Types of computer

By
Mujjuzi Yasin
 A desktop
computer
• A desktop computer is also known as a personal
computer, or PC for short.

• They are designed for home or business use,

• but they are not portable and require a

continuous power supply (as they have no
internal battery).

• The computer itself is housed in a base unit,

and this requires separate peripherals,
particularly :

• a monitor, keyboard and mouse for input and

output, connected by cables or wirelessly.

• The base unit contains the power supply, CPU,

motherboard, RAM, ROM, internal storage,
video card and sound card.
Characteristics
• The following characteristics are shared by all desktop computers:
• Separate peripherals.
• Base unit houses internal components and storage.
• Not portable – can be moved, but not easily.
• Can be inexpensive, depending on the specification.
• Can have high storage capacity as there is space for larger internal storage devices.
• Because the monitor is separate, they can have a bigger screen size for increased
comfort.
• Larger size of separate keyboards give more comfort and decrease typing errors.
• Provide stable internet when connected by cables rather than wi-fi.
• Can be upgraded easily.
• Parts can be replaced if damaged.
• Can be built from scratch using base components.
A desktop computer
Uses Advantages
• Small businesses where portability is not required. • Can be built to a higher specification, by adding a faster
processor or more memory.
• Larger offices where desks or working areas are fixed and
many machines may be needed. • High storage capacity and can be expanded internally.
• Studios where visual work is done on large or multiple screens. • Keyboard is separate and its position can be adjusted for
comfort and to avoid posture problems.
• Data backup in business that otherwise use portable devices.
• Cheaper to buy.
• School classrooms or ICT suites.
• Easy to upgrade.
• Libraries and universities, where multiple users may use the
• Full size keyboard, monitor and mouse are easier to
same device at different times. use compared to laptops, mobiles or tablets.
• In the home, to store a large amount of personal data. • Not portable so less chance of being damaged or stolen.
• Popular for gaming as they can be built to a high specification • Internet access using a cable is more stable compared to
and upgraded to keep up with new software requirements. wi-fi.
A desktop
computer
• Disadvantages
• Not portable.
• As they are not portable, it is
necessary to send files, use cloud
storage or copy files onto a
removable storage device if you
want to work in a different location.
• Occupy more space as they use a
separate keyboard, mouse and
monitor and a large base unit.
• Do not have batteries, so need
continuous power supply.
Activity
1. ‘One advantage of desktop computers is that if a 3. Which of these best describes desktop
component breaks down it can computers?
be ………………….  easily. Desktop computers A. High storage capacity but not
can also be …………………  with new portable
components to keep up with the latest software B. Inexpensive and portable
requirements. Desktop computers can also
be……………………….   from scratch, which C. High storage capacity and portable
can save money but requires expert knowledge.’ D. Built-in peripherals but not portable
2. ‘Desktop computers require a
separate  ………………and mouse for input and
a separate  ………………. for output.’
Laptop computers
• Characteristics
• The following characteristics are shared by all laptop computers:
• Built-in input and output devices – keyboard, touch pad pointing
device and monitor.
• Portable.
• Small enough to use on your lap.
• Relatively expensive because of their compact size and portable
features.
• Relatively high storage capacity, although limited by the size of the
case.
• Light weight.
• Rechargeable batteries.
• CPU designed not to generate too much heat.
• Medium screen size, limited by the need for portability.
• Small footprint (takes up limited desk surface space).
Laptop computers
• Advantages
• Uses
• Light weight and compact size so easy to carry.
• Laptop computers are used in almost every field.
• Rechargeable batteries so users can work without being
• They can perform all tasks which are carried out by desktop connected to power.
computers, with the added advantage of portability, so in
many offices' desktops have been replaced by laptops. • Essential input and output devices are built-in, including
keyboard, touch pad, speakers, microphone, camera and
• Here are some of the most common applications of laptop monitor, so no need to carry separate peripherals.
computers:
• Less trailing cables.
• Offices and businesses where portability is useful.
• Home or remote working. • Built-in internet connectivity through wi-fi.
• Businesses that use remote selling or product • External devices can be easily connected via Bluetooth or
demonstrations. wireless.
• Students, for note-taking or working in shared spaces. • No need to copy files between work and home if you are
• In the home, for the ability to work from the comfort of carrying the computer home from the office.
any room or seat.
• No need for a flat surface to use a pointing device.
• Outside in parks or cafés for a change of environment
when working. • Single unit so occupy less surface space.
Laptop computers
• Disadvantages
• Easily stolen because of their compact size and portability
features.
• Data security also a factor because they are easily stolen.
• Limited battery life, so user may need to carry a bulky power
adaptor.
• Touch pads are not as easy to use as a separate mouse.
• Built-in keyboards are small and may be less comfortable or less
accurate for typing.
• Can be prone to damage while out and about.
• Expensive because of their smaller components and portability
features.
• Cannot be easily upgraded or repaired.
• Generate heat after prolonged use.
Laptop computers
1. Complete the sentence below:
‘Laptop computers have a built-in ……………………..as a
pointing device.’
2. ‘Unlike desktop computers, laptops do not have to be
connected to ………………………. all the time, as
they have a built-in ………………………………...’
3. Which of the following is not an advantage of a laptop
computer?
A. Easy to upgrade
B. Portable
C. Performs all the same functions as a desktop
computer
D. Built-in input and output devices
Mobile devices
• Smartphones are very popular devices because of their compact size and their
huge number of functions.
• Like a desktop or laptop computer, a smartphone has an operating system, like
Windows or macOS.
• The two most common operating systems in smartphones are iOS and Android.
• Not only do they include a touch screen, cameras and microphone, but many also
include other sensors that can receive data from the world, including:
 Magnetometer
Measures magnetic fields and is used in the digital compass and navigation apps.
• Proximity sensors
Detects the presence of an object when it enters in the sensor’s field.
 Barometer
Measures atmospheric pressure.

