Smartphones |
Many mobile phones are essentially "computers that make phone calls." They have the same computer power that desktop computers had less than ten years ago. They use an Operating System and applications, just like any computer. |
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The PDA (Personal Data Assistant) is a kind of handheld computer. These are currently behind replaced with smartphones or DAP (Digital Audio Players) which have many computer-like features. |
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E-book Reader |
These are computers designed specifically to act as electronic book (or any printed material) readers, but they have many of the same capabilities and features that most computers have. |
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Tablet |
A tablet is a notebook-type computer which has only one "section"--usually there is the notebook body and monitor sections which close together on a hinge. A tablet has only the monitor side with the computer behind it; one controls the computer with a pen or by touch. |
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Netbook |
The "Netbook" is a recent popular computer type, but many debate whether it is just a fad or if people actually want this type of computer. Essentially, it is an ultra-small notebook, with a screen less than 12 inches in size. Some netbooks have been made small enough to fit into a large pocket. While cheap and easy to carry, these netbooks are not very powerful, and lack many necessary features like a CD/DVD drive. |
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Laptop (Notebook) |
A portable computer--essentially a computer which runs on batteries. Screen sizes usually range from 12 to 17 inches. Laptops are less powerful than desktops, but cost a lot more. |
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Mini Desktop |
Mini computers are designed to be small and portable, but still require the use of a separate monitor, keyboard and mouse. If you already have that equipment, then a Mini Desktop may be a cheap way of replacing the computer itself. |
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All-in-One ("AIO") Desktops |
These are Desktop computers which have fit the hardware into the monitor frame. |
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Desktop |
Desktop computers are not portable at all. They are heavy and require several cables. They are the cheapest type of computer and can be high-power with a lot of memory. If you do not need to move your computer around and need the most power for the smallest price, this is the one to get. |
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Workstation |
These are the highest-power desktop computers available to the general public. They have the fastest CPUs, many media drives, and are very expandable. They are also very expensive. |
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