Built-in handsfree

A mobile phone’s ability to route the audio of a phone call to a built-in loud speaker rather than to its ear piece.

Button / push button (software control)

Text on a device screen which, if clicked on, has Enter pressed on it, or is otherwise navigated to and selected, performs some action. Note that choices in a menu are not generally referred to as buttons, only those options which immediately perform an action and which are not selected from a list of choices which is navigated with the up and down arrows are called buttons.

CAB (file format)

A format for compressing software generally used for installation of that software. On Windows Mobile devices, these can be opened from the built in file manager and installed directly.

Call history

On a mobile phone, a list of voice calls which are made, received, and have been missed. These types of calls are sometimes separated into three lists and sometimes presented together with the type of call, outgoing, incoming, or incoming and not answered, indicated by an icon beside each call.

Caller ID

A statement of the name, phone number, or both made by a mobile phone network operator when an incoming call is made to the telephone. The statement is sent before the user picks up the phone and the user thus has the chance to know who is calling before answering the telephone.

Card reader

A hardware device connected to a computer or mobile device which enables the reading of, and writing to, flash memory cards.

Carrier

See mobile phone network operator.

CDMA or CDMA2000 (Code Division Multiple Access)

A system used, mainly in North America, for mobile phones to communicate with their towers. It is a digital cellular technology that uses spread-spectrum techniques. This means that unlike GSM, CDMA does not assign a specific frequency to each user. Instead, every channel uses the full available spectrum. Note that CDMA mobile phones are not compatible with GSM networks, nor are GSM mobile phones compatible with CDMA/CDMA2000 networks. Click here for more information on CDMA.

Cell phone

See mobile phone.

Cellular internet service

Access to the internet provided by a mobile phone network operator and used through a mobile phone.

Certificates (software security/authentication)

A piece of software used to make sure that applications remain unaltered as they came from their manufacturer. Note that beta builds are not certified using the certificates already on devices and, therefore, require the installation of new certificates before installation of the beta build.

Checkbox (software control)

A control used to indicate whether an option is enabled or disabled. Clicking on, pressing space in, or otherwise selecting and activating the box places a checkmark in it. Activating it once more removes the mark. Generally, when the checkmark is present, the option is enabled.

CHM (file format)

A file format used for reference material or help files which allows easy navigation and searching of that material. This format can generally only be read on computers and not on most portable devices. Click here for more information on CHM files.

Clamshell (form factor)

A way of designing a mobile device so that some part of it hinges open. Also called Flip Folder. The clamshell form factor allows the device to take up less space while giving the controls an increased surface area since the majority of the controls on the device are kept inside the clamshell.

Class (GPRS)

A method of describing how much of the radio spectrum is used for a specific GPRS data connection. The number of the class indicates how many slots of the spectrum are used, and thus how fast a connection will be. Note that the number is the combined slots for transmitting and receiving data, so a class 11 GPRS connection may be no faster than a class 10 GPRS data connection in downloading, or receiving, data, but may be faster in uploading, or sending, it.

Classic edition (Windows Mobile)

A device, running on the Windows Mobile operating system, which has the functions of a personal digital assistant, does not have an included mobile phone but does have a touch screen.

Clock speed

A number, generally expressed in Megahertz or Gigahertz, which indicates how quickly a computing device’s processor can process data. All other things being equal, the higher the number, the faster the computing device will perform.

Color scheme

A group of color settings used to display the contents of the screen, including foreground and background text, highlighted items, controls and other screen elements. Code Factory’s screen magnification products offer different color schemes such as Black and White, Gray Scale, inverted colors, etc. to suit people with different degrees of visual impairment.

Colors (display screen)

The number of colors, generally expressed in thousand colors, which a given liquid crystal display can show.

COM port

A channel which needs to be set up on a computing device so that some Bluetooth peripherals can communicate with the computing device. Communications on these channels must often be initiated by a specific device, whether the computing device or its Bluetooth peripheral. Those COM ports on which communications are initiated by the computing device are called “Outgoing COM ports”, while those on which the peripheral initiates communications are called “incoming COM ports”.

Combo box (software control)

A software control allowing the user to either type text directly into the control, like an edit field, or choose from the list of existing options, generally from a list of options previously entered into the same box, with the arrow keys and select.

Command

An instruction to a computer to carry out an operation or perform a function. Commands in Code Factory products are executed by pressing a key or combination of keys, or in the case of devices with touch-activated screens, taps on the screen. Note that modifiers, such as Edit, Home, Control, Shift and Alt are not commands. If a function is actually completed by an action, that action is a command, but if the action alone performs only part of an action, such as modifying a subsequent keystroke, it is not usually called a command.

Command layout

Code Factory products often configure certain keys on a specific device to perform certain actions. However, in some situations on a device’s interface, other actions should be performed by those same keys. Command layouts are configurations, which the user can switch too, which alter the way keys are configured so that the same keys can issue several commands, depending on which layout the user is in.

Communicator (Nokia)

A brand name for a group of Nokia mobile phones all of which appear as normal phones on the outside yet have a keyboard and a large LCD screen inside, as well as Internet connectivity and clients for Internet and non-Internet communication. Note that Code Factory products only work with the latest Nokia Communicators based on the Series 60 platform like the Nokia E90.

CompactFlash or CF (memory card)

A flash memory card used in some portable devices. Click here for more information about CompactFlash.

Computer Braille

A way to represent each of the values in the ASCII table, including letters, numbers, and punctuation, with each having a unique Braille symbol. The basic purpose of computer Braille is to provide representation of signs used on computer screens but not so frequently in conventional Braille. For instance, each number is represented in computer Braille by taking up just one column or Braille cell. The same is true for uppercase letters. In conventional Braille, however, numbers must be preceded by the Braille number sign and uppercase letters must be preceded by the Braille capital sign, thereby taking up two columns or Braille cells. Computer Braille is different for each language, and a total of six dots are used in some cases, while permutations of eight dots are used in others.

Configuration screen

Another way to refer to the Control Panel in Code Factory products.

Contracted Braille

Braille which uses a set of contractions to decrease the number of characters required to present a word in Braille.

Control (software)

An element of the interface of a software package which allows the user to interact with the software and computing device.

Control panel

An application which allows the configuration of settings and options in a Code Factory product.

Control state

The current status of a control, that is, whether a checkbox is checked or unchecked, whether a toolbar button has been pressed or not, whether a tree view level is expanded or collapsed, if a menu item has a submenu of items, or if a control is unavailable/disabled.

Control type

The type of control (e.g., button, checkbox, combo box, etc.) used in an application. Each type of control can be manipulated in certain ways, that is, buttons need only be activated or clicked, checkboxes can be checked or unchecked, combo boxes can have options selected from their existing options or can have text entered into them, and so on. Knowing the control type of any control allows a user to know how it is to be manipulated.

Convergence / combination device

A device which can perform many functions, for example, a cellular phone which functions as a personal organizer, a personal organizer that functions as a GPS navigation device, and so on.

Cookie (internet)

A small text file placed on a user’s computing device by a site on the World Wide Web. The site can read this file on the user’s return to the site, recognize the user, and  customize itself for a returning user in many ways.

Coverage

Whether a given area can be reached by a specific mobile phone network operator, by a specific network function, such as Short message service (SMS), or is within a wireless network’s range.

CPU

The central processing unit in a computing device which examines and works with applications and data in the device.

Cursor-routing button/key

A button or key found above or below every cell on a Braille display which, when depressed, allows the system or Braille cursor to be placed on the character currently displayed in that cell.

Cycle

Code Factory products often enable the user to choose an option by repeatedly pressing a command key followed by a number or letter. Repeatedly giving the command moves one from option to option until one arrives at the option from which the cycling started. To move through the list of available options, only the number or letter need be pressed, and the command key should not be repeatedly pressed. If no command is received for more than three seconds after the last cycling letter/number is pressed, the command key must be pressed again to resume cycling.

DAB-IP

Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB), also known as Eureka 147, is a technology for broadcasting of audio using digital radio (as opposed to analog AM and FM radio) transmission to enable higher  fidelity , more stations and more resistance to noise, co-channel interference and multipath broadcasts. DAB-IP can use Internet Protocol technology and part of the digital radio spectrum to transmit radio and TV signals (low bit rate TV) directly to receivers such as mobile phones. At present, DAB-IP is only used in the United Kingdom, and devices with a DAB-IP tuner are, if the user has subscribed to a service,  able to receive such broadcasts as if they were standard televisions or radios.

DAISY (Digital Accessible Information System)

A standard used for the digital encoding of books, whether in text or audio format, that allows easy navigation, referencing, and other features within books in whatever format they happen to be. Click here for more information on DAISY.

Device layout

A description of a device’s form, the design and layout of its keys, and the other physical attributes of the device such as ports, position of the camera lens, battery door latch, etc.

