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Hardware Inventory

Beverly T. Barnwell

School of Education, Jacksonville State University

EIM 551: Technology in School Environments

Dr. Kelly Paynter, EdD

October 2, 2021
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Hardware Inventory

Introduction

Computer hardware is used to input, process, store, and output information. Computer hardware

is the tangible parts one can see or touch and is used to store and run software. Hardware is

considered “hard” or rigid because it is not easy to change or update. In general, hardware

devices play an important role in everyday life especially in education. Computer hardware has

expanded learning beyond the classroom, has created a more interactive and fun learning

experience, and has allowed access to the internet which enables information to be retrieved

quickly and on various subjects. Regarding higher education, the hardware available for learning

is extensive. Therefore, this paper will inventory the hardware used in the Student Success

Center and the George E. Whitesel Multimedia Room located in the Houston Cole Library at

Jacksonville State University.

Student Success Center Hardware

1. Desktop is a personal computer that typically fits on top of a desk. It is comprised of a

tower unit which houses components such as Central Processing Unit (CPU),

motherboard, graphic card, sound card, and memory. In addition to the tower unit, a

desktop uses peripherals such as a monitor, keyboard, speakers, and printer. Together, the

components and peripherals interact to store and run software. The desktops available in

the JSU Student Success Center are intended for students with a valid ID card.

2. Microsoft Surface is a tablet computer that runs the Microsoft Windows operating

system. It has a 10.6-inch touch screen and a built-in stand. The Microsoft Surface tablets

are intended for JSU students, with a valid ID, to use within the Student Success Center.

A Surface can be used to create a document or to complete an assignment in Canvas, but

data cannot be saved on the device. Any information a student wishes to save must be
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Hardware Inventory

saved to the students OneDrive. Printing is not accessible with the surface. If a student

needs to print a document, the student must use a desktop that enables printing.

3. Projector is an output device that projects an image into a surface. The most common

surface is a projector screen. The projector is connected to an instructor workstation.

Then, a tablet or personal laptop can be connected. The end user for a projector is the

instructor.

George E. Whitesel Multimedia Room Hardware

4. All-In-One Personal Computer (AIO) is like a desktop personal computer because they

have similar hardware, but they differ in how the hardware is stored. An AIO stores the

hardware components such as the CPU and the motherboard. An AIO has a touch screen

monitor with the ability to use the keyboard and mouse on screen or to use a wireless

keyboard and mouse. They are slimer than a regular desktop which reduces clutter and

provided more workspace. The AIO’s available in the Library Media Room, are for

student and public use. The AIO’s have software available specifically for Art and Music

students.

5. Laptop is a mobile personal computer that runs the Windows operating system. It is

foldable with a screen and keyboard and is small enough to be placed in a person’s lap

while in use. A mobile personal computer that runs an Apple operating system is called a

Mac. Only JSU students with a valid ID can check out a laptop or Mac for a duration of

three days. These devices can store data but is deleted upon return.

6. ScanPro 3000 is a microfiche and microfilm reader that can scan and print, too. It has a

26-megapixil camera. The reader allows one to view a single image, a range or group of
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Hardware Inventory

images, or an entire roll of microfiche. The ScanPro 3000 is primarily used by students

for research, but it can be used by the public.

7. Scan Snap is a scanner that provides an overhead scan of a document. An overhead

scanner is great to use on items such as books, photos, or receipts. The Scan Snap uses

software that will organize, edit, and save. Scan Snap is used by students and the public.

8. Go Pro is a compact, study, and versatile camera that can capture fast moving objects. It

is portable and can be mounted to a helmet or bike. It has a wide-angle lens and image

sensor which produces quality photos and videos. A Go-Pro can take mid-range and up-

close images; however, the quality is very poor. Its sleek and sturdy design makes it ideal

for on the go use and is even waterproof. A Go-Pro is intended to be used by anyone

wanting to capture high quality pictures and video without the need to hold a camera.

According to the media room librarian, the Go-Pro is used most for science related

courses. Go-Pros can only be checked out by JSU students with a valid ID.

9. Digital Camera takes photographs and stores it in digitally instead of capturing the

image on a photo film roll. A digital camera can record video and sound, too. Pictures

and video can be viewed immediately on the display screen, be saved to a memory card,

or deleted. Many smartphones and tablets have added digital imaging and video

capabilities. Only JSU students with a valid ID can check out a digital camera.

10. Webcam is a small digital camera that feeds video in real time via the internet. A

webcam is either built into the hardware or it can be a separate peripheral and attach to a

monitor or sit on a desk. A webcam can be used by instructors to teach online classes.

Students can use a webcam to view and interact during online classes. Both instructors

and students can use a webcam to video chat or conference via Zoom or Teams
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Hardware Inventory

11. Merlin ultra is a high-definition video magnifier. It is an accessibility aid that allows

people with impaired vision to read with more ease. Plus, the Merlin ultra can convert the

magnified text into speech. This hardware piece is primarily used by visually imparted

students at JSU but it can be used by the public.

The use of technology in education is needed to enhance learning for students and to improve the

way instructors prepare and teach lessons. The use of computer hardware can help improve

student performance, teach valuable job skills, and increase efficiency.

References

Computer Hope (September 28, 2021). Retrieved from

[Link]

HP Store (September 28, 2021). Retrieved from

[Link]
computer

Dummies (September 29, 2021). Retrieved from

[Link]
microsoft-surface/

L. Reeves (personal communication, September 20).