1. Computer Technology (S1 Obj 1-1)
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:
Office Software—Word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, and databases
Engineering designing software—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
More expensive than a comparable PC
Easily damaged if dropped
Difficult to repair/ upgrade
Portable
Lightweight
Runs on a rechargeable battery
Runs the same software as a Desktop PC

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, , 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
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
You can carry it with you (in your pocket)
Fingertip access to the Internet, and data
Use of phone to contact others
Helps with organization
GPS, phone, texting, face-time and more…

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
Military
Military demands are similar to consumer demand: low power, lightweight, high performance, and long battery life. Small handheld wearable computers enable a soldier to free one or both hands, which means a more alert soldier than one sitting at a laptop.
A large push is under way to improve video capability on wearable displays to better take advantage of sensor fusion and provide situational awareness not only to battlefield commanders, but also down to individual soldiers.
An example of this is sending images taken from unmanned-aerial-vehicle surveillance directly to the wearable devices in special-operations units and reconnaissance forces. This approach would let them see what the UAV sees.
Wearable Computer capabilities
“Imagine video games that happen in real space. Or glasses that remind you of your colleague’s name that you really should know. Or paying for a coffee at Starbucks with your watch instead of your phone. Wearables will transform our lives in numerous ways, trivial and substantial, that we are just starting to imagine.”
The above is quoted from the NY Times technology blog located at
It is an outstanding article about wearables and the future.
Health and Fitness
Link to a super article about the Nike FuelBand, a wearable fitness computer

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