TABLET COMPUTERS Meaning and
Definition
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Tablet computers, commonly referred to as tablets, can be defined as portable electronic devices that feature a flat touch-sensitive screen and provide functionality similar to a traditional computer, with the added benefit of being highly portable. Tablets typically do not have a physical keyboard and use virtual keyboards or stylus pens to input text or commands.
The defining characteristic of a tablet is its touch-screen display, which allows users to interact directly with the device by tapping, swiping, or using gestures on the screen. This touch-based interface enables a user-friendly and intuitive user experience.
The versatility of tablet computers is another key aspect of their definition. They offer a range of functionalities, including web browsing, email communication, multimedia playback, gaming, and productivity tasks like word processing, spreadsheets, and document editing. Tablets often come preloaded with applications, or apps, and can access app marketplaces to download and install additional software.
Tablets also incorporate wireless connectivity, such as Wi-Fi or cellular data, enabling users to connect to the internet from anywhere with network coverage. With their compact size and lightweight design, tablets offer portability and convenience, allowing users to easily carry them in handbags or backpacks.
Tablet computers have gained significant popularity and become increasingly common in various settings, including personal use, education, businesses, and healthcare. They have revolutionized the way people consume media, access information, and perform tasks on the go, offering a convenient alternative to traditional laptops or desktop computers.
Etymology of TABLET COMPUTERS
The word "tablet" in "tablet computers" comes from its original meaning referring to a flat surface for writing or inscriptions. It can be traced back to the Latin word "tabula", meaning "board" or "plank". The term was later adopted in English to refer to various flat objects, including writing tablets made of various materials.
The word "computer" stems from the Latin word "computare", which means "to calculate". In the early days of computing, the term computer was used to describe people who performed calculations. Over time, it came to refer to machines that can perform various tasks, including calculations and data processing.
The combination of "tablet" and "computers" emerged to describe a new form of portable computing devices that featured a flat touchscreen interface. These devices were inspired by the concept of traditional writing tablets but with added computational capabilities.
