|
|
|
|
What is Thread? |
What do a t-shirt and a computer program have in common? They are both composed of many threads! While the threads in a t-shirt hold the shirt together, the threads of a computer program alllow the program to execute sequential actions or many actions at once. Each thread in a program identifies a process that runs when the program asks it to (unlike when you ask your roommate to do the dishes).
Threads are typically given a certain priority, meaning some threads take precedence over others. Once the CPU is finished processing one thread, it can run the next thread waiting in line. However, it's not like the thread has to wait in line at the checkout counter at Target the Saturday before Christmas. Threads seldom have to wait more than a few milliseconds before they run. Computer programs that implement "multi-threading" can execute multiple threads at once. Most modern operating systems support multi-threading at the system level, meaning when one program tries to take up all your CPU resources, you can still switch to other programs and force the CPU-hogging program to share the processor a little bit.
The term "thread" can also refer to a series of related postings in an online discussion. Web-based bulletin boards are made up of many topics, or threads. The replies posted in response to the original posting are all part of the same thread. In e-mail, a thread can refer to a series of replies back and forth pertaining a certain message. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Return to Glossary |
|
|
| A special thanks to
Sharpened Glossary |
|
|
Popular terms beginning with 'T': |
What is Template?
Template
A template is a file that serves as a starting point for a new document. When you open a template, it is pre-formatted in some way. For example, you might use template in Microsoft Word tha... continue
What is Tutorial?
A computer tutorial is an interactive software program created as a learning tool. Tutorials help people learn new skills by using a step-by-step process that ensures the user is following along and c... continue
What is Token?
Besides those small copper coins that allow you to play video games, there are three different types of tokens:
1. In networking, a token refers to a series of bits that circulate on a token-ri... continue
What is T3?
What about T2, you ask? For some reason, there just is no such thing. (There was probably some legal dispute about it involving the name of a popular Arnold Schwarzenegger movie). If a T1 connection j... continue
What is TTL?
Stands for "Time To Live." Pretty intense for a computer term, huh? It refers an aspect of the Internet Protocol. TTL is used when a "ping," or a request for a response, is sent to another computer, s... continue
What is Thick Client?
Thick clients, also called heavy clients, are full-featured computers that are connected to a network. Unlike thin clients, which lack hard drives and other features, thick clients are functional whet... continue
What is Tweak?
When you modify a certain piece of hardware for better performance, it is often referred to as "tweaking" it. Overclocking the computer's CPU or changing jumper settings on the motherboard are common ... continue
What is Toolbar?
In a graphical interface on a computer monitor a toolbar is a row, column, or block of onscreen buttons or icons that, when clicked, activate certain functions of the program.
What is Task Bar?
The task bar was introduced with Windows 95 and has been part of every version of Windows since then. It is the bar that spans the bottom of the screen and contains the Start button on the left side a... continue
What is Thyristor?
A thyristor is a four-layer semiconductor that is often used for handling large amounts of power. While a thyristor can be turned on or off, it can also regulate power using something called phase ang... continue
|
| |
|
|
