Technology Terms and Definitions

Term	Plain English definition
Accessibility features	Tools and settings designed to help people with disabilities or additional needs to use devices more easily. These features can include things like screen readers for the visually impaired, voice control for those who have difficulty using touchscreens, and subtitles for people who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)	Used in headphones and earphones, it helps block out unwanted background sounds. It works by listening to the noise around you and then creating soundwaves that “cancel out” those noises, making what you hear much clearer.
Apps	Short for “applications”, apps are software programs designed to perform specific tasks on a computer, smartphone or other devices.
App store / Marketplace	An online shop where you can download and install apps.
Assistive Technology	Tools and devices to help people with disabilities or additional needs to perform tasks that might be difficult or impossible for them to do.
Audio content	Sounds or recordings you can listen to, such as music, podcasts, audio books, or any other information delivered through speakers or headphones.
Bluetooth	Allows devices to connect and communicate with each other wirelessly over a short distance.
Broadband	A high-speed internet connection that is always on and much faster than previous dial-up connections. It can be delivered through phone lines, fibre optic cables and mobile networks.
CCTV	Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) is a camera or system of cameras used to record and monitor activity in a specific area to help keep places safe and secure.
Charge / charging	Giving power to battery devices such as phones or tablets by connecting them to electricity so they can be used again.
Cloud / Cloud based storage	A cloud is a network of remote servers hosted on the internet that store, manage and process data. Cloud storage means saving your files (like photos, documents, or videos) on the internet instead of just on your computer. You can access them from any device, anywhere, as long as you're connected to the internet.
Computer	An electronic device that stores and processes information. They can be used to run programmes, write documents, play games, and browse the internet.
Data	Information that is collected and stored for use. This can be text, images, sounds, video. Data is the raw ingredient that can be processed and analysed to gain insight, make decisions and create something new.
Device(s)	Electronic tools or machines like phones, tablets or computers that help you do tasks, communicate with people, or access information.
Docking station	There are different types of docking station. A docking station for a laptop computer is a small box with places to plug in different equipment it lets you easily connect your laptop to other equipment like a monitor, keyboard, mouse, and internet cable - all at once. You just plug your laptop into the docking station, and it will connect to all the other equipment. A docking station for a robot is a base where a robot returns to recharge its battery. It usually stays in one place in your home, and the robot automatically goes back to it when it needs more power or when it has finished cleaning. For robot hoovers the docking station can also sometimes empty the robot's dustbin.
E-books	Digital books that you can read on a tablet, smartphone or e-reader. They look like printed books but are stored electronically.
E-reader	A device that allows a user to read e-books.
Electronic calendar	A tool that helps you to organise and keep track of appointments, meetings and events. It helps manage your schedule, set reminders and share plans with others.
Encryption	A way of protecting information by changing it into a secret code that only someone with the right access can understand.
Entertainment streaming apps	Applications that allow you to watch or listen to various types of media, such as movies, TV shows, music, and podcasts, directly on your device via the internet. Some of these apps are free, while others might require a regular payment called a subscription. Some free apps also sell additional subscriptions to remove adverts.
Games console	Allows you to play games either on a handheld device with a screen or by connecting it to a TV.
Geofence	A virtual boundary set up around a specific geographic area. This means when a device enters or leaves this area it can trigger certain actions or alerts.
GPS	Stands for “Global Positioning System”. It’s a technology that uses satellites orbiting the Earth to determine your exact location. It can track where you have been, identify where you are and show you the directions to a place you want to go. Devices that connect to the mobile phone network often also use their connection to this network to identify location; this is similar to GPS but uses less battery power.
GHz or Gigahertz	A unit of measurement for radio frequency bands. Wi-Fi signals use it to transmit data. For example, typically 2.4GHz or 5GHz. Generally, 2.4GHz has longer range but slower speeds while 5GHz offers faster speeds but a short range. Some devices that connect to Wi-Fi such as smart plugs will only work on a specific radio frequency.
High Definition or HD	A TV that, when compared to standard definition, shows a much clearer and sharper picture with more detail and vivid colours, making images look more lifelike and less blurry.
Hyperlink	A clickable or selectable piece of text that takes you to another webpage or document when you press on it. Usually formatted in a different way to make it obvious (for example underlined).
Internet	A global network of computers that are connected to each other. It allows people to share information, communicate and access a large amount of data from anywhere in the world.
Lifeline	A device that lets someone call for help quickly in an emergency, such as after a fall or if they feel unsafe. Usually linked to a monitoring centre or specific people when activated who are trained to assist.
Lifestyle monitoring system	A technology that keeps track of a person’s daily activities and routines. Using devices and sensors to monitor things like movement, sleep patterns, and health indicators.
Light sensor	A device that detects light, for example in a home monitoring device it would signal that lights or lamps are turned on in the room where this is placed.
Micro SD card	A Secure Digital (SD) card is memory card used to store extra files in devices like smartphones, tablets, cameras, and computers. The are often used to transfer files between devices by transferring the card between devices. A ‘Micro’ version is about 50% smaller in size than a regular one.
Monitoring centre	The hub that receives alerts from telecare or some GPS devices and takes appropriate action to ensure the user's safety. This can include speaking to the user, contacting emergency services, or notifying a designated responder. They can also make calls to the person as part of a care plan to support with medication reminders for example.
