Computers Case

Computers are one of the most common types of electronic devices in the world today. Whether you are young or old, male or female, rich or poor, everybody wants to learn to use a computer. People employ computers for a lot of different reasons such as doing homework, creating websites, doing reports, browsing on the internet, or playing games. The list goes on and on. There are a few different types of computers. I will compare and contrast two of them. The desktop computer and the mainframe computer are both used for similar and different things.

A desktop computer is a personal computer that is used on a desk or table. It is used in a single place and usually for long periods of time. It comes with separate components, such as a monitor, keyboard, speakers, etc. This is usually connected by one or more cables to an electrical outlet. Anybody can own a desktop computer. People use these at home, at work, or at a public place such as a library. Depending on what type of computer you get, what you want included, and the brand, it can cost you anywhere from $400 dollars to $1500 dollars (Beekman & Quinn, 2008, pg. 9-13).

In contrast, a mainframe computer is used with large organizations and normally only for big computing jobs. Although, they once took up the size of a room, they now can be found as the size of a refrigerator. This type of a computer is hidden from the public. In fact, we do communication with a mainframe computer normally through terminals. In comparison with the desktop computer, it does stay in a single place for an extended period of time and both can connect into outlets, amongst other methods. Mainframe computers are used by large companies such as banks, airlines, and schools. Unlike a desktop computer, a mainframe can be very costly. The price for one of these will put you back one million dollars (Beekman & Quinn, 2008, pg. 9-13).

Since computers are getting cheaper and cheaper nowadays, it is not uncommon to find more than one computer in a household. In order for these computers to access the same files, use the same printer, share internet, or even play multi player games, you would need to set up a home network. To get started, you will need a computer (obviously), a broadband network connection, a network router, a monitor, and a keyboard. If you need it for any type of media services, a CD or DVD driver would be necessary. These can usually be obtained together. The best way to get the second computer online is to install a network card in it, buy a hub, plug both computers and the modem into the hub and then call your ISP and get a second address and then configure the second computer accordingly (Beekman & Quinn, 2008, pg. 265-280).

There are advantages to having a network in your home. File sharing is an important one. It gives you more flexibility and you can use the network to save copies of all of your important data. Next, sharing a printer and other peripherals is great. It is easier to connect the computers up