These days, computers are described using many different
terms. In most cases, simply the capability, the expected use or the size of
the computer is implied. However, what most of us do not know is that there are
actually different types of computers.
Types of Computers
1. PC
A computer designed to be used by a single person is defined
as a personal computer (PC). While a Mac is a personal computer, systems
running the Windows OS are considered PCs by most people. Initially, personal
computers were referred to as microcomputers because they were complete
computers with a smaller size. The Apple iPad is a perfect example of a modern
PC.
2. Desktop
A desktop computer is a personal computer that is not
designed to be portable. Generally, desktop computers are set up in permanent
locations. In comparison to portable computers, more versatility, storage and
power is offered by most desktop computers for a lesser price.
3. Laptop
Laptops, also known as notebooks, are small-sized portable
computers can be placed on the lap and used there. The display, hard drive,
keyboard, memory, processor, and a trackball or point device are integrated in
a battery-operated package.
4. Netbook
Netbooks are also portable computers but they are much
smaller than typical laptops. In comparison to brand-new laptops that can be
found at retail outlets, netbooks are much cheaper, usually starting from $300
to $500. However, the internal components of netbooks are not as powerful as
those in most laptops.
5. PDA
PDAs or Personal Digital Assistants are integrated computers
that do not use a hard drive but instead, use flash memory for storage. These
are touchscreen devices and do not have keyboards. Typically, PDAs are very
lightweight, smaller than a paperback novel and have a decent battery life. The
handheld computer is a slightly heavier and larger version of the PDA.
6. Workstation
A workstation is another type of computer. A workstation is
just a desktop computer with additional memory, a more powerful processor, and
enhanced capabilities to perform a special group of task, like game
development, or 3D graphics.
7. Server
Servers are computers that have been optimized to provide
services over a network to other computers. Usually, servers have large hard
drives, lots of memory and powerful processors.
8. Mainframe
At one time, mainframes used to be computers that were so
huge they would fill a whole room or even an entire floor. As the power of
computers has increased while their size has decreased, mainframe computers are
now referred to as enterprise servers.
9. Supercomputer
The price of a supercomputer can be anywhere from hundreds
or thousands to millions of dollars. Majority of supercomputers comprise of
multiple high-performance computers that work in parallel as one single system.
Cray Supercomputers have built the well-known supercomputers.
10. Wearable Computer
Wearable computers are a latest computing trend. Today,
typical computer applications, like calendar/scheduler, database, e-mail and
multimedia have been integrated into cell phones, clothing, visors and watches.
You might have heard of some of these computers, and you
might even be one or some of these types in your home. Then again, you also
might not have heard of some types of computers mentioned here.