Dialer screen

The screen in which the characters in a phone number (consisting of numbers 1 through 9, 0, * and #) are entered to initiate a call to that phone number as soon as the Dial or Call key is pressed. Code Factory products allow the user to review the numbers entered in the dialer screen as though focus is on an edit control.

Dialog (software control)

A group of controls and text which asks the user a question or series of questions and accepts a response. Dialog boxes can generally be navigated by use of the tab or up and down arrow keys, and the controls within them can be manipulated according to their types.

Dialpad

A screen on a Windows Mobile Pocket PC/Professional mobile device where numbers can be selected, using the arrow keys and select key, or entered, using a keyboard or number pad, for the phone to dial.

Discoverable (Bluetooth)

The state a Bluetooth device is in when it can be scanned for, and found, by other Bluetooth devices. It is generally necessary to make a device discoverable before pairing it with another Bluetooth device so that the other device can find it.

Distributor

A person or company who sells Code Factory products. Click here for our complete list of distributors.

D-pad

A 4-direction control found on many PDAs allowing the user to choose to move the cursor or other selection pointer up, down, left, or right. It generally has a small select button in the middle.

Dual mode

The capability of some mobile phones that have more than one air interface to work on more than one network. One example is a phone that operates on both digital and analog networks. They are quite useful if you want the advantages of a digital phone, but regularly visit areas where analog is the only service available. Another example is a phone that can operate on a 3G network which will consume more battery power, and on a GSM-only network. Setting this mode to “Automatic” will make the phone switch to 3G or GSM whichever type of network is currently available.

Dual slide (form factor)

A phone designed so that one can slide its top in one direction to find a numeric keypad and slide that same top in another direction to find a QWERTY keyboard as found on standard phones.

Dual stereo speakers

Typically, mobile phones have a single speaker which has stereo capability observed only when a headset is inserted. Newer phones have two such speakers found on the left and right side of either the front or rear part of the device, allowing the two stereo channels to be played separately and thus provide the listener with true stereo sound.

DVB-H (Digital Video Broadcasting - Handheld)

A technical specification for bringing broadcast services to handheld receivers. DVB-H can offer a downstream channel at high data rates which can be used as standalone or as an enhancement of mobile telecommunication networks which many typical handheld terminals are able to access anyway. Click here for more information on DVB-H.

Dvorak keyboard layout

A keyboard layout different from the standard QWERTY keyboard layout designed for speed typing. Click here for more information on Dvorak.

EDGE (Enhanced Data-rate for Global Evolution)

A standard for transmitting data rapidly over GSM cellular networks. The speed of data transfer is approximately 250 Kilobits per second, making the standard far faster than GPRS. EDGE also has class types that vary in terms of speed.

Edit box / edit field (software control)

A field in which text can be entered as in a word processor, on a web page enabling search of the World Wide Web, or in the body of an email/text message. These fields can generally be moved around with the arrow keys and editing commands can be used to modify and transform entered text.

Edit combo (software control)

A control that combines an edit field and a combo box so that the user can either select from the list of predefined values, or enter the value they wish to select.

E-mail message

An electronic message sent from one person to another, usually  over the internet. E-mail can generally be of unlimited length, unlike SMS messages, can contain attachments of files and other content, and are generally sent from computers, though they can be sent by, and received from, other devices. Click here for more information about e-mail.

Emergency call

A call placed to an emergency number, enabling the user to reach police, fire, or ambulance services. These calls can be made from any mobile phone even if the phone is not activated on a network, has no SIM, or cannot make other calls. If the phone has some sort of coverage, it can generally make emergency calls. The emergency number on GSM phones is 112.

Emoticon

A representation of an emotion sent with a text or email message to alert the recipient that the represented emotion is present. Also called smileys because the first emoticon was that of a smiling face viewed 90 degrees to the left.

Encryption (data)

A mathematical process that makes data unreadable by anyone without the correct password or key. Click here for more information on data encryption.

ESN (Electronic Serial Number)

An 11 digit  number used to identify mobile phones which use the CDMA or CDMA2000 mobile phone technology. Click here for more information about ESN.

EV-DO (Evolution Data Only)

A standard for transmitting data rapidly over CDMA cellular networks. The speed of data transfer is up to 3.1 megabits per second. Click here for more information about EV-DO.

Excel spreadsheet (file format)

These files, having the XLS extension, are used by Microsoft Office’s Excel spreadsheet and accounting package. They can be opened on most versions of the Windows Mobile operating system and can be edited on Windows Mobile Professional and Pocket PC devices.

Exchange server

A mail and collaboration server, designed by Microsoft, which is used mainly by enterprises to manage and synchronize mail, calendars, contacts, and other communications and information. The product can integrate and communicate with all Windows Mobile devices.

EXE (file format)

Files with the EXE extension are programs and can be run on Windows, and sometimes on Windows Mobile, operating systems. Such files are also called executables. Code Factory installers generally come as EXE files to be run on a Windows system.

Extended long press

To hold down a given key for 1.5 seconds or longer to perform a particular task, invoke a particular function, or turn on a particular modifier.

Extended ROM

The customizations put on a Windows Mobile device by the mobile phone network operator who sells it. Many products are sold by multiple mobile phone network operators under multiple names, and the extended ROM contains branding, network specifics, and other information that customizes the device for its mobile phone network operator.

External keyboard

A keyboard that is connected to a computing device either through Bluetooth or via USB, generally enabling more and easier typing than keyboards built into mobile devices. Some Code Factory products make specific provision, through their commands, for the use of an external keyboard.

External screen

The secondary screen found on the outer lid of a clamshell phone that displays information even when the phone is folded.

ExtUSB

A proprietary USB connector used by some HTC mobile phones. The plug can allow synchronization via USB, audio output, and power input through the use of one connector. Adapters for standard Audio, USB, and power accessories are available, but standard 2.5 MM or 3.5 MM audio accessories cannot be plugged into Ext USB ports without an adapter. However, ExtUSB ports will accommodate standard USB mini B cables so that synchronization is possible without a proprietary cable or adapter. Click here for more information on ExtUSB.

Firmware

A software program loaded into a device that gives it its base features, such as its operating system and the ability for a device to manipulate its hardware. Firmware can be roughly compared to the operating system of a desktop/laptop computer.

Flash (camera)

Devices that have a flash camera provide their own flash for taking pictures in low-light conditions. Devices that have a camera but where no flash is provided require the user to make sure there is enough light to take the picture, particularly light shining towards the picture’s subject. Click here for more information on flashes in photography.

Flight mode

A means, available on most mobile devices, of turning off all radios in the device so that the device may be used on a plane or anywhere else where radio transmission is unwanted.

Flip-and-fold clamshell (form factor)

A type of clamshell phone that has a swiveling top part for the screen or camera, and can also be unfolded, either to answer a call or to gain access to a keyboard. Also called Twist and Shoot clamshell variation.

FN key

A key, present on devices with a QWERTY keyboard, to change some part of that keyboard into a number pad or use other keys to enter punctuation symbols. To press a number, for example, one first presses the FN key and then another key to produce the number in question. When the FN key has not been pressed, the key that one presses to produce a number acts normally, as a letter. On most devices, pressing the FN key twice rapidly locks it, so that all letter keys assigned to numbers and punctuations will perform these secondary functions until the FN key is pressed once more to unlock it and send the keys back to their letter modes.

Focus

Usually indicated by an enclosing rectangle or by a caret, focus is the component of a graphical user interface which is currently selected. By convention, the tab key is used to move the focus to the next focusable component and shift + tab to the previous one. In certain circumstances, the arrow keys can also be used to move focus.

Font smoothing

A method by which text, when it is magnified, is rendered less jagged and easier to read. Without font smoothing, spaces between dots or pixels that comprise a text character or icon are also magnified, and thus font and graphics do not look the way they do without the magnification. All Code Factory magnifiers smooth curves and edges of fonts so that the magnified spaces are not apparent.

Foreground (window)

When an application or control such as a dialog, menu or list opens, a rectangular viewable area called a “window” is shown on the screen containing all the text and icons of that application or control. However, other items are still shown outside this window such as the status icons, taskbar, Start button, clock, etc. The foreground consists of all screen contents displayed inside this window.

Form factor

A term used to describe the way a device is constructed, such as its shape and physical size. For example, mobile phones come in many form factors, such as block or candy bar, flip or clamshell, slide or dual slide, etc.

Form field (web page element)

A software control, on a web page, which accepts input from the user. Form fields can consist of many software controls, including edit boxes, combo boxes, or list views, and are navigated and manipulated as they are when not on a web page. It is, however, necessary to select the form field first, by hitting enter, before manipulating these fields, on a mobile device running a Code Factory screen reader.

Format (memory card)

To prepare a memory card, by placing a file system on the card, for having data transferred to it. There are many different file systems  used on memory cards and many computers give the user the option of what file system to use. Most mobile devices use the FAT file system, and this is generally the file system that should be selected when formatting a card. However, if the mobile device includes the option to format the memory card, it is strongly recommended that the formatting is done on the device rather than using a PC.

