An all-in-one desktop is a type of computer that eliminates large towers and fits all components, such as the hard drive and operating system (OS), into the display unit. This creates a much smaller desktop unit that fits better in tight areas and does not require the user to connect a monitor to a tower unit. All-in-one desktop drives sometimes offer less power depending on the brand, but their main drawback is that hardware upgrades are more difficult. All major components are placed directly into the monitor, but the user may need to purchase other pieces of hardware, such as a printer, to increase the functionality of the computer.
An all-in-one desktop typically dispenses with the traditional tower and has the hardware stored inside a monitor.
The all-in-one desktop is a stripped-down version of computers that require a tower unit to hold all the major hardware and software units. The all-in-one combines the power of a regular desktop drive with the smaller size, but not the portability, of a laptop. Although the units are not mobile, it is much easier for users to move an all-in-one than a full-size computer.
The hard drive of an all-in-one computer is housed in the monitor itself.
As of 2011, Macintosh® is a leader in the implementation of multifunction computers. Most business creation involves the use of this technology. However, some Windows® all-in-one computers exist and the company is producing more to meet customer demand for these units.
Its smaller size means some all-in-one desktop drives can be less powerful. This is a brand-to-brand issue, and some companies have mastered building a solid computer with limited space. Unless the user intends to use very intensive programs, such as games, most people using an all-in-one will not notice the drop in output.
All-in-one desktops have the disadvantage that their internal components are more difficult to upgrade. It is much more difficult, even impossible for some units, to open the monitor and install new hardware in the system. As of 2011, many brands, and most MFPs, can support hardware upgrades, but it’s still more difficult than upgrading from a tower.
Although an all-in-one desktop computer has all the main components to run the computer, the user may still need other pieces of hardware. For example, all-in-one computers don’t come with printers installed in the unit. This means that the user will need to purchase and connect additional hardware to get more features. The keyboard and mouse are also separate, but are usually purchased as a bundle with the all-in-one.
Macintosh computers and software are products of Apple Inc.
