Computer Basics
1 like400 views
A computer is an electronic device that can store, retrieve, and process data. Computers come in many forms including desktops, laptops, tablets, servers, phones, game consoles, and TVs. They all contain hardware components and run software programs. The main types of personal computers are PCs, which typically run Windows, and Macs, which are made by Apple and run Mac OS. This document provided an overview of computers, hardware vs. software, common computer types, and the differences between PCs and Macs.
Computer Basics
- 2. What is a computer? A computer is an electronic device that manipulates information, or data. It has the ability to store, retrieve, and process data. You probably already know that you can use a computer to type documents, send email, play games, and browse the Web. You can also use it to edit or create spreadsheets, presentations, and even videos. Throughout this lesson, we'll show you some of the most important things you need to know about computers, including how to set up your computer, how to interact with the desktop and operating system, and what kinds of computers are available. We'll also introduce you to some basic troubleshooting strategies you can use if your computer isn't working correctly. DigitalLifeAdvisor.com
- 3. Hardware vs. software Before we talk about different types of computers, let's talk about two things all computers have in common: hardware and software. Hardware is any part of your computer that has a physical structure, such as the keyboard or mouse. It also includes all of the computer's internal parts, which you can see in the image below. Software is any set of instructions that tells the hardware what to do. It is what guides the hardware and tells it how to accomplish each task. Some examples of software include web browsers, games, and word processors. Everything you do on your computer will rely on both hardware and software. For example, right now you may be viewing this lesson in a web browser (software) and using your mouse (hardware) to click from page to page. As you progress through this lesson, you'll see that different types of computers also often use different types of software. DigitalLifeAdvisor.com
- 4. What are the different types of computers? When most people hear the word computer, they think of a personal computer such as a desktop or laptop. However, computers come in many shapes and sizes, and they perform many different functions in our daily lives. When you withdraw cash from an ATM, scan groceries at the store, or use a calculator, you're using a type of computer. Desktop computers Many people use desktop computers at work, home, school, or the library. They can be small, medium, or large in style, and they usually sit on a desk. Once you add a monitor, mouse, and keyboard, you have what is typically known as a desktop computer. Most desktop computers are easy to upgrade and expand or add new parts. DigitalLifeAdvisor.com
- 5. What are the different types of computers? Laptop computers The second type of computer you may be familiar with is a laptop computer, or a laptop. Laptops are battery- or AC- powered personal computers that are more portable than desktop computers, allowing you to use them almost anywhere. Because a laptop is smaller than a desktop, it's more difficult to access its internal components. Tablet computers Tablet computers are handheld computers that are even more portable than laptops. Instead of a keyboard or touchpad, tablets use a touch-sensitive screen for typing and navigation. If you just want to be able to play games, check email and social media, or stream music and videos, a tablet may be a good computer replacement. DigitalLifeAdvisor.com
- 6. What are the different types of computers? Servers A server is a computer that serves up information to other computers on a network. Many businesses have file servers employees can use to store and share files. A server can look like a regular desktop computer, or it can be much larger. Servers also play an important role in making the Internet work: They are where webpages are stored. When you use your browser to click a link, a web server delivers the page you requested. Other types of computers Today, there are many everyday devices that are basically specialized computers, even though we don't always think of them as computers. Here are a few common examples: DigitalLifeAdvisor.com
- 7. What are the different types of computers? Mobile phones: Many mobile phones can do a lot of things computers can do, such as browsing the Internet and playing games. These phones are often called smartphones. Game consoles: A game console is a specialized kind of computer that is used for playing video games. Although they are not as fully featured as desktop computers, many newer consoles allow you to perform nongaming tasks like browsing the Web. TVs: Many TVs now include applications—or apps—that let you access various types of online content. For example, you can view your Facebook News Feed or watch streaming movies on Netflix. DigitalLifeAdvisor.com
- 8. PCs and Macs Personal computers come in two main styles: PC and Mac. Both are fully functional, but they have a different look and feel, and many people prefer one or the other. PC: This type of computer began with the original IBM PC that was introduced in 1981. Other companies began creating similar computers, which were called IBM PC. Today, this is the most common type of personal computer, and it typically includes the Microsoft Windows operating system. Mac: The Macintosh computer was introduced in 1984, and it was the first widely sold personal computer with a graphical user interface, or GUI. All Macs are made by one company, Apple Inc., and they almost always use the Mac OS X operating system.