Programmable

Updated: 02/06/2025 by Computer Hope
User writing code on a laptop to help illustrate something that's programmable.

The ability of software or a hardware device to follow a set of coded instructions and add new instructions. For example, some keyboards have special keys programmed to open a web browser or e-mail client. All computers today are considered programmable, whereas early computing devices (e.g., early calculators) could only perform calculations. Other examples of programmable devices include IoT (Internet of Things) devices like smart thermostats and robots.

Note

The Jacquard loom in considered to be one of the earliest programmable devices. Using a punch card this device could be programmed to design a specific pattern of woven fabric.

What is programmability?

When something is described as having programmability, it means it can be programmed to do a task or be customized. For example, the Ultimate Hacking Keyboard is a computer keyboard that allows each key to be programmed according to the user's desire. Most other keyboards have no programmability and their hardware functionality cannot be changed.

Programmable devices give users who desire the option to tweak their device easily. Devices without this ability can sometimes be hacked, but doing so requires more effort and knowledge from the user and is not supported by the manufacturer.

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