Task1 TYPES OF COMPUTERS
I think it's fair to say that
personal computers have become the most empowering tool we've ever
created. They're tools of communication, they're tools of
creativity, and they can be shaped by their user.
Bill Gates
Text 1 «Classes of computers»
1.
Просмотрите текст и
соотнесите иллюстрации с типом ком- пьтера.
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Прочтите текст еще раз
и ответьте на вопрос:
Which device uses UNIX as the operating
system?
Supercomputer
Supercomputer is the fastest type of computer. Supercomputers are very expensive and
are employed for specialized applications that require immense amounts
of mathematical calculations. Weather forecasting, animated graphics, fluid
dynamic calculations, nuclear energy research, and petroleum exploration
require a supercomputer.
Mainframe is
a very large and expensive computer capable of supporting hundreds, or
even thousands, of connected users simultaneously. In some ways,
mainframes are more powerful than supercomputers because they support more
simultaneous programs. But supercomputers can execute a single program faster
than a mainframe.
Minicomputer is
a midsized computer. In size and power, minicomputers lie between workstations
and mainframes. But in general, a minicomputer is a multiprocessing system
capable of supporting from 4 to about 200 users simultaneously.
The term microcomputer is generally synonymous
with personal computer (PC), or a computer that depends on a microprocessor.
Microcomputers are designed to be used by individuals, whether in the form of
PCs, workstations or notebook computers. A microcomputer contains a central
processing unit (CPU) on a microchip (the microprocessor), a memory system
(typically read-only memory (ROM) and random access memory (RAM)), a bus system
and I/O ports, typically housed in a motherboard.
Workstation is a computer intended for individual use that is faster
and more capable than a personal computer. It's intended for business or
professional use (rather than
home or recreational use). Workstations and applications designed for
them are used by small engineering companies, architects, graphic designers,
and any organization, department, or individual that requires a faster
microprocessor, a large amount of random access memory, and special features
such as high-speed graphics adapters.
PDA is
short for personal digital assistant, is a handheld device that combines
computing, telephone/fax, Internet and networking features. A typical PDA can
function as a cellular phone, fax sender, Web browser and personal organizer.
PDAs may also be referred to as a palmtop, hand-held computer or pocket
computer.
Unlike portable computers, most PDAs began as pen-based,
using a stylus rather than a keyboard for input. This means that they also
incorporated handwriting recognition features. Some PDAs can also react
to voice input by using voice recognition technologies. PDAs are available in
either a stylus or keyboard version.
Apple Computer, which introduced the Newton
MessagePad in 1993, was
one of the first companies to offer PDAs. As technology changed the world of
mobile devices, the PDA has become obsolete as devices like touch-screen
smartphones and tablets grow in popularity.
Task 2
1. В
процессе чтения текста заполните таблицу данными о типе компьютера.
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The class of the computer |
Size |
Weight |
Specifications |
Distinct features |
Price |
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Supercomputer |
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Mainframe |
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Minicomputer |
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Macrocomputer |
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Microcomputer |
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PDA |
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4. Найдите в тексте ответы на вопросы: Which of the devices ...
1) is capable of supporting 300-3000 users simultaneously?
2) is intended for business or professional use?
3) can function as a cellular phone?
4) is used for animated graphics?
5) incorporates handwriting recognition features?
6) is used by small engineering companies?
7) is capable of supporting 15-150 users simultaneously?
8) is employed for specialized applications that require immense
amounts of mathematical calculations?
9) has come out of use because of new technologies?
10) reacts to voice input by using voice recognition technologies?
11) is referred to as hand-held computer?
12) is used by graphic designers?
13) is used for nuclear energy research?
14) is used by architects?
15)
is the fastest type of
computers?
5. Заполните пропуски словами из предыдущего упражнения.
1.
Please call this number
if you ____ any further information.
2.
A lot of money has been ________ into research
in that particular field.
3.
We need to get an assistant who's
_______ and efficient.
4.
Their report is deliberately
____ on future economic
prospects
5.
Gas lamps became _______ when
electric lighting was invented.
6.
The exhibition reflected
__________ developments
abroad.
7.
I have a python script that needs
to ______ an external
program, but
for some reason fails.
6.
Переведите предложения и словосочетания, используя лексику текста.
1.
Универсальная ЭВМ; рабочая станция /дисплейный
терминал; персональный цифровой ассистент; карманный/ручной
компьютер; компьютер с перьевым вводом данных
2.
За последние годы стерлось различие между
большим миникомпьютером и небольшой универсальной ЭВМ.
3.
Персональный компьютер предназначен для
работы и отдыха.
В карманный компьютер заложена функция распознавания рукописного
