Message

From Encyclopedia Jr, free information reference for Kids

Message in its most general meaning is an object of communication. It is something which provides information; it can also be this information itself. Therefore, its meaning is dependent upon the context in which it is used; the term may apply to both the information and its form.

More precisely, in the communications science, a message is information which is sent from a source to a receiver. Some common definitions include:

• Any thought or idea expressed briefly in a plain or secret language, prepared in a form suitable for transmission by any means of communication.
• An arbitrary amount of information whose beginning and end are defined or implied.
• Record information, a stream of data expressed in plain or encrypted language (notation) and prepared in a format specified for intended transmission by a telecommunications system.

[edit] In computer science

Main article: Message (computer science)

• In the actor model, a message is an Actor that an Actor sends asynchronously to an Actor.

• In languages such as Smalltalk, a message is an object which specifies a request for action.

[edit] See also

• Instant messaging
• Message Oriented Middleware

[edit] History of messaging

• Airmail
• Electronic mail
• Express mail
• Homing pigeons
• Instant messaging
• Radio
• Semaphore
• Smoke signals
• Steamshipping
• Telegraphy
• Telephony
• Television
• Text messaging
• Wind-powered shipping

[edit] References

1. "Brief history" section adapted from Peter Saint-Andre "The Need For Speed"
2. Department of Defense Dictionary of Military and Associated Terms
3. Federal Standard 1037C