visible bell

(communications)

visible bell - (Or "visual bell") A program option (whether in a terminal program, termcap setting, or as a stand-alone program) which outputs the bell character code as a visual signal (e.g., a flashing status bar or menu bar). Generally intended for deaf or hearing-disabled users who couldn't hear the normal auditory beep; also widely used by users who simply don't want their machines feeping at them or disturbing other users.