Crossword Genius

Boring item input to computer had an effect (3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

bit

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

This might be a double definition.

'boring item' is the first definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

'had an effect' is the second definition.
(bite can mean to take effect)

'input to computer' acts as a link.
I am not very happy about this link. Some or all of it may belong to one of the definitions.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for bit that I've seen before include "Snaffle - small piece" , "Morsel" , "Mouthpiece of brindle or tip of drilling tool" , "something boring" , "gripped" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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