Function key

A key or command made by a Code Factory product which is not native to the device and which performs a command on the product or which acts as a modifier on the pressing of other function keys.

GB (gigabyte)

1024 megabytes, commonly rounded down to one billion bytes. Click here for more information about the gigabyte.

GPRS (General Packet Radio Service)

A method for transmitting data over a GSM network, most often used to give internet access to GSM mobile phones. GPRS is generally billed by the kilobyte transferred, and generally runs at a speed of approximately 15-30 kilobits per second.

GPS (Global Positioning System)

A global navigation system which enables, through the use of orbiting satellites, a GPS receiver to find out its location, speed, the direction of its travel, and time. GPS is particularly useful to the visually impaired as it allows users to know their location at all times when outdoors. Click here for more information about GPS.

GPS receiver

A piece of hardware that may  be built into a mobile device or may stand alone, and which is able to receive signals from GPS satellites and send that information to a device so that the receiver’s location can be plotted on a map.

Grade 1 Braille

The less advanced form of literary Braille. For example, in English, there are no contractions or shortforms in grade 1 Braille.

Grade 2 Braille

The more advanced form of Braille. For example, in English, grade 2 Braille uses contractions such that td means “today”, tn means “tonight”, and tm means “tomorrow”, for example.

Graphic

An image in a software interface which, when clicked on, performs an action. Screen readers cannot interpret graphics as to their meaning, they can only identify their presence and type, and the labeling of them as to their meaning must be done by a human being. Generally, labeling is done by Code Factory, but, in some Code Factory screen readers, users can label graphics if they wish to do so.

Green button (Symbian)

The button on Symbian phones which tells the phone to make a call send a message, and has several other functions. It is also known as the Dial or call or send button.

Grid / grid view

A software control which arranges a list of options or items as a grid consisting of more than one row and more than one column (e.g., a 3x4 grid means there are three rows and four columns). These can generally be navigated with the arrow keys and the item under the cursor can be manipulated as with any other item of its type.

GSM (Global System for Mobile communications)

The world’s standard for digital cellular communications using narrowband Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA) for voice and Short Message Service. TDMA works by dividing a radio frequency into time slots and then allocating slots to multiple calls. In this way, a single frequency can support multiple, simultaneous data channels. Note that GSM phones are not compatible with CDMA service providers, and CDMA phones are not compatible with GSM service providers. Click here for more information about GSM.

Handheld computer

Any computing device which is mobile. This may refer to any PDA or PDA/phone combination.

Handsfree

The use of a headset or loopset, whether connected by a wire or via Bluetooth, to a mobile phone while making a call, thus freeing the user’s hands for other activities. Some jurisdictions have laws that prohibit using a mobile phone while driving unless one is using a handsfree method of working with the phone.

Hang-up/End call key

The key, on a mobile phone, that ends the call if the user is making one. IT also has several other functions. On Windows Mobile phones, it will minimize any application to the background and bring the system back to the today screen, while on some phones, holding down the end key will disconnect any GPRS connection. The end key may also be called the red button on Symbian phones.

Hard disk/drive

A disk that consists of one or more spinning platters and which stores data on those platters through magnetism. Though they are almost universal on laptop and desktop computers, hard drives are not often found on mobile devices, but they are slowly coming into use and can now be found on the Nokia n91 Symbian Smartphone, the Samsung  SGH-i310 Windows Mobile Smartphone, and the HTC advantage Pocket PC phone, among other devices.

Hard/cold reset

A reset of a mobile device which wipes out all data placed on that device after it was shipped from the factory or mobile phone network operator. After a cold reset, any Code Factory product on the device must be reinstalled and reactivated like other 3rd-party applications, as all other information on the device before the reset must be transferred. It is thus recommended that the user backs up data stored on the device or use a program that creates a backup of user data, programs and settings prior to the hard reset.

Hardware

A tangible and physically perceivable part of a device or the device itself. Hardware can be contrasted with firmware and software, which are not physically perceivable though the media or hardware that carries or runs them may be.

Hardware key/button

A button that is actually present on a device. Contrast this with virtual key, which is a key made by some Code Factory products out of one part of the touch screen on a Pocket PC device.

Home Screen

The screen, on a Windows Mobile Smartphone/standard device, which appears as soon as the phone starts. This screen has on it, available at a glance, the date/time, battery level, number of text messages and appointments, and other information a phone’s user needs to know quickly and refer to often. Mobile Speak Smartphone refers to this screen as the “Today Screen”.

Hotkey

A keystroke, or series of keystrokes, whether done through hardware or virtual keys, which invokes a command either on the device or for a Code Factory product.

HSCSD (High-Speed Circuit-Switched)

A method for transferring data over a GSM network with a theoretical maximum speed of 115.2 kilobits per second. This method is far slower than Edge, and is now rarely used on mobile phone networks. Click here for more information about HSCSD.

HSDPA (High Speed Downlink Packet Access)

A method for downloading data at very high speeds on UMTS/GSM networks. The theoretical maximum speed of currently deployed HSDPA systems is 14.4 Megabits per second, and it is currently the fastest available technology for data flows over UMTS networks. Click here for more information on HSDPA.

HTC JOGGR

A touch-sensitive strip which acts to change some attribute, like volume, which can be adjusted to many different positions. Perhaps most analogous to a slider switch which is activated by touch rather than by moving a switch.

HTC VueFLO

A method, found on products like the HTC Touch, of operating a touch screen by moving one’s finger or stylus across it, rather than by tapping the screen.

HTML (file format)

Also called a web page, this is the file format that is used for web pages and that all web browsers display. It allows links, tables, and other elements to be displayed in a browser. All laptop and desktop computers can display this file format as can all mobile devices that Code Factory products support.

Hybrid device

See convergence/combination device.

Icon

A pictorial image used in a graphical user interface to represent a program, a command, a link to a Web page, etc.

IMAP (Internet Message Access Protocol)

A protocol, mainly used by companies and schools, though sometimes used by internet service providers, to let users retrieve Email. Messages are received and held for you by your internet server, thus allowing you to view just the heading and the sender of the letter and then decide whether to download the mail. You can also create and manipulate multiple folders or mailboxes on the server, delete messages, or search for certain parts or an entire note. IMAP requires continual access to the server during the time that you are working with your mail. The protocol is particularly useful for those retrieving email on many devices and who want their email synchronized between devices. Click here for more information about IMAP.

IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity)

A 15 digit number uniquely identifying every GSM mobile phone. Note that some devices display 17 digits when queried for their IMEI. The first 15 digits are the IMEI itself. Click here for more information about IMEI.

IMEISV (International Mobile Equipment Identity Software Version)

A 16 digit number uniquely identifying every mobile phone. The number consists of the first 14 digits of the IMEI and 2 extra digits indicating the Mobile phone’s software version. Click here for more information about IMEISV.

Infrared Communications

A method of sending data from one computing device to another over very short distances (no more than 1 meter/3 feet) and at speeds ranging from 9600 kilobits per second to 14 megabits per second. Many mobile devices support infrared communications, as do some laptops, but most desktops require an infrared adapter be purchased before using infrared. Note that since infrared communications uses light, the two devices need to be within line of sight of one another. Click here for more information on infrared.

Instant messaging

Also sometimes called immediate messaging, this is a quick way to send short messages from one person to another. The messages are received immediately, as opposed to most email messages which need to be retrieved by the recipient. The messages are usually transmitted over the internet and can generally be transmitted and received by any two devices connected to the internet. Click here for more information about instant messaging.

Integrated keyboard

A QWERTY keyboard (e.g., slider or thumb keyboard), built into a mobile device, thus allowing easy typing of text messages, short email messages, and notes. Contrast this with an external keyboard connected to the device via USB, infrared or Bluetooth.

Javascript combo/list box (web page control)

A combo or list box, on a web page, which takes the user to another web page as soon as one of the items of the list is selected. Unlike ordinary combo or list boxes, one need not leave the combo box, or click any button, to be taken to the next web page. These boxes are generally difficult for a screen reader user to access because to read the items in the list, one must select them, and to select them is to be taken to the next web page. Therefore, when such a box is encountered, it requires the screen reader user to use the alt+down arrow key combination on the PC to open the box, navigate to his/her choice, and press alt+up arrow to be taken to the page for that choice.

Jog dial

A jog dial, jog wheel, shuttle dial, or shuttle wheel is a type of knob, ring, wheel, or dial control which allows the user to navigate through lists and menus, and even lines of text, by simulating the Up and Down arrow movements.

Joystick

On many mobile devices, a raised, usually cylindrical, piece of plastic which acts as an arrow control and select button combined. To move up, press the bottom of the joystick up. To move down, press the top edge of the joystick down. To move left, press the right edge of the joystick left, and to move right, press the left edge of the joystick right. To select the item currently under the cursor, press the joystick inward, towards the mobile device.

