Types of Computers & Computer Hardware
Terms
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- device that accepts input, processes data, stores data and produces output, all according to a set of stored instructions
- computer
- Includes the electronic and mechanical devices that process the data; refers to the computer as well as peripheral devices.
- hardware
- A computer program that tells the computer how to perform particular tasks.
- software
- Two or more computers and other devices that are connected, for the purpose of sharing data and programs.
- network
- Used to expand the computer’s input, output and storage capabilities.
- Peripheral devices
- Manipulation of the data in many ways.
- Processing
- Consists of the processing results produced by a computer.
- Output
- The results of the computer storing data as bits and bytes; the words, numbers, sounds, and graphics.
- Information
- Whatever is put into a computer system.
- Input
- Refers to the symbols that represent facts, objects, or ideas.
- Data
- Area of the computer that temporarily holds data waiting to be processed, stored, or output.
- Memory
- Area of the computer that holds data on a permanent basis when it is not immediately needed for processing.
- Storage
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A personal computer; designed to meet the computer needs of an individual.
Provides access to a wide variety of computing applications, such as word processing, photo editing, e-mail, and internet. - Microcomputer
- that fits on a desk and runs on power from an electrical wall outlet.The CPU can be housed in either a vertical or a horizontal case.Has separate components (keyboard, mouse, etc.) that are each plugged into the computer.
- Desktop Microcomputer
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A portable, compact computer that can run on an electrical wall outlet or a battery unit.
All components (keyboard, mouse, etc.) are in one compact unit. - Laptop Computer
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Powerful desktop computer designed for specialized tasks.Can tackle tasks that require a lot of processing speed.
Can also be an ordinary personal computer attached to a LAN (local area network). - Workstation
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A computer that was the fastest in the world at the time it was constructed.
Can tackle tasks that would not be practical for other computers.Typical uses: Breaking codes &
Modeling weather systems - Supercomputer
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Large expensive computer capable of simultaneously processing data for hundreds or thousands of users.
Used to store, manage, and process large amounts of data that need to be reliable, secure, and centralized.
Usually housed in a closet sized - Mainframe
- A computer that has the purpose of supplying its users with data; usually through the use of a LAN (local area network).
- Server
- a PDA, fits into a pocket, runs on batteries, Typically used as an appointment book, address book, calculator, and notepad.Can be synchronized with a personal microcomputer as a backup.
- Handheld
- Case that holds the power supply, storage devices, and the circuit boards (including the motherboard).
- System unit
- Where the processing in a computer takes place, often called the brain of the computer
- CPU
- Units that gather information and transform that information it into a series of electronic signals for the computer.
- Input Devices
- An arrangement of letters, numbers, and special function keys that act as the primary input device to the computer.
- Keyboard
- An input device that allows the user to manipulate objects on the screen by moving the device along the surface of a desk.
- Mouse
- A circuit board that gives the computer the ability to accept audio input, play sound files, and produce audio output through speakers or headphones.
- Sound Card
- A device that sends and receives data to and from computers over telephone lines.
- Modem
- display, print, or transmit the results of processing from the computer’s memory.
- Output Devices
- forms an image by converting electrical signals from the computer into points of colored light on the screen.
- monitor
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Used to keep data when the power to the computer is turned off.
Different forms
Hard disk
Floppy or zip disks
CD-Writer - Storage Devices