RAM (random access memory) is the place in a computer where the operating system, application programs, and data in current use are kept so that they can be quickly reached by the computer's processor.
Cache Memory!
Cache memory is random access memory (RAM) that a computer microprocessor can access more quickly than it can access regular RAM.
ROM!
ROM is "built-in" computer memory containing data that normally can only be read, not written to .
Flash Memory!
Flash memory (sometimes called "flash RAM") is a type of constantly-powered nonvolatile memory that can be erased and reprogrammed in units of memory called blocks.
Graphic Card!
The plug-in card in a desktop computer that creates the electronic signals required by the monitor. For gamers, this card is always called a "graphics card."
Sound Card!
A sound card (also referred to as an audio card) is a peripheral device that attaches to the ISA or PCI slot on a motherboard to enable the computer to input, process, and deliver sound.
Network Interface Card!
A network interface card (NIC) is a computer circuit board or card that is installed in a computer so that it can be connected to a network.
Plug and Play!
Plug and Play (PnP) is a capability developed by Microsoft for its Windows 95 and later operating systems that gives users the ability to plug a device into a computer and have the computer recognize that the device is there.
Serial Port!
A port, or interface, that can be used for serial communication, in which only 1 bit is transmitted at a time.
Parallel Port!
A parallel interface for connecting an external device such as a printer. Most personal computers have both a parallel port and at least one serial port.
Universal Serial Bus Port!
Firewire Port!
External connector, similar to a USB port, that provides a high-speed connection between a computer and peripheral devices.
Ethernet Port!
A local-area network (LAN) architecture developed by Xerox Corporation in cooperation with DEC and Intel in 1976. Ethernet uses a bus or star topology and supports data transfer rates of 10 Mbps.
High Definition Multimedia Interface!
High-Definition Multimedia Interface" is an industry-supported, uncompressed, all-digital audio/video interface. HDMI provides an interface between any compatible digital audio/video source, such as a set-top box, DVD player, and A/V receiver and a compatible digital audio and/or video monitor, such as a digital television (DTV).
