Tech & Gadgets Glossary Singapore
Clear definitions for the tech and gadget terms you’ll encounter in our Singapore product reviews — from PC components and display specs to aircon jargon and repair terms, explained simply.
PC Components
GPU (Graphics Processing Unit)
A GPU is the chip responsible for rendering images, video and animations. In PCs, it refers to a dedicated graphics card (e.g. NVIDIA RTX or AMD Radeon) handling gaming, video editing and 3D rendering. Read the full GPU guide →
CPU (Central Processing Unit)
The CPU is the primary processor of a computer — handling all general computing tasks from running your OS to processing data. Common brands in Singapore include Intel (Core i5, i7, i9) and AMD (Ryzen). Read the full CPU guide →
RAM (Random Access Memory)
RAM is your computer’s short-term working memory. For most Singapore users in 2026, 16GB is the sweet spot. Gamers and content creators should aim for 32GB. Read the full RAM guide → | How Much RAM Do You Need? →
SSD vs HDD
SSD uses flash memory — fast, silent, durable. HDD uses spinning platters — cheaper per GB but significantly slower. Most modern laptops use SSDs. Read the full SSD vs HDD guide → | Full SSD vs HDD Article →
Thermal Paste
Thermal paste is a heat-conductive compound applied between a CPU or GPU and its cooler. In Singapore’s heat, thermal paste dries out faster — causing overheating and throttling. Read the full Thermal Paste guide → | Thermal Throttling Article →
PC Upgrading (RAM, SSD, GPU)
PC upgrading means replacing or adding hardware to improve speed, storage or graphics performance without buying a new machine. Common upgrades in Singapore include RAM, SSD swaps, GPU replacements and thermal paste. Read the full PC Upgrading guide → | Top 10 PC Upgrade & Repair Services →
PC Repair
Data Recovery
Data recovery is the process of retrieving lost, deleted or corrupted files from a storage device (HDD, SSD, USB). Logical recovery handles accidental deletion; physical recovery handles mechanical drive failure. Read the full Data Recovery guide → | Top 10 PC Repair Services →
PC Repair Warranty
A repair warranty guarantees the work carried out will hold up for a set period. Typical warranties at Singapore PC repair shops range from 30 days to 1 year depending on the repair type. Read the full PC Repair Warranty guide →
Chip-Level Repair (Board-Level Repair)
Chip-level repair fixes individual components on a circuit board rather than replacing the whole motherboard — cheaper and preserves your data. Read the full Chip-Level Repair guide →
Thermal Throttling
Thermal throttling is when a CPU or GPU automatically reduces its clock speed to prevent overheating. Common in Singapore’s heat. Preventable with thermal paste replacement and proper cooling. Read the full Thermal Throttling guide → | Thermal Throttling Article →
Display & Gaming
Refresh Rate (Hz)
Refresh rate measures how many times per second a display redraws the image. 60Hz is fine for everyday use; 144Hz is noticeably smoother for gaming. Read the full Refresh Rate guide → | What Does Hz Mean on a Monitor? →
G-Sync vs FreeSync
G-Sync (NVIDIA) and FreeSync (AMD) are adaptive sync technologies that eliminate screen tearing. FreeSync is now compatible with NVIDIA GPUs too — better value for most Singapore buyers. Read the full G-Sync vs FreeSync guide →
IPS vs VA vs TN Panel
IPS — best colour accuracy. VA — deepest contrast. TN — fastest response for competitive gaming. Most monitors in Singapore are IPS or VA. Read the full IPS vs VA vs TN guide →
Mobile & Repair
IP Rating (IP67 / IP68)
IP (Ingress Protection) rating measures how well a device is sealed against dust and water. Most flagship phones in Singapore carry IP68 — but water damage is not covered under warranty. Read the full IP Rating guide → | IP67 vs IP68 Full Article →
OEM vs Aftermarket Parts
OEM parts are made by the original manufacturer. Aftermarket parts are third-party — cheaper but variable in quality. Read the full OEM vs Aftermarket guide → | OEM vs Aftermarket Screen Article →
Battery Cycle Count
A battery cycle is one complete discharge and recharge. Most lithium-ion batteries are rated 300–500 cycles. Singapore’s heat accelerates degradation. Read the full Battery Cycle guide →
Warranty (Local vs International)
Local warranty is claimable at Singapore service centres. International warranty may require sending the device overseas. Read the full Warranty guide →
Aircon
Aircon Chemical Wash
A chemical wash is a deep clean where internal aircon components are soaked with chemical solution to remove mould, bacteria and mineral deposits. Recommended every 1–2 years in Singapore. Read the full Chemical Wash guide → | Chemical Wash vs General Servicing Article →
Aircon Refrigerant (R22 vs R410A)
Refrigerant circulates through your aircon to absorb heat. R22 is phased out by NEA. R410A is the current standard. Read the full Refrigerant guide →
Workspace
Ergonomics (Chair & Workspace)
Ergonomics is the science of designing equipment to fit the human body. For office chairs, key factors are lumbar support, seat height, armrest adjustability and headrest. Read the full Ergonomics guide → | Lumbar Support Article →
📖 In-Depth Articles
- Top 10 PC Upgrade & Repair Services in Singapore (2026)
- Cheapest Custom Gaming PC Builder in Singapore — Real Prices Compared
- How Students Save Cost on Custom Gaming PC Builds
- What Does RAM Actually Do and How Much Do You Need?
- SSD vs HDD — What’s the Difference?
- What Does Thermal Throttling Mean and How Does It Affect Your Laptop?
- What Does Hz Mean on a Monitor?
- What Does IP67 and IP68 Mean on a Phone?
- OEM vs Aftermarket Phone Screen Replacement