A+ Hardware Service Technician: Computer Hardware, System Boards, and Storage Devices
Types of PCs
There are several types of Personal Computers you should be aware of: small form factor, minitower, midtower, full tower, desktop.
A small form factor is the smallest of the non-portable PCs. Typically lacking in many expansion options, SFF computers are useful for situations which require the smallest desktop style PC possible.
A minitower PC is a common household and business PC. It usually has some expansion slots available (1-3) and one hard drive slot available. A typical minitower PC has all of the ports built in to allow for more expansion cards.
A midtower PC is also a common business class machine. A midtower has more expansion room than a typical minitower machine.
A full tower has the most expansion room and usually several hard drive bays open for additional storage drives.
A desktop has probably been the most popular type of machine over the years. A typical desktop machine is designed to lay flat on a desk or stand and contains 1-3 additional drive bays and 2-7 additional expansion slots available.
Small Form Factor Computer |
Minitower Computer |
Midtower Computer |
Full Size Tower |
Desktop Computer |
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