KBPS(kilobits per second)

Eight bits make up one byte, or character, and, in the communications context, where this unit is used about mobile devices,  1000 bits make up one kilobit. The higher the number of KBPS, the greater the speed of the connection. Click here for more information about KBPS.

Keyboard backlight

See backlight.

Keyboard layout

A configuration of how keys on the keyboard are placed. Most keyboards come in the same physical configuration, but the input produced by each key is programmable and the programming of each key to its proper function is done by the keyboard layout. For example, the key to the right of the left shift key on a standard QWERTY keyboard on an American QWWERTY keyboard layout will input a ‘z’, while that same key on a German keyboard layout will input a ‘y’.

Knowledgebase

A large database containing frequently asked questions about Code Factory products, solutions to problems, and other information that users of Code Factory products may need to know. Click here to go to our Knowledgebase.

Landline phone

A telephone that is not completely mobile and that itself connects, or has a base station which connects, at some point, to a telephone jack. That is, one which can only be used over a fairly small area. Contrast with Mobile phone.

Landscape (screen orientation)

Screen orientation in which the horizontal side is longer than the vertical. Contrast with portrait screen orientation. There are two possible landscape screen modes with mobile devices. Left-handed landscape means that the device, while the screen is still facing the user, was turned 90 degrees to the left, such that the Up arrow key in portrait orientation becomes the Left arrow key in this screen mode. Conversely, right-handed landscape means that the device, with the screen still facing the user, is turned 90 degrees to the right, such that the Up arrow key in portrait orientation becomes the Right arrow key in this screen mode.

License

This is purchased when a user wishes to use the full version of a Code Factory product without any limitations in the amount of time the product can be used. It entitles the user to use the product in question. Note that a license is not the same as an activation. A license is purchased by the user, and the existence of the license entitles the user to one or more activations to use the product. The activations are software that is downloaded to a device and can be erased by a hard reset, returned to the activations server, and moved from device to device. A license, on the contrary, cannot be destroyed or returned but can only be sold.

Li-Ion (battery)

Also called a Li-Ion battery, this is a rechargeable battery often used in mobile devices. It features excellent energy-to-weight ratios, no memory effect, and a slow loss of charge. Click here for more information on the Li-Ion battery type.

Link (web page element)

An element on a web page’s interface which, when navigated to and being activated, either through being clicked or having enter pressed on it, takes one to another web page.

Li-Po (battery)

Also called a Li-po battery, this is a rechargeable battery often used in mobile devices. Similar to the Li-Ion battery, the advantages of this battery type include lower manufacturing cost and greater durability. Click here for more information on the Li-Po battery type.

List / list view (software control)

A list of items or options, generally navigable via the arrow keys. The items or options in the list can be manipulated once the desired item is under the cursor.

Locale-dependent

An option, script, keyboard layout, or other item which is enabled, or presented, depending on the locale, that is, the TTS language or country/region setting, of the device.

Long press

To press a hardware key for no less than half a second and no longer than 1 second. Note that if the same key activates a different function with an extended long press, then a long press will cause a beep at half a second, so that one can release the key as soon as the beep is heard, unless the function assigned to the extended long press is what the user desires.

Magnification level

The amount by which any given text or image is magnified,, represented as a multiple of the size of the original text. That is, a magnification level of 2X means that the magnified text is twice as large as the original. 1.5X means it is 150% as large, 10X means it is ten times as large, and so on.

Magnifier

See screen magnifier.

mAh (battery capacity)

Milliampere-hour is the unit of measurement for a battery's total capacity. The higher the number (ex. 600 mAh, 1,500 mAh) the more charge a battery can hold and usually, the longer a battery will last.

Mailing list

A list of Email addresses to which email messages are sent out. Many Code Factory mailing lists are user communities where any subscribed person can send messages to the entire list and ask questions about a Code Factory product. Others are announcement only lists where Code Factory staff can send messages to a list of users interested in a particular product. Click here to join our product mailing lists for users, or click here to subscribe to our announcement lists.

Maps (GPS)

All a GPS receiver can receive from a satellite is the current time and its location on the globe. Maps are needed to make this location meaningful as to cities, streets, landmarks, etc. Maps are files on the device interpreting the GPS data  which inform it as to its location relative to other things.

Mass storage mode (USB support)

A set of protocols allowing the connection of USB hard drives, Flash memory drives, and other storage media to a device via USB. A computing device which supports USB mass storage will be able to connect to all USB mass storage devices. Click here for more information about mass storage devices.

MB (megabyte)

1024 Kilobytes or approximately 1000000 bytes. Click here for more information about the megabyte.

MBPS (megabits per second)

Eight bits make up one byte, or character, and, in the communications context, where this unit is used about mobile devices, 1000 bits make up one kilobit. 1000 kilobits make up one megabit. The higher the number of MBPS, the greater the speed of the connection. Click here for more information about MBPS.

MEID (Mobile Equipment Identity)

An 18 digit number used to uniquely identify CDMA mobile phones. This is the newer identifier used due to the exhaustion of ESNs. Click here for more information about MEID.

Memory card

A flash memory card, which can come in many formats, and which can have data stored on it, thus providing an expandable source of memory for mobile devices. Note that it is often wise to install a Code Factory product on a memory card rather than in the far more scarce main memory.

Memory card slot

A holder, sometimes a slot and sometimes a flat surface, which accepts a storage/memory  card so that a mobile device can use it. Sometimes on the side or top of a device as a slot and sometimes as a holder under the battery so that the battery needs to be removed to access it.

Menu (software control)

A list of selectable options, navigable with the up and down arrow keys, often grouped into related categories. For example, the file menu might group topics to do with files, their opening, saving, closing, and so on, together. They can be navigated with the arrow keys and selected with enter or using a mouse or other selection method.

Menu bar (software control)

In an application with multiple menus, a control, usually at the bottom of the Pocket PC screen, which lists each menu. Generally accessible through a command, these bars can be navigated with the left and right arrows. Once the menu one wants has been found, the down arrow will take the cursor into that menu.

MHz (megahertz)

The standard measure of processor speed. The greater the number, the faster the processor.

MicroSD (memory card)

A form factor of a flash memory card supported by many PDAs and newer mobile phones. It’s very small, almost just the size of an average fingernail. Also called TransFlash. Click here for more information about microSD cards.

MicroSDHC (memory card)

A high capacity (over 2 gigabytes), version of the MicroSD card. Note that not all devices which support MicroSD cards support this high capacity version, so each device should be checked individually for MicroSDHC support.

Microsoft Word (file format)

Files with a doc or docx extension used in Microsoft’s word processor, Word. These files can be opened and read on most mobile devices and can be edited on Windows Mobile PC Professional and Classic  (Pocket PC) devices.

Minimize to background

To close an application’s window without closing the application itself. This allows other applications to be launched and actions taken while leaving the minimized application ready to accept input at the place it was left.

MiniSD (memory card)

A form factor of a flash memory card supported by many PDAs and mobile phones. This is somewhat larger than a MicroSD card and smaller than an SD card. Click here for more information about miniSD cards.

MiniSDHC (memory card)

A high capacity (over 2 gigabytes), version of the MiniSD card. Note that not all devices which support MiniSD cards support this high capacity version, so each device should be checked individually for MiniSDHC support.

MMC (memory card)

A form factor of a flash memory card supported by many mobile phones. Note that multimedia memory cards (MMCs) can be used in many SD card slots. Click here for more information about MMC cards.

Mobile device

A small computing device which can be easily carried by a user in a pocket or purse.

Mobile phone

A mobile device with phone functionality. The phone functionality is generally achieved through communication with a cellular tower through CDMA/CDMA2000 or GSM/UMTS. The phone is generally provided with service by a mobile phone network operator which maintains the network and patches calls through to their destinations. Also known as a cell phone or cellular phone.

Mobile phone network operator

A company which maintains a mobile phone network, sells mobile phones, offers subscriptions to the mobile phone network, and provides other services to mobile phones.

Mobile professional

Describes a user who uses a mobile phone not only to make calls and receive them but to email others, update a calendar, keep contacts up to date, view web pages, etc.

Modifier (command)

A key pressed before, or held while pressing, another key which modifies that second key’s function. Typical modifiers are the alt, shift, and control keys on computer keyboards and in Code Factory products like Mobile Speak Pocket. For example, if one uses the left and right arrows without a modifier, they move left and right by one character in edit fields. If, however, one uses the control modifier before either arrow, they begin to move left and right by word. Note that, in Code Factory products, modifiers need only be pressed and released before a keystroke, not pressed and held during the keystroke, to have effect.

MP (megapixel)

A measure of the resolution of a camera. The higher the number, the greater the resolution of the camera. Click here for more information about resolution and the units which measure it.

MP3 (file format)

A file format that has become standard to transport and play compressed audio data. MP3 files are made up of audio data and can be played by all mobile devices.

