Type of Computer Systems I

Type of computer systems

From mainframes to wearable computers

A mainframe is the most powerful type of computer. It can process and store large amounts of data. It supports multiple users at the same time and can support more simultaneous processes than a PC. The central system is large server connected to hundreds of terminals over a network. Mainframe are used for large-scale computing purposes in banks, big companies and universities.

A desktop PC has its own processing unit (or CPU), monitor and keyboard. It is used as a personal computer in the home or as a workstation for group work. Typical examples are the IBM PC and the Apple Macintosh. It’s designed to be placed on your desk. Some models have a vertical case called a tower.

Some desktop PC pictures:

A laptop (also called a notebook PC) is a lightweight computer that you can transport easily. It can work as fast desktop PC, with similar processors, memory capacity, and disk drives, but it is portable and has a smaller screen. Modern notebook have TFT (thinFilm Transistor) screen than produces very sharp images.

Instead of mouse, they have a touchpad built into the keyboard – a sensitive pad than you cab touch to move the pointer on the screen.

They offer a lot of connectivity options: USB (Universal Serial Bus) ports for connecting peripherals, slots for memory cards.

They come with battery packs, which let you use the computer when there are no electrical out avaiable.