Computer Types and Components: A Comprehensive Look
Computer Types: A Comprehensive Look
Supercomputers
High-performance computers used for specific purposes that require great computing power (e.g., nuclear test simulation, simulation of natural disasters, scientific investigation). They consist of thousands of processor cores, take up large spaces, and consume significant amounts of power.
Top500 is a project responsible for developing a ranking of the 500 most powerful supercomputers in the world. Currently, the first place belongs to Fugaku (Japan).
Servers
This type of computer provides services to other computers within a computer network. They are characterized by having a large storage capacity at very high speed and a memory well above that of client computers. They are installed in special cabinets and are called Rack format or Tower. The internet is stored on a server, and many businesses use local file servers to store and share files internally.
Workstations
High-performance computers intended for scientific/technical work (e.g., graphic design, 3D animation, professional video editing). Their high cost is due to their technical characteristics, which are superior to those of any desktop computer.
Desktop Computers
There are two types:
- Installed in a fixed location, its format can be in a tower desktop box, generally used to handle basic software. Benefits are average.
- All-in-One computers, used in locations where it’s necessary to use space efficiently. Components are installed in the same monitor casing.
Laptops
Facilitate user mobility. Batteries give a range of a few hours. They are the best-selling computers and have WiFi, Bluetooth, and 4G connectivity. Within the notebook category are ultrabooks, which incorporate more battery capacity, higher processing power, and have a lower weight.
Mini Computers
Characterized by having a very small size. Usually, they don’t incorporate the basic peripherals so that the user has to choose a monitor, mouse, and keyboard. The power supply is external. There are two types:
- Apple’s MAC mini
- Mini PCs (Intel NUC)
Unusual equipment, used for environments with very little space.
Tablets
Handheld computers, more portable than laptops. They use a touch-sensitive screen for typing and navigation (e.g., iPad).
Smartphones
Mobile phones built with the architecture of a computer system, which allows them to have the functions of a computer.
Other Types of Computers
- Wearables (fitness trackers and smartwatches) designed to be worn throughout the day.
- TVs: Many TVs include apps.
Computer Components
External Parts
Monitor, mouse, external drive, laptop, printer, memory stick, webcam, keyboard, speakers, hard drive.
Components of the Computer Box
The case, or tower, is a plastic box that contains the computer and keeps other components neatly and safely together. Inside the case are the floppy drive, CD-ROM drive, and main components (hard drive, motherboard, processor chip (CPU)).
Internal Components
Power Supply
Changes normal household electricity into electricity that a computer can use.
Expansion Card
Lets you add new features to a computer.
Motherboard
The main circuit board of a computer. Other components are attached to this (e.g., CPU, ports, RAM slots, expansion slots, expansion cards, connectors).
Random Access Memory (RAM)
Temporarily stores information inside a computer. Information is lost when the computer is turned off.
Expansion Slot
A socket on the motherboard that expansion cards plug into.
Hard Drive
The primary device used to store information.
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
Processes instructions, performs calculations, and manages the flow of information.
CD-ROM Drive
Reads information stored on compact discs (CDs).
Floppy Drive
Stores and retrieves information on a floppy disk.