Laptop PCs - IGCSE ICT

Laptop Computer

A laptop is a portable version of a Desktop PC where all of the components and peripherals are included within the device itself. A laptop usually includes a:

Screen
Keyboard
Touchpad
Speakers
Microphone
Webcam
Wireless / Wired networking
USB Ports
SD Card reader.

Uses of a laptop computer

Laptops were originally invented as device that could be used instead of the office/home pc when the user was away from home.
Very popular with businesses and professional who need work on the go whilst travelling and or community.
Popular replacement for Desktop PCS in smaller homes or where the user wants to do work in bed / on the sofa.
More recently many users have entirely replaced their home desktop pc with a laptop, due to improvements in processing power and screen size.
Some laptops are marketed as ‘gaming laptops’ and include an top-end graphics card.

Adantages

More portable than a Desktop PC
Smaller profile, takes up less office space
All required components are included in one package.

Disadvantages

If a component breaks they can be difficult /expensive to repair
Smaller screen size makes some uses impractical ( photo / video editing)
They are more expensive for the price than desktop PCs in terms of computing power.
Usually contain low-performance graphics cards meaning that you can’t play newer computer games
Battery life isn’t always great