Kinds of Computer

Desktop PC

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Abbreviation for "Personal Computer," 93% of the computer population uses PCs. PCs for personal use come in almost any shape and design, they usually run Microsoft Windows (for example, Windows XP, Vista, or Windows 7), are exceptionally fast, and are compatible with almost all available computer applications. Most large-scale businesses, corporations, schools, and home users operate PCs due to their customizable features, performance, and generally low price. Leading PC manufacturers include Dell, HP, Samsung, Sony, Toshiba, and many others..

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Laptop

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A compact, battery powered version of a PC. Also called a "Notebook."

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Macs Computer

-->Even though the Mac (short for "Mackintosh") is a form of personal computer, it is different from a PC because it does not use Microsoft Windows as the Operating System. Instead, it uses the Mac OS series, such as OS X Leopard. Macs are known for their incredible system stability, quality designs, unique programs and features, and their usually fast speed. Macs are becoming more popular in society, generally used in peoples' homes or in digital graphic design studios. Unfortunately, many people do not invest their money in a Mac because of a Mac's steep price (a $1500 Dell PC is about the same price of a $2400 Apple Macktintosh--both with the same specifications) and the lack of many compatible programs made specifically for Macs (although the number is increasing).

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Mainframe

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Computers with large Hard Drives, lots of Memory (RAM), multiple CPUs running together, which perform large amounts of computing depending upon the speed of the processors used and amount of RAM included.

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Micro Computer

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A very small computer, usually used in cameras.

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Super Computer

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A computer with lots of processors, ALU's, Memory (RAM), etc. Usually used in scientific research work or they are used by the government. For large manufacturers, a supercomputer typically "breaks down" problems, solves them in small "bits," and then puts the problem "back together." They have a capability of 14,000 micro computers.

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PDA

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"Personal Digital Assistant" or Palmtop.

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Analog

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Older, out-dated computers. They calculate physical Quantities such as voltage, etc...