PC Parts
The central hub that connects all other components, allowing the CPU, memory, and storage to communicate.
What is motherboard
A lightweight OS designed for Chromebooks, primarily optimized for web applications and cloud storage.
What is Chrome OS
The most common standard for desktop computers, offering ample space for expansion slots and RAM modules, ideal for high-performance builds.
What is ATX
The hardware component within a device that provides a physical connection to a network (wired or wireless), each with a unique MAC address.
What is NIC
The traditional, cost-effective option using spinning magnetic disks (platters) to store data. They are slower but offer massive storage capacities.
What is HDD
Processes instructions and data, essentially the "brain" of the computer.
What is CPU
An open-source, highly customizable OS used in servers, development environments, and personal computing for tech enthusiasts.
What is Linux
A slightly smaller version that fits in a wider range of cases, often with fewer expansion slots than ATX boards.
Connects multiple devices within a local area network (LAN) and efficiently forwards data packets to their specific destination using MAC addresses.
What is a Switch
Uses flash memory and has no moving parts, resulting in much faster speeds, greater durability, and lower power consumption than HDDs.
What is SSD
Provides temporary, high-speed storage for quick data access when running programs.
What is RAM
Used for Apple's Macintosh computers, known for its sleek design, robust security, and use in creative industries.
What is MacOS
The smallest mainstream motherboard size, suitable for compact or small form factor PCs, typically with only two RAM slots and one PCIe slot.
What is miniATX
Connects different networks together (e.g., a home network to the internet) and routes data packets based on their IP addresses.
What is Router
A type of SSD that connects directly to the motherboard via the PCIe interface, offering significantly higher bandwidth and the fastest speeds available, ideal for high-performance tasks and content creation.
What is NVMe
Renders images, video, and animations, vital for gaming and content creation.
What is GPU
The most widely used global OS, known for its user-friendly interface and broad software compatibility.
What is Microsoft Windows
These resemble traditional desktop PCs and are standalone units, often used in small offices where a dedicated server rack is not available.
What is Tower
A network that connects devices within a limited area, such as a home, school, or office building.
What is LAN
A service where data is stored on remote servers managed by a third-party provider and accessed over the internet, such as Google Drive or Microsoft OneDrive.
What is Cloud Storage
Supplies power to all components
What is PSU
Examples include iOS and Android, designed for mobile devices.
What is Mobile OS
This is the smallest and most compact form factor, where multiple individual "blades" (each a simplified server or storage element) slide into a single, larger chassis that provides shared power, cooling, and network connectivity.
What is Blade
A network that spans a large geographic area, connecting multiple LANs and other networks. The internet is the largest example of a WAN.
What is WAN
A portable storage device that uses flash memory and a standard USB interface to connect to a computer or other device.
What is USB Flash Drive