Computers by Brand Key Terms

Learn terms that will inform you about different brands of computers

By M. Worcester

Computers come in all shapes and sizes. Larger mainframes and network servers have more processing power and cost more than desktop or laptop computers. Smaller personal digital assistants are less powerful and expensive.

Some manufacturers, like Hewlett-Packard and Dell, have succeeded as makers of several kinds of computers, while companies like Palm and IBM have settled into one specific niche.

Mainframe computer

A mainframe computer is a powerful computer with many terminals hooked up to it. As computer technology evolves, companies are phasing out more and more mainframe computers in favor of network servers. IBM makes many of the mainframes in use today.
Try: Find a glossary of computer terms, including the definition of a mainframe, at Geek.com.

Server

A server is the main computer in a network. Often a network server is where the client computers store their data. You can use a regular desktop computer as a server for a small network, but larger companies will computers use specifically made for network servers.
Try: Check out a glossary of computer terms, including server, at Tutorials Point.

Personal computer, desktop computer

A personal computer, or PC, generally refers to a desktop computer. Only one user can work on it at a time. Mostly, the term PC includes computers modeled after the original IBM personal computer, though many brands make them. Popular brands of personal computers include Dell, Hewlett-Packard and Acer.
Try: Find a definition of personal computer, along with a labeled illustration, at WebMediaBrands.

Laptop or notebook computer

The words laptop and notebook computer are interchangeable and refer to a portable computer that has a screen, keyboard and touchpad built together with the processor and other computing parts. Many manufacturers of desktop PCs also make laptops. Lenovo, Sony, Toshiba, Asus and Apple are popular laptop manufacturers.
Try: Find reviews and buyers guides regarding laptop computers at CNET.

Tablet PC

A tablet PC is a subset of notebook computers that has a special kind of screen. The screen is touch sensitive and often swivels around, so it can lie flat and cover up the computer's keyboard. Popular tablet PC brands include Toshiba, Fujitsu, Lenovo and Hewlett-Packard.
Try: Read a definition of tablet PC on the Wireless Glossary at DevX.com.

Personal digital assistant, PDA

Personal digital assistants, usually called PDAs, are handheld computers. Popularized originally by Palm, many other companies now make PDAs, including Hewlett-Packard, BlackBerry and Apple. Some manufacturers combine the functions of a PDA with a phone, called smart phones.
Try: Check out an explanation of personal digital assistants at TechTarget.