Component Definitions

There is so much information to research with today's computer hardware. It can be intimidating to know where to begin. This is a tree of the 8 main parts every computer needs. Branched out from each part are some terms you should understand that will help determine performance. Some terms will be repeated for different parts.

1. CPU
• Operating Frequency
• Cache
• Manufacturing Tech
• Multi-Core
• Integrated Memory Controller
• Hyperthreading
• Architecture or Core
• Socket Type
• The most important thing is to look up benchmarks
2. Video Card
• Stream Processors
• DirectX
• Interface
• Memory Amount
• Memory Type
• Memory Interface
• SLI or Crossfire Support
• Display Ports
• The most important thing is to look up benchmarks
3. RAM
• Amount
• Memory Standard
• Pin Count
• Speed
• Cas Latency or Timing
• Voltage
• Multi-Channel
4. Motherboard
• Form Factor
• North Bridge
• South Bridge
• CPU Socket Type
• Number of Memory Slots
• Maximum Supported Memory
• Memory Standard
• Channels Supported
• Expansion Slots
• SATA Ports
• USB Ports
• RAID
• Audio Channels
5. Hard Drive or Solid State Drive
• Space
• Read Speed
• Write Speed
• IOPS
• SATA
• RAID
• Form Factor
6. Power Supply
• Maximum Power
• Main Connector
• PCI Express Connector
• +12V Rails
• SATA Power Connector
• Peripheral
• 80 Plus Certified
• SLI or Crossfire Support
7. Optical Drive
• Read Speed
• Write Speed
• Form Factor
• Cache
• SATA
• LightScribe
8. Chassis
• Type of Tower
• Form Factor
• Expansion Bays
• Front Ports
• Cooling System
• Case Material