timeouts

A timeout is a predefined period of time during which an operation is allowed to proceed before a timeout condition is considered to have occurred. When the period elapses without the expected event, the system typically aborts the operation, repeats it, or signals an error. Timeouts help prevent indefinite waiting, coordinate asynchronous actions, and manage resource usage.

In computing and networking, timeouts are used for requests, connections, and sessions. A connect timeout specifies how long to wait for a connection to establish; a read or response timeout how long to wait for data; a heartbeat or keep-alive timeout detects stalled connections. Implementations may use fixed or adaptive values and may support exponential backoff on retries.

In sports, a timeout is a break requested by teams or officials to pause play for strategic discussions, player rest, or a rules check. The number and duration of timeouts and the conditions under which they can be used vary by sport and league.

In consumer electronics and digital devices, timeouts appear as screen or display timeouts, sleep timers, or auto-lock features. They turn off the display or suspend activity after a period of inactivity to save energy or protect privacy.

In behavior management for children, a timeout is a brief isolation period intended to calm a child and reflect on behavior. Guidelines stress clear rules, short durations, and parental consistency.

Design and evaluation considerations include choosing appropriate timeout values, handling timeouts gracefully, logging, and avoiding cascading failures. Timeouts are a balance between responsiveness and robustness.