Technical Notes : Glossary

Glossary of Kiosk Terms

Kiosk A device for displaying interactive information to the general public. Kiosks include an enclosure, computer equipment and software such as Public Browser Interfaces (PBI).
Shell Kiosk/
Enclosure
A box, case or stand designed to hold and protect computer equipment being placed in public or hazardous environments. For example: The Opti-Line Kiosk
PBI
(Public Browser Interface)
Software generally used in the kiosk industry to display information, especially web sites, that allows user interaction with the information whilst protecting the computers operating system. PBI are sometimes referred to as the "kiosk operating system". For example: CyberDyner3i
OS
(Operating System)
The base software used by computers to carry out tasks and enable other software to be used. Microsoft®Windows, Apple's Mac OS and Linux are all operating systems.
IP Rating A standard protection rating against liquids and dust
Touch Screen A device overlayed on a monitor to react to finger touching in the same way as you would use a mouse.
Track Ball A device consisting of a large ball that is rotated to move a pointer around the screen in the same way as you would use a mouse.
Kiosk Keyboard A keyboard designed to withstand liquid spills and dust specifically in public areas. Kiosk keyboards are more robust than standard computer keyboards and often have buttons removed for security reasons.