Tech+ (Episode 12): Common Computing Devices (2.1)

Ever feel like technology is evolving so fast that even your smart fridge might be plotting world domination? (Okay, maybe not yet… but give it time.)

If you’re preparing for the CompTIA Tech+ exam, or you just want to sound like the smartest person in the room when talking about tech, you’re in the right place. Today, we’re covering common computing devices and their purposes—everything from smartphones to virtual reality systems, and even smart thermostats that know when you’re too cheap to turn up the heat.

Let’s do this.

Smartphones and Tablets

Let’s start with the devices you probably check before you even get out of bed: smartphones and tablets.

Smartphones are handheld computers that do way more than just make calls. They handle email, web browsing, gaming, streaming, GPS navigation, and controlling smart home devices. (Let’s be real, they also help us avoid human interaction by letting us order food, groceries, and rides with a few taps.) Security Tip: Regular software updates help prevent malware and security breaches.

Tablets? Think of them as the middle ground between a phone and a laptop. They’re great for media consumption, digital art, and casual gaming. Plus, they make excellent distractions for kids during long road trips.

E-Readers

If you love reading but don’t love lugging around a stack of books, these are for you. Devices like the Amazon Kindle use e-ink technology, making them easy on the eyes and battery-efficient. They’re fantastic for digital bookworms who don’t want to risk a bookshelf collapse.

Laptops, Workstations, and Servers

Laptops are portable computers that pack the power of a desktop into a backpack-friendly form. They’re used for work, school, gaming, and binge-watching shows when you should be working.

Workstations, on the other hand, are high-performance computers designed for power users—think engineers, architects, and video editors. These machines handle heavy-duty tasks like 3D rendering, CAD software, and scientific computing. Security Tip: Workstations often house sensitive data—using encryption and secure backups is essential.

Servers are computers that provide services, data, or resources to other devices. Websites, cloud storage, and online gaming rely on servers. If the internet were a giant restaurant, servers would be the kitchen staff keeping everything running smoothly behind the scenes. Security Tip: Servers should always have strong authentication and firewall protections to prevent cyberattacks.

Gaming Consoles

Gaming consoles like the PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch are dedicated machines for video games—and sometimes streaming and socializing. They’re optimized for performance, making them great for immersive gameplay. Security Tip: Online gaming accounts are frequent targets for phishing scams—always enable two-factor authentication.

Virtual & Augmented Reality

Virtual reality (VR) systems like the Meta Quest and PlayStation VR fully immerse you in digital environments—whether for gaming, training, or virtual tourism. (Or, let’s be honest, accidentally punching a wall while playing Beat Saber.)

Augmented reality (AR), on the other hand, overlays digital elements onto the real world—like Pokémon GO or those cool AR shopping apps that let you see if a couch fits your living room before you buy it.

Internet of Things (IoT)]

IoT refers to smart devices that connect to the internet for automation and remote control. This includes:

• Consumer IoT (Smart home devices, wearables, streaming devices, smart TVs)
• Industrial IoT (Medical devices, factory automation, smart grid technologies, agricultural monitoring)
• Automotive IoT (Navigation, self-driving features, diagnostics, vehicle-to-vehicle communication)
• Home Automation IoT:
  • Smart Thermostats that adjust based on your habits.
  • Smart Security Systems that monitor for unusual activity.
  • Smart Home Assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant.
  • Smart Locks & Video Doorbells for remote access and security.
  • Smart Appliances such as fridges that track food expiration.
• Health & Fitness IoT:
  • Wearable Devices (Smartwatches, fitness trackers)
  • Connected Exercise Equipment (Smart treadmills, Peloton bikes)
  • Medical Monitoring Devices (Heart rate monitors, insulin pumps)

Security Tip: Many IoT devices ship with weak default passwords—always change them immediately. Additionally, ensure firmware is regularly updated to patch security vulnerabilities.

It’s All Connected!

So, whether you’re streaming a show, tracking your workout, or using a smart thermostat to avoid freezing, computing devices are everywhere. Understanding them isn’t just useful for the Tech+ exam—it’s useful for life.

I’m building a full Tech+ prep series to break down every objective step by step, so if that sounds helpful, hit like, subscribe, and turn on notifications so you don’t miss a thing.

And let’s hear from you: Which computing device do you rely on the most? Drop a comment below!

Let's Review

Here are some helpful review questions to help you prepare.

Multiple Choice

1 - Which type of computing device is specifically designed for reading digital books and often features e-ink technology to reduce eye strain?
A. Tablet
B. E-reader
C. Laptop
D. Smartphone

Answer: B. E-reader

2- Which of the following best describes a workstation compared to a standard desktop PC?
A. A workstation is a portable computing device with a touchscreen interface.
B. A workstation is optimized for high-performance tasks such as 3D rendering and engineering applications.
C. A workstation is used primarily for casual gaming and entertainment.
D. A workstation is designed for home automation and IoT integration.