Multimedia message

A type of communication that allows sending messages that include multimedia objects, like audio and videos and not just text as in Short Message Service (SMS).

Multipress input

A method of entering text using a standard phone keypad. Each number is associated with a group of letters. Pressing the number once inputs the first letter, twice inputs the second letter, and so on. If the number is not pressed within a certain amount of time, or if another number is pressed, the currently selected letter is typed into the document, message, or edit field. For example, pressing the number 2 key once inserts the letter ‘a’, two quick presses enters the letter ‘b’, three presses yields the letter ‘c’, and if this key is pressed and held for half a second, the number 2 is entered.

Navigation key

A joystick, D-pad, jog dial, or other key which acts to move the focus or cursor around a user interface as arrow keys do.

Network (computer)

A group of devices such as computers and printers connected together or to a hub or switch in order to share information and/or tasks. Networks also include software and cables.

Network (phone)

A series of towers which provide service to mobile phones by transmitting and receiving voice and data from those phones and sending that voice and data to other phones or to the internet.

Newsletter

Code Factory newsletters, issued bimonthly, provide a summary of what has happened at Code Factory in the past two months. Click here to subscribe to our newsletters.

Newsreader

An application that allows a computing device to read RSS news feeds, thus enabling news to be read offline and on many devices. Click here for more information about RSS and newsreaders. To subscribe to our RSS feed click here.

OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer)

Originally, this term referred to the company that supplied equipment to other companies to resell or incorporate into another product using the reseller's brand name. More recently, however, the term is used to mean the company that acquires a product or component and reuses or incorporates it into a new product with its own brand name. For example, in the original meaning, High Tech Computer Corporation (HTC) is an OEM for many mobile phones from different carriers. With the newer meaning, the phone is said to be manufactured by HTC but the firmware is from the OEM which may be a carrier or another company selling the device with their brand name. When used in this website and product documentation, the newer meaning of OEM is applied.

Offline content

Information which is downloaded from the internet or another network to be read later. Many programs, such as AvantGo, allow the making of online content offline where there is an inexpensive internet connect to be read when such a connection is not present, or when the use of an internet connection is undesirable.

On the fly

A command to perform an action, like a change in settings, immediately rather than performing it through a control panel and dialog box. That is, a shortcut, one command, to performing an action or changing the state of the device which can be accomplished from anywhere rather than from the interface where the change is usually made.

On the go

A thing that is usually done through a computer but which can be done on a mobile device. That is, if a mobile device can collect and display electronic messages, reading those messages is done on the go rather than in front of a desktop or laptop computer.

One-handed operation

An operating system or program, like Windows Mobile Smartphone/Standard, which is structured so that a person may perform major commands with one hand as, for example, by the provision of numbered menu items which can be accessed without needing to look at the unit’s screen or press more than one key.

Online form

A form that is filled in on a web page loaded using an internet connection, and that sends its contents directly to the Code Factory database rather than, for example, a form filled in by email or sent in print which must be manually entered into the database by Code Factory staff.

Operating system

The basic software that permits a computing device to function and allows it other software to communicate with the device hardware. Code Factory products are all for a specific operating system, so the name of the operating system on a device is an important fact about that device.

Overclocking

To increase a processor’s speed through an unauthorized software or hardware modification to a computing device. This often makes a device faster, but also increases the heat produced by the device, which must be dissipated to prolong the processor’s useful life, and decreases the battery life of the device.

PA

PA (pre-installed) installation is a special way to install Symbian applications using the memory card. PA installation files are transferred to the memory card (for example, using a card reader connected to a PC). When  the memory card is inserted into the phone, the installation occurs automatically

Pairing (Bluetooth)

Making one Bluetooth device aware of another and providing a pass key or security code so that, whenever the two Bluetooth devices are within range of one another, they will connect. Note that pairing need only be done once, the first time a Bluetooth device is connected to another. After that, the devices should connect on their own.

Panning (left to right)

While reading magnified text or Braille output on a Braille device, it is often necessary to change the position of the reading cursor to be able to read the next chunk of text on the screen. Panning allows this to be done automatically in the ordinary reading order.

Passkey (Bluetooth)

A string of numbers entered on one or both Bluetooth devices in a pairing relationship at the time when they are being paired which, in future, allows them to authenticate to one another. Note that on keyboards and other devices where input is possible, passkeys can be entered on both devices. On headsets and other devices, the manufacturer will often provide a passkey the device will use and the user must enter that key and no other into the other device which is to pair with the device not allowing any input.

Password edit field (software control)

A standard edit field used to enter passwords. When used with a Code Factory product, the state of “secret mode” will determine whether the contents of the field, and the letters being entered into it as they are entered, are announced as they are or as “star”. Note that on the screen, letters and contents appear as asterisks, question marks, or some other symbol used to mask the characters in the password.

Patch (software)

A software program intended to fix a problem in a product that has been released.

PCSuite

The software used to synchronize a Symbian series 60 mobile phone with its contacts, Email, files, and other information with a computer running Windows. Click here for more information about PCSuite.

PDA (personal digital assistant)

The term used to refer to any small mobile hand-held device that provides computing and information storage and retrieval capabilities for personal or business use, often for keeping schedule calendars and address book information handy.

Phonetic spelling mode

A mode in Code Factory’s screen readers in which, instead of spelling words using letters, such as A, B, C, and so on, the letters are spoken as Alpha, Bravo, Charley, and so on. This is particularly useful for users of small devices where speakers may not be of the best quality.

PIM (personal information management) applications

Applications such as Microsoft Outlook, Lotus Notes, or Mozilla Thunderbird which manage Email and contacts for a user. The contacts and email in these applications can usually be synchronized with a mobile device where contacts and Email alone in text or other simpler file formats, or in other programs such as Microsoft Outlook Express, cannot.

Plain text (file format)

Files that contain computer-encoded text consisting only of ordinary characters like those you find on your keyboard, as opposed to “symbol” characters such as ½ ¼ á é º etc. No other formatting or structural information, such as font size, font type, or other layout information is included. Usually with the txt extension, a plain text file can be read and edited by almost any text editor.

Platform

The operating system, and specific iteration or version of that operating system, which a mobile device uses.

Playlist

A list of media files, usually in a file with the extension M3U or PLS, which are played one after another. Most mobile devices support playlists in their built-in audio/video players.

Plugin

A computer program that interacts with a Code Factory screen reader or screen magnifier to provide a specific function that is not available with the screen reading or magnification application by default. Plugins are usually licensed separately but will not run without the screen reader or screen magnifier installed and running first.

Pocket PC

The term used to refer to devices, whether PDA-only or PDA-phone combinations, that are powered by the Classic or Professional edition of the Windows Mobile operating system.

Pocket PC PDA

A device, running Windows Mobile Classic edition, which acts only as a PDA and has no phone functionality. For example, the HP iPAQ HX2795 is a Pocket PC PDA.

Pocket PC phone

A device running Windows Mobile Professional Edition which has both PDA and phone functionality, exemplified by mobile phones like the HTC TyTN.

POP3 (Post Office Protocol version 3)

A protocol used by most internet users to retrieve Email. In contrast to IMAP, The design of POP3 and its procedures supports -users with intermittent connections like those using dial-up connections, allowing these users to retrieve e-mail when connected and then to view and manipulate the retrieved messages without needing to stay connected. Although most clients have an option to leave mail on the server, e mail clients using POP3 generally connect, retrieve all messages, store them on the user's PC as new messages, delete them from the server, and then disconnect. All mobile devices which can retrieve Email at all support POP3. Click here for more information about the POP3 protocol.

Pop-port USB

A proprietary USB connector used by some Nokia mobile phones. The plug can allow synchronization via USB, audio output, and power input through the use of one connector. Adapters for standard Audio, USB, and power accessories are available, but standard 2.5 MM or 3.5 MM audio accessories cannot be plugged into Pop-Ports without an adapter.

Portrait (screen orientation)

Default screen orientation for almost all mobile devices where the screen is longer than it is wide.

PowerPoint presentation (file format)

A PowerPoint presentation consists of slides that can contain text, graphics, charts, and other data types. Files having a PPT extension are used with Microsoft’s PowerPoint presentation package and can be opened and read on most mobile devices.

Predictive text input

On smaller keyboards, or without any keyboard, it is often difficult to enter text. Predictive text input attempts, using the context and the letters entered so far, to project the rest of the word by offering suggestions even before the user completes the word. This method also allows users to press keys on a standard phone keypad just once. For example, to enter the word “good”, the keys for numbers 4, 6, 6, 3 are pressed and the word “good” will be suggested, among others such as “home” and “gone”. When using a QWERTY keyboard, on the other hand, predictive text will suggest words that match the letters being entered. For instance, if the user types in the letters ‘s’, ‘e’, ‘a’, the word ‘search” is suggested. If the user types in a ‘t’, the suggestion changes to “Seattle”. This feature is also referred to as T9 text input.

