MvdV> The closest definition I can find is the #3 from The Shorter
 MvdV> Oxford:

 MvdV> Shim: a thin slip, usually of metal, used to fill up a space
 MvdV> between parts subject to wear, to align or adjust the level of
 MvdV> rails, etc,

that works...

 MvdV> So, yes a shim is something to fill a gap. That does not mean
 MvdV> everything used to "fill a gap" is a shim.

 MvdV> I can go along with the modem emulator used to make FD or IM
 MvdV> "dial" an IP number and make an EMSI connect over TelNet being
 MvdV> called a "shim".

ok, so how about one that does the same thing but instead
"converts" EMSI and other connection stuffs to binkp or some
other protocol??

)\/(ark