buffering

Definition:

Buffering is a term usually used in conjunction with streaming. When a large audio or video file is streamed to a computer from the Internet, the beginning portion of the audio or video file must be downloaded to the computer before it can start playing. The part of the file that has downloaded but not yet been played is referred to as the buffer.

If, while listening to the audio or watching the video, the computer uses up all of its buffer, the audio or video clip must stop playing while more content is downloaded to the buffer before audio or video playing can resume.

Here's a word you may not know...

720p

The "720" part of 720p describes the number of vertical lines that make up a television or video signal. Most television or video signals are rated at 480, 720 or 1080. The more vertical lines that make up the picture, the crisper or higher definition the picture. The "p" following 720 indicates that the video display is constructed using a progressive scan method.

720p is considered a middle-of-the-road high definition format and many television stations have begun digitally broadcasting in 720p as an initial high definition offering.