Page 14 - Viva ICSE Computer Studies 6 : E-book

Microcomputers

• They are the most commonly used computers.
• They are small in size and cost less.

• They are also known as Personal Computers (PCs).
• They are generally used in places such as schools, offi ces, shops and homes.

Let’s learn about some commonly used microcomputers.

Desktop Computer: The computer that we keep on a desk is a
desktop computer. It is designed in a way that it fi ts comfortably
on top of a desk. We cannot carry it around easily. This computer is
commonly seen at diff erent places such as homes, shops and
schools.

Laptop: A laptop is smaller than a desktop computer. It is so
small that we can keep it on our lap and work. It is also known
as notebook computer. We can carry it easily to any place. It
also works on battery. Nowadays, laptops are commonly used
computers.

Tablet PC: A tablet PC is a notebook or a slate-shaped mobile
computer. It has a touch screen that allows a user to operate it
without a keyboard and a mouse.

Palmtop: A palmtop is a small computer that fi ts in your palm.
It has similar features like a computer. It has a small screen and
the keyboard is compressed. Some palmtops use a pen as an
input device instead of keyboard.

Handheld Devices: Handheld devices are small devices that can be held in the user’s hand.
They are extremely convenient to carry. Smartphones are examples of handheld devices. These
devices are also called Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs). The touch-enabled display screen
works as the input device. Let’s learn about some handheld devices.
• Smartphone: A smartphone is a handheld device consisting
of features of both personal computer and mobile phone. It
allows the user to make and receive phone calls and text
messages, click and store images, make videos, browse the
Internet, send and receive e-mails, dictate voice and take
notes, and access utilities like E-book Reader and Calculator.
Smartphones can run various applications called apps
providing a wide range of functions from word processing
to gaming and translating languages.

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