Laptop Terms Set Flashcards
SO-DIMM
Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module; compact RAM used in laptops.
SSD (Solid State Drive)
Storage with no moving parts; faster and more durable than HDDs. Common in laptops.
HDD (Hard Disk Drive)
Traditional storage using spinning disks. Larger capacity, slower, and more fragile than SSDs.
M.2 Drive
Small form factor SSD that connects directly to the motherboard. Faster than SATA SSDs.
NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express)
High-speed SSD interface that connects via PCIe. Much faster than SATA-based SSDs.
DC Jack
Power connector for laptops that allows charging through an AC adapter.
Battery
Rechargeable power source for laptops, usually lithium-ion.
Touchpad
Built-in pointing device that replaces a mouse in laptops.
Inverter
Converts DC to AC to power older LCD backlights (used with CCFLs). Not needed for LED backlit screens.
Display Panel
The screen of a laptop, usually LCD or LED.
Wi-Fi Antennas
Often located around the screen bezel for optimal wireless signal reception.
Keyboard Replacement
Many laptops allow keyboard replacement, often requiring partial disassembly.
Speakers
Built-in audio output components in laptops.
Function (Fn) Key
Special key used to activate secondary features on other keys (e.g., brightness, volume).
Docking Station
A device that connects to a laptop to provide extra ports and expand capabilities.
Port Replicator
Simplified docking station that adds ports without additional features like GPU support.
Convertible Laptop (2-in-1)
Laptop that can convert into a tablet via rotating, detaching, or folding screens.
Tablet
Touchscreen device that lacks a physical keyboard by default.
Stylus
Pen-like tool for interacting with touchscreens.
Webcam
Built-in or external camera used for video calls.
Wi-Fi Card
Internal adapter for wireless network connections. Often mini PCIe or M.2 format.
Bluetooth
Short-range wireless communication for peripherals like mice and headphones.
Airplane Mode
Disables all wireless communications. Useful for flights or battery saving.
Cellular Card
Allows laptop to connect to cellular networks (4G/LTE) with a SIM card.