hardware

A block of metal fins that draws heat away from the CPU or GPU. Usually topped with a fan.

The Power-On Self Test. A series of quick checks the computer runs at startup.

Low-level software that runs when you first start your computer. Handles booting the OS.

A chip that stores key settings like the system time and hardware config. Powered by a coin battery.

Refers to a computer’s physical size and shape, like a laptop vs a desktop tower.

A versatile high-speed connector for add-in cards like GPUs, SSDs, capture cards, etc.

The power supply unit. Converts AC power from your wall outlet to DC power the computer components need.

A special processor optimized for graphics. Critical for gaming, 3D work, and video editing.

An even faster SSD interface. If you want the absolute quickest response times, look for an NVMe SSD.

A faster, pricier type of storage that makes your computer boot up and load programs much quicker.