Specifications

Glossary 67
Networking Alpha Signs (9700-0112C) October 8, 2003
boot code
Firmware used for power-up on a display sign’s controller board.
bridge
A device that connects two or more physical networks, forwarding frames between networks based on
information in the datalink header. Because a bridge operates at the datalink layer, it is transparent to the network
layer protocols.
brightness
The output intensity of an LED measured in millicandela (mcd). The higher the number, the brighter the
intensity. See also luminance and wavelength.
broadcast
A transmission method by which all devices/nodes on a network receive a copy of any message that is
designed for broadcast. For example, when a message is broadcast, each sign on that network displays the
message.
browser
A GUI-based software application used to access hypertext documents and other services on the World Wide
Web or Internet. See also GUI.
buffer
Stores chunks of data in transit until they can be processed.
byte
Made up of 8 bits. See also bit.
cable connectivity
A cable connection between the serial port of a computer and a sign. This is the simplest type of connection.
Also referred to as a wired or serial connection.
cabling
The wiring that connects pieces of a network together. RS232 and RS485 are types of cabling used with
Adaptive displays.
CE
Compliance European. The agency that sets the standards LED signs must meet if they are to be sold in
Europe. International only.
center-to-center spacing
The distance from the center of one pixel to the center of the next adjacent pixel. Useful in determining
character height. Also known as pitch.
character
Any letter, number, punctuation mark, or other symbol used in text. A typical character is 7 pixels high by 5
pixels wide, plus the spaces between characters and lines.
character height
LED character height usually expressed in pixels. For example, 7-high.
character height-to-pitch relationship