Primary school education

1.2 Types of personal computers

Laptop. Compact computers containing all the necessary components (including a monitor) in one small case, usually folding in the form of a book (Fig. 1.). Adapted to work on the road, in a small free space. To achieve small dimensions, they use special technologies: specially designed specialized microcircuits ( ASIC ), RAM and hard drives of reduced dimensions, a compact keyboard that does not contain a numeric field, external power supplies, a minimum of expansion slots.

As a rule, they contain advanced means of connecting to wired and wireless networks, built-in multimedia equipment (speakers, often a microphone and a webcam). Computing power is usually twice as low as a desktop PC at a comparable price, however, the amount of memory and storage may be less. Very compact models do not include a CD / DVD drive.
Through special docks, laptops can turn into desktop PCs: by inserting a laptop into such a dock, the user connects an external large screen, a full-size keyboard, mouse, speakers and connection ports to the laptop's computing devices.



Rice. 1. Laptop
Tablet personal computer. Similar to laptops, but contain a pressure-sensitive screen and do not contain a mechanical keyboard (Fig. 2.). Text entry and control is via an on-screen interface, often redesigned for easy finger control. Some models can recognize handwriting written on the screen.
Most often, the case does not open, like laptops, and the screen is located on the outside of the upper surface. There are also combined models, in which the case can be rotated on an axis and opened, providing access to the keyboard located inside.
Computing power is inferior to a desktop PC, as for long work without an external power source, you have to use energy-saving processors, drives and a screen.

Rice. 2. Tablet personal computer
Pocket PCs. Ultra-portable devices that fit in your pocket (Fig. 3.). As a rule, they are controlled using a screen that is small in size and resolution, sensitive to pressing a finger or a special pen (stylus), and there is no keyboard and mouse. Some models, however, contain a miniature fixed or slide-out keyboard.
The screen resolution is small, usually 320x400 (the screen can also be used sideways, then the resolution becomes 400x320), in some models - 640x480 (the so-called VGA resolution).
These devices use ultra-efficient processors and small flash drives, so their processing power is not comparable to desktop PCs. However, they contain all the hallmarks of a personal computer: processor, storage, RAM, monitor, operating system, application software, and even games.
PDAs containing mobile phone functions (communicators) are becoming more and more popular. The built-in communication module allows not only making calls, but also connecting to the Internet at any point where there is a cellular connection of a compatible format ( GSM / GPRS , CDMA ).

Rice. 3. Pocket PCs