7.1 Characteristics of Laptops and Other Mobile Devices

Laptop

Can run on battery or be plugged in. Usually runs a full OS and can run desktop software. CPU power, RAM resources and fixed desktop storage are similar to desktop computers. RAM and storage are upgradeable.

E-reader

Special purpose device with a 6 inch or larger black and white display optimized for reading text. May have Bluetooth, Wi-fi and limited cellular data capability.

Fitness-Tracker

Special purpose wearable device that monitors heart function and physical activity. USB connectivity and may include Bluetooth. Higher-end models may have Wi-Fi and GPS.

Smartwatch

A wearable device with a very small touchscreen display. Runs a special OS and apps. Offers sensors that exchange data with a smartphone over Bluetooth. Often includes body monitoring and fitness tracking capability. May include GPS, Wi-Fi and limited cellular data connectivity. Some have cellular capability.

Tablet

Runs a mobile OS. Larger touch screens with most being about 8 inches diagonally. Runs apps downloadable from an app store. Have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. Some have cellular capability.

Smartphone

Uses a special mobile OS and has small screen sizes averaging 5 inches. Touch screens with no physical keyboard. Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and cellular data capability, Software apps are downloadable from app stores.

LCD

This uses a fluorescent backlight to illuminate the display.

Digitizer

This converts the touch actions into digitized signals.

Inverter

This converts direct current into alternating current.

OLED

This uses individually lit pixels.

CCFL

This uses fluorescent tubes that are connected to an inverter used to convert DC to AC.