A slot is an opening, hole, or groove in a surface, especially one for receiving something, such as a coin or a letter. In computer technology, a slot is an arrangement of holes in the motherboard that connect to various other components.

A computer slot is a place where an expansion card can be inserted. These cards add additional functionality to the system by enabling it to support more memory or provide faster processing speed. There are several types of slots in a computer, including ISA, PCI, and AGP slots. Each of these has its own specification and uses.

In a casino, a slot is a mechanical device that uses reels to display symbols and pay out credits according to the machine’s program. Originally, these machines used simple gears and strings to spin the reels, but now they are often electronically controlled by computers. The symbols on a slot machine are chosen at random by the computer, and winning combinations are recognized by a light or sound alert.

Many slot machines are themed, and the symbols vary with each theme. Classic symbols include fruit, bells, and stylized lucky sevens. Modern slot games also incorporate bonus features that align with the theme, such as free spins or stacked symbols. The rules of a slot machine are usually displayed on or near the machine, and they may require players to insert cash or, in “ticket-in, ticket-out” machines, a paper ticket with a barcode into a designated slot to activate the machine.

The game of slot can be complicated, and it is important to understand the rules before playing. This includes understanding what each symbol means, how to win the most money, and what the payouts are for each combination. The payouts are typically listed in a table called the pay table, which is sometimes displayed on the screen of the slot machine. In addition to the payouts, the pay table also explains how to trigger any bonus features.

In football, a slot receiver is a wide receiver who plays on passing downs and is primarily a pass-catching specialist. He may run long routes to open up passes underneath him, or he may be involved in trick plays like end-arounds. A great slot receiver, such as Wes Welker, can catch a lot of passes and make big plays for his team.