Definition

Noun A terminal that is connected to a computer via a dedicated data communication link. This term describes a peripheral device or workstation that relies on a physical or logical data link to communicate with a central computer system, as opposed to being directly attached via a local bus or being a standalone unit.

Usage

The term is used in computing and networking contexts to specify the type of connection a terminal has to a host system. * The old banking system relied on link-attached stations in each branch to communicate with the mainframe. * To function, the link-attached station requires an active and configured data link to the central server.

Advanced Usage

• The concept is often contrasted with "channel-attached" or "locally attached" devices, emphasizing the role of a communication link.
• In modern terminology, this concept is often encompassed by terms like "network-attached device" or "remote terminal," though "link-attached" can imply a specific, point-to-point connection.

Variants and Related Words

• Link Attachment (n): The method or hardware used for connecting a station via a data link.
• Remote Terminal (n): A more general term for a terminal located away from the host computer, often connected via a link.
• Data Link (n): The communication path or circuit that connects the station to the computer.

Synonyms

• Remote terminal
• Network-attached terminal
• Data link terminal

Antonyms

• Locally attached station
• Channel-attached station
• Direct-attached terminal

Noun

1. a terminal connected to a computer by a data link