Press and hold

See long press.

Press release

An announcement made of a new Code Factory product release or important information about the company. Click here to see Code Factory’s most recent press releases.

Processor

The hardware within a computing device which processes data. The clock speed of the processor can be one of several types, and its clockspeed is generally expressed in megahertz.

Processor speed

The speed of a computing device’s processor, as expressed in megahertz or gigahertz. The higher the number of megahertz or gigahertz, the faster the device will operate, all other things being equal. Also referred to as clockspeed.

Professional edition (Windows Mobile)

A platform of the Windows Mobile operating system running on a device with a phone and touch screen.

Program (software)

See application.

Program memory

The memory set aside by mobile devices for programs to use in their work. Contrast with storage memory.

Proprietary

Used by one or a small group of companies for their own products. Contrast with standardized.

Proprietary USB

A cradle, dock, or other cable which, though it has a standard USB connector at one end, has with a Proprietary connector on the other. Devices that use a Proprietary USB cradle/cable require that all cables purchased for them use the Proprietary connector.

Public beta

A code factory product that has not yet been released and is still in beta form, but has been made available to the public for testing and comment. Note that, though public beta software has been tested, it is not yet released software, so the user downloads and uses it at his/her own risk of problems occurring. The user understands that public betas can cause instability in his/her device and should not expect the public beta software to work as well as a released version would.

Public build

See release (product).

Push email

In most cases, Email needs to be retrieved by the user. Push Email makes email something like an instant message in that it is delivered, and the recipient notified of its delivery, as soon as it is received. Push Email is most often found on devices running blackberry connect, but users connecting to a Microsoft Exchange server can also use it. Further, users can simulate push Email by setting their device to connect to a server every few minutes.

Push to Talk

A feature, available on some phones/networks, which allows a user to use a phone as if it were a radio. The user need only highlight a contact, press a button, and his/her voice will be heard on the recipient’s telephone. This is different from a normal call in that there is no ringing on the recipient’s phone and the recipient does not need to answer the call.

PX (pixel)

A pixel (short for picture element, is a single point in a graphic image. A pixel is generally thought of as the smallest complete sample of an image. The definition is highly context sensitive, however, as it may refer to points on a display device or photosensor elements in a digital camera. The more pixels used to represent an image, the closer the result can resemble the original. The number of pixels in an image is sometimes called the  resolution. Pixel counts can be expressed as a single number, as in a "two-megapixel"  digital camera , which has a nominal two million pixels, or as a pair of numbers, as in a "320 by 240 display", which has 320 pixels from side to side and 240 from top to bottom.

QCIF (Quarter Common Intermediate Format) video camera

A standard size for images produced by low-resolution digital cameras and video cameras. QCIF images are 176 pixels wide and 144 pixels tall (176 x 144).

Quick list

A list of options, usually accessed by a short press of the power button, on Symbian phones and some Windows Mobile Smartphones, or the long press of the Home key other Windows Mobile Standard devices. The list’s contents will vary with the phone, but will usually have an option to power the phone off, to switch to a specific profile with specific characteristics for the volume of rings, whether the phone vibrates on calls, and other features, and to enter flight mode, thus turning off all radios.

QWERTY keyboard

A standard keyboard, as found on most desktop and laptop computers, with the first six letters reading from left to right on the top of the board being q, w, e, r, t, y. Many mobile devices have QWERTY keyboards built in, but most are far smaller than those which work with computers, and may lack certain keys present on computer keyboards. External QWERTY keyboards are available for mobile devices and may be connected via Bluetooth and, in some cases, infrared and USB.

Radio button (software control)

A user interface element that allows the user to choose one of a predefined set of options. Radio buttons are arranged in groups of two or more and displayed on screen as, for example, a list of circular holes that can contain white space (for unselected) or a dot (for selected). When the user selects a radio button, any previously selected radio button in the same group becomes deselected. Selecting radio buttons can generally be done with the arrow keys, sometimes in conjunction with the enter or select key. When a Code Factory product says “radio button checked”, this means the radio button is selected.

Radio signal (phone)

The signal that comes from the mobile phone operator’s tower to a mobile phone. The strength of this signal is what is reported when “signal strength” is being spoken of. Just like battery level, Code Factory screen readers may report this in bars or as a percent.

Radio version

The version of the software which controls the radio components of a mobile phone. This is occasionally upgraded, as part of a ROM upgrade, to solve problems with, or enhance the functionality of, a mobile phone’s radio transceiver.

RAM (random access memory)

A computing device’s working memory in which programs may operate. Note that this is different from memory used to store programs and other files. Generally, RAM is where files related to jobs that are presently being done are kept, and it is erased even when a device is warm/soft reset.

Red button (Symbian)

The button on Symbian phones which tells the phone to end or hang up a call and has several other functions. It is also known as the end or hang-up key.

Refreshable Braille display

A device which uses pins on its surface to display Braille characters and which has the ability to change the pins used, and thus the characters displayed. Displays are generally connected to mobile devices via Bluetooth.

Rel. 0 (CDMA)

The first edition of the CDMA technology for mobile phones. All CDMA mobile devices support this protocol and generally support the newer versions of CDMA as well.

Release (product)

A product that is ready for the public to download, purchase, or use, or a new version of a product which is ready for use. Contrast with beta build.

Release (stylus)

When the stylus is used to tap and hold an area on the Pocket PC touch screen, the tip of the stylus is pressed against that point of the screen and contact is maintained for half a second or longer. To release that point means to lift the stylus tip off the screen, thus breaking contact. Note that the term applies even if you used your fingertip to tap and hold, rather than the stylus.

Reset button

A button, generally recessed into the body of a Pocket PC device, which can be pressed, and it soft/warm resets the device when pressed. When this button is pressed in combination with other buttons (the specific buttons depend on the device), the unit can be made to do a cold/hard reset.

Rev. A (CDMA)

The newer version of the CDMA2000 EVDO  data standard, allowing data transfer over the mobile phone network. Speeds attain a theoretical maximum of 3.1 megabits per second, approximately 30% higher than the previous version of the CDMA2000 data standard.

Review cursor

A cursor used to review the screen, and sometimes allowing the user to activate clickable/tappable elements on the screen, while not shifting the system focus. Review cursors can also navigate to areas where the system focus cannot go, and thus can access the entire screen at all times. Further, it can access foreground and background windows as the user wishes.

ROM (read-only memory)

A device’s computing memory containing data that normally can only be read, not written to. ROM contains the programming that allows your device  to be "booted up" or regenerated each time you turn it on. Unlike random access memory (RAM), the data in ROM is not lost when a warm/soft reset is performed. The term ROM may also refer to the basic program installations present in a mobile device when it leaves the factory/mobile phone network operator. These program installations include the operating system, programs installed by the manufacturer, and programs in the extended ROM installed by the mobile phone network operator.

ROM version

On a mobile device, the version of the basic operating system and other programs which come from the factory/mobile phone network operator. ROMs are sometimes upgraded to give the device more functionality or to solve problems in the device, and the version numbers change with such upgrades. Also referred to as the firmware version.

RS-DV-MMC (reduced-size, dual-voltage, multimedia memory card)

A multimedia card that is of about half the standard size (24 mm × 18 mm × 1), and supports operations at 1.8 V in addition to 3.3 V. Running at lower voltages reduces the card's power consumption, which is important in mobile devices.

RS-MMC

A smaller version (reduced size) of the MMC memory card. Click here for more information on RS-MMC.

Satellite (GPS)

An object which has been placed into  the Earth’s orbit by human endeavor, and which  transmit precise microwave  signals. A system of 24 such satellites enables a GPS  receiver  to determine its  location, speed, direction, and time.

Screen alignment/calibration (Pocket PC)

To prepare a touch screen for use through tapping a target, following a moving X, etc. Many visually impaired users have trouble doing this independently due to the fact that it must be done before any adaptive software can be installed. Therefore, Code Factory has designed a program to align the screen of a device remotely, through Microsoft ActiveSync. Click here to read more about the Remote Screen Alignment application.

Screen backlight

See backlight.

Screen magnifier

A software application that renders text on a screen larger and thus easier to read. Read more information about Code Factory magnifiers.

Screen orientation

Whether a screen is in landscape or portrait mode, that is, whether the text is displayed across the screen’s width or its length.

Screen reader

A software application that reads out loud, and displays in Braille  if necessary, the contents of a computing device’s screen. The screen reader will also allow the user to navigate the screen using a cursor, tell the user where the system focus is, and generally allow the user to use the device in an easy and pleasant way. Read more about Code Factory screen readers.

Screen resolution

The number of rows and columns of pixels which can be displayed on a given screen. Generally expressed as a number like 320x240. The higher the numbers, the greater the resolution and sharper the image.

Screen rotation

The turning of screen contents, usually by 90 degrees to the left or to the right, as, for example, when one slides out a keyboard on some mobile devices and the screen automatically switches to landscape mode.

