Introduction

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this unit you will be able to:

  • Describe the types of personal computers including workstation, desktop computers, all-in-one, laptops, desktop replacement, netbooks, and tablets. Describe the differences between the types.
  • Discuss each part of the typical personal computer and what it does, including the case, power supply, processor, motherboard, main memory, hard disk,display, video card, keyboard and mouse.
  • Define software
  • Distinguish between system software and application software
    Identify contemporary personal computer operating systems

Reading Note

As you read Personal Computers you make skip the sections titled “History,” “Market and Sales,” and “Average Selling Price,” if you’d like. These sections go beyond our learning outcomes.