Different Types of Computer

By Daniel Atkinson

Desktop

A desktop PC (Personal Computer) is a computer meant for a desk or a home, it is not wireless or portable. Desktop pc’s have a mouse, a keyboard and a base unit which includes the computers components. Some newer models have the base unit in with the monitor to save space. Desktops are generally cheaper than laptops and have a longer life span. An example of a Desktop is an Apple Mac.

Laptop

A laptop is a portable wireless PC, it can do everything a desktop can do, but it can do it on the move which makes laptops generally more popular because you can use a Laptop anywhere in the home. Laptops are generally more expensive than desktops and netbooks. Instead of a mouse, laptops have touchpads which is built in with the integrated keyboard. An example of a Laptop is the Dell Inspiron and Apple Mac.

Netbook A Notebook or Netbook, which is what it is

sometimes known as, is a PC that is similar to a laptop but is cheaper, lighter and a lot small (e.g small like a notebook) Netbooks are great for business men because they can use them on the move and they can also easily put them in a brief case or shoulder bag without taking up too much space.

Tablet

A tablet is a wireless phone-like computer with a touch screen. The touch screen enables you to control the pointer by moving your finger around the screen, this is instead of using a mouse. You also use a virtual keyboard rather than a physical one. Tablets are bigger than PDA’s and Mobile Phone’s and are more limited to what they can do compared to aLaptop or Notebook. An example of a Tablet is the Ipad.

PDA

A PDA (Personal Digital Assistant) is a phone- like device that manages information. Most modern PDAs can access the internet and can operate like phones so they are now commonly know as Smartphones. PDA’s are becoming uncommon mainly because phones can do all the things PDA’s can do, but they can also do more.

Games Console

The purpose of a games console is to play video games. Like most modern devices you can now access the internet, play other types of media (DVD & Iplayers) and talk with friends. An example is the PS3 and the Xbox 360. The PS3 and Xbox are 4th generation games consoles.

Mobile

A mobile phone is a portable phone device that allows the user to phone someone while on the move, as well as writing a text message. Most modern phones can also connect to the internet, social networking sites (e.g twitter & Facebook), play games and send emails. Some examples of mobile phones are the Iphone, blackberry and HTC.

Base Unit

A Base unit is a case that contains all of the desktop components. It contains components like the DVD Drive, RAM and Motherboard. Form factors (e.g size & shape) of the case may vary. Portable computers like Netbooks,laptops and tablets don’t have a base unit. Newer Desktops have a base unit built into the monitor.