In a previous blog we outlined some key acronyms in the world of laptops and explained them in a little more detail. This blog continues that theme with some more definitions of laptop technologies. It will hopefully help you have more success when navigating your way around your laptop or looking through a spec list.  

Memory – This is the storage space on your laptop and is actually Random Access Memory [RAM]. It is measured in Kilo Bytes [KB], Mega Bytes [MB], Giga Bytes [GB] or even Tera Bytes (TB) – the latter being the largest capacity. The memory on your laptop can be increased by fitting a memory expansion module.

Modem – Is the device that allows your laptop to connect to the internet over a telephone line. Not as common these days due to the advent of broadband internet. 

O/S – Stands for Operating System and is the main software on the laptop that the user will come in contact with. Common operating systems are Microsoft Windows, Mac and Linux.

PC Card – PCMCIA – A credit card sized card that slots into your laptop that can add memory or mass storage options. The PCMCIA is a non profit trade association that regulates PC Card technology.

PDA – Stands for Personal Digital Assistant and is usually a palm pilot that is a hand held version of a laptop that is often used in conjunction with a laptop when more flexible working is needed.

USB – Stands for Universal Serial Bus and is port on the side of the laptop where you can connect devices via USB cables such as printers, cameras, mobile phones and memory sticks.

Remember to bookmark it for an easy reference guide in the future.