subordinate device

[səˈbɔrdənət dɪˈvaɪs]
nounpl: subordinate devices
dispositivo subordinado
1. A secondary or dependent device that operates under the control of a primary or master device in a system or network
The printer functions as a subordinate device connected to the main computer server.
A impressora funciona como um dispositivo subordinado conectado ao servidor de computador principal.
2. In technical systems, a device that receives commands or instructions from a higher-level control unit
Each subordinate device in the automation system responds to signals from the central controller.
Cada dispositivo subordinado no sistema de automação responde aos sinais do controlador central.
3. A component or equipment that is dependent on or auxiliary to a main system or apparatus
The sensor acts as a subordinate device that feeds data to the main processing unit.
O sensor atua como um dispositivo subordinado que alimenta dados para a unidade de processamento principal.
This term is primarily used in technical and IT documentation in both Brazil and the USA. In Brazil, 'dispositivo subordinado' is the formal term used in academic and professional settings, while 'dispositivo escravo' is common in São Paulo's tech industry but is being phased out in favor of less hierarchical terminology. The concept reflects network architecture and system design principles that are universal across both cultures.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
secondary devicedependent deviceslave deviceauxiliary deviceperipheral devicechild device
Antonyms / Antônimos
master deviceprimary devicemain deviceindependent deviceparent device

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
dispositivo subordinado
Standard term used in technical and IT contexts
Rio de Janeiro
dispositivo secundário
Common alternative in informal technical discussions
São Paulo
dispositivo escravo
Used in technology industry, particularly in engineering circles
Portugal
dispositivo subordinado
Same as Brazilian Portuguese; also 'dispositivo dependente' in some contexts

Related Words

master devicenetworkcontrollerperipheralautomationsystem architectureclient-serverhierarchical system

Related Idioms & Phrases

working under the master device
controlled by the main system
part of the chain of command
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