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  • Object
    A unique instance of a data structure defined according to the template provided by its class. Each object has its own values for the variables belonging to its class and can respond to the messages (methods) defined by its class.
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  • OEM
    Original Equipment Manufacturer. Originally OEM was an adjective used to describe a company that produces hardware to be marketed under another company's brand.
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  • One-time authentication
    An electronic credential that absolutely identifies the party, but which is good for only one use. In this way, the credential need not be protected nor recalled as it is not of later use to an eavesdropper.
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  • One-way function
    See hash function.
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  • On-line catalog
    A Web-based analog to a retailer's classical print catalog. Online catalogs often include additional functionality like shopping carts, purchase histories, and online purchasing.
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  • On-line store
    See Web store.
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  • Operating System (OS)
    The programming that runs a computer's basic functions.
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  • Optical Character Recognition (OCR)
    Optical character recognition (OCR) converts printed text, such as a scanned paper document or electronic fax file, into electronic, computer-editable text. OCR-converted text can be exported into word-processing, page layout, and spreadsheet applications. OCR also enables screen readers and refreshable Braille displays to read the text contained in images.
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  • Orange Book
    The format that enables CD-R drives to record discs that regular CD-ROM players can read. Orange Book defines how CD-R devices can append index data to an existing disc's directory if you add more data to the disc in multiple sessions.
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  • Order confirmation
    When informed that the buyer's credit is satisfactory, the commerce service provider passes on details of the order to the merchant facility responsible for order fulfillment.
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