Printable Flashcards

An integrated circuit that contains the processing unit of a computer.	The primary component of a computer that executes instructions and performs calculations.
The rate at which a CPU can execute instructions, measured in cycles per second.	A list of all the instructions that a CPU can execute.
A technique used by CPUs to improve instruction throughput by overlapping the execution of multiple instructions.	A small, high-speed memory used to store frequently accessed data and instructions.
The central processing unit (CPU) is the primary component of a computer that performs most of the processing inside the computer.	A CPU architecture that includes multiple independent processing cores on a single chip.

Electrical device used to provide airflow and cool down components, such as a CPU, by moving air and dissipating heat.	A device used to dissipate heat away from a component, such as a CPU, by increasing its surface area.
Increasing the operating frequency of a CPU beyond its default specifications to achieve higher performance, often requiring improved cooling solutions.	A substance applied between a CPU and a heatsink to enhance thermal conductivity.
A type of heatsink with extended metal fins that increase the surface area for better heat dissipation from a CPU or other hot components.	A method of cooling a CPU or other components using a liquid, typically circulating it through tubes and a radiator to dissipate heat more effectively.
The ability of GPUs to perform multiple computations simultaneously, greatly increasing their processing power and efficiency.	A specialized electronic circuit that accelerates the creation and rendering of images, video, and animations in a computer system.

A rendering technique to generate realistic images by tracing the path of light rays and simulating their interactions with objects.	A dedicated type of memory used by GPUs to store and access data related to graphics processing.
Slots on a motherboard where memory modules (RAM) can be inserted to provide additional memory for the computer.	The specific type of memory used by GPUs to store and retrieve data required for video processing and rendering.
Connectors on a motherboard that provide power to various components, including the CPU, graphics card, and storage devices.	Slots on a motherboard where expansion cards, such as graphics cards, sound cards, and network cards, can be inserted to enhance the functionality of the computer.
A device that converts electrical power from a source to a format that can be used by a computer or electronic device.	The physical size and shape of a motherboard, which determines its compatibility with computer cases and other hardware components.