Desktop and mobile computers Cambridge IGCSE Information & Communication Technology revision
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In plain words
Computers come in many shapes, but they fall into two families: those that stay on a desk, and those you carry. Each choice is a trade: power and comfort against being able to take it with you.
6 things to know
- A desktop computer has a separate monitor, keyboard, mouse and processor unit, and runs from mains electricity. It is used for office and business work, education, gaming and entertainment.
- Advantages of a desktop: more power for the price, a larger screen and full-size keyboard, and parts that are easy to upgrade or replace (expandability). It is less likely to be stolen or dropped.
- Disadvantages of a desktop: it is not portable, it takes up desk space, and it stops working in a power cut.
- Mobile computers include laptops, tablets, smartphones and phablets. They have a built-in screen and battery, and connect wirelessly.
- Advantages of mobile computers: they are portable and can be used anywhere. Disadvantages: smaller screens and keyboards, limited battery life, they are easier to lose, steal or damage, and they are hard to upgrade.
- A phablet is between a smartphone and a tablet in size. Mobile computers are also used to control other devices remotely.
Worked example
A sales representative visits customers all day and needs to show them a catalogue and take orders. Which type of computer is most suitable?
- The representative moves from place to place, so a desktop is ruled out.
- A tablet is light, has a battery that lasts the day, and has a touch screen large enough to show a catalogue.
- It can send the orders back to the office over a mobile network.
Tips and tricks
- Use the words "portable" and "expandable". They are the two properties the syllabus names for comparing types of computer.
- Match the computer to the person in the question: where they work, what they need to do and what they need to carry.
It lands in your notebook with its questions as flashcards.
Desktop and mobile computers: 5 questions and answers
These are the quiz’s questions. Do the quiz first, then come back here for the ones that got you.
Which is an advantage of a laptop compared with a desktop computer?
It has its own battery and can be carried.
Which is a disadvantage of a tablet compared with a desktop computer?
Its parts are built in.
What is a phablet?
A large phone, or a small tablet.
What does expandability mean?
Desktops are the most expandable.
Which computer would be most suitable for a graphic designer working at one desk on very large images?
It offers a large screen and the most processing power.
Quiz
5 questions
Tap an answer and you’ll see straight away whether it’s right, and why.
Worksheet
2 questions, 4 marks. Write your answers on paper, then check them.
Desktop and mobile computers
Cambridge IGCSE Information & Communication Technology 0417 · 4 marks · papermunch.org
Name ______________________________ Date ______________
Give two advantages of a desktop computer compared with a laptop.[2]
Show answerHide answer
It is easier to upgrade or repair, because the parts are separate. It usually has a larger screen and a full-size keyboard. (Also: more power for the same cost.)
Give two disadvantages of using a smartphone for writing a long report.[2]
Show answerHide answer
The screen is small, so little of the report can be seen at once. The on-screen keyboard is small, which makes typing slow and errors likely.
Answers: Desktop and mobile computers
- 1. It is easier to upgrade or repair, because the parts are separate. It usually has a larger screen and a full-size keyboard. (Also: more power for the same cost.)
- 2. The screen is small, so little of the report can be seen at once. The on-screen keyboard is small, which makes typing slow and errors likely.