Types of Computers

1. Types of Computers Computer Technology (S1 Obj 1-1)

2. Introduction • There are many different types of computers available today. • They are categorized into different types depending on their size and processing power, • What are the categories?

3. Desktop / PC • A computer that is designed to meet the needs of one individual • Has a central processing unit housed in a metal case (often called a tower) along with a keyboard, mouse and monitor • Intended for use at one single location

4. Desktops are used for: • Desktops are used for running applications (full scale, complex software) including: • OfficeSoftware—Word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, and databases • Engineeringdesigningsoftware—CAD/CAM and other designing software for homes, kitchens, airplanes and more… • Photo and Video editing • Music—creating, playing and storing • Internet—Entertainment and information

5. Advantages and Disadvantages • Easy to upgrade • Vast range of software available • Easy to mix and match; customize to meet your needs. • Can be used continually for long periods of time • Not easily portable • Requires large amount of desk space • Needs a fan to prevent overheating • Must be plugged in to power outlet

6. Laptop Computer • Also known as a notebook • A portable computer that integrates a monitor, keyboard, touchpad, pointing stick, and speakers into one single unit • Runs on a rechargeable battery • People choose to use a laptop because of it’s portability and the ability to run most of the same applications that are run on a desktop computer.

7. Netbook • Smaller portable computer that is more lightweight and has less processing power than a laptop • Can still run word processing and spreadsheet applications. • More netbooks are sold today than notebooks, however, sales of netbooks have declined since the introduction of tablets

8. Advantages and Disadvantages of Notebooks and Netbooks • Portable • Lightweight • Runs on a rechargeable battery • Runs the same software as a Desktop PC • More expensive than a comparable PC • Easily damaged if dropped • Difficult to repair/ upgrade

9. Tablets • Mini, flat mobile computer that uses a touch-sensitive screen for input and navigation. • Uses application software called an App: a small, specialized program downloaded onto mobile devices. • Uses: To access apps, e-mail, Internet, minor editing of documents, play games and more… without lugging around a larger computer.

10. Advantages and Disadvantages of Tablets • Small and lightweight • Long battery life • Powers up immediately (no boot process) • Tablets can run ‘lite’ versions of office software • With Internet access, it can access your data from anywhere • Small screen • Keyboard is small and difficult to use • Easily damaged, not easily upgraded • Expensive Internet Access plans

11. Mobile Device • A small, pocket-sized computing device with a touch screen and memory card for data storage. • Also known as a handheld. • There are many kinds of mobile devices. • They run apps • Uses: • Personal organization • Internet access • Phone • GPS • Camera • Media player for audio and videos.

12. Advantages and Disadvantages of Mobile Devices • You can carry it with you (in your pocket) • Fingertip access to the Internet, e-mail and data • Use of phone to contact others • Helps with organization • GPS, phone, texting, face-time and more… • Expensive monthly access plans • Reception is poor in some areas • Safety (use while driving or walking) • Social (limits association interactions) • Distraction at work/school • Easy to lose or damage

13. Server • A computer that provides users with access to files and printers on a network • Has a large processors and many hard drives • Where network documents and web pages are stored • Used in schools, doctors offices, small companies • Makes it possible to access documents on any network computer in the building

14. Mainframe • A Large, powerful computer that carries out different tasks for thousands of people at the same time • Mainframes can process large volumes of data quickly and securely. • They must be operated by trained specialists and kept in air-conditioned rooms away from the office or factory floor.

15. Mainframes are used for: • Utility Companies (Gas and Electricity suppliers)--for billing • Banks –for managing your accounts • Insurance Companies—managing policies • Airlines—reservations and ticket processing • Police—crime detection

16. Supercomputer • The fastest and most expensive computers in the world at the time it is created • They perform quadrillions of complex calculations in a very short time

17. Supercomputers are used for: • Weather forecasting • Space exploration • Scientific research • Military weapons research • Pharmaceuticals and Drug testing

18. Supercomputers continued… • Generate lots of heat; air-conditioning required • Miles of cables connect the computer to peripherals • Requires its own electricity generator • Need special filters installed to keep the atmosphere free of dust particles • Can tackle huge real world calculations that would be too time consuming to be completed by an individual or any other type of computer • Speed and accuracy of calculations

19. Wearable Computers • Electronic devices that are integrated into watches, wristbands, belts, glasses, or even clothing! • Advantages: • Constant interaction between the device and the user • Hands are free—Not necessary to stop what your are doing to use the device.

20. Wearable Computers Uses: • Military • Health and Fitness • Commerce • Navigation • Gaming

21. Embedded Computers • A single chip that contains all of the elements essential for any computer • RAM / ROM • CPU • Input / Output • Clock

22. Embedded Computers Continued… • Computer chips are now cheap enough to install in everyday items. • Telephones • Televisions • Microwaves • Washing machines • Cars