Definition

Noun: A remote terminal is a computer terminal that is not located near the main computer system (the host) but is connected to it via a data communication link, such as a telephone line or network cable. It allows a user to input data to and receive output from the distant computer.

Usage

The term is used to describe the hardware setup where a user interacts with a central computer from a separate location. - The programmer accessed the mainframe from a remote terminal in her home office. - Each branch office was equipped with a remote terminal connected to the company's central server.

Advanced Usage

• In modern contexts, the concept is often encompassed by terms like "remote access," "client workstation," or "thin client," though "remote terminal" specifically implies a device primarily for data entry and display with processing handled by the host.
• The phrase can be used attributively (like an adjective) to describe related concepts.
  • The system administrator configured the remote terminal access protocols.

Variants and Related Words

• Remote Access: (n.) The general ability to connect to and use a computer system from a distant location.
• Dumb Terminal: (n.) A specific type of remote terminal with no independent processing capability.
• Data Terminal: (n.) A broader term for any device used to send or receive data.

Synonyms

• Distant terminal
• Teleprocessing terminal

Related Phrases

• To operate from a remote terminal: To perform work using such a device.
  • Engineers can diagnose the network problem while operating from a remote terminal.

Noun

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