Hardware Reference
In-Depth Information
Selecting and setting up a computer system is a basic skill
for a computer-literate person. This can include understand-
ing the physical differences among available systems and
knowing “what goes where” in terms of plugging in the various external components
and peripherals.
Choosing a Computer Type
Different personal computer types are appropriate for different situations, and it's
important to be able to identify the right computer for your—or someone else's—needs.
Computers vary according to the following:
Size and Portability
The smaller the computer, the easier it is to transport. However,
small size may mean that you have to compromise on some other feature, such as ease of
input or processing power.
Processing Speed and Multitasking
As you learned in Chapter 1, “Core Computer
Hardware,” the faster the CPU, the faster the computer operates overall. Lots of RAM,
as well as a multitasking-capable operating system, gives a computer the ability to handle
many tasks at once.
Ease of Input and Output
It's easier to put data into, and get data out of, a device with a
full-size keyboard and mouse.
Multiple Capabilities
Some computers double as book readers, cell phones, Internet
devices, global positioning systems (GPS), and so on. Others strictly function as personal
computers.
Desktop PCs
are the traditional rectangular-box models with separate keyboard, video
monitor, and mouse (sometimes referred to as KVM). A desktop PC provides an optimal
user experience because it has a full-size keyboard and mouse and a large monitor—no
compromises are needed in any of those areas. Desktop PCs also provide more processing
power for the money than other types of PCs. A desktop PC's main drawback is its lack of
portability (see Figure 4.1).
