L2 cache: The second-fastest memory available to a microprocessor (second only to the Level 1 cache). It usually consists of SRAM chips near the processor, although some recent processors have on-chip L2 caches. Because the CPU runs faster than the memory bus--say 400MHz versus 100MHz--cache becomes useful to temporarily store instructions and data, making sure the CPU has a steady supply of material to churn while memory catches up. Also known as secondary cache.
LAN: Local Area Network. A private computer network within a building or a local group of buildings. Most LANs are wired with cables hidden in walls and ceilings, although wireless connections are also available.
LANC: Also referred to as Control-L, is a hardware/ software protocol that lets your camera communicate with your computer or other Control-L equipped cameras.
lands: Pits are the tiny indentations burned into a CD-R/CD-RW's recording layer and lands refer tothe area between pits. In terms of data storage, think of them as binary ones and zeroes. As a CD-ROM drive's laser passes across the reflective surface of the media, the pits cause variations in the reflective light, which the sensor reads as the binary ones and zeroes of the original data.
language: Syntax used to describe functions to computers. Java is a language, HTML is a language, Cobol is a language, etc.
Large IDE Mode Type: Uses the CHS translation for drives over 1,024 cylinders but without LBA support. It's often referred to as Extended CHS and is better for performance (but not compatibility).
lathing: A technique for generating 3D models based of the principle of the lathe machine you might have seen in shop class. A polygon is rotated on an axis and the resulting trails create the object's volume.
lattice: A lattice is basically a box around a shape. Say you have a 9x9 lattice around a character. You have series of control points in the shape of a cube that you can then pull and animate. The result is that anything in the lattice box is affected. For example, you might use a lattice over a character's waist to twist it.
layers: Convention in graphics apps that simulates transparent sheets laid over the artwork. Complex images can have work saved on many of these layers for easier editing and access to buried regions.
lazy susan: A circular tray that spins. It is generally used for dining purposes.
LBA IDE Mode Type: LBA (Logical Block Addressing) is an alternative disk-accessing method that uses a logical address number instead of CHS info. Both the drive and BIOS must support LBA, as the BIOS translates the CHS parameters from the drive during initialization. The OS and the drive then communicate via LBA.
legacy support: Refers to backward compatibility with older hardware or software. In soundcards, DOS legacy support refers to support for the Sound Blaster standard, including the correct audible response when the software writes directly to the audio hardware without going through the operating system drivers.
Level 2 cache: The second-fastest memory available to a microprocessor (second only to the Level 1 cache). It usually consists of SRAM chips near the processor, although some recent processors have on-chip L2 caches. Also known as secondary cache.
level of detail: LOD. A description given to a graphic that has multiple-sized versions of itself, ranging from a small size such as 10x10 pixels, up to a high resolution such as 256x256 pixels. In a game, different levels of detailed textures are used to conserve processing power--the lower the level of detail, the lower the resolution, and the lower the size.
libraries : A collection of elements that are stored together and can be reused as you'd like.
lighting effects: A process within a game where the brightening of specific pixels is done in an attempt to simulate light-source effects on different objects. The higher the color depth, the more realistic the lighting will appear, as more gradients from the original nonlit color to the fully lit color can be displayed.
linear: Literally relating to a straight line. Because of certain mathematical theorems, electronic devices that use "linear" processes cannot generate any new frequencies in the sound. This linear processing is desirable from the standpoint of distortion, but undesirable from the standpoint of creating complex timbres.
linear actuator: A unique way to move the heads on a disk drive. The heads move linear to the disks. It is used for Iomega's Zip products. See rotary actuator.
linear dimensions: The external dimensions (WxDxH) of a given product.
Linux: A free Unix variant that is in constant free development and supported by a worldwide Internet community. Still thought of as an uber-nerd OS, Linux is picking up steam.
lithium-ion: Variety of rechargeable battery known for longer charge life and less memory effect.
live eight-channel switcher: A hardware board that coordinates the video signals that are coming in from eight different sources.
load ramp: Keeps the heads apart when a disk isn't in the unit. It also allows you to load the heads as well.
Load/Unload Technology: A mechanism developed by IBM that allows the read/write head on a hard disk to rest on a ramp when it is not reading and writing data on the disk. This prevents the heads from sliding over the smooth disk surface during starting and stopping of the disks when the disks are rotating at less than full speed and then sticking to the drive (which happens easily between two very smooth surfaces). Previously, the disk had to be textured to prevent this, but it became difficult to do with higher capacity hard disks.
Local Area Network: A private computer network confined within a specific geographical area, such as a building or a group of buildings. Most LANs are wired with cables hidden in walls and ceilings, although wireless connections are also available.
local memory: A videocard-specific term, this refers to the memory installed directly on the videocard and is directly interfaced to the videocard processor. This really close, or "local" memory, is used for texture storage, data/z-buffer storage, and more. This is considered the fastest place to store videocard data and is the preferred place to store all your data.
locking on: A latch that holds the actuator assembly in place.
lofting: Also known as skinning. A surface is created using a series of curves as profiles.
logical drive: A further division of an Extended Partition.
logical volume: What the OS sees as a drive. Logical volumes are assigned drive letters after a high-level (DOS) format has been finished.
look and feel: The visual appearance and operation of a GUI. There are several styles of GUIs, such as Microsoft Windows, the Macintosh, Motif (for Unix), etc.
loop: A programming structure that repeatedly executes one or more program statements a specified number of times or until a certain condition is met. Almost all programming languages have multiple loop structures designed for different purposes.
low-frequency response: Call it bass or the thump you get in the 3Hz to 120Hz range.
low-pass frequency: In a three-piece speaker system that consists of two satellites and a subwoofer, the setup generally has two types of filters embedded in it (one high-pass and one low-pass). The filters take in the audio signal and split it into high-pass and low-pass frequencies. The tweeters receive the high-pass frequencies and the sub receives the low-pass frequencies.