Technical terms

Don't know your USB from your PCIe or your RAM from your ROM? We explain some commonly used terms:

CPU: Central processing unit, also called the processor. This is the engine of the computer. Generally the higher the processing speed, the better your computer will perform.

The type of processor makes a bigger difference than the speed. Dual and Quad core processors (multiple processors sitting side by side) are the fastest commonly available processors.

Dedicated graphics: A separate graphics card with memory specifically allocated to graphics. The more graphics memory the better.

Disk drives: Most computers have DVD multi-drives capable of playing and recording both CDs and DVDs. Many also have dual-layer DVD writers capable of recording up to 8.5GB on a dual-layer DVD. The latest have high-definition Blu-ray drives.

FireWire: A very fast port, often used for transferring data from a video or digital camera.

GB: Gigabyte. A measurement of data. 1GB = 1024MB

HDD: Hard disk drive. The central storage area of your computer for files and programs. Most hard drives spin at 7200rpm. Don't settle for anything less or you could be waiting a long time to save and retrieve data. Don't forget, you can always buy an external hard drive if you need more space.

Integrated graphics: A chip on the motherboard that shares the video memory with the processor. Integrated graphics chips don't usually perform as well as dedicated graphics cards.

MB: Megabyte. A measurement of data.

Memory: Your computer has two types of memory: long term (hard-drive) and short term (RAM).

RAM: Random access memory. RAM stores information only when the computer's power is on. The more random access memory (RAM) you have, the more your computer can do at once. Most computers can have RAM added either when you buy or later on, but check that you have this option.

RAM may be specified with DDR2 or DDR3 in front of the figure. DDR3 is the superior type.

Sound card: Most computers have "integrated sound," an audio processor on the motherboard. This is fine for most users, but if you want high quality audio for games, music and home theatre, look for a dedicated sound card. These give much better sound quality by reducing interference.

If you have a dedicated sound card, you may wish to buy better quality speakers to match - a 2.1 system (two speakers and a subwoofer), or a 5.1 or 7.1 system for surround sound. If you have a stereo system located close to the computer you could save money and clutter by cabling the output of the sound card to the auxiliary input of the stereo.

TB: Terabyte. A measurement of data. 1TB = 1024GB

USB: Universal serial bus. A very common port for attaching peripherals such as scanners, digital cameras and printers.