Module 1: Computing Devices

Flashcards covering the definitions and types of computing devices as presented in the notes.

What is a computing device?

A machine that can be programmed to carry out sequences of arithmetic or logical operations automatically; modern digital computers run programs to perform a wide range of tasks.

How can a computing device be structured?

It can be a standalone unit or several interconnected units; it can provide a specific set of functions (like a phone or personal organizer) or general functions (like a laptop or desktop).

What is a Personal Computer (PC)?

A multi‑purpose microcomputer intended for individual use, operated directly by an end user; characterized by being single‑user focused, compact, affordable, user‑friendly, and versatile.

What are the key features of a Desktop Computer?

Main unit (CPU tower/case), monitor, keyboard and mouse, power supply; expandable and upgradable.

What is a Notebook Computer?

A small, portable personal computer designed for mobility; commonly known as a laptop; portable, all‑in‑one design with built‑in components, battery powered, wireless connectivity.

What is an All‑in‑One (AIO) Computer?

A computer where the main components (CPU, memory, storage, motherboard) are built into the same case as the monitor; no separate tower; example products include Apple iMac and Microsoft Surface Studio.

What is a Workstation?

A high‑performance desktop computer designed for technical or scientific applications needing more power and reliability than a standard PC; used for tasks like 3D modeling, simulations, and video editing.

What is a Tablet Computer?

A portable wireless touchscreen device larger than a smartphone but smaller than a laptop; combines features of a smartphone and a laptop for mobility and touch input.

What is a Handheld Computer (PDA)?

A small, portable computing device you can hold in one hand; combines computing, communication, and personal organization features; early examples include Palm Pilot and HP Jornada; modern smartphones evolved from PDAs.

What is a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA)?

A handheld electronic device functioning as a personal information manager; popular before smartphones and later evolved into smartphones.

What is a Smartphone?

A handheld mobile device that functions as both a phone and a computer; runs advanced OS (e.g., Android, iOS) with multitasking and apps; contains processors, RAM, storage, cameras, and sensors.

What is an E‑Book Reader?

A portable device designed for reading digital books and other text content; often uses E‑Ink to mimic paper and reduce eye strain; examples include Kindle, Kobo, Nook.

What is a Multimedia Computer?

A computer system designed to handle multimedia data (text, images, audio, video, animation) in an integrated way for education, entertainment, business, design, and communication.

What is a Supercomputer?

A very powerful computer designed to perform extremely complex calculations at very high speeds; measured in FLOPS; uses thousands to millions of processors for scientific research, engineering, AI, and national security.

What is a Mainframe Computer?

A large, powerful computer system designed to handle massive data processing and thousands of users; used by banks, airlines, and government for transaction processing, ERP, and bulk storage; not intended for home use.