Custom-Built Computers Key Terms

Find the best computer by learning custom-built computers key terms

By Missy Duncan

Custom-built computers are specifically designed to fit your company's needs. The companies that make these computers choose the amount of RAM, memory and drives needed according to the information you provide them. Negotiating a custom-built computer contract can be difficult for those who do not work in the computer industry. Discovering the meanings of custom-built computers key terms will allow you to express what you are looking for and review information with ease and confidence.

Processor

A processor is the part of a computer that allows it to run programs and applications. There are many types of processors, such as the single-core, dual-core and quad-core processor. The term processor has replaced the term CPU, or central processing unit.
Try: Visit wiseGeek to find information about computer processors. Learn more about processors at Windowsreinstall.

Optical drive

An optical drive stores and reads information from optical disks, such as CDs and DVDs. Optical disks hold more information than floppy disks. However, some disks, such as CD-R and DVD-R, cannot be erased.
Try: IWEBTOOL provides details about optical drives. Learn how optical drives work at Hardware Secrets.

RAM

RAM, or random access memory, is used by the computer's processor to read and write certain temporary data. The more RAM a computer has, the faster the computer runs.
Try: Learn about a computer's RAM at HowStuffWorks. There is detailed information about RAM at What-Is-What.

Chipset

A chipset is a collection of integrated circuits for pieces of hardware that work together. Chipsets control communications between different hardware within the computer. For example, your computer may have a motherboard chipset that includes the processor or modem.
Try: Learn what a chipset does at PantherProducts.

Integrated graphics card

An integrated graphics card shares memory with a processor. It is also called shared video memory. An integrated graphics card temporally stores images or graphics in the memory.
Try: Read more information about integrated graphics cards at LegitReviews.com.

Peripheral

A peripheral is a device that is not the computer's processor, memory or data path, but is used with a computer, such as an input or output device. Peripherals are often placed in the computer case.
Try: ArticleSnatch has even more information concerning computer peripherals, what they're used for and how they help your computer perform at its best.