Types+of+computers


 * __Types of computers: personal digital assistant (PDA), laptop, desktop computer__**

__Hand Held Device/ Personal Digital Assistant (PDA):__ Some computing devices are small enough to tuck into pockets and serve the need of users who value mobility. An example includes PDA’s. PDA’s (like the Palm and the Pocket PC) were originally designed to serve as a pocket-sized digital address books and day planners that could share data with PC’s. Now however they have evolved into multi-purpose computers. Now a day PDA’s allow internet browsing (connect to wi-fi) and act as a personal information manager. They can also act as a portable media player. Initially dominated by Palm and Pocket PC, PDA technology has moved on to phones.

Effect on new technology: PDA’s have pioneered mobile phone technology. Many phones such as BlackBerry and Iphone have adopted PDA functions such as saving facebook and e-mail contacts. On top of that they have placed more advanced internet browsing services, hence the need for simple PDA’s has decreased, while the need for phones with PDA features has increased.

Disadvantages: PDA technology is now used in mobiles therefore PDA devices are no longer purchased as much. Also PDA technology can be limited, only now has internet access and gaming been introduced.

__ Personal Computers and Work stations:__ A PC was designed to be used by one person at a time as a tool for enhancing productivity, creativity and communication. PC’s can be classified as desktop computers, workstations and laptop computers.

__A Desktop Computer:__ Is a personal computer designed to sit on a desk or table for extended periods of time. The most common type of desktop computer has several components including the tower (big box which has the CPU inside and other items), monitor, keyboard, mouse and speakers. Some computers do not have a tower as the components are placed inside the monitor such as the IMAC G5 (Shown below). The common desktop computer can perform most actions any computer can except for mobility.

Disadvantage: Not mobile, viruses can be an issue

__A Work station:__ Is an expensive desktop with massive computing power. It is used for intensive applications such as large scale scientific data analysis. (They look very similar to Desktop computers)

Disadvantage: Cost of workstations is becoming less however the power of desktop computers are increasing therefore the difference between the too is becoming negligible.

__ Laptop Computers:__ Is a personal computer designed mainly to perform the same functions as a desktop accept for portable reasons. Laptops rely on internal battery and are often light in weight. Netbooks/ Subnotebooks are often smaller than laptop, they are cheaper and weigh less. These devices tend not to have a hard drive and not are difficult to upgrade. Laptops don’t need a mouse and speakers since they have built in ones. Laptops tend to be built around the CPU.

Advantages: Mobility allows work to be done at home or outside the office

Disadvantage: Laptops are less durable than desktops and often more expensive. Long hours can cause more problems for users than on desktops. Laptops tend to be more difficult to upgrade than desktops and can be difficult to fix parts when damaged.

Last Updated: October 12, 2011, 8:47 PM