Chapter 14

Augmented Reality (AR)

A branch of virtual reality that overlays a virtual scene on real objects.

Bluetooth

Wireless technology for short-distance data transfer.

Cloud Computing

Integrates various technologies to provide resources over the Internet.

Business Applications

Accessed via a web browser with data stored on providers' servers.

Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)

Cloud computing delivering computer infrastructure as a service.

Nanotechnology

Techniques involving materials on a nanoscale.

Platform as a Service (PaaS)

Provides a computing platform as a service for building applications over the Internet.

QR Code

Matrix barcode for quick information access.

Software as a Service (SaaS)

Model delivering software to users for a fee.

Utility Computing

Provision of IT services on demand, paying for resources as needed.

Virtual Reality (VR)

Uses computer-generated 3D images for real-world interaction.

Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi)

Broadband wireless technology for data transmission.

Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX)

Broadband wireless technology for metropolitan area networks.

Application Service Providers (ASPs)

Provide software or services access for a fee.

Avatar

Graphical representation of a person in the virtual world.

Cave Automatic Virtual Environment (CAVE)

Virtual environment with rear-projection screens for 3D images.

Egocentric Environment

User is fully immersed in the VR world.

Exocentric Environment

User has a "window view" of the VR world.

Grid Computing

Combines processing powers of multiple computers for complex calculations.

Pull Technology

User requests information before receiving it.

Push Technology

Web server delivers information to users without a request.

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Tag

Small electronic device for unique identification.

Virtual World

Simulated environment for user interaction via avatars.

Biometrics

Measurement and analysis of unique physical or behavioral characteristics for personal identity verification.