Specialised Cards

Network Interface Cards (NIC)
A NIC connects to a computer through an expansion port typically PCIe, this device allows for the computer to communicate on computer network with some providing the capability to connect to multiple networks.

The may be wired interface cards that have Ethernet ports or fibre for connecting to networks or use wireless communication to connect to Bluetooth devices or Wi-Fi devices.

Graphics Processing Unit Cards (GPU)
Graphics cards produce the images displayed on a video output such as a monitor, this card can be integrated into a motherboard or be a dedicated card typically providing more processing power.

Monitors refresh the image displayed at a high rate, the resolution of the images been rendered and the quality of the image increase the processing power required to maintain the same refresh rate. If the refresh rate starts to decline it can lead to noticeable stuttering of videos.

Modem Cards
A modulator-demodulator allows computers to communicate digitally through analogue phone lines. When transmitting data, the digital information is modulated into an analogue signal and transmitted through the telephone line, when receiving the analogue information is demodulated back into digital information for a computer.

Sound Cards
Sound cards are used to produce audio signals they connect through various different ports and then the digital audio signal is converted into an analogue signal for standard headphones and digital signal standards for other audio outputs. They also convert analogue inputs from microphones into digital signals to allow for recording and communication.