Term | Definition |
Central processing unit (CPU) | The chip located inside the system unit of a computer that performs the processing for a computer |
Gigahertz (GHz) | Speed of a processor counted by *billions* of ticks per second |
Megahertz (MHz) | Speed of a processor counted by *millions* of ticks per second |
System unit | The container that holds the motherboard and keeps components safe |
Motherboard | The main circuit board of a computer to which all computer system components connect |
Basic input/output system (BIOS) | Lowest level software in the computer that acts as an interface between the hardware and the operating system |
Read only memory (ROM) | Contain permanently written data called firmware that loads the operating system when first powered on |
Cache | Small, high-speed memory between the processor and system memory. Faster than RAM |
Hard disk drive (HDD) | A storage system consisting of one or more metal magnetic disks permanently sealed with an access mechanism inside its drive |
Megabyte (MB) | Storage measurement in millions of bytes |
Gigabyte (GB) | Storage measurement in billions of bytes |
Terabyte (TB) | Storage measurement in trillions of bytes |
Random access memory (RAM) | Provides a high-speed, temporary location for the computer to hold data and program instructions |
Bit | The smallest unit of computing, consists of a 0 or 1 (ON or OFF) |
Byte | 8 bits makes 1 |
Video graphic adapter | Enables the connection of a monitor and may provide additional graphics capabilities |
Network interface card | Enables a PC to connect to a network |
Optical drive | Adds read and write capabilities to your computer for portability |
Monitor | A display device that projects images onto a display screen |