This document defines and describes various computer form factors including desktop computers, server-based computers, laptop computers, tablets, smartphones, video game systems, and embedded systems. It explains the typical size, processing power, memory, and input/output devices of each form factor. Desktop computers generally have the most processing power and memory, while embedded systems and mobile devices like tablets and smartphones have very limited processing capability due to their small size. Each form factor serves a different purpose, from general use computers to specialized devices.

1. Group 2

2.  A form factor, as defined by the text, “refers
to the size and dimensions of a component,
such as a board or system unit.

3.  Form factors include-
 Desktop computers
 Server-class computer
 Laptop Computers
 Smartphones
 Tablets
 Video Game Systems
 Embedded Systems

4. A desktop computer is a form factor that is
meant, as the name implies, to be used on a
desk, i.e. not (necessarily) portable. Typically,
a desktop computer’s processors, storage
devices, display and sound circuitry, and
memory are within a system unit. Because of
their larger size (in relation to other form
factors), desktop computers typically have
higher RAM and CPU capability than other
form factors.

5. Typical Input Devices-
 Pointing Device
 Keyboard
 Trackpad
 Scanner
Typical Output Devices
 Display Devices (ex. LCD Display)
 Printer

6.  Server-based computers are typically desktop
computers with lower RAM and CPU than the
typical Desktop computer. They are often
used for business applications. Therefore,
hardware and software are typically “bare
bones.” Input and output devices are
generally the same as desktop computers and
include a keyboard, pointing device, and
display device.

7.  Laptop computers are smaller and more
portable than desktop or server-based
computers. Because of their smaller size, they
generally have less RAM and CPU capability
than a desktop computer. However, laptop
computers are popular amongst students,
business travelers, and other person who
values portability at the loss of some RAM
and CPU. Typically input devices for laptops
are a trackpad and keyboard, both of which
are built in to the laptop itself.

8.  A tablet is a handheld computer form factor.
Tablets are generally smaller than a notebook
computer. Tablets have limited RAM and CPU
capability. Tablets are typically used as a
secondary computer. They can be used for
entertainment, running of applications, and
can connect to Wi-Fi or data services. Tablets
do not generally contain input devices as they
are touch-screen.

9.  A smartphone is another handheld computer
form factor. Smartphones are “enhanced”
cellular phones with computing capability.
Because of their small size, RAM and CPU
capability is low. Because smartphones are
mobile devices, they are typically used as not
only a communications device, but as a small
computing device that can be brought
anywhere.

10.  Video game systems are a form factor used for
entertainment. Examples include the Playsation
3, Xbox 360, and Wii. Modern video game
systems have high computing capability to run
graphics and control input. However, video game
systems “fill a specialized niche and are not
considered a replacement for a personalized
computer.” Typical input devices for a video
game system include a pointing device, usually a
“controller.” Other input devices may be added,
including a keyboard.

11.  Embedded systems are “built into the systems
they control.” Embedded systems are found in
video recorders, washing machines,
refrigerators, and other appliances.
Embedded systems accept input and
designate output. RAM and CPU are of
embedded systems are extremely low as they
typically can only accomplish a very limited
number of tasks. Input and output devices
are related to the specific type of device
within the embedded system is used.