IT Review Quiz

Types of Computers

Desktop or Tower

• Desktops are stationary computers that typically sit on or under a desk, requiring external peripherals like a keyboard, mouse, and monitor.

• They are not portable, making them suitable for fixed workspaces such as offices or homes.

• Desktops often have more powerful hardware compared to laptops, allowing for better performance in tasks like gaming or graphic design.

• They can be customized with various components, such as additional RAM or storage, to enhance performance.

• Commonly used in professional environments due to their upgradeability and performance capabilities.

Laptop

• Laptops are portable computers designed for use on the go, featuring a built-in monitor, keyboard, and touchpad.

• They are compact and lightweight, making them ideal for students and professionals who travel frequently.

• Many laptops now include touch screens, enhancing user interaction and functionality.

• Users can connect external devices like a mouse or keyboard for improved usability, especially for extended work sessions.

• Laptops typically have less powerful hardware than desktops but are designed for efficiency and battery life.

Tablet

• Tablets are portable devices that primarily use a touch screen for input, often lacking a physical keyboard.

• They are highly portable and convenient for casual use, such as browsing the internet or reading.

• Some tablets allow for the attachment of external keyboards and mice, expanding their functionality.

• Limited storage capacity compared to laptops and desktops, which can restrict the amount of data stored locally.

• Tablets are popular for media consumption and light productivity tasks.

Computer Hardware

Internal Hardware Components

• CPU (Central Processing Unit): The brain of the computer, responsible for executing instructions and processing data. A faster CPU is essential for demanding tasks like gaming or video editing.

• RAM (Random Access Memory): Temporary storage that holds data for currently running applications. More RAM allows for better multitasking capabilities.

• Disk Storage: Refers to the hard drive or SSD where files are permanently stored. SSDs are faster and more reliable than traditional hard drives.

• Motherboard: The main circuit board that connects all hardware components, allowing them to communicate with each other.

• GPU (Graphics Processing Unit): Specialized hardware for rendering images and video. Crucial for graphic design, gaming, and video editing.

External Hardware Components

• Monitor: Displays visual output from the computer. Different types of monitors may require various connection cables (HDMI, VGA, etc.).

• Keyboard: Input device for typing data and commands. Can connect via USB or Bluetooth.

• Mouse: Pointing device that allows users to interact with the computer interface. Also connects via USB or Bluetooth.

• Stylus: A pen-like tool used for precise input on touch screens, often with additional features for enhanced functionality.

Storage Solutions

Built-in Storage

• Hard Drive: Traditional storage device where files are saved. Slower than SSDs but offers larger storage capacities at a lower cost.

• SSD (Solid State Drive): A newer type of storage that is faster and more reliable than hard drives, commonly found in laptops.

External Storage Options

• Flash Drive (USB Drive): Portable storage device that connects via USB. Ideal for transferring files between computers without needing a network.

• CDs and DVDs: Optical storage media that are less common today due to their fragility and the decline of built-in drives in modern computers.

• File Server: A powerful computer on a network that provides storage accessible to multiple users. Common in businesses and organizations.

Cloud Storage

• The Cloud: Online storage that allows users to save and access files over the internet. Services like OneDrive and iCloud provide flexibility and reduce the need for local storage.

• Requires an internet connection and specific software to access files, making it essential for remote work and collaboration.