18.1 COMMON DEVICES USED IN DIGITAL COMMUNICATION:

COMMON DEVICES USED IN DIGITAL COMMUNICATION:

Posted earlier on this blog was a list of commonly used terms for the digital movement, this is to reinforce my knowledge of the technology available in this digital age

Computer to the left laptop to the right.

COMPUTERS/LAPTOPS//  The basis of most digital communication is through the computer, It is the platform from which the digital revolution has spring boarded from, modern laptops and computers run a variety of software from entertainment programs like Flash etc, to business software such as the Microsoft office package. As well as standard software that is purchasable they also integrate the internet and the capacity for other entertainment means such as gaming and using the internet to talk with friends using communication applications such as Skype as well as the ability to burn copy discs and plug in other media devices via usb like most of the devices described below.

The Samsung I7005

SMART PHONES// One of the latest additions to digital communication is the invention of the smart phone, this refers to a mobile device with all the functions of a phone but integrated with the internet, camera, media player and a PDA and depending on the model, touchscreen technology and a selection of "Apps" that can include maps, things like ordering taxis sending emails and other software applications that are downloadable directly onto the handset, this gives the user an on the go mobile internet platform for everyday use as well as combining the communication productivity of a mobile phone and the endless programs available on the internet.

A deliveryman in action!

PDA// A PDA is similar in many respects to the smartphone, these products are portable handheld devices that have SD slots for data cards as well as touchscreen technology or  possibly a stylus, these internet capable devices are used mainly in the business sector and help employees organise themselves away from the office on long trips on the go, used often by delivery companies such as UPS and FedEx and even the Royal mail to update and send data for signed packages back to their headquarters, give directions, be used to answer calls and email. These can be used to synchronise with your personal computer or laptop to exchange information via usb, or bluetooth.

A Pager

PAGER// The pager is a simple tool that effectively is an SMS receiver, this is usually equipped with a bleep and vibrate function depending on the model, these are small devices that can be put onto a belt or slipped into your pocket, these have been used in hospitals around the world as an effective way of contacting Doctors and nurses in emergencies and giving simple instructions as to what happens and where they need to be. Later versions have included the ability to text the person back and even send emails.

A bluetooth headset

BLUETOOTH HEADSET// This small device that synchs up with your mobile phone device, Sony Playstation or PC. This device is an over ear speaker and microphone, using as the name implies, Bluetooth technology this allows users to wear the device on the go and answer calls without having to fumble for their mobile phone, or just keep their hands free.  They have been used in online gaming for users who dislike wearing headphones as this can often get uncomfortable.

A webby cam...yay

WEBCAM// A simple premise of a small camera that can be either be attached to a USB plug on a computer/laptop or come inbuilt in some models. The webcam is a small camera that transmits the picture it receives and transmits it in real time to the internet which sends it to whomever you contacting, many programs have gained great popularity using webcams to create the new type of digital communication the Video call.