This glossary is to help you better understand the different terms used in computer science. Here are 20 words that are most used in this domain.
computer
noun
An electronic device for storing and processing data, typically in binary form, according to instructions given to it in a variable program.
Example: I just bought a new computer.
en: ordinateur
CPU (central processing unit)
noun/phrase
The Central Processing Unit, often called the "brain" or "heart" of a computer, is the primary hardware component that executes instructions, performs calculations, and manages data flow for operating systems and applications.
Example: My CPU overheated, because it lacked thermal paste.
en: processeur
drivers
noun
a program that controls the operation of a device
Example: My GPU drivers are outdated.
en: pilotes
GPU (graphics processing unit)
noun/phrase
A Graphics Processing Unit is a specialized electronic circuit designed to rapidly manipulate and alter memory to accelerate the creation of images, videos, and 3D graphics for display.
Example: My GPU needs 300 Watts of power to work correctly.
en: carte graphique
HDD (Hard drive disk)
noun/phrase
A Hard Disk Drive uses rotating disks store information and files mechanically.
Example: My HDD is full, I need to clean up space on my computer.
en: Disque dur
hertz
noun
the SI unit of frequency, equal to one cycle per second.
Example: My monitor has a refresh rate of 200 hertz.
en: hertz
LAN (local area network)
noun
A Local Area Network connects devices like computers, phones, and printers in a small, limited geographical area, such as a home, office, or school, allowing them to share resources, data, and communicate with each other, typically using Ethernet cables or Wi-Fi.
Example: In the early 90s the only for gamers to play together was with LAN parties.
en: réseau local
LED (light-emitting diode)
noun/phrase
A Light-Emitting Diode is a semiconductor device that produces light when an electric current passes through it, releasing energy as photons.
Example: My monitor is composed of thousands of LED's.
en: diode électroluminescente
Monitor
noun
A computer monitor is an essential, external output device that visually displays processed data, including text, images, and video, generated by a computer's graphics card.
Example: My monitor is getting old I might need to change it.
en: écran
Motherboard
noun
A motherboard is the primary printed circuit board in a computer that acts as the central backbone connecting all essential components.
Example: The motherboard is the skeleton of the computer.
en: Carte Mère
peripheral
noun
A device that controls or adds capabilities to a computer
Example: My peripherals are not working because I don't have the drivers required installed.
en: périphérique
PSU (power supply unit)
noun/phrase
A Power Supply Unit is an essential internal computer component that converts high-voltage alternating current from a wall outlet into low-voltage regulated direct current needed for components like the motherboard, CPU, and GPU.
Example: My PSU was not strong enough to support my GPU.
en: unité d'alimentation
RAM (random access memory)
noun/phrase
Random Access Memory is a computer's fast, temporary "working memory," storing data for the CPU to access quickly for active applications and processes.
Example: AI caused a worldwide RAM shortage, because of that prices skyrocketed.
en: Mémoire vive
server
noun
A computer or computer program that manages access to a centralized resource or service in a network.
Example: The main server is under maintenance because the network is down.
en: serveur
SSD (Solid state drive)
Noun/phrase
A Solid State Drive is a modern computer storage device that uses flash memory chips to store data electronically.
Example: I upgraded my storage from an HDD to an SSD, so my data is safer.
en: Disque SSD
Thermal Paste
noun/phrase
Thermal paste is a heat-conductive substance used in electronics, like computers, to fill microscopic air gaps between a heat source and its heat sink.
Example: I almost forgot to put thermal paste on my CPU before putting my cooler on top.
en: Pâte thermique
to brick
verb
When a computer fails beyond reparation.
Example: My computer got bricked when my PSU failed.
en: inutilisable
to code
verb
program instructions
Example: I coded an app to help me arrange my schedule.
