Page 568 - Ultimate Visual Dictionary (DK)

THE MODERN WORLD
Personal computer

PERSONAL COMPUTERS (PCs) fall into two
main types: IBM-compatible PCs, known
simply as PCs, and Apple Macintosh PCs,
known as “Macs.” They differ in the way files LED-
and programs, and the user’s access to them, backlit
glossy
are organized, and programs must be tailored wide-
for each type. However, in most other respects screen
PCs and Macs have much in common.
Both contain microchips, or integrated circuits,
that store and process data. The “brain” of any
PC is a chip known as the central processing
unit (CPU), which performs mathematical
operations in order to run program
instructions and receive, store, and output
Keyboard
data. The most powerful personal computer Mouse
CPUs today can perform more than a
billion calculations a second. Data can be
input via CDs, USB memory sticks, and
iMAC
other storage media. Highly portable
laptop and network PCs are also in
widespread use. Most PCs are able
to communicate with many other
devices, including digital cameras
(see pp. 580-81) and smartphones USB ports (4)
(see pp. 588-89).
Audio in jack
Webcam

Headphone
jack

Powercord
Firewire
800 port connector
REAR OF
iMAC
Ethernet Mini display port
LCD port
display
Optical drive
Power connector
Keyboard
USB ports (2)
Touchpad Expansion port Remote control
Display
Fingerprint
reader Digital media slot
Left Right Security RG-45 HDMI eSATA/
touchpad touchpad Headphone cable slot (network) port port USB port
button button jacks (2)
External
HP PAVILION DV4 LAPTOP Audio in jack monitor port SIDE VIEW OF HP PAVILION DV4 LAPTOP
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