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.

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

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

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

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

Your computer’s long-term storage for files, programs, and the operating system itself.

Where active programs and data get temporarily stored for quick access. More RAM means better multitasking.