Preconfigured systems are systems which already have been configured like ex. Sony, Toshiba, Apple, Acer etc.Custom build systems are systems you can modify your self.

A Desktop is a chassis that is placed under the Monitor. A tower is as chassis that is placed like a tower next to the computer. Sometimes you will see the computer in one unit which is integrated.

Processors come in a variety of different speeds, also called clock speed. The clock speed indicates how many pulses per second the processor can handle. Other factors that determine the power of the computer are processor type and the amount of internal memory. It varies from processor type, but the clock speed gives a good indication of the computer's performance.

Processors come in a variety of different speeds, also called clock speed. The clock speed indicates how many pulses per second the processor can handle. Other factors that determine the power of the computer are processor type and the amount of internal memory. It varies from processor type, but the clock speed gives a good indication of the computer's performance

Internal memory is otherwise known as RAM - (Random Access Memory). More internal memory allows you to run several programs at the same time. These days at least 512Mb of RAM is standard for desktop computer.

The hard disk on your desktop computer indicates the storage capacity, i.e. the number of programs and files that the machine can hold. The storage capacity is stated in GB (Gigabyte). A desktop computer today normally has 80 GB or higher.

The soundcard generates the sound of your computer. The difference between soundcards can be very large. It depends on what you are going to use it for. Most lower end sound cards are well suited to average users. However, if you want to use advanced speakers or use your computer for audio recording a higher end sound card is recommended.

There are several types of monitors. CRT monitors are the normal, larger type whereas TFT monitors are flat.

Indicates what type of operating system has been pre-installed. Most computers come with a pre-installed operating system, so the buyer is spared a lengthy installation process. The most common operating system is Windows XP for home use, while Windows NT is more suitable for offices. Mac OS is mostly used in the media and advertising business.

Shows the type of Optical Drive.

Shows the type of Optical Drive.

Does the computer have more than one graphics card? By connecting two graphics cards together, the performance can be drastically increased. ATI refers to their method of connecting multiple GPUs as Crossfire whereas Nvidia uses the term SLI.

HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) is the first and only industry-supported, uncompressed, all-digital audio/video interface. By delivering crystal-clear, all-digital audio and video via a single cable, HDMI dramatically simplifies cabling and helps provide consumers with the highest-quality home theater experience. HDMI provides an interface between any audio/video source, such as a set-top box, DVD player, or A/V receiver and an audio and/or video monitor, such as a digital television (DTV), over a single cable. HDMI supports standard, enhanced, or high-definition video, plus multi-channel digital audio on a single cable. It transmits all ATSC HDTV standards and supports 8-channel, 192kHz, uncompressed digital audio and all currently-available compressed formats (such as Dolby Digital and DTS), HDMI 1.3 adds additional support for new lossless digital audio formats Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD with bandwidth to spare to accommodate future enhancements and requirements.

FireWire is a high-speed serial data bus. It features simplified cabling, hot swapping, and transfer speeds of up to 800 megabits per second. It is often used to connect digital camcorders to computers.

A network card is needed when connecting to the internet through a broadband connection. The speed which the network card is able to handle is expressed in Mbit. Most cards can handle 10-100 Mbit.