interface / point of contact
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interface
In technology and computer science, a defined point at which two different systems, devices, or programs are connected and exchange information.
Die neue Software hat eine Schnittstelle, um Daten direkt aus der Datenbank zu importieren.
The new software has an interface for importing data directly from the database.
The word consists of 'Schnitt' (cut/intersection, from 'schneiden' (to cut)) and 'Stelle' (place/point). So it literally describes a point where two lines or areas intersect or meet, which is the basis for both meanings.
An der Schnittstelle der beiden Flüsse entstand eine neue Stadt.
A new city developed at the intersection of the two rivers.
'Schnittstelle' (interface/point of contact) is very often used with the preposition 'zwischen' (between) to name the connected elements. The most common construction is 'die Schnittstelle zwischen A und B' (the interface/point of contact between A and B).
Unsere Abteilung bildet die Schnittstelle zwischen der Produktion und dem Vertrieb.
Our department forms the point of contact between production and sales.
The context makes it clear which meaning is intended. Words like 'Software' (software), 'API', 'Daten' (data), or 'Gerät' (device) point to the technical meaning. Terms like 'Abteilung' (department), 'Team' (team), 'Projekt' (project), or 'Disziplin' (discipline) point to the organizational meaning.
Wir brauchen eine Schnittstelle für den Datenaustausch.
We need an interface for data exchange.
In a technical context, a 'Schnittstelle' (interface) is often 'bereitgestellt' (provided), 'definiert' (defined), 'implementiert' (implemented), or 'genutzt' (used).
Der Hersteller stellt eine Schnittstelle zur Verfügung, um eigene Erweiterungen zu programmieren.
The manufacturer provides an interface for programming your own extensions.
connection / association
'die Verbindung' and 'die Schnittstelle' can both describe two sides being in contact with each other. In technology, a 'Verbindung' is often the line or contact itself through which data, electricity, or communication flows. A 'Schnittstelle' is the exact point or area where two systems exchange information. In organizations, too, 'Schnittstelle' refers more to the area where two departments work together. The words can be confused because both have to do with exchange. 'Verbindung' says: there is contact. 'Schnittstelle' says more precisely: this is where two systems or areas meet.
Die neue Schnittstelle überträgt Daten vom Programm direkt an die App.
The new interface transfers data from the program directly to the app.
Nach dem Sturm hatte das Haus keine Verbindung zum Internet.
After the storm, the house had no internet connection.