RAM and Motherboard Components

Click away the tabs on the RAM sockets to open them.
When you push the RAM into the sockets, the tabs will click back to hold the RAM.
Check the documentation to ensure you're using the proper DDR version (3, 4, or 5).
DDR4 won't fit in a DDR3 slot, so be aware of compatibility.
RAM is often sold in matching pairs.

Dual channel memory means having twice as many lanes inside the motherboard.
If RAM is not placed in the correct slots, it won't operate in dual channel mode, and the computer won't perform as fast.
Consult the motherboard's documentation to determine the correct slots for dual channel.
Even if using two RAM sticks, one might be required in a specific location to start the computer.
Putting RAM in the correct channels enables dual channel memory, resulting in faster performance.
Analogy: Opening another lane in a parking lot to speed up the exit process.
Dual channels can be distinguished by color coding (e.g., light gray vs. dark gray), numbering, or lettering; check the documentation.

Besides dual channel, there are also triple and quad channel configurations.
Quad channels are typically found in server environments.
Ensure you match the DDR version and speed of the RAM.
Speeds are represented by numbers such as 133 or 1600; research the appropriate speed to match.

PCIe is an interface with different lanes (1, 4, 8, 16).
More lanes mean more connectors; 16 lanes are better than 1.
Simple sound cards may use one lane, while graphics cards need 16.
A smaller card can be plugged into a bigger slot, but it won't run at the higher speed.
PCIe slots have keys to prevent incorrect insertion.
Sizes vary; a 1-lane slot is smaller than a 16-lane slot.
Graphics cards are commonly installed in PCIe slots.

PCI is an older version of PCIe.
Newer boards may have PCI for backward compatibility.
The key's location distinguishes PCI from PCIe.
PCI key is closer to the back of the computer, while PCIe's key is on the left-hand side.

SATA cables connect normal hard drives.
SSDs (Solid State Drives) connect via the m.2 interface.
SSD cards are small with no moving parts, offering faster speeds.
SSDs are inserted at a 45-degree angle, pushed into place, and secured with a screw.
m.2 interface is unique in that the SSD is inserted at an angle.

SSDs are now predominantly used in PCs.
SSDs can be used with HDDs (Hard Disk Drives) in the same computer.
SSDs are often used to run the operating system and games and HDDs are used for additional storage.
External SATA is also available.