Unit 6. Basic computer terminologies Show
Topic B: Types of computersClick play on the following audio player to listen along as you read this section. Classification of Computers by Size
Supercomputers– a powerful computer that can process large amounts of data and do a great amount of computation very quickly. Supercomputers are used for areas related to:
Supercomputers are useful for applications involving very large databases or that require a great amount of computation. Supercomputers are used for complex tasks, such as:
Mainframe computers– a high-performance computer used for large information processing jobs. Mainframe computers are primarily used in :
Mainframe computers are useful for tasks related to:
Minicomputers– a mid-range computer that is intermediate in size, power, speed, storage capacity, etc., between a mainframe and a microcomputer. Minicomputers are used by small organizations. “Minicomputer” is a term that is no longer used much. In recent years, minicomputers are often referred to as small or midsize servers (a is a central computer that provides information to other computers). Personal computers(PC) – a small computer designed for use by a single user at a time. A PC or microcomputer uses a single chip (microprocessor) for its central processing unit (CPU). “Microcomputer” is now primarily used to mean a PC, but it can refer to any kind of small computer, such as a desktop computer, laptop computer, tablet, smartphone, or wearable. Types of personal computers– a personal computer that is designed to stay at one location and fits on or under a desk. It typically has a monitor, keyboard, mouse, and a tower (system unit). – A portable personal computer that is small enough to rest on the user’s lap and can be powered by a battery. It includes a flip down screen and a keyboard with a touchpad. – A wireless touchscreen PC that is slightly smaller and weighs less than the average laptop. – A mobile phone that performs many of the functions of a personal computer. A notebook computer is a battery- or AC-powered personal computer generally smaller than a briefcase that can easily be transported and conveniently used in temporary spaces such as on airplanes, in libraries, temporary offices, and at meetings. A notebook computer, sometimes called a laptop computer, typically weighs less than 5 pounds and is 3 inches or less in thickness. Among the best-known makers of notebook and laptop computers are IBM, Apple, Compaq, Dell, Toshiba, and Hewlett-Packard. Notebook computers generally cost more than desktop computers with the same capabilities because they are more difficult to design and manufacture. A notebook can effectively be turned into a desktop computer with a docking station, a hardware frame that supplies connections for peripheral input/output devices such as a printer or larger monitor. The less capable port replicator allows you to connect a notebook to a number of peripherals through a single plug. Notebooks usually come with displays that use thin-screen technology. The thin film transistor or active matrix screen is brighter and views better at different angles than the STN or dual-scan screen. Notebooks use several different approaches for integrating a mouse into the keyboard, including the touch pad, the trackball, and the pointing stick. A serial port also allows a regular mouse to be attached. The PC Card is insertable hardware for adding a modem or network interface card to a notebook. CD-ROM and digital versatile disc drives may be built-in or attachable. This was last updated in June 2007 Continue Reading About notebook computer
Dig Deeper on Mobile operating systems and devices
What type of computer is a notebook?A notebook computer, sometimes called a laptop computer, typically weighs less than 5 pounds and is 3 inches or less in thickness. Among the best-known makers of notebook and laptop computers are IBM, Apple, Compaq, Dell, Toshiba, and Hewlett-Packard.
What is a notebook computer used for?A notebook computer is a battery- or AC-powered personal computer generally smaller than a briefcase that can easily be transported and conveniently used in temporary spaces such as on airplanes, in libraries, temporary offices, and at meetings.
Which device is used in portable computers such as laptops and notebooks as a replacement of mouse?Touchpads are a common feature of laptop computers as opposed to using a mouse on a desktop, and are also used as a substitute for a mouse where desk space is scarce.
What is a netbook laptop?A netbook is a type of laptop that is slimmer, lighter, and offers a more simplified set of tools. It's often referred to as a “notebook,” but many people call it a “laptop” as well. In fact, many netbooks actually have the term “laptop” in their name.
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