Acronyms and Abbreviations

Sometimes, it's enough to make you lose your mind. Here are some acronyms and abbreviations you might encounter in the course or in the wild.

Acronym	Meaning	Simple Description
BIOS	Basic Input/Output System	Firmware responsible for starting the computer.
CPU	Central Processing Unit	Performs calculations and executes instructions. Also the name of the bus for this RAM.
DDR	Double Data Rate	Type of RAM allowing faster data transfer.
DIMM	Dual In-line Memory Module	Type of RAM connector.
DMI	Direct Media Interface	Bus connecting the CPU to the chipset on modern motherboards.
EEPROM	Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory	Non-volatile memory that can be electrically programmed and erased.
FSB	Front Side Bus	Old bus connecting the CPU to the chipset (technically Northbridge on older architectures).
GPU	Graphics Processing Unit	Handles calculations and graphic display.
HDD	Hard Disk Drive	Traditional hard drive with magnetic platters.
HDMI	High-Definition Multimedia Interface	Connector for high-definition audio and video.
I2C	Inter-Integrated Circuit	Serial bus for communication between components on a motherboard.
M.2	M.2 Interface	Connector for SSDs and expansion cards on a motherboard.
NVMe	Non-Volatile Memory Express	Communication protocol for SSDs using PCIe.
PCI	Peripheral Component Interconnect	Old parallel bus for connecting internal peripherals.
PCIe	Peripheral Component Interconnect Express	Fast serial bus connecting CPU/chipset to internal peripherals (GPU, SSD).
PCIe x16	Peripheral Component Interconnect Express x16	PCIe connector with 16 lanes for GPU and other peripherals.
PSU	Power Supply Unit	Provides electrical power to internal components.
RAM	Random Access Memory	Temporary volatile memory used by the CPU.
RJ45	Registered Jack 45	Connector for Ethernet networks.
SATA	Serial Advanced Technology Attachment	Connection interface for internal hard drives and SSDs. Refers to both the connector and the interface.
SPI	Serial Peripheral Interface	Serial bus for communication between microcontrollers and peripherals.
SSD	Solid State Drive	Fast storage drive, without moving parts.
USB	Universal Serial Bus	Universal interface for external devices.
USB-A	Universal Serial Bus Type-A	Standard, non-reversible USB connector.
USB-C	Universal Serial Bus Type-C	Reversible connector for data and power.
VGA	Video Graphics Array	Video connector for monitors and projectors.
Wi-Fi	Wireless Fidelity	Wireless Internet connection.