Liidesed

Liidesed means points of connection between two or more systems where exchange of information, energy or matter occurs. The concept is used across disciplines, from engineering and computer science to chemistry, biology and social sciences. In Estonian usage, liidesed can refer to both abstract interfaces and physical connectors, depending on context.

In technology, liidesed define how components interact. User interfaces enable humans to operate software; application programming interfaces provide standardized methods for software components to communicate. Hardware interfaces describe physical connections and signaling protocols, such as ports and cables. Protocol interfaces formalize rules for data exchange, ensuring compatibility across systems and devices.

In science, interfacial regions between different phases or materials give rise to interfacial phenomena, affecting reactivity, transport and mechanical properties. In biology, cell membranes, tissue boundaries and organ interfaces govern communication and exchange of molecules.

Design of liidesed emphasizes clear specifications, consistent data formats and robust security and reliability. Standards organizations develop common interfaces to enable interoperability, ease integration, and reduce duplication of effort. Examples include graphical user interfaces, RESTful APIs, and hardware connectors, though the specific terms vary by field.