Software Engineering Glossary

Software Engineering Glossary

"N" Glossary Content

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n-address instruction	A computer instruction that contains n address fields, where n may be any non-negative integer. See also: one-address instruction; two-address instruction; etc. Contrast with: n-plus-one address instruction.
n-level address	An indirect address that specifies the first of a chain of n storage locations, the first n-1 of which contains the address of the next location in the chain and the last of which contains the desired operand. For example, a two-level address. Contrast with: direct address; immediate data.
n-plus-one address instruction	A computer instruction that contains n+1 address fields, the last containing the address of the instruction to be executed next. See also: one-plus-one address instruction; two-plusone address instruction; etc. Contrast with: n-address instruction.
nanocode	A collection of nanoinstructions.
nanoinstruction	In a two-level implementation of microprogramming, an instruction that specifies one or more of the basic operations needed to carry out a microinstruction.
nanostore	In a two-level implementation of microprogramming, a secondary control store in which nanoinstructions reside.
Nassi-Shneiderman chart	See: box diagram.
natural language	A language whose rules are based on usage rather than being preestablished prior to the language's use. Examples include German and English. Contrast with: formal language.
nest	To incorporate a computer program construct into another construct of the same kind. For example, to nest one subroutine, block, or loop within another; to nest one data structure within another
network adapter	An expansion card or other device used to connect a computer to a local area network, and which uses Microsoft Windows Network or another network, such as Novell® NetWare®.
network drive	A shared directory to which you are connected. When you connect to someone else's shared directory, you assign a drive letter to that directory, thus creating a network drive.
network printer	A printer that someone else is sharing or that is connected to a network server. You can connect to a network printer by using Print Manager. When you connect to a network printer, you assign the path of that printer to a port on your computer (for example, LPT1).
no-op	Abbreviation for no-operation.
no-operation	A computer operation whose execution has no effect except to advance the instruction counter to the next instruction. Used to reserve space in a program or, if executed repeatedly, to wait for a given event. Often abbreviated no-op. Syn: do-nothing operation.
node	In a diagram, a point, circle, or other geometric figure used to represent a state, event, or other item of interest. See also: graph (2).
nomenclature standard	A standard that describes the characteristics of a system or set of names, or designations, or symbols.
non-Windows application	An application that is designed to run with MS-DOS but not specifically with Windows, and that may not be able to take full advantage of all Windows features (such as memory management). Also known as MS-DOS-based application.
nondestructive read	A read operation that does not erase the data in the accessed location. Contrast with: destructive read.
nonprocedural language	A language in which the user states what is to be achieved without having to state specific instructions that the computer must execute in a given sequence. Contrast with: procedural language. See also: declarative language; interactive language; rule-based language.
nonsolid color	A pattern of dots of different colors that simulate a solid color. Also known as dithered color.
nontechnical requirements	Agreements, conditions and/or contractual terms that affect and determine the management activities of a software project.
NOR	In configuration management, an acronym for notice of revision.
notation standard	A standard that describes the characteristics of formal interfaces within a profession.
notice of revision (NOR)	A form used in configuration management to propose revisions to a drawing or list, and, after approval, to notify users that the drawing or list has been, or will be, revised accordingly. See also: configuration control; engineering change; specification change notice.
nucleus	See: kernel (1).