WHAT IS MICRO COMPUTERS

A Microcomputer is the smallest general-
Purpose processing system that can execute program instructions to perform a wide variety of tasks. These systems such as typically used by home and school users.

 They can be divided into different types:(a) Desktop computers- these would typicaly be supplied with the computer itself(com-plate with hard disk drive and floppy disk drive) and peripherals such as a screen, a mouse, a keyboard andacD or DVD drive.

Advantages: Relatively cheap and easy to add expansion card to.
Disadvantages: Can take up a lot of space and are not easily moved.

(b) Notebooks (laptops)- these ae small(typically 30cm x20cm), light and easy to carry.
The screen is on the inside top flap which hinges open to show the keyboard and mouse controls. They are designed to run on rechargeable batteries or the mains and can contain many of the features available on a desktop computer. Touch pads or buttons are usually
used to control the screen pointer.

Palm-tops& PDAS(personal digital assistants)- These are small hand-held compute.
They are usually supplied with software such as a diary. a contacts database, and some
form of word processor. Many now have email facilities and even spreadstheets and data-
based. They either use a small keyboard or a touch-sensitive screen and handwriting recognition software. They can be linked to a larger computers directly by cable or through a docking station or using an infra-red link.

Advantages: Very portable.
Disadvantages. Relatively expensive, limited expansion, nonkeyboard versions can be
slow to input data.

Embedded computers-A vast number of modem devices contain some form of built-in
computer. Examples include: washing machines; camera, hi-fi systems; telephones;
microwave ovens; missiles. etc. The inputs are usually sensors a keyboard may not be needed. The outputs are usually simple displays or motors and relay to control
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