subsystems
Parts within wholes
Subsystems are the smaller, semi-independent parts that make up a larger system.
An aircraft has electrical, hydraulic, and navigation subsystems.
A computer's subsystems include memory, storage, and processing.
The term emphasizes that components function both on their own and as parts of something bigger: The cooling subsystem failed, but the rest of the engine kept running.
Able to replace another
- plug-and-playRequiring no manual configuration
- configurableAble to be adjusted
- scalableAble to increase capacity
- adaptableAble to adjust readily
customizable · flexible · upgradeable · reconfigurable · standardized · interoperable · modular · segmented
Joined in multiple ways
- synchronizedOccurring at the same time
- coordinatedArranged to work together
- unifiedCombined into one
- networkedLinked for data exchange
interfaced · coupled · linked · embedded · centralized · consolidated · seamless · meshed
Self-contained system components
- unitsStandard measures of quantity
- partsIndividual elements of whole
- elementsFundamental parts or substances
- assembliesOrganized group gatherings
mechanisms · hardware · devices · sections · segments · constituents · peripherals · accessories
Lesser in rank
- backupStored duplicate for recovery
- redundantExceeding what's needed
- reserveSupply kept back
- supplementaryServing to complete
ancillary · peripheral · support · failover · standby · emergency · parallel · duplicate
Systematic fault diagnosis
- diagnosticsMethods identifying problems
- repairRestore to working order
- servicingPerforming routine maintenance
- upkeepOngoing preservation effort
testing · calibration · inspection · monitoring · reliability · debugging · replacement · overhaul
interchangeable
Able to replace another
- plug-and-playRequiring no manual configuration
- configurableAble to be adjusted
- scalableAble to increase capacity
adaptable · customizable · flexible · upgradeable · reconfigurable · standardized · interoperable · modular · segmented · swappable
interconnected
Joined in multiple ways
- synchronizedOccurring at the same time
- coordinatedArranged to work together
- unifiedCombined into one
networked · interfaced · coupled · linked · embedded · centralized · consolidated · seamless · meshed · aligned
modules
Self-contained system components
- unitsStandard measures of quantity
- partsIndividual elements of whole
- elementsFundamental parts or substances
assemblies · mechanisms · hardware · devices · sections · segments · constituents · peripherals · accessories · attachments
secondary
Lesser in rank
supplementary · ancillary · peripheral · support · failover · standby · emergency · parallel · duplicate · spare
troubleshooting
Systematic fault diagnosis
- diagnosticsMethods identifying problems
- repairRestore to working order
- servicingPerforming routine maintenance
upkeep · testing · calibration · inspection · monitoring · reliability · debugging · replacement · overhaul · preventive
- systemsecosystems, ecosystem, transportation network, neural network, neural networks
- componentsparts, part, pieces, piece, elements
- family therapyfamily therapy, family counseling, family dynamics, marriage therapy, relationship counseling
- functionalismMerton, Durkheim, social function, dysfunction, Malinowski
subsystemscomponents
Constituent parts
elements · modules · units · parts · primitives