What Does Real-Time Computing (RTC) Mean?

Real-time computing (RTC) is a term for computing practices that have specific time constraints. Real-time computing has to be done in a time frame that is relatively imperceptible to the user. By contrast, other types of computing can be done on a delayed basis, for instance, where information is aggregated, kept and stored for later use.

Techopedia Explains Real-Time Computing (RTC)

One of the best ways to explain real-time computing is to use an example such as the “form load” command. Something like this is almost always done in real time. This way, when a user clicks on a command to open the program, the form opens up immediately. In optimal conditions, with the right bandwidth for Web-delivered systems, memory storage and powerful CPU operation, the form pops up in a split second. In other cases, there may be delays, but this still counts as real-time computing — it is computing that, when done on command, is programmed to happen almost immediately.