Movement / motion sensor	A device that detects movement or motion, for example in a home monitoring device it would signal that movement has happened in the room where it has been placed so a person is active. Smart movement sensors can be linked to other smart devices so that they turn on or off when movement is detected e.g. to automatically turn on a lamp using a smart plug.
Networks	Are systems that connect multiple computers and devices together so they can share information and resources. This connection allows devices to communicate with each other, share files, access the internet, and use shared devices like printers.
Notification	A message or alert that pops up on a smartphone to let you know something has happened. It could be: A text message or email arriving A reminder for an appointment A news update A social media comment or like An app telling you something new, like a sale or a weather warning You usually see notifications at the top of your screen or on your lock screen. You can tap them to open the app they came from or swipe them away if you’re not interested.
Pager (give example of what this means in relation to telecare)	Links telecare products to one central device the informal carer can have access to and see any alerts that come through. Can be linked to a monitoring centre, for an additional charge, check this is possible for the product it is required for.
Podcast	A series of audio episodes you can listen to on your phone, computer or other device. Similar to TV or Radio shows, they can be on any topic.
Power rating (in relation to plugs/electrical appliances)	The amount of electrical power that a plug or appliance can handle safely. It's usually measured in watts (W) or kilowatts (kW). For example, if an appliance has a power rating of 1000 watts, it means it uses 1000 watts of power when it's running. Knowing the power rating helps you ensure that you don't overload your plugs or circuits, which can prevent electrical hazards like overheating or fires.
Responder Service	A paid for service if the person doesn’t have any family or friends who could respond if they had a fall or emergency that needed someone to come and check on them. This is usually linked to telecare or GPS devices.
Router	A device that connects to a wired broadband connection and provides Wi-fi to the immediate area around that device.
Server/remote server	A computer or system that provides services, data, or resources to other computers over a network. It stores and manages information so users can access it remotely, rather than on their own device.
SIM card	A Subscriber Identification Module, known colloquially and almost universally as a SIM card. This is a small chip that you put into your mobile phone that stores information and lets your phone connect to a mobile network.
Smart devices	Electronic gadgets that can connect to the internet to make to make things easier or more convenient. Devices can be controlled automatically or be controlled remotely using a smartphone or voice commands.
Smart home system	A collection of devices and technologies that are connected to the internet and can be controlled remotely. These devices can include things like lights, thermostats, security camera, and appliances. The system allows you to manage and automate various aspects of your home.
Smartphone	A mobile phone that does much more than make calls and sends text messages. They are touchscreen devices that replicate everything a computer can do.
Smart Speaker	A type of speaker that is connected to the internet as well as other devices which is controlled by voice commands. It can answer questions, play music, and control other devices it is connected to.
Software	Programmes or applications that run on computers, smart phones, tablets and other smart devices.
SOS button	A special button you can press in an emergency to get help. When pressed it notifies the relevant people, professionals, or emergency services letting them know that immediate assistance is needed.
Tablet	Similar to a smartphone, but much bigger, a portable, flat device, with a touchscreen.
Technology	Tools, machines, and systems that solve problems like making things more efficient.
Technology Enabled Care	Using technology to support and improve health and social care services. This could include devices, applications, and sensors.
Telecare	Using technology to provide care and support to someone remotely, often in their own home. Including things like emergency alarms, fall sensors and devices to monitor health conditions.
Telecare base unit	This is a control unit for all telecare sensors/pendants that need to be linked to a monitoring centre. It plugs into an electric point and landline. When any telecare sensors or a pendant is activated a phone call goes through to a monitoring centre.
Temperature sensor	A device that measures the temperature in your home and provides this information to other devices or systems. It can be used in various applications, such as in home heating systems to ensure the temperature is comfortable, in refrigerators to keep food at the right temperature, or in smart home systems to monitor and control the climate in different rooms.
Touchscreen	A screen you can control by touching it with your finger instead of using physical buttons or inputs like a mouse or keyboard.
Ultra High Definition (UHD)	About four times clearer than standard High Definition.
Virtual	When something exists or happens on a computer or smart device rather than the physical world. For example, ‘virtual meetings’ take place online where people can see and talk to each other, but they are in different locations.
Video call	A kind of phone call that allows you to see as well as talk to someone live using a phone, computer, or tablet.
Video doorbell	A doorbell with a built-in camera, microphone, and speaker which lets you see and talk to visitors at your door through a smartphone or other device.
Voice control	A feature that allows you to operate your devices using spoken commands. Instead of pressing buttons or using a touchscreen, you can simply speak to your device to make it do things like play music, set reminders, or control smart home gadgets.
Wake word	The word used to activate a smart speaker.
Wattage / Watts	A unit of measure for power which tells you how much energy is being used by an electrical device.
White noise	A steady consistent sound that is like a gentle hiss, similar to an old radio or TV that isn’t tuned in. White noise is often used by people to help block out unwanted sounds, making it easier to sleep, relax, or concentrate.
Wi-Fi	Technology that allows devices like computers, smart phones, and tablets to connect to the internet without using wires.
Wireless	A way of connecting devices without physical cables.
Wireless internet	A way of connecting to the internet without using physical cables.
YouTube	A website and app where people can watch, share, and upload videos online. It lets users stream content like entertainment, tutorials, music, and more. It is free to use with a premium paid-for option that removes adverts.

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