In computing, a slot is an opening or position for adding hardware capability, such as an expansion card or a network adapter. The term can also refer to an empty place in a video game or other electronic device, such as a computer, that can be filled with software to create a specific function. A slot may also be used to refer to a period of time or a location, such as the time of day or a spot in the line for tickets at an amusement park or event.
The word slot is pronounced as though it were spelled “sloth” (as in the creature from the Muppets). This usage is based on the fact that slots are small and often used to contain mechanical or electrical components. In other words, the physical part of a slot is slender and wide, while the actual information stored in it is narrow and deep.
Several states, including Alaska, Arizona, Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Tennessee, and West Virginia allow private ownership of slot machines. Almost all states have some restrictions on the type or number of slot machines that can be sold. Some limit the amount of money that can be wagered on a machine, while others require a minimum denomination.
Most slot machines use a random number generator to determine winning and losing combinations. This computerized algorithm is designed to ensure that the odds of a machine making a particular selection are always the same for each player. The random number generator also controls the speed of the spins, so that there is a consistent rate of progression and no “hot or cold” streaks.
A slot is a container that can hold dynamic content on a web page. A slot can either wait passively for content to be added to it or can actively call for it using a scenario element such as an Add Items to Slot action or a targeter. Renderers then format and display this content in the slot.
In sports, a receiver who gains most of his yards on receptions by going into the slot is described as having a good slot. A good slot receiver can gain 8-15 yards on most of his receptions, and is often able to make a defender miss or lose control of the ball.
In computer science, a slot is a reserved space within an operating system or other software to accommodate future extensions without interfering with the existing code. For example, a slot may be created for a new program that will require additional memory. A slot can also be a reserved area of storage on a disk drive. A slot can also be a set of pinholes in a computer motherboard that are configured to accept expansion cards with specialized circuitry. Often, these expansion slots are called expansion ports or PCI slots. The term slot is also sometimes applied to the hardware in an ice hockey arena that separates the face-off circles.