1.3 Information Science

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convergence

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Term used to refer to the trend of manufacturers offering computers and devices with technologies that overlap.

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supercomputer

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Fastest, most powerful, and most expensive computer, capable of processing more than one quadrillion instructions in a single second.

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personal computer

Back 3

Computer that can perform all of its input, processing, output, and storage activities by itself and contains a processor, memory, and one or more input and output devices, and storage devices.

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desktop computer

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Computer designed so the system unit, input devices, output devices, and any other devices fit entirely on or under a desk or table.

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mobile computer

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Personal computer that a user can carry from place to place.

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notebook/laptop computer

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Portable, personal computer often designed to fit on your lap. See also laptop computer.

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tablet pc

Back 7

Special type of notebook computer that resembles a letter-sized slate, which allows a user to write on the screen using a digital pen.

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embedded computer

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Special-purpose computer that functions as a component in a larger product.

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server

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Computer that controls access to the hardware, software, and other resources on a network and provides a centralized storage area for programs, data, and information.

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mainframe

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Large, expensive, powerful computer that can handle hundreds or thousands of connected users simultaneously, storing tremendous amounts of data, instructions, and information.

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operating system

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Set of programs that coordinates all the activities among computer hardware devices.

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tower

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Tall and narrow system unit that can sit on the floor vertically if desktop space is limited.

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handheld

Back 13

Computers small enough to fit in one hand. See also handheld computer; ultra personal computer (uPC); handtop computer.