 Gyroscope
Measures the angular velocity of an object, allowing the smartphone to track its
own orientation.
Characteristics
• The following characteristics are shared by all
smartphones:
• Built-in cellular technology to communicate with cell
phone networks.
• Portable and small size.
• Light weight.
• Touch screen.
• High-definition displays.
• Front and rear facing cameras.
• Long battery life.
• Bluetooth connection to other devices.
Uses
Here are some of the most Internet phone calls, Browsing the internet
common applications of Phone calls. which can be cheaper than Text messaging. while outside or around
smartphones: mobile phone calls. the house.

Sending and receiving Navigation apps for Photography and photo Video camera, including
Online banking.
emails on the go. directions. editing. video editing.

Social networking,
allowing instant upload of
photos and videos Watching films. Listening to music. Calendar and reminders.
captured by the built-in
camera.
Mobile devices
• Advantages • Disadvantages
• Everything in one device – communications, • Small screen can make it difficult to read lots of
text.
calendar, camera, microphone, entertainment and
applications. • Potential eye strain problems.
• Small and light so very easy to carry. • Small touch screen means small virtual keyboard,
which is difficult for people with larger hands.
• Easy to connect to wi-fi or mobile data, so easy to • Portability means they can be easily stolen, and
access online applications and for internet surfing. desirability of newer models means they are a
• Many apps for many different functions. target for theft.
• Some websites are not compatible with
• Long battery life. smartphones .
• Cannot be upgraded.
Smart watches
• Smart watches are becoming an increasingly popular
alternative to normal watches. Smart watches work a bit
like small  smartphone s that can be worn on the wrist.
• They have a touch screen display, operated by taps
or swipes, and many also have built-in cellular
technology to make calls and send messages, or can do
so via a Bluetooth connection to an associated
smartphone.
• Modern smart watches also have several features that
provide additional functionality useful in fitness
applications, including the ability to measure the
heartbeat and motion tracking, with some smart watches
even able to monitor oxygen level and blood pressure.
Activity
1. Complete the following sentence:
‘A ………………….. is smaller than a tablet but 
………………………… than a smartphone. They can be
used for making ………………………….and sending
messages like a phone but are also suitable for applications
where a larger ………………… is beneficial.’
2. A smartphone is small and light so
very ………………………. But this means they are prone
to being damaged and easy to ………………………..
3. Which of these computer types can be used to keep
track of your fitness?
A. Smart watch
B. Tablet
C. Desktop
D. Laptop