# PCI

CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/pci
Updated: 2026-05-10

## Definition

Stands for Peripheral Component Interconnect. A standard way for different parts of a computer to connect and talk to each other. It is the physical slot or connection inside a computer where you plug in things like sound or network cards.

For teachers: Abbreviation for Peripheral Component Interconnect. A local computer bus standard for attaching hardware devices in a computer. It facilitates high-speed communication between the central processing unit and peripheral components like network adapters or graphics cards.

## Examples

- I need to plug the new sound card into a PCI slot.
- The technician opened the server casing to check if the network card was properly seated in the PCI slot.
- While modern systems have largely transitioned to the faster Express standard, legacy industrial hardware often still relies on the original PCI architecture for basic input and output operations.

## Usage notes

- Usually used as an attributive noun before 'slot', 'bus', or 'card'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.