Computer Terms Glossary
RAM – Random Access Memory; These modules provide a temporary ‘writing tablet’ for your PC or laptop, providing processing power without relying upon your busy CPU. Low RAM is one of the prime causes for slow overall operation.
CPU – Central Processing Unit; Your computer’s brain, the CPU hands out fast commands to the other components within your machine, delivering high-frequency regulation to the guts of your machine.
Hard Drive – The storage bin; The Hard Disk Drive is the primary location in which all of your data and programs are stored. Due to the mechanical nature of a hard drive, and its tiny moving pieces, hard drives are a commonly-replaced item.
Motherboard – Considered to be the circulatory system of your computer, The motherboard is a circuit board through which all devices within your system communicate. It operates like a spine, providing a central point for all devices to connect. Slow operation, power issues, and port failure can often indicate a motherboard problem.
LCD – Liquid Crystal Display; Flat panel monitors and laptops contain LCD’s. Made of two glass panes, power circuitry, and a backlight to illuminate within, LCDs provide sharp resolutions, and easily adjustable brightness. Lines in display, poor illumination, or spots that resemble trapped pools of oil are strong indications of LCD worries.
Video Card – Output source to monitor or LCD. Video cards with true power assume some of the responsibilities of RAM, providing an extra smooth blast of video excellence in high-powered graphic programs and games.
Sound Card – Output to your speakers; Analog or digital, sound cards vary in processing and clarity ability, many being directly integrated into your motherboard.
Ethernet (NiC) – Network Interface Card; A component that delivers high speed internet, or home and business network communication. The NiC can be a wired, or wireless interface with the internet or network.
Optical Drives – Drives with a laser-read/write mechanism. CDRoms, CD Burners, DVDRoms, and DVDBurners.
AC Stem – Power jack; Stem housed within laptops and various other equipment where the power plug is inserted. Very prone to breakage.
Inverter – Links power in laptops and LCDs to the display’s internal lamp. Very dark images in display-as if the light inside were switched off-are a telltale indicator of inverter problems on the horizon.
Mad City Techs provides computer repair services and hardware to businesses and homes in the Madison area. To find out more, contact Mad City Techs today!