Big red button
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A big red button is an actual or fictional button with various functions. The purpose of being big and red is for its quick identification.
Possible usages:
- A shut-down switch for catastrophic circumstances to avert further damage or to cause it, e.g., "Emergency Power-Off" button.
- Help call in emergencies or for disabled persons [1]
- Firing or detonating a weapon, typically a nuclear device.
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[edit] Symbolism
The Big Red Button means a device(s) used to launch nuclear weapons. A person in charge may be referred to as "having his/her finger on The Button." (This use of the term is often capitalized).
This symbolism spawned some others. One is a symbolism for "self-destruct". Another one is to apply a drastic or radical, "nuclear", solution to a problem, possibly resembling "cutting the Gordian knot".
[edit] Computing and industrial
In computing, the Big Red Button has historically referred to the red momentary electrical switch used to reboot a computer system.[2] This switch was often located on the front of a personal computer or on the back next to the power supply.
In an IT setting, a kill switch is most frequently seen near the door of a data center. In this case, it often releases the fire suppression systems as well.
Industrial safety often mandates use of a kill switch to cut all power to a device in an emergency. It is similar in usage to a nuclear reactor's Scram Button.
[edit] See also
- The Random Button
- Nuclear football
- Big Red Switch
