Computer
Hardware Question 12: What is a workstation?
Answer: As PCs and the internet have become more
popular, their use has expanded beyond their traditional role for word
processing and simple data management. Some manufacturers have designed very
powerful microcomputers that have taken over some of the more complex data
management tasks that were formerly reserved for mainframes and minicomputers.
These more powerful microcomputers have come to be called workstations
(see computer hardware questions 8 through 12 for information about the different types of computers).
Workstations are microcomputers in that they are based on a microprocessor.
And, like other microcomputers, they are designed to be used by one person at a
time. However, workstations are usually faster than PCs, often have more
storage then PCs, and may use more complex and powerful operating systems than
PCs. Workstations are often used for scientific tasks or for managing detailed
design and graphics tasks. Often they are used as multiprocessing
machines: that is, because they are fast and use a powerful operating system,
they can be used to carry out more than one type of data-processing task at the
same time.
Workstations can be very expensive
so they are usually reserved for applications that would overtax the
capabilities of a standard PC. Often they are attached to a minicomputer or a
mainframe so that data can be downloaded (transferred by
wire) from these larger, host computers.
Answer: These days microprocessors can be found in many
places besides microcomputers. Microprocessors are now used as control devices
inside appliances like microwave ovens and stereo systems. These embedded
microprocessors do not use standard input and output devices because
they are not intended to be used directly by humans. Instead, they are used to
control the complex switching and regulating tasks used in modern appliances.
In more complex devices such as automobiles and copy machines these embedded
microprocessors may have a self-diagnostic function that results in the output
of information that can be used by humans.
Answer: Storage devices store data
that can be retrieved later. Primary storage refers to the temporary storage of
data and computer instructions as they are being processed while secondary
storage devices store data not currently being processed.
Answer: The computer's input
devices provide a way for humans to input data into the computer.
Input devices include keyboards, digital scanners, touch-screen monitors, and
pointing devices (also see Computer Software Question #31: What is
a mouse?) such as
mice, track balls, and light pens. Data can also be input from a variety of
storage devices such as magnetic disks and tape.
Answer: The computer's output devices
output data in a form that can be interpreted by humans. Monitors (also known
as video display devices) and printers are the most common output devices. The
computer can also output data using devices that convert it into other forms
such as sound or to storage media.
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