Answer: B. A workstation is optimized for high-performance tasks such as 3D rendering and engineering applications.

3- What is the primary purpose of a server in a computing environment?
A. To provide computing power for high-end gaming
B. To store, manage, and distribute data or services across a network
C. To allow remote access to an organization’s secure files
D. To enhance the speed of a workstation’s processing power

Answer: B. To store, manage, and distribute data or services across a network

4- Which of the following devices is commonly used for an immersive gaming experience by simulating a 3D environment?
A. Augmented reality headset
B. Virtual reality headset
C. Smartwatch
D. Gaming console

Answer: B. Virtual reality headset

5 - Which feature distinguishes augmented reality (AR) from virtual reality (VR)?
A. AR completely replaces the real world, while VR overlays digital content onto the real world.
B. VR completely replaces the real world, while AR overlays digital content onto the real world.
C. AR is used only for medical purposes, while VR is for gaming.
D. VR requires a physical device, while AR is purely software-based.

Answer: B. VR completely replaces the real world, while AR overlays digital content onto the real world.

6 - Which Internet of Things (IoT) device is primarily designed for controlling home temperatures remotely?
A. Smart deadbolt
B. Smart thermostat
C. Smart security camera
D. Smart doorbell

Answer: B. Smart thermostat

7 - A user wants to monitor their home while traveling. Which of the following IoT devices would best serve this purpose?
A. Smart thermostat
B. Streaming media device
C. IP/security camera
D. Smart exercise equipment

Answer: C. IP/security camera

8 - Which type of computing device is designed to stream digital content from the internet to a television?
A. Gaming console
B. Streaming media device
C. Wearable fitness tracker
D. Virtual reality system

Answer: B. Streaming media device

9 - A fitness enthusiast wants to track their heart rate, steps, and calories burned throughout the day. Which device would be the best option?
A. E-reader
B. Gaming console
C. Wearable device
D. Smart thermostat

Answer: C. Wearable device

10 - Which of the following computing devices is designed for real-time medical monitoring and health diagnostics?
A. IoT-enabled medical device
B. Augmented reality headset
C. Gaming console
D. Virtual reality system

Answer: A. IoT-enabled medical device

Scenario Based

11 - Lisa is a college student who needs a lightweight device to take notes, browse the internet, and read textbooks. She wants something more portable than a laptop but with a larger screen than a smartphone. Which computing device would best suit her needs?
A. E-reader
B. Tablet
C. Gaming console
D. Workstation

Answer: B. Tablet

12 - A company is looking for a centralized computing solution that can store employee data, manage email accounts, and host internal applications. Which type of computing device would be the best fit for this requirement?
A. Laptop
B. Workstation
C. Server
D. Gaming console

Answer: C. Server

13 - Mark recently installed a smart doorbell with a built-in camera at his home. He wants to receive notifications and see live video when someone is at his door, even when he’s at work. Which of the following features does this IoT device rely on?
A. Biometric authentication and AR integration
B. Wi-Fi connectivity and mobile app access
C. Voice command activation and gaming optimization
D. Bluetooth pairing and local storage only

Answer: B. Wi-Fi connectivity and mobile app access

14 - A healthcare facility wants to implement a system that allows doctors to monitor patient vital signs remotely in real time. Which type of computing device is most suitable for this purpose?
A. Internet of Things (IoT) medical devices
B. Augmented reality headsets
C. Virtual reality gaming systems
D. High-performance workstations

Answer: A. Internet of Things (IoT) medical devices

15 - David is an architect who works with complex 3D modeling software. His job requires significant processing power, high-end graphics capabilities, and large amounts of RAM. Which computing device would be the best choice for him?
A. Gaming console
B. Workstation
C. Tablet
D. Streaming media device

Answer: B. Workstation

Closing

Thanks for joining us for this whirlwind tour of devices!

Be sure to check out my YouTube channel (@k.richardlabbe), The K. Richard Labbe Podcast, and visit my website at krichardlabbe.com for more learning tools. You can also find me on Facebook, Instagram, and X under the name KRichardLabbe (all one word). See you next time!

Thank you so much for watching and supporting this humble project of mine. I'm grateful to have you along on this journey. Let’s keep learning together—one step at a time! And remember: It’s not too late to do something great! I’ll see you next time.

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information presented in this material. However, Labbe Media, LLC does not assume liability for any errors, omissions, or discrepancies. The content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Viewers are encouraged to verify any information before making decisions or taking actions based on it.

CompTIA and all associated trademarks, including logos and images, are the property of CompTIA, Inc. The use of any CompTIA logo in these materials is in accordance with CompTIA's brand and trademark guidelines. These materials are not sponsored, endorsed, or affiliated with CompTIA, Inc., and all opinions expressed are solely my own. For more information about CompTIA, please visit www.comptia.org.