- abstraction
- Hiding implementation complexity behind a clear interface, so users of an object need only understand what it does, not how it does it internally. Understanding object-oriented programming: 4 concepts that shape how you build software
- biasing
- Setting the operating point of a transistor by applying a steady voltage or current to its control terminal, so it responds predictably to signals. Correct biasing keeps an amplifier in its linear region and prevents distortion. What a transistor does: switching and amplifying in 2 roles
- bytecode
- An intermediate instruction set that sits between source code and machine code, designed for a virtual machine to interpret or compile at runtime. Java and Python both use bytecode internally. Understanding how compilers and interpreters run your code: 2 paths from source to execution
- deterministic
- A process is deterministic when it produces the same output every time it receives the same input, with no variation or randomness. Understanding what an algorithm is: 5 contexts where you already use them
- electrolyte
- The conductive liquid or gel inside an electrolytic capacitor that forms part of the dielectric system. When it leaks or dries out, the capacitor loses capacitance and eventually fails. Spotting a faulty capacitor: 4 checks before you replace it
- encapsulation
- The practice of bundling data and the methods that operate on it within an object, and restricting direct access from outside code. Understanding object-oriented programming: 4 concepts that shape how you build software
- equivalent series resistance
- The internal resistance of a capacitor that appears in series with its ideal capacitance, abbreviated as ESR. It rises with age and temperature, and high ESR causes power loss and heating in high-frequency circuits even when capacitance remains within tolerance. Spotting a faulty capacitor: 4 checks before you replace it
- firmware
- Permanent software stored in ROM that controls basic hardware functions and runs when a system starts, before the operating system loads. Recognising RAM and ROM: 2 memory types with different roles in your system
- greedy algorithm
- A greedy algorithm makes the locally optimal choice at each step, aiming for a quick solution without checking whether it leads to the overall best result. Understanding what an algorithm is: 5 contexts where you already use them
- inheritance
- A mechanism where a new class is derived from an existing one, inheriting its fields and methods and optionally adding or overriding them. Understanding object-oriented programming: 4 concepts that shape how you build software
- inverter
- A device that converts direct current to alternating current by switching the DC supply on and off rapidly to create a waveform that approximates AC. Understanding AC and DC current: 2 types that power different parts of your world
- polymorphism
- The ability to use objects of different classes interchangeably when they share a common interface, with the correct method version running automatically at runtime. Understanding object-oriented programming: 4 concepts that shape how you build software
- reactance
- Opposition to alternating current caused by capacitors and inductors, which shifts the phase relationship between voltage and current rather than simply reducing current as resistance does. How to use Ohm's Law: 4 calculations every circuit needs
- rectifier
- A circuit that converts alternating current to direct current by allowing current to flow in only one direction, typically using diodes. Understanding AC and DC current: 2 types that power different parts of your world
- volatile
- A volatile memory loses its contents when power is removed. RAM is volatile; ROM is non-volatile. Recognising RAM and ROM: 2 memory types with different roles in your system
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