Term of the Moment
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Definition: terminal emulator
Software in a desktop computer that is used to access a remote computer. Windows Terminal and PuTTY are examples of terminal emulators for Windows and Mac examples are the Terminal app and iTerm2. Terminal emulators display text output and support common security protocols (see SSH). See PuTTY.
It Began With Mainframes
Originating in the 1980s, central computers such as an IBM and DEC mainframes were the common type of server. IBM 3270 and DEC VT terminals were emulated on a desktop computer (see 3270 and VT100). See 3270 emulator, twinax card, virtual terminal and xterm.
Early Terminal Emulation for Mainframes
It Began With Mainframes
Originating in the 1980s, central computers such as an IBM and DEC mainframes were the common type of server. IBM 3270 and DEC VT terminals were emulated on a desktop computer (see 3270 and VT100). See 3270 emulator, twinax card, virtual terminal and xterm.
This "IRMA" plug-in card from Digital Communications Associates enabled PCs to become terminals to IBM mainframes. See IRMA board.