Computer Terms
(You may run into these when looking at computer sales information)


I. Memory
RAM Random Access memory - temporary fast storage area used by CPU
DRAM Dynamic Random Access Memory - a type of memory
EDO RAM Extended Data Output RAM - the standard memory on some micros; faster than conventional DRAM; slower than SDRAM
SDRAM Synchronous Dynamic RAM - recommended on newer, faster computers. Also called Sync Dram.
SIMM A small board with memory chips, in a single line. Plugs in main board. Supports 32-bit data transfer.
DIMM A newer type of RAM card. A DIMM has a 168-pin connector and supports 64-bit data transfer

II. Storage
DVD Digital Versatile Disk, a newer alternative to CD, capable of storing 9+ GB
ZIP Drive An alternative to storage. Larger than a floppy disk (100 MB or larger, compared to 1 MB)
CD-RW Drive A Compact Disk Drive that allows you to write as well as read. Needs special CD's.
DMA/UDMA Direct Memory Access. Newer way to connect hard disk drives, internally, for faster access. UDMA means "Ultra" DMA, provides a "burst" data transfer rate up to 33 MB MB per second.

III. Video / Audio
MPEG A standard for computer video files, ("Moving Picture Experts Group")
ATI Rage II Video Card
S3 Savage Video Card
VooDoo Video Card
Direct 3D Video Card
Riva TNT Video Card
Midi Music device / also the port for plugging one in.
Sound Blaster Well-known adapter for providing audio in PC's

IV. Ports
USB Universal Serial Bus. Port on the back of some newer computers. Transfers data at faster rate, 12 MB per second.
AGP Accelerated Graphics Port is newer port on the PCI bus that enables 3-D graphics to display more quickly on ordinary personal computers

V. Other
Clock Speed of the CPU Chip - speed of the computer processor, in Megahertz (MHz) or Gigahertz (GHz).
Digital Camera Port or FireWire Port
10/100 Base T Network Card or port
Photo Quality Printer
Batteries: Lithium, Lilon, Nickle Metal Hydride
Notebook Screens: TFT or Active Matrix; Dual Scan or Passive Matrix