Device Types and Applications

• Mathematics
• Further Education (Key Stage 5)

Devices and Applications

Using devices and handling information Objectives 

1 Device Types

2 Types of Application

Device Types Overview

Desktop Computer

Stationary, powerful, used in offices and homes

Requires external monitor, keyboard, and mouse

Ideal for tasks needing high performance (e.g., video editing, gaming)

Device Types Overview

Desktop Computer

Portability: Not portable; designed to stay in one location.

Input/Output Methods: External keyboard and mouse, monitor, USB ports, speakers.

Connectivity: Typically uses wired Ethernet; can support Wi-Fi and Bluetooth with adapters

.

Uses:

Communication: Email, video conferencing (with webcam).

Productivity: Ideal for office work, design, and data-heavy tasks.

Entertainment: Gaming, streaming, media editing.

Learning: Research, online courses, educational software.

Device Types Overview

Laptop

Portable, all-in-one device with built-in screen and keyboard

Suitable for mobile work, education, and general use

Battery-powered with Wi-Fi connectivity

Device Types Overview

Laptop

Portability: Portable; designed for use on the go.

Input/Output Methods: Built-in keyboard and touchpad, USB ports, HDMI, webcam.

Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Ethernet (sometimes via adapter).

Uses: 

Communication: Email, video calls, messaging apps.

Productivity: Word processing, spreadsheets, presentations.

Entertainment: Streaming, casual gaming, social media.

Learning: Online classes, note-taking, research.

Device Types Overview

Tablet

Touchscreen device, lightweight and portable

Ideal for browsing, reading, media consumption, and light productivity

Often used in education and healthcare

Device Types Overview

Tablet

Portability: Highly portable; lightweight and compact.

Input/Output Methods: Touchscreen, virtual keyboard, stylus (optional).

Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, mobile data (on some models).

Uses:

Communication: Messaging apps, video calls.

Productivity: Light document editing, presentations.

Entertainment: Reading, streaming, games.

Learning: Educational apps, eBooks, interactive lessons.

Device Types Overview

Smartphone

Highly portable, multifunctional device

Combines communication, apps, camera, and internet access

Used for messaging, social media, navigation, and quick tasks

Device Types Overview

Smartphone

Portability: Extremely portable; fits in a pocket.

Input/Output Methods: Touchscreen, voice input, camera, virtual keyboard.

Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, mobile data (4G/5G).

Uses:

Communication: Calls, texts, social media, video calls.

Productivity: Quick notes, calendar, email.

Entertainment: Music, videos, games, social media.

Learning: Mobile learning apps, podcasts, online research.

A powerful stationary device with external components, ideal for office work, gaming, and media editing.

A compact device that fits in your pocket, used for calls, messaging, social media, and quick internet access.

A portable computer with a built-in keyboard and screen, suitable for working on the go and attending online classes

A lightweight touchscreen device often used for reading, streaming, and interactive learning apps.

 What Is an Application?

Definition: An application, or application software, is a type of computer program designed to help users perform specific tasks or activities.

Key Points: Runs on devices like desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones.

Provides a user-friendly interface for completing tasks.

Can be installed locally or accessed online (web-based apps).

Examples of Tasks:

Writing a document

Sending an email

Browsing the internet

Creating a presentation

Managing data

 Main Types of Application Software

Word Processor:

Used for creating and editing text documents.

Features include formatting, spell check, and inserting images.

Examples: Microsoft Word, Google Docs

 Main Types of Application Software

 Spreadsheet Software

Organises data in tables and performs calculations.

Useful for budgeting, data analysis, and charts.

Examples: Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets

 Main Types of Application Software

 Presentation Software

Creates visual slideshows for communication.

Includes animations, transitions, and multimedia.

Examples: PowerPoint, Google Slides

 Main Types of Application Software

 Web Browser

Accesses and navigates websites on the internet.

Supports tabs, bookmarks, and search engines.

Examples: Chrome, Edge, Firefox

 Main Types of Application Software

 Email Client

Manages email communication and scheduling.

Often includes calendars and contact lists.

Examples: Outlook, Gmail, Thunderbird

What does database software do?

1. Designs websites
2. Creates video games
3. Processes emails
4. Stores and manages data

What is the purpose of presentation software?

1. Managing computer networks
2. Coding software applications
3. Creating visual slide shows
4. Editing photos and images

Which software helps in spreadsheet calculations?

1. Presentation software like PowerPoint
2. Spreadsheet software like Excel
3. Web browser software
4. Email client software

What is a word processor used for?

1. Creating and editing text documents
2. Designing graphics and images
3. Managing databases
4. Playing multimedia files