What are the Different Types of Computers?

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 computer. 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



A desktop computerMany people use desktop computers
at work, home, school, or the library. They can
be small, medium, or large in style, and usually sit on a desk. Once you
add a monitor, mouse, and a keyboard, you have what is typically known
as a desktop computer.


Most desktop computers are easy to upgrade and expand, or add new parts. Another benefit of desktop computers is the cost.
If you compare a desktop and a laptop with the same features, you will most likely find
that the desktop computer is priced lower.




Some desktop computers have a built-in monitor to save space. These are often called all-in-one desktop computers.


Laptop Computers





A laptop computerThe second type of computer that you may be familiar with is a laptop computer, or laptops as they are often referred to. Laptops are battery or AC-powered personal computers that are more portable than desktop computers, allowing you to use them almost anywhere.
Since
a laptop is smaller than a desktop, it's more difficult to access the
internal components. That means you may not be able to upgrade them as
much as a desktop. However, it's usually possible to add more RAM or a bigger hard drive.

A laptop computer is sometimes called a notebook computer because of its size.


Servers



A server roomA server is a computer that "serves up" information to other computers on a network. Many businesses have file servers
that 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 web pages 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 lots of everyday devices that are basically specialized computers, even though we don't always think of them as computers. Here are a few common examples:


The iPad, a type of tablet computer

• Tablet Computers: These use a touch-sensitive screen
  for typing and navigation. Since they don't require a keyboard or
  mouse, tablet computers are even more portable than laptops. The iPad is an example of a tablet computer.
  
• Mobile Phones:
  Many mobile phones can do a lot of things a computer can do, such as
  browsing the internet or 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 a desktop computer, many newer consoles, such as the Nintendo Wii, allow you to do non-gaming tasks like browsing the internet.
  
• 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.