A slot is a position or space on a computer motherboard where an expansion card can be inserted. The term can also refer to the number of such slots on a particular motherboard, or the total number of expansion slots available on a computer. Typically, expansion slots are located on the back of the motherboard, and they can be used to add additional memory, video cards, or other devices.

A computer that has multiple expansion slots can be configured to run more than one operating system at the same time. This feature is known as multitasking and allows the user to have different applications open simultaneously. This type of configuration is very useful for businesses that need to handle large amounts of data. In addition, it can help to keep the computer running smoothly and efficiently by minimizing the resources that each application uses.

The Slot machine is a gambling device that has spinning reels and a random-number-generating software. The random-number-generating software determines how many times a symbol will land on the reels, what payout amount is awarded, and whether a player wins at all. Most slot machines have a return-to-player percentage that ranges from 90%-97%. This figure is calibrated in advance and tested over millions of spins. In addition, slot games have a variance that describes how often the top jackpot is won, and whether it is won in big chunks or smaller though more frequent ones.

There are thousands of slot games to choose from, and it is impossible to know about all of them. However, knowing a little bit about how they work can help a player make more informed choices when playing them.

For example, a slot game might have a bonus round where players can win extra spins or multipliers. It can also offer progressive jackpots, which increase in size each time a player plays the game. It is important to decide how much money you are willing to risk when playing a slot machine, and to play responsibly. Psychologists have found that people who play slots reach a debilitating level of involvement with gambling three times more quickly than those who do not, and that they are more likely to develop addiction problems.

Another tip for slot players is to look for games that have recently paid out. This is easy to do online, and it can help a player find games that are worth their attention. In brick-and-mortar casinos, players can usually see the amount that a machine has paid out on the pay table or on the machine itself.

The slot receiver is a wide receiver (WR) who is placed between the end of the offensive line and either a tight end or another WR on the line of scrimmage. This position usually requires the slot receiver to block and run short routes, rather than go deep or attempt trick plays like end-arounds. A great slot receiver will be able to catch passes and help his team score points.