Refurbished Desktop Computers Key Terms

Discover the meaning of refurbished desktop computers key terms

By Missy Duncan

Many companies are choosing to purchase refurbished desktop computers, because of the computer systems' lower prices. Refurbished computers are reworked, repaired and returned to factory standards. This allows companies the ability to buy better computers at lower prices. When shopping for refurbished desktop computers, there may be some jargon that could confuse you. Review refurbished desktop computers key terms to help reduce any confusion, find the computer system that best fits your needs, and expedite your shopping process.

SDRAM

SDRAM stand for Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory. SDRAM runs up to 133 MHz, which is almost twice as fast as RAM. RAM, or random access memory, allows software programs to temporarily use the memory to work faster.
Try: Learn more about SDRAM at wiseGeek. Visit Tech-FAQ for information about Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory.

Processor

Processor is the new term for CPU, or Central processing unit. A computer processor is the part of a computer that processes the data used to allow the computer to run. Processors are available in single, dual and quad core styles. The dual and quad cores use two and four microprocessors instead of one large processor.
Try: Discover more about processors at What-Is-What.com. Computing.net also provides information about processors.

Platform

A platform is the computer's software and hardware that works together to make the system work. Platforms include the computer's operating system, architecture, related runtime libraries, programming languages and graphic user interface. The most common platforms are PC and Mac.
Try: TechTarget has more information about computer platforms. Visit BusinessDictionary.com for more details about computer platforms.

OS

The OS on a computer is the operating system. The OS is a computer program that, once loaded, manages all other programs on the computer. Common operating systems are Windows, Mac and Linux.
Try: Find more information about a computer's OS at Worth Godwin. Read more about operating systems at Tech Web. HowStuffWorks also provides information about operating systems.

Optical drive

Optical drives are drives on the computer that use lasers to read the data on a storage device. CD and DVD drives are optical drives.
Try: IWebTool and TechTerms.com have more information about optical drives.

WXGA

WXGA is a wide screen monitor with a resolution of 1366 by 768 pixels. A WXGA monitor is the smallest wide screen monitor. The WSXGA and WUXGA monitors have a slightly higher resolution.
Try: Visit Reference.com for more information about WXGA. SmallBusinessComputing.com also has information about WXGA.