2.2 Everywhere!

Although most people only associate computers with desktop or laptop computers, there are many computers that we use on a daily basis.

For example, a cell phone is a specialized computer. It does not necessarily have a large screen or a regular keyboard, but it has a processor and many other components that are commonly found on a regular computer. Most importantly, cell phone have software, as well.

Even an econobox car these days has multiple computers. The ECU (engine control unit) is a special computer that monitors oxygen sensors, a mass air sensor, ping sensors and many other component in order to control the injection of fuel, ignition timing, valve positions and other parameters of an engine. Like other computers, an ECU also has software. Driving enthusiasts have means to reprogram ECUs to achieve better performance.

Specialized computers implement ABSs (antilock brake systems). Such a computer monitors the rotation of individual wheels (for a four channel ABS), and modulate brake pressure when a wheel is locked to ensure the wheel does not lose control.

Even very inexpensive toys, like Furbies, have processors inside. Like all other computers, such processors also need software in order to function properly.

In summary, there are computers everywhere, from inexpensive toys and gadgets, all the way to million/billion dollar high tech space vehicles and military air crafts. One thing that is common among all these computers is that they all need proper software to accomplish their respective tasks.