What is a computer? Easily explained
In this practical tip you will read what a computer is. The term is derived from the English verb "to compute", which translates to "calculate". What exactly the computer calculates and which forms of computers help you in everyday life, we will tell you in the following article.
Computer - simply explained
A common synonym for term computer is the abbreviation "PC", which means "personal computer". This includes the single-user computer with which you use office applications and games at home.
- A computer consists of the components software and hardware.
- Systems of this type are no longer only found in standard PCs, but also in washing machines and other electrical devices. These mini-computers also control the process in cars and electrical devices. Even your smartphone contains a computer.
- A computer is therefore a technical device that controls processes and processes digital tasks using logic circuits and programming.
- These digital tasks include the processing of text, sound and images, the storage of data and access to the Internet. Hardware components in the computer give you access to networks that allow you to communicate with other computers using protocols.
The most popular forms of computers
As mentioned, there are personal computers or microcomputers, among others.
- Depending on the size of the device, the size and performance of the computers built into it also differ.
- The personal computer is either available as a laptop, so that you have a screen, input devices and hardware in one component.
- The desktop PC requires additional peripheral devices such as the mouse, keyboard and monitor so that you can work with it. Tablets and smartphones have also become personal computers.
- The best known computer brands include HP, Apple, Acer and IBM.
- In addition to private use, there are so-called mainframes for scientific and economic applications that serve as servers for your applications.