Search the Lexicon - Multimedia & Creative Technology

AR (Augmented Reality)

Augmented Reality (AR) is a technology that overlays digital information—such as images, text, or 3D models—on the real world. Unlike VR, AR does not replace reality; it enhances it. AR is often experienced via smartphones, tablets, or dedicated AR glasses.

3D design hardware

Breadboard

A breadboard is a reusable prototyping board that lets you assemble and test electronic circuits quickly without soldering. It consists of a grid of metal contact sockets in a plastic housing; specific rows and rails are internally connected so components and jumper wires can be easily linked. For makers, it’s a fundamental tool to prototype and debug circuits involving sensors, microcontrollers, motor drivers and analog modules before committing to a permanent PCB.

Maker hardware

Sample Rate

Sample rate is how many times per second an analog audio signal is measured (sampled) to store it digitally. It is expressed in Hertz (Hz). CD quality is 44,100 Hz (44.1 kHz), meaning the sound is sampled 44,100 times per second. Higher sample rates can capture more detail.

Audio/Video hardware software

Shader

A shader is a program that runs on the GPU and determines how pixels or vertices are computed and displayed. Shaders control effects like lighting, shadows, reflections, and materials. There are different types: vertex shaders (move points), fragment/pixel shaders (determine colors), and compute shaders.

3D programming hardware

VR (Virtual Reality)

Virtual Reality (VR) is a technology that creates a fully artificial, computer-generated environment in which users can navigate and interact. VR is experienced through headsets that cover the entire field of view, often combined with motion controllers for interaction.

3D design hardware