Introduction
This unit is designed to give you the skills and knowledge to troubleshoot hardware and software issues that may arise within an organisation. Before we can do that, we need to understand some of the basics of Hardware and Software.Definition of Hardware and Software - http://www.computerhope.com/issues/ch000039.htm
When you look at the description of any piece of computer hardware, you will see lots of information that is categorised under specifications. Software, including games, will also have minimum specifications of what equipment is required to successfully execute the program. Same goes for some peripheral devices.
So what does this all mean? What bits and pieces make up a computer?
Computers can generally be categorised into the following:
Desktop – not portable, usually set up on a desk or table with the view that it isn’t moved around much. Desktops come as a main box with separate screen and keyboard/mouse, or it can be one of the “all-in-one” configurations.
Notebook/Laptop/Ultrabook – A notebook is a portable computer. They used to be called Laptops, but have become smaller and lighter and now fall into the category of notebook. They are an all in one machine complete with keyboard and mouse. At the high end, a notebook can be as powerful as a desktop. Most computer manufacturers make notebooks, including the Apple Macbook.
Netbook – A smaller, lighter, cheaper version of a notebook. Netbooks are usually lower powered, less memory and less storage than a notebook and do not come with built in CD/DVD drives, but may have a small internal hard drive. The advantage of a Netbook is that they have a longer battery life and are very portable. Netbooks generally use a “light” version of the operating system that will use less resources.
Tablet – A tablet is a small notebook or netbook that has a touchscreen for input, but may also have a keyboard. They are small, portable and easy to use, but generally not for high end processing. The iPad fits into this category as well as the range of Android type tablets such as Samsung Galaxy. Microsoft is also in this market with its Surface Tablet that runs Windows
Activity 1
Using the Internet, visit an online store and find 2 examples of each of the above computer categories - make sure that they are at different price brackets - one high end and one lower end.Take note of the Make, Model and basic specifications of each.
Here is an example of a laptop from the JB HiFi website.
https://www.jbhifi.com.au/computers-tablets/laptops/
You can look at manufacturers websites or online stores, or you can look at retail electronic or computer stores. Here are some examples:
JB HiFi
Harvey Norman
CentreCom
DELL
Hewlett Packard
Acer
Apple
Let's have a look at what some of these things mean
Processor
What is a Processor:
http://whatis.techtarget.com/definition/processorThe 2 main players in the PC processor market are Intel and AMD
Intel Processors:
http://www.intel.com.au/content/www/au/en/processors/processor-numbers.html
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