Scroll wheel

A circular protuberance on a device which, when turned to the right, or rolled downward, scrolls down and when turned to the left, or rolled upward, scrolls up.

Scrolling (up and down)

To move up or down a menu, list, or document with ones arrow/navigation key. Alternatively, to   display different parts of a user interface on a screen too small to display the whole of that interface. This can be done with arrows, scroll bars on the screen which are clicked or tapped, or a scroll wheel.

SD (Secure Digital)

A type of flash memory card for mobile devices and other products, larger than MicroSD and MiniSD. Click here for more information about SD cards.

Self-portrait mirror

A mirror on a mobile device with a camera which allows the camera to take pictures of the photographer and the scene around him/her.

Serial number

A device-specific number generated by a Code Factory product which, when given to a Code Factory distributor, allows that distributor to obtain a license code which in turn, when entered on the device, allows the Code Factory product to function as a fully-licensed product. Note that Code Factory products using user-centered licensing do not use serial numbers.

Series 60 (2001) edition

The first edition of the Symbian series 60 platform, released in 2001. S60 1^st edition was based on the Symbian 6.0 operating system. The Nokia 7650 was the first phone to run on this platform.

Series 60 (Symbian platform)

The Symbian Series 60 (S60) platform is a software user interface for mobile phones powered by the Symbian operating system. The S60 User Interface is developed primarily by Nokia Corporation which licenses this platform for use by phone hardware manufacturers, software developers and network operators who provide S60-based applications and mobile services. All Symbian mobile phones that are supported by Code Factory Products run on the S60 platform. Click here for more information about Symbian Series 60, and click here for a list of devices based on this platform.

Series 60 2nd edition

The second edition of the Symbian series 60 platform, released in 2004. Changes include the ability to change softkey assignments in the standby screen, a function to show a list of running programs and either switch to one or unload it from memory, support for themes, three-dimensional icons indicating signal level and battery charge making these indicators more visible, time and date shown in standby mode, icons of the current events displayed in the right top corner in a small status bar (e.g., indicating that Bluetooth is active),. S60 2^nd edition employs Symbian OS v7.0s and, in later feature packs, Symbian OS v8.0a and Symbian OS v8.1a.

Series 60 3rd edition

The third edition of the Symbian series 60 platform, released in 2005. It requires .sis file signing, which  means that all .sis files must be signed before installing them to the device, thus providing greater platform security. It also features Support for real-time applications, Improved hardware adaptation, and enhanced multimedia and enterprise functionality. S60 3^rd edition and later feature packs run on the Symbian 9.x OS.

Server

In the context of Code Factory products, a computer to which an internet connection is made, or to which an SMS message is sent, to retrieve or return an activation in the user-centered licensing system. This computer manages the number of activations available, their distribution, and their return so as to be used on another device.

Short press

To press a key and then release it immediately.

Signal strength

The intensity at which the signal comes from a mobile phone network operator’s tower to a mobile phone. The greater the signal strength, the better the voice quality and the faster the data connection.

SIS (file format)

Files, with an extension of .sis, which install products on to Symbian phones, either from the phone itself or from a computer.

Sleep mode

A mode in which a computing device consumes little power and does not interact with the user. Note that some mobile phones will accept calls in sleep mode but no mobile phone in sleep mode will permit calls to be made while still in sleep mode.

Slide (form factor)

This type is usually designed similarly to a clamshell, with a large main display and speaker in one half, and the keypad and battery in the other half. But the two halves slide open instead of using a hinge. Slide designs allow the main display to be seen when closed, and are generally easier to open and close one-handed.

Slide-out keyboard

A keyboard which is covered by some other part of a mobile device but which slides out when that other part is pressed to one side.

Slider (software control)

A software control, usually to adjust the level of something, like volume or speed, which can be set as one of a large number of options increasing or decreasing in a linear way. If vertical, the up and down arrows or other methods of moving up and down can be used to set the options. If horizontal, the left and right arrows or other methods of moving left and right can be used to set the option.

Smartphone (general term)

A mobile phone running software that allows it to serve as a computing device. That is, to read documents, receive Email, browse the web, etc.

Smartphone (Windows Mobile edition)

Written with an uppercase S, this term refers to mobile phones powered by a specific operating system, also called Windows Mobile Standard, which encompasses a specific subset of what are generically called smartphones (written with a lowercase s). Generally, Smartphones  in the operating system sense of that term have no touch screen and can do somewhat less than Windows Mobile Professional / Pocket PC phones.

SMS (Short Message Service)

A service allowing the sending of short (160 characters or less) text messages over the mobile phone network. It is also used by Code Factory products to retrieve activations from, and return activations to, a server so that products can be activated and deactivated over a mobile phone network.

Soft/warm reset

A reset which unloads all running programs from memory but does not erase any data that has been saved. Generally, though not always, accomplished with the reset button pressed on its own.

Softkey / soft button

A key or button which can have its functions modified by the operating system or other software. These buttons have no fixed function but their functions depend on the user’s location. There are two such keys on the devices supported by Code Factory products, referred to as “LeftSoft” or “Button 1” for the left softkey, and “RightSoft” or “Button 2” for the right softkey.

Software

The computer programs that run and work on computing devices. Contrast with firmware and hardware.

Speed dial

A button which, when held down, will dial a number on a mobile phone immediately. That is, instead of dialing a 6, 7, or 10 digit number, all the user need do is to set a speed dial to dial that number and, when he/she wants to dial it, to press and hold down the speed dial in question. Note that on Windows Mobile devices, speed dial keys can be assigned to launch applications.

SSID (Service Set Identifier)

The name of a wireless network. Note that SSIDs are case-sensitive and must be entered exactly as set on other networking equipment or given by the network administrator.

Standard edition (Windows Mobile)

A platform based on the Windows Mobile operating system that is used on Mobile Phones. The phones do not have a touch screen, and work with Mobile Speak and Mobile Magnifier for Windows Mobile Smartphones. Standard edition was formerly known as Windows Mobile Smartphone Edition.

Standard phone keypad

A keypad as found on most phones, consisting of 3 columns of 4 keys each. The first column on the left contains, from top to bottom, 1, 4, 7, and *. The middle column contains 2, 5, 8, and 0. The last column on the right contains 3, 6, 9, and #.

Standby mode

See sleep mode.

Standby Screen (Symbian)

The screen to which a user is brought when a Symbian phone starts. This screen shows information the user may need to know at a glance, like the date and time, status icons about signal strength and battery level, activated options such as Bluetooth and GPRS, the presence of unread SMS and missed calls, and so on. It also displays application shortcuts that the user can reassign to other programs.

Standby time

The amount of time a battery will continue to power a mobile phone if the device is not used for transmitting or receiving radio signals.

Start menu (Windows Mobile)

A menu containing shortcuts to all the programs and settings on a mobile device. Roughly equivalent to the start menu on Windows computers.

Status information/details/icons

Information about the current status of a mobile device. That is, how strong a mobile phone’s signal is, whether wireless and Bluetooth are on and connected, whether there are any missed phone calls, any unread SMS messages, and so on. Code Factory products usually have a key which can be pressed to speak or magnify the status information/icons.

Storage cardStorage card

A plastic card which has flash memory embedded in it. This card is generally inserted into a mobile device to give it more memory, and is one of many different types of memory card, such as SD or MMC.

Storage memory

Memory used to store files when not in use. Contrast with program memory.

Stub antenna

A short external antenna on a mobile phone or other device which sends or receives radio signals.

Stylus

A pointed object used, on mobile devices, to tap a certain point on a touch screen.

Symbian (operating system)

Symbian’s advanced open standard operating system for data enabled mobile phones. It includes a multi-tasking multithreaded core, a user interface framework, data services enablers, application engines and integrated PIM functionality and wireless communications. Click here to read more about the Symbian OS.

Synchronization

A method of making sure that two copies of any information, like contacts or Email messages, which are stored on multiple devices, for example, a computer and mobile device, are kept up to date with one another.

System focus

The current location on which a user acts in any user interface. That is, the button ready to be pressed, line of text being read, menu option selected, and so on, is called the system focus.

System tray (software control)

On Pocket PC devices, the system tray is located near the bottom of the screen. Some applications inserts an icon into the system tray which does not only launch the application like shortcuts found in the Start menu or Today Screen, but may also open a menu that controls many of the programs features.

T9 input

A method for predicting word entry on mobile devices using a standard phone keypad, thus making it faster. Click here for more information on T9 input.

Tab / dialog page (software control)

A part of a dialog box which contains the options for one specific component of that dialog box’s functions. Using the simile of a dialog box as a book, a tab is one of the pages in the book. All tabs are usually listed, either at the bottom or top of the dialog, and movement among tabs can be accomplished by clicking on the tab’s name, pressing the Left or Right arrow keys while focus is on a tab to move to the previous or next tab, or, usually, by using the ctrl+tab keystroke.

