As you journey through the field of information technology, you will at some point come across the different types of computer systems, of which mobile devices is one. Mobile devices are those types of computers that can be held in the hand. They can be easily moved by a single user.
The original computer has changed so much from the days of that first one. Today mobile devices hold little resemblance to the first one.
Laptop (also called notebook)
Laptop computers are personal computers that give you the power and functionality of a desktop in the palm of your hand. They have an all-in-one design – that is, all of the functionalities of the desktop computer combined into a single device. Laptops have monitors, a touchpad with the functionality of a mouse, keyboards, and all the different ports of the desktop computer. The presence of these ports means that a laptop can have an external monitor and other peripheral devices, such as a mouse and keyboard, connected to it so it can also be turned into a desktop computer.
Notebook computers also come prepackaged with a rechargeable lithium battery that allows the user to work comfortably while on the go.
If you are studying computer systems, you may be interested in our article on the components of a computer system as well.
E-readers
E-readers have a close resemblance to tablets. However, their core functionality is what distinguishes the two. E-readers are designed to allow you to read books or downloaded documents. They typically have an e-ink screen.
E-Ink Screen
An e-ink (electronic ink) screen is a screen that uses special technology to produce a paper-like display. This makes e-readers easier on the eye than LED and LCD screens. E-ink also makes it possible for e-readers to be used in direct sunlight.
Netbook
A netbook is a term that has fallen out of use of late. It was originally used to refer to a scaled-down version of a laptop. The netbook has a smaller screen and keyboard and fewer external ports than the laptop. The netbook’s hardware is also of a lower specification than the laptop usually has. As the name suggests, these computers were designed primarily for surfing the internet on the go. The netbook was also designed to be more economical and lighter than the notebook.
Tablet, tablet PC, or tablet computer
A tablet computer is a lightweight, portable, economical computer with a touchscreen interface. Tablets look like large smartphones; they have few buttons and respond intuitively when handled. Most of the controls are done via the touchscreen interface.
Most tablets today are able to accommodate the connection of an external keyboard. Tablets have a rechargeable battery that is powered by a charger, very much like that belonging to your typical smartphone.
Tablet computers come packaged with wireless networking capabilities (WiFi, cellular network, or Bluetooth), which can be used to connect to the internet or other devices.
Phablet
A phablet is a name used to refer to a tablet computer with cell phone capabilities.
Hand-held gaming device
A handheld gaming device is a rechargeable, light, portable device used to play video games. These devices typically have long battery life and allow you to play one or multiple games. Handheld gaming devices do not typically require a constant internet connection in order to work.
If you are interested in learning about the other types of computers in existence today, be sure to visit mainframe computers and supercomputers.
PDAs (personal digital assistants)
A PDA is a handheld computer with a built-in visual display unit. Their main job is to work as a personal information managers. They help you to stay organized and informed. PDAs are steadily disappearing from the market since smartphones now encompass the key functionalities of the PDA.
Smartphones
The smartphone has replaced the original cellphone. The cellphone was a rechargeable device we used for voice chatting. The functionality of this device changed with time as text/typed communication was added. With time these devices evolved to allow for internet browsing, video conferencing, document preparation, and more. The types of improvements added make today’s cellphone functionality closer to that of a computer.
The name smartphone was coined in reference to the smartphone’s ability to go beyond the core functionality of a phone to provide the capabilities of a computer.
Smartwatch: A computing device that looks like a normal watch. is designed to be worn on the hand, has a touchscreen interface, some functionalities of a computer, and Bluetooth connectivity.
Today almost all adults have a mobile device of some sort. These devices are growing in popularity due to how they have helped to transform our lives.
To learn more about other types of computers, visit our articles on desktop computers and embedded devices.
Some benefits of mobile devices
The verdict is in. Mobile devices are a hit! They have rapidly replaced other types of general-purpose computers in our daily lives. So what are the benefits of mobile devices? Why should you have one? What is it about these devices that have made them so popular in such a short period of time?
Time and location flexibility
With mobile devices, the very fact that you are able to carry them with you and use them on the go is their greatest advantage. This is what makes them a top choice for business executives and this generation of digital nomads.
Mobile technology has made it possible to take the office with you. Now business executives can work from wherever and whenever they wish.
Improve communication:
Mobile devices improve communication in business. Workers are readily available to respond to time-sensitive requests for information. This means that there is less downtime and more updated information.
Improve efficiency and productivity
Workers in the field can now log on to the company website and update relevant information in a timely manner. This reduces redundancies and allows for faster feedback.