distributed system

distributed system [di′strib·yəd·əd ′sis·təm]

(computer science)

A computer system consisting of a collection of autonomous computers linked by a network and equipped with software that enables the computers to coordinate their activities and to share the resources of system hardware, software, and data, so that users perceive a single, integrated computing facility.

(control system)

A collection of modules, each with its own specific function, interconnected to carry out integrated data acquisition and control in a critical environment.

(systems engineering)

A system whose behavior is governed by partial differential equations, and not merely ordinary differential equations. Also known as distributed-parameter system.

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distributed system - A collection of (probably heterogeneous) automata whose distribution is transparent to the user so that the system appears as one local machine. This is in contrast to a network, where the user is aware that there are several machines, and their location, storage replication, load balancing and functionality is not transparent. Distributed systems usually use some kind of client-server organisation. Distributed systems are considered by some to be the "next wave" of computing. Distributed Computing Environment is the Open Software Foundation's software architecture for distributed systems. http://dstc.edu.au/AU/research_news/dist-env.html.