Guides

PC Building Glossary

Components

  • CPU (Central Processing Unit): The brain of the computer, responsible for processing instructions.
  • Motherboard: The main circuit board that connects all other components.
  • RAM (Random Access Memory): Provides temporary data storage for running programs. More RAM allows for smoother multitasking.
  • Storage: Where you store your operating system, games, and files. Can include:
    • SSD (Solid State Drive): Faster storage option with quicker boot times and application loading.
    • HDD (Hard Disk Drive): Slower but offers larger storage capacity for a lower price.
  • GPU (Graphics Processing Unit): Handles graphics processing, crucial for gaming and video editing. Integrated graphics on the CPU work for basic tasks, but dedicated GPUs offer significant performance boosts.
  • Case: Houses all your PC components and provides airflow.
  • PSU (Power Supply Unit): Provides power to all your components. Choose a PSU with enough wattage to handle your system’s power draw.

Other Important Terms:

  • Case Form Factor: The size and layout of the case. Common types include ATX, Micro ATX, and Mini ITX. These determine motherboard compatibility.
  • CPU Socket: The slot on the motherboard where the CPU is installed. Different socket types fit specific CPU models.
  • Thermal Paste: Conducts heat away from the CPU to the cooler.
  • BIOS (Basic Input/Output System): The firmware that the PC uses to start up and initialize hardware.
  • SATA (Serial ATA): A common interface for connecting storage devices like HDDs and SSDs to the motherboard.
  • PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express): A high-speed expansion slot used for graphics cards and other high-performance components.
  • Clock Speed: Measured in GHz (gigahertz), indicates how many cycles the CPU can complete per second. Higher clock speeds generally mean faster performance.
  • Core Count: The number of independent processing units within a CPU. More cores allow for handling multiple tasks simultaneously.
  • Overclocking: Pushing a component beyond its default speed for increased performance. This can be risky if not done properly.
  • Benchmark: A test that measures a component’s performance.

Jargon:

  • Mobo: Motherboard (slang)
  • Rig: A built PC (slang)
  • Bottleneck: When one component limits the performance of another (e.g., a slow CPU bottlenecking a powerful GPU).
  • Watercooling: A liquid cooling system for CPUs, typically used in high-performance builds.
  • Aircooling: A traditional cooling system using fans and heatsinks.
  • RGB: Refers to colored LED lighting used for aesthetics in PC cases and components.

This glossary should provide a good foundation for understanding common PC building terms and jargon.

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