⏰ A computer timekeeper 🔄 A timing signal

system clock

4.3

An electronic part that sends fast regular signals to make computer parts work together

noun
/ˈsɪstəm klɑk/

Specialized

: reloj del sistema

The system clock sends signals that regulate how quickly instructions are executed by the CPU.

Examples

Without a functioning system clock, your computer will not be able to coordinate its processes efficiently.
Upgrading the system clock can sometimes increase the overall performance of your device.
The system clock ensures all components work in sync.
Can you check the system clock for accuracy?
The system clock is essential for ensuring that all parts of the computer operate seamlessly together.
If the system clock is set incorrectly, it can cause errors in scheduling tasks within the system.
Malfunctions in the system clock can disrupt data transfer rates between the CPU and memory.

Synonyms

clock

vssystem clock

∞ 1.0

A device that shows the time of day, usually on a dial or screen

generates high-frequency pulses inside a computer to synchronize internal components

How Coordinating

system clock

Specialized

4.3

synchronizer

Specialized

1 7.2

controller

Specialized

74 3.8

timer

155 1.6

indicator

Specialized

11 3.7

Surface Forms

system clock singular

system clocks plural

Morphology

system + clock

The meaning is directly derivable from combining 'system' (a collection of interacting components) with 'clock' (a device that provides timing): it denotes a clock that provides timing for the system. The electronic/technical detail about high-frequency synchronization is a domain-specific extension but does not obscure the basic compositional meaning, which is cross-linguistically common and likely accessible to B1 learners who know the parts.

Etymology

System clock is like a steady beat inside the computer that tells each part when to act. The word clock helps you imagine a regular pulse, so it means the electronic signal that keeps the parts 'in step'.