unary operation

A function or mathematical operation performed on one variable, such as a negation of a number or the square root.

undelete

The process of restoring a lost file, if possible. Performed by scanning the directory list for file links in the event that they are intact. If a portion of the data is overwritten, the file cannot be completely restored.

underscan

Any screen mode that has a border surrounding it and does not utilize the full width and height of the screen. Most computer displays use underscan modes, while television, video, and full screen images generally use overscan modes.

underscore

The character used to define a space, by printing a character. The underscore is produced by pressing the SHIFT "-" keys. Example: These_words_are_connected.

undo

The act of canceling an operation, often resoring it to its original state.

unformatted

A disk that has not been prepared for use by a computer. Also text that is not aligned or justified properly.

unit of measure

A value used for measuring images and objects in programs such as desktop publishers and 3D modeling. Includes traditional units such as inches or centimeters along with computer specific units such as pixels or world coordinates.

UNIX

An multiuser operating system devloped by AT&T Bell Laboratories for use on mainframe and personal computers.

update

The act of installing software which replaces earlier versions of the same software.

upgrade

The act of improving hardware or software by adding new products or installing newer and better products.

upload

The process of sending a file from a source system to a destination system.

USENET

Internet networking system.

user friendly

A program or interface that was designed to be less confusing to the user than other traditional interfaces.

user group

A group of computer enthusiasts sharing common interests and techniques for better using computer systems, or to learn more about the system.

user-startup

A script that is used in booting the computer, designed to be easily modifiable by the user, without the risk of interfering with the normal booting process.

utility

A small application or program, such as those found in the SYS:Utilities drawer. UUCP