PEBKAC is an acronym which stands for "Problem Exists Between Keyboard And Chair".[1] The phrase is used by computer experts as a semi-humorous[2] way to describe user errors. Other variations are POBCAC ("Problem Occurs Between Computer and Chair"), PIBKAC ("Problem Is Between Keyboard And Chair"), PEBCAC ("Problem Exists Between Chair and Computer"), PEBMAC ("Problem Exists Between Monitor And Chair"), PEBCAK ("Problem Exists Between Chair And Keyboard"), or EBKAC ("Error Between Keyboard And Chair") and also PICNIC ("Problem In Chair Not In Computer"). The occasionally seen variant PEBKAM ("Problem Exists Between Keyboard and Monitor") would appear to be based on a misunderstanding or misremembrance of the phrase. In 2006, Intel began running a number of PEBKAC web-based advertisements to promote their vPro platform.
References
- ^ The Jargon File, version 4.4.7, maintained by Eric S. Raymond
- ^ PEBKAC in the webcomic User Friendly