Talk Time

The amount of time a battery will continue to power a mobile phone if the device is used for transmitting or receiving radio signals, as in making phone calls.

Talk/Dial/Send key

A key used to initiate a phone call on a mobile phone. Also called the green button on Symbian phones.

Tap

The use of a stylus or one’s finger to touch a touch screen’s surface.

Tap and hold

To touch a touch screen with a stylus or one’s finger, maintain the pressure for at least half a second, and then remove the pressure.

Taskbar (software control)

A bar on the Pocket PC user interface that icons for frequently accessed functions such as the Start menu, volume control, and connection manager. This also includes the clock showing the current time. It is displayed at the top of every screen on a Pocket PC device.

Text message (SMS)

A message sent or received by the short message service (SMS).

Text navigation

Cursor movement in, and reading of, text documents, messages, web pages, and any text contained in an edit controls by different units or chunks of text such as character, word, line, sentence, paragraph or page.

Text-to-speech

To convert printed text or the text on a visual display, through a screen reader and speech synthesizer, into words that are spoken. This may also refer to the voice used to speak these words.

TFT (Thin Film Transistor) display

A type of LCD display which has improved image quality.

Thumb keyboard

A QWERTY keyboard integrated with the mobile phone where the keys are on the front part of the device, below the screen, without any cover. This type of keyboard is designed to allow typing of characters using the thumbs.

Thumbkey

A key, on the front of a Braille display, which is pressed to perform a certain command, either alone or in combination with other keys. The key may pan the display or perform any number of other commands.

TI OMAP processor

A processor, made by Texas Instruments, used in mobile devices.

Today Screen (Windows Mobile)

The screen to which a user is brought when a Windows Mobile device starts. Roughly equivalent to the windows desktop, this screen shows information the user may need to know at a glance, like the date, number of appointments, number of unread SMS and Email messages, and so on. It can be navigated with the arrow keys and more information about any particular item can be found by opening its associated program via hitting the enter or select key while that program’s information is under the cursor. This is also referred to as the “home Screen”, particularly on Windows Mobile Smartphones.

Toggle

A command which enables or disables an option, but when pressed once more, reverts the option to its previous function. That is, a command which when pressed once changes the state of an option, but when pressed again reverses the change it made.

Toolbar (software control)

A group of functions in an application which are available with one tap, click, or keystroke because they are often used. Once one is on the bar of these frequently used options, one can generally navigate it with the left and right arrow keys and select the needed option with the enter or select key.

Touch cursor

A term used with Braille devices from HumanWare, to refer to cursor-routing buttons.

Touch screen

A screen which responds to pressure from a stylus or finger.

TransFlash

See MicroSD.

Tree view (software control)

A software control which contains a list of items some of which can be expanded to reveal other related options using the right arrow or enter key. For example, a list of folders may be set out in a tree where pressing the right arrow on a particular folder reveals the list of folders and files within that folder. To expand a branch of a tree view, the right arrow is used, and to collapse such a branch, the left arrow is used.

TTS

See Text-to-speech.

TV BROADCAST Receiver

A device designed to receive television pictures that are broadcast simultaneously with sound from the television channels accessible on a mobile device with such a receiver built in.

TV-out

A connector allowing a mobile device to display its images or video on a television or other monitor.

UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System)

A method for transmitting data over a WCDMA mobile phone network. UMTS speeds vary widely but are generally as fast as, or faster than, those speeds provided by some wired broadband connections.

Uncontracted Braille

Braille that spells each word out and uses no contractions to lessen the amount of space taken up by each word.

Unlocked phone

A cellular phone that can be used on any mobile phone network which supports the technology that the phone uses. That is, a phone which is not fixed to a particular mobile phone network operator but allows the user to use different operators if he/she wishes.

Unzip

To uncompress a zip file using a decompression package such as Winzip or 7Zip. Note that Windows XP and later versions can compress and decompress standard zip files.

UPNP (Universal Plug and Play)

A networking architecture that provides compatibility among networking equipment, software and peripherals of the 400+ vendors that are part of the Universal Plug and Play Forum. IT works with wired or wireless networks, and features device-driver independence and zero-configuration networking, so that it “just works” when the user establishes the connection (i.e., plugs in the computer or device) without having to adjust firewall and network settings.

USB (Universal Serial Bus)

A connector found on most computers and mobile devices. The connectors are used to transfer data between devices. All USB versions are compatible with one another (A USB device of any version will work with a USB device of any other version), but there are two versions of USB in common use. USB 1.1 transfers data at a theoretical speed of 1.5 or 12 megabits per second where USB 2.0 transfers data at a theoretical speed of 480 megabits per second. The USB connection will always work at the speed of the slowest device. If a USB 1.1 device is plugged into a USB 2.0 port, the connection will work at USB 1.1 speed. Only if both devices support 2.0 speeds will the connection operate at these speeds.

User ID

A unique identification for a registered user of a Code Factory product using the user-centered licensing system. Read more about the Code Factory User ID.

User interface

The means by which the product is designed to interact with the user by presenting graphical, textual and auditory information, as well as the control sequences (such as keystrokes with the keyboard or phone keypad, taps on a touch screen, or voice commands) that the user employs to control the program.

User-centered licensing (UCL)

A licensing method for Code Factory products which licenses the product to the user, not the device, and thus allows free movement of licenses between devices. Click here for more information about UCL.

VGA (Video Graphic Array) camera

A camera with an image resolution of 640x480 pixels.

Video-out

See TV-out.

Virtual key/button

A key created by a Code Factory product on a device’s touch screen rather than a physical key or button on a device.

Voice command

Function offered by some mobile devices or added by 3^rd-party software applications enabling calls to be made, contacts or appointments to be viewed, programs to be launched, and other frequently used functions  to be performed by speaking the command rather than pressing the device keys.

Voice Over IP

The routing of voice calls over the internet rather than over a mobile phone operator’s network or over the land-line phone network. In theory, this allows any device on the internet which has a microphone and speaker to become a telephone, and allows free, or very inexpensive, calls to be placed around the world.

Voice tag

A command which, when spoken into a mobile phone’s microphone, causes the phone to perform some command, dial a number, or open a program.

VoIP

See Voice over IP.

VPN (virtual private network)

An encrypted method of connecting to what is generally a company network over the public internet. The internet is insecure with anyone who can examine data being able to decipher it. With a VPN, all data flowing between one point on the network and another is encrypted so that the devices on the network can communicate privately as if they were on a single private network.

WAP (Wireless Application Protocol)

A method for presenting web pages on small devices in a way which does not tax the transfer speeds or memory of those devices. That is, these are web sites designed for mobile devices rather than standard computers.

WCDMA (Wideband Code Division Multiple Access)

A newer technology for transmitting voice and data from and to mobile phones. Generally put in place as the next step for GSM networks. Click here for more information about WCDMA.

Web view (software control)

A software control that contains, apart from text, HTML elements such as links, form fields, and HTML headings, lists and tables.

WEP (Wireless Encryption Protocol) key

An alphanumeric string, or key, used to access some 802.11a/b/g, networks. WEP keys are case-sensitive and must be entered exactly as set on other network equipment or as given by the network administrator.

Wi-Fi (wireless fidelity)

A set of standards for wireless local area networks based on the specifications known as 802.11. It was originally developed for use by wireless devices and local networks but it is now used for Internet access as well. Wi-Fi technology enables you, among other things, to access the Internet wirelessly from your computer or mobile device without physically connecting to a hardware modem and telephone line or Ethernet connection.

Wi-Fi hotspot

A Wi-Fi network that is at a public space and which may be open to all users with the correct equipment.

Wi-Fi zone

The vicinity where a wireless network or Wi-Fi hotspot is available and can be connected to by a user of a Wi-Fi-enabled device.

Windows Mobile (operating system)

A compact operating system from Microsoft combined with a suite of applications designed for use on mobile devices based on the Microsoft Win32 Application Programming Interface. Such devices include Pocket PCs, Smartphones,, portable media centers, and on-board computers on some automobiles.

Windows Mobile Device Center

The software used to synchronize a Windows Mobile device’s contacts, email, tasks, notes, and other information with a computer running Microsoft Windows Vista. Click here for more information about Windows Mobile Device Center.

Wireless network

An 802.11B or 802.11G wireless network.

Wizard

A software interface guiding the user through setting up, or selecting, a complex system or option via the use of multiple and simple steps.

Xscale (PXA) processor

A low power, small sized, usually high-speed processor used in mobile devices supporting the ARM architecture. Click here for more information about Xscale processors.

Zip (file format)

A file format, with the zip extension, used for compressing data for easy transfer over communications links. Windows XP, as well as all other modern operating systems, can decompress, or unzip, these files without the installation of any other application, though there are many third party applications to handle this task. Code Factory product installers often come in ZIP files. These files can easily be decompressed in any modern operating system.

Zoom level

See magnification level.