What is a computer?
A computer is an electronic device capable of taking an
input, processing data, storing information and providing an
output
Data that is input, is raw, unprocessed information
Information is data that people understand
Mainframe computers & microprocessors
What is a mainframe computer?
A mainframe computer is a computer with huge processing
power and data storage capabilities
Built to handle enormous amounts of data and carry out complex
calculations
Designed to be secure, reliable and support large volumes of
simultaneous users
Carry out critical tasks for large organisations in sectors such as:
o Finance
o Health
o Government etc.
What is a microprocessor?
A microprocessor is an integrated circuit (IC) that contains a
central processing unit (CPU)
A microprocessor is embedded into devices to help them carry out
tasks
The microprocessor is responsible for executing instructions
Microprocessors are used in a home to monitor and control devices
such as:
o Central heating systems
o Security alarm systems
o Home entertainment system etc.
Laptops & desktop computers
What is a desktop computer?
A desktop computer is a computer designed to stay in one place,
for example on a desk
A desktop computer traditionally consists of a separate:
o Monitor
o Computer
o Keyboard & mouse
Desktop computers are typically more powerful than mobile
computers
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
Email Content creation Social media
Data storage & backup Multimedia presentations Online browsing
Video/image editing Online collaboration
Project management Online communication
Video conferencing
What is a laptop computer?
A laptop computer is a computer designed to be portable
A laptop computer traditionally consists of built-in:
o Monitor
o Computer
o Keyboard & trackpad or touch screen keyboard & pointer
Laptop computers are typically less powerful than desktop
computers due to:
o Power constraints due to size
o Focus on extending battery life
Laptop computers are not easily upgradable, components are
integrated for size and efficiency
Laptop computers are battery powered
Some laptops are used as desktop replacements
Advantages and disadvantages
Advantages Disadvantages
Easy to carry and use on the go Limited expandability (Difficult to upgrade
(Portability) hardware)
Less powerful (Lower
Access to internet and resources from
performance compared to desktop
anywhere (Flexibility)
computers)
Can be used for various tasks and Shorter battery life (Needs frequent
activities (Multi-functionality) charging)
Mobile phones & tablet devices
What is a mobile phone?
A mobile phone is an ultra portable electronic device designed to
be lightweight and fit in a pocket or small bag
Mobile phones are used to transmit information between people
and devices using radio waves
Two examples of mobile phones are:
o Smartphones
o Specialist
Smartphones
A smartphone is a versatile general purpose device
Smartphones use subscriber identity module (SIM) cards to link the
devices to a network carrier, allowing them to make phone calls
and send messages
Smartphones include features such as:
Feature Description
Quick communication
SMS messaging Messages are stored on the device and can be
read at any time
Use virtual keyboards and predictive text
Simple voice communication
Phone calls Requires cellular reception
Audio & visual communication via the internet
Requires extra apps installed on the devices
Voice over internet Can make & receive calls via smartphone, tablet
protocol (VoIP) and computers
Requires a forward facing camera for video calls
Requires cellular reception to access on the
move
Web pages are optimised for smartphone access
Accessing the internet
Automatically used Wi-Fi when in range and
connected
Uses NFC
Mobile payments
Smartphones have built-in cameras for video
calls
Camera Camera can act as a barcode scanner for QR
codes
Specialist
A specialist phone is designed for a particular groups of users or
environment
They prioritise specific features over general purpose use
Example Specialist features
Larger buttons
Easy to read displays
Simplified user interface
Senior phones
Emergency alert buttons
Hearing aid compatibility
Brightly coloured
Robust
Child friendly interface
Children's phones
Limited app access
Parental controls
Designed for tough environments
Thick screens
Rugged outer casing
Built to withstand:
Rugged phones o Water submersion
o Dust
o Extreme temperatures
o Drops
What is a tablet device?
A tablet is a general purpose device that sits between a laptop and a
smartphone
A quick comparison shows:
Feature Smartphone Tablet
Portable but the larger screen means
Ultra portable, designed to fit
Size they require a bag or case to carry
in a pocket
around
Communication (calls, texts,
Entertainment & productivity
Focus mobile data), camera for
(games, reading, watching movies)
capturing images & videos
Typically more powerful than a
Carry out everyday tasks but
Power & smartphone but not as powerful as a
may lack power for demanding
performance laptop, more processing power &
applications or tasks
RAM.
Due to battery size they usually
Typically longer battery life
Battery life require charging more often
depending on usage
than a tablet
Other digital devices
Device Description Features
Lens - High quality lens allows light
to pass through without defects
Uses light sensors to
Image processor - Compensates for
Cameras & capture images formed
by light passing poor lighting
camcorders
Sensors - Capture detail, more
through a lens
pixels are produced
Powerful processors &
graphics for high quality smooth
Specialised PC for gameplay
Games console
playing video games Online capability
Controllers for interactivity
Connects TVs, speakers and media
players together
Home Hub for connecting Receiver processes audio and video
entertainment audio and video signals
systems devices Can provide immersive experience
(surround sound)
Connects to TVs or speakers for
playback
Plays different media such as Blu-
A device for
Media players ray, DVD
multimedia playback
Portable media players for on the
go
Multifunctional devices
What is a multifunctional device?
A multifunctional device is a device designed to carry out a wide
range of tasks
Multifunctional devices combine functions that would usually be
separate
Examples of multifunctional devices include:
o Smartphones - Communication, photography, gaming, media
playback/streaming, web browsing all in one device
o Printers - Printing, copying and scanning in one device
o Smart TVs - Watch TV, connect to the internet, stream content
What is convergence?
Convergence is the merging of technologies that would usually be
separate
Convergence led to the rise of smartphones
