biohertz's definitions

B5

common Abbreviation for "Babylon 5", a science-fiction TV series as revered among hackers as was the original Star Trek.

by Biohertz January 30, 2003

automagically

Automatically, but in a way that, for some reason (typically because it is too complicated, or too ugly, or perhaps even too trivial), the speaker doesn't feel like explaining to you.

This term is quite old, going back at least to the mid-70s in jargon and probably much earlier. The word `automagic' occurred in advertising (for a shirt-ironing gadget) as far back as the late 1940s.

"The C-INTERCAL compiler generates C, then automagically invokes cc(1) to produce an executable."

by Biohertz January 30, 2003

404

from the HTTP error "file not found on server" Extended to humans to convey that the subject has no idea or no clue - sapience not found. May be used reflexively

"Uh, I'm 404ing" means "I'm drawing a blank".

by Biohertz January 30, 2003

Batman factor

1. An integer number representing the number of items hanging from a batbelt. In most settings, a Batman factor of more than 3 is not acceptable without odd stares and whispering. This encourages the hacker in question to choose items for the batbelt carefully to avoid awkward social situations, usually amongst non-hackers. 2. A somewhat more vaguely defined index of contribution to sense 1. Devices that are especially obtrusive, such as large, older model cell phones, "Pocket" PC devices and walkie talkies are said to have a high batman factor. Sleeker devices such as a later-model Palm or StarTac phone are prized for their low batman factor and lessened obtrusiveness and weight.

by Biohertz January 30, 2003

batbelt

Many hackers routinely hang numerous devices such as pagers, cell-phones, personal organizers, leatherman multitools, pocket knives, flashlights, walkie-talkies, even miniature computers from their belts. When many of these devices are worn at once, the hacker's belt somewhat resembles Batman's utility belt; hence it is referred to as a batbelt.

by Biohertz January 30, 2003

godmode

A common cheat in shooter video games, allows the player to be invincible.

"I'll godmode that wiener!"

by Biohertz January 30, 2003

bang on

To stress-test a piece of hardware or software

"I banged on the new version of the simulator all day yesterday and it didn't crash once. I guess it is ready for release."

by Biohertz January 30, 2003