Slides to support Types of Computer System OCR U1.1.3

1. 1.3 Types of computer system
Unit 1
LO 1: Understanding computer hardware

2. From the specification…
1.3 Types of computer system, i.e.:
• desktop/server
• tablet/hybrid
• smartphone
• embedded system/Internet of Things (e.g. cars,
home appliances, etc.)
• mainframe
• quantum
• uses (e.g. tablet device can be used when
travelling due to physical properties)
• benefits (e.g. desktop computer can have a large
screen which can improve productivity)
• limitations (e.g. mainframes can be expensive to
purchase and maintain)
Learners should know about
the different types of
computer systems.
This should lead to an
understanding of where and
how they are used, benefits
and limitations of each type of
computer system and a
justification of a suitable
system in a given context.
Learners should be aware that
some devices feature
embedded systems, such as
modern cars, washing
machines and other home
appliances.

3. Two types of Personal computer
Desktop based Laptop based

4. Desktop Server/System
Uses:
• Games, document creation, social media, business purposes
Benefits:
Large screen which can improve productivity
Change mouse to suit the user
Limitations:
Tend to be bulky and so are not portable

5. Tablet/hybrid
Uses:
• Run Apps, browse Internet, check email etc.
Benefits:
Portable as small and light
Fairly cheap
Limitations:
Small screen so only one App at a time
Battery life can be poor and needs frequent charging

6. Embedded system
• Is a device inside some other object, e.g. car
Internet of Things
• Is connecting devices over the internet
• Letting them talk to us, applications, and each other.
• In the UK the most common use is being able to control your central
heating from a remote location.

7. Mainframe computer
Uses:
• Perform complicated and scientific mathematical calculations
Benefits:
Reliable due to duplicating components for fail-over
Limitations:
Expensive to buy
Needs an administrator to monitor it

8. Quantum computer
Uses:
• Artificial Intelligence and real time systems
Benefits:
Will run a million times faster than current computers
Limitations:
Not yet available