Computer Workstations

Computer workstations are client computers that connect to a network and share data with other machines. They are used in applications such as computer-aided design (CAD), computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), graphic design, software development, medical imaging, and point of sale (POS) systems. Unlike terminals or dumb terminals, computer workstations can include a hard drive and installed applications so that they can be used independently of a server. In terms of computing power, low-end workstations are equivalent to high-end personal computers (PCs) while high-end workstations are equivalent to minicomputers. Computer workstations are available with a variety of operating systems and processors. They provide random access memory (RAM) with separate internal and external caches and may even include Flash memory, a type of RAM that can retain information when the computer is powered off. 

Selecting computer workstations requires an analysis of storage specifications. Some devices include integrated drive electronics (IDE), a small computer system interface (SCSI), or a random array of independent disks (RAID). Other devices include a tape drive, a 1.44 MB 3.5” floppy drive, or removable magneto-optic (MO) storage technology. Computer workstations with drives that can read or record compact disks (CDs) are commonly available. Compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM) drives can read but not record information. By contrast, compact disk recordable (CD-R) drives can write once and read many times while compact disk rewritable (CD-RW) drives can read, write, erase, and rewrite disks. Disk drives that can read or record digital versatile disks (DVDs) are also available.

Computer workstations feature a variety of display, resolution, and user interface options. Cathode-ray tube (CRT) devices use an electron beam to illuminate phosphor dots and are suitable for users who require relatively high screen resolutions. Flat panel displays, which are often very thin, are used with portable or laptop computers and include technologies such as liquid crystal display (LCD) and gas plasma. In terms of resolution, computer workstations meet standards such as video graphics array (VGA), super video graphics array (SVGA), extended graphics array (XGA), and super extended graphics array (SXGA). Interface options include built-in speakers, headset jacks, microphone ports, camera ports, and barcode capabilities. Computer workstations are also available with color or backlit displays, membrane or tactile keyboard interfaces, and voice or handwriting recognition capabilities. 

Computer workstations vary widely in terms of slots and expansion bays. Some use industry standard architecture (ISA) while others use peripheral component interconnect (PCI) technology. Input/output (I/O) ports can be serial, parallel, wireless, or networked. Universal serial bus (USB) is the standard serial bus for low-to-medium speed peripheral devices. Network protocols include Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, and Token Ring. Some computer workstations incorporate wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) or wireless local area network (WLAN) technology. Others use Bluetooth^® technology. Bluetooth is a registered trademark of the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG), a trade association of electronics manufacturers that promotes Bluetooth technology and ensures compliance.

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Part Numbers for Computer Workstations