(Updated 06/04/2023)
Want to know more about how to use digital technology such as the internet, computers, tablet devices, mobile phones and find out what this technology could do for you?
Types of digital equipment:
With all the options to choose from, it’s easily to feel overwhelmed when thinking about buying digital equipment. The first step is to think about what type of device you want and what you might use it for.
The main types of digital devices are:
- Computers – can be a PC that sits on your desk or a laptop that is portable. You can use computers to type documents, send emails, play games, and browse the Internet. You can also use it to edit or create spreadsheets, presentations, and even videos.
- Mobile phones – are pocket-sized and useful for staying connected when you’re out and about. Basic mobile phones can be used to make calls or ‘text’ other mobile phones.
- Smartphones – are a type of mobile phone but work more like a tiny computer, allowing you to browse the internet, send emails and much more. They usually have a touchscreen so only have buttons to switch it on and off. You can also download ‘apps’ (short for applications), which you can use to play games, get directions, access news, books, weather, and more.
- Tablets (e.g. iPad) – are small portable devices that let you do many of the same things a computer can do, but are most often used to browse the Internet, read email, and watch videos. They are roughly the size of a book and have a touchscreen, so only have buttons for switching on and off.
- E-book readers (e.g. Kindle) – are portable devices used for reading books electronically. They are larger than a mobile phone but smaller than a tablet, and can store a large number of electronic books. They also allow you to read in large print.
- Webcams – short for ‘web cameras’ are a digital camera that you can connect to your computer. It can send live video recording from your computer to another location by means of the internet and they sometimes have a built in microphone so your video recording also has sound. Webcams are commonly used for video chat (i.e. Skype).
- Zoom Video Conferencing – a web-based video conferencing tool with a local, desktop client and a mobile app that allows users to meet online, with or without video. Zoom users can choose to record sessions, collaborate on projects, and share or annotate on one another’s screens, all with one easy-to-use platform.
There are a number of Island organisations that offer digital support:
For example WightFibre offer support through Digi Dan. To ask Digi Dan a question please click here
Age UK IW offer help & support getting online – click here
