GETTING IT RIGHT

Hangup

A hangup, also called a hang, is a condition that sometimes occurs when computer programs conflict or do not run properly. The computer seems paralysed. Clicking the mouse has no effect, regardless of where the arrow or cursor is placed. Sometimes a hangup will resolve itself. In some instances, the loading of a large amount of data (for example, downloading a complex Web page) can appear as a hangup. If you see an hourglass symbol, you should wait a couple of minutes before concluding that the system is hung up. But if the pointer appears and you cannot get a response by clicking on anything or by striking various keys on the keyboard, you will have to terminate the application or reboot the computer.

Burst

Burst is a term used in a number of information technology contexts to mean a specific amount of data sent or received in one intermittent operation. It can be contrasted with streamed, paced, or continuous. Generally, a burst operation implies that some threshold has been reached that triggers the burst. Depending on the particular technology, a burst operation can be intermittent at a regular or an irregular rate.

Biochip

A biochip is a glass or silicon wafer that is designed for the purpose of accelerating genetic research. It may also be able to rapidly detect chemical agents used in biological warfare so that defensive measures could be taken. A biochip is designed to "freeze'' into place the structures of many short strands of DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid), the basic chemical instruction that determines the characteristics of an organism. Effectively, it is used as a kind of test tube for real chemical samples.

Compiled by G. Rajah