Types of Computer (Cambridge International IGCSE ICT)
Desktop Computer
Spec point —
1.4.1
What is a desktop computer?
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A desktop computer is a computer designed to stay in one place, for example on a desk
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A desktop computer traditionally consists of a separate:
- Monitor
- Computer
- Keyboard & mouse
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Desktop computers are typically more powerful than mobile computers
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Desktop computers are upgradable, the parts can be replaced/changed to increase performance
Uses of desktop computers
| Office & Business | Education | Gaming & entertainment |
|---|---|---|
| Word processing | Online learning | Online gaming |
| Financial modelling | Research (www) | Streaming music/film/TV |
| Content creation | Social media | |
| Data storage & backup | Multimedia presentations | Online browsing |
| Video/image editing | Online collaboration | |
| Project management | Online communication | |
| Video conferencing |
Mobile Computer
What is a mobile computer?
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A mobile computer is a computer designed to be portable, for example a laptop
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A mobile computer traditionally consists of built-in:
- Monitor
- Computer
- **Keyboard & trackpad **or touch screen keyboard & pointer
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Mobile computers are typically** less powerful** than desktop computers due to:
- Power constraints due to size
- Focus on extending battery life
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Mobile computers are not easily upgradable, components are integrated for size and efficiency
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Mobile computers are battery powered
Characteristics of mobile computers
| Laptop | Smartphone | Tablet/Phablet |
|---|---|---|
| Lightweight | Small physical size | Larger screen than smartphones |
| Low power consumption | Easy to carry around | Ideal for media consumption and web browsing |
| Take up less room (than desktop) | Long battery life | Limited expandability |
| Touchscreen interface | Slower data transfer rates | Uses Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, 4G, 5G |
Uses of mobile computers
| Office & Business | - Remote access to office applications - Email and communication on the go - Mobile payment processing - Calendar |
|---|---|
| Education | - E-books and digital textbooks - Educational apps and tools - Note-taking and research |
| Gaming & entertainment | - Mobile gaming apps - Streaming movies and music - Social media |
| Remotely controlled devices | - Controlling smart home devices - Remote access to surveillance systems - Controlling drones and other devices |
| Other | - Sat Nav - Online banking - Searching the Internet - Taking photos - Language translation |
Advantages and disadvantages
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Easy to carry and use on the go (Portability) | Limited expandability (Difficult to upgrade hardware) |
| Access to internet and resources from anywhere (Flexibility) | Less powerful (Lower performance compared to desktop computers) |
| Can be used for various tasks and activities (Multi-functionality) | Shorter battery life (Needs frequent charging) |
Worked Example Circle two input devices that could be used in a smartphone.
HDD magnetic stripe reader microphone mouse remote control speaker touchpad touch screen [2]
Answer
Final answer: Microphone [1] Touch screen [1]
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