Watchdog timer
ELECTRONIC TIMER USED TO DETECT AND RECOVER FROM COMPUTER MALFUNCTIONS
Watchdog Timer; Watch dog timer; Computer Operating Properly; Watchdog card; Watchdog Card; Recovery Card; Recovery card; Watchdog (computing)
A watchdog timer (sometimes called a computer operating properly or COP timer, or simply a watchdog) is an electronic or software timer that is used to detect and recover from computer malfunctions. Watchdog timers are widely used in computers to facilitate automatic correction of temporary hardware faults, and to prevent errant or malevolent software from disrupting system operation.