adapter

adapter definition - computer

A device that allows one system to connect to and work with another. An adapter is often a simple circuit that converts one set of signals to another; however, the term often refers to devices which are more accurately called "controllers." For example, display adapters (video cards), network adapters (NICs) and SCSI host adapters perform extensive processing, but they are still called "adapters." See host adapter and expansion bus.


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