ITGS Flashcards
Hardware
defined as the tangible parts of the computer that work together to input, process, store, and output data.
super computers
are the quickest, most powerful, largest computers. This makes them very expensive. Almost all supercomputers have thousands of gigabytes of primary storage and a lot of terabytes for secondary storage. Supercomputers fill up large rooms and need a lot of power and sometimes liquid cooling. can be used for very complex math equations, climate models
Mainframes
Similar to supercomputers since they’re very powerful computers, but mainframes are specialized for high data throughput. They perform some calculations but are not as advanced as the supercomputer. Mainframes use a lot of computer power because of their volume.
Desktop Computers
prices of desktop computers decreased while their computing power increases. They have adjustable monitors and separate keyboards and mice, so they can be used for longer periods of time. Desktop computers use basic parts with standard interfaces which makes them very easy to repair.
laptops
A laptop is considered a portable computer designed for simple purposes, such as internet access. have a basic keyboard, an LCD screen. very easy for it to get lost or stolen compared to other types of computers.
Therefore, it is encouraged to take security measures such as passwords and disk encryption to reduce security and privacy concerns and prevent access to unauthorized users.
Netbooks
Netbooks are similar to laptops, but they have lower specifications and are designed to be as portable as possible. mainly used as basic internet access and to use things such as emails
personal Digital Assistants
are between mobile phones and netbooks when it comes to functionality and size. allow internet access, but they are mainly used for quick viewing or inputting information rather than long sessions.
Smartphones
Smartphones have multiple features such as voice calls and text messages, built-in cameras for videos and images, and download and use applications. Smartphones provide internet access and can even use high-speed 3G or 4G technology.
embedded systems
An embedded system is a specialized computer that is hidden inside another device. Also found in washing machines to control wash cycle and manage water efficiency. Embedded computers are designed to perform one specific task and only that task. embedded systems are reliablity since they need to run for long periods
Input devices
Input devices are types of hardware that help the entry of information into a computer. Most input devices are specialized for one type of information(ex. a mouse)
Keyboards/Soft Keyboards
Soft keyboards are virtual keyboards on the monitor of a screen, such as the one on our smartphone. Most computers use the standard QWERTY keyboard we see today.
Concept keyboard
In a concept keyboard, each key is programmed or customized to perform a specific task/function.
Mouse
A mouse is a pointing device on computers.
Mice usually have 2 buttons and a scroll wheel in between them used for scrolling through documents or pages.
Other Pointing Devices
Trackballs large ball fixed in a place for users to spin. Touchpads are found on most laptops. Touch Screens Touch screens allow users to interact using their hands.
Microphones
Microphones allow sound data to be inputted into a computer. Most laptops have built-in microphones.
Game Controllers
Joysticks and gamepads are the 2 most common input devices used for video game consoles. This is usually used in sports games such as boxing, golf, bowling.
