iCheck Microsoft Office 2003 Introductory

These articles further explore computer safety, ethics, and many other topics covered in the Technology Handbook found in the student edition.

Types of Computers and Computer Systems (p. H3)

Introduction Learn more about different types of computers and computer systems.

Directions Read the information below and apply what you learn to answer the questions. Check your work carefully, and click Check Answers.

What Are the Different Types of Computers?

Computers can be grouped in several different ways: by size, by purpose, and by how many people use them.

• A personal computer (PC) is used by one person at a time. Desktop and laptop computers, MP3 players, and personal digital assistants (PDAs) are all examples of PCs, which are also called microcomputers.
• A minicomputer can be used by several people, up to hundreds of people at once. These computers are used in small- to medium-sized organizations, such as schools.
• A mainframe or supercomputer is large enough to fill several rooms. These computers are used by thousands of people at the same time in organizations such as government agencies.

PCs and Macs

Computers can also be grouped by the kind of operating system they use. The term “PC” describes a computer that uses the Microsoft Windows operating system. Different companies, such as IBM®, Dell®, and Gateway®, make PCs. Another type of computer is the Macintosh computer, which is only made by Apple®. These are also personal computers, but they are usually called “Macs” rather than “PCs.”

The Smaller, the Better: From Desktops to Laptops to PDAs

Computer companies are no longer racing just to make the most powerful computers; they are also seeking to make them as small as possible. Desktop computers and their screens fill up less workspace than in years past. Laptops are smaller and lighter than before. One wonders how small computers can get?

The latest in the race to reduce size is the PDA, or personal digital assistant. Today’s PDAs are more powerful than many of the desktop computers were fifteen years ago. Currently, most PDAs include the following features:

• A datebook that stores meetings and appointments for you, so that you do not have to carry around a bulky planner.
• A memo pad that you can use to “write” notes with a special pen and then store them as electronic files.
• A calculator that you can use for quick calculations.
• A to-do list that reminds you to complete various tasks.
• An address book that stores personal information for all of your contacts.
• An on-screen keyboard to “type” notes and messages.
• An e-mail component that lets you send messages to others.
• Video games that you can play on the small screen.

Many believe that in the near future cellular phones will become more and more like handheld computers, offering the same features as PDAs currently do, if not more.

1			What are some of the most common types of PCs?
2			What are minicomputers, and who uses them?
3			What is the difference between a Macintosh and a PC?
4			Which features do most PDAs include?