Classification of Computers According to Technology and Size

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lassification of computers


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2. Mainframe computers

These are also large in size. Both the super and mainframe computer are high

speed computers performing billions of calculations per second and they have storage

capacity.

Specialized super computers could be used for designing weapons, weather

forecasting, biomedical analysis, research and air craft design. Examples: paragon from

inter corp. USA. They have important use in military department in developed countries.

Mainframe computers on the other hand can support thousands of users at a time and it

is used for data processing in large organization for information and data base

management. But they are expensive and they generate a lot of heat.

Advantages of Mainframe : Disadvantages of Mainframe :

1.Huge Memory. Cost of hardware: Normal persons can't afford to

have their own mainframe.

2.High speed compared to volume of data. Special Operating Systems/ Software (more cost

here too).

3. High security Intense Human attention required.

4. Superb Virtualization Intense Space Occupied.

5. Huge Data processing. More Resource consumption.


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3. Micro Computers

These are latest technology in computer to reduce the size of computer hence, the

development of personal computer (PC3) indicating that an individual can now have

computer at home and small offices. They are durable, cheap, and fast and generate

less heat.

The following are the types of microcomputers:

I. Desktop computers


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II. Laptop computerIII. Notebook computersIV. Palmtop computers

I.esktop:

A computer designed to fit

comfortably on top of a desk,

typically with the monitor

sitting on top of the computer.

Desktop model computers are broad and low, whereastower model computers are

narrow and tall. Because of their shape, desktop model computers are generally limited

to three internal mass storage devices. Desktop models designed to be very small are

sometimes referred to as slim line models.

II. LaptopPortable and compact personal computer with

the same capabilities as a desktop computer. Laptop computers have an L-shape

design and the screen can be lowered and closed to allow for easy transportation of the

machine. The primary feature that attracts users to laptops over desktops is their


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portability. Laptop computers provide users the ability to run the machine using an

internal battery or an outside power adaptor.

III. Note book computersA notebook is an extremely lightweight personal computer. Notebook computers

typically weigh less than six pounds and are small enough to fit easily in a briefcase.

Notebook computers use a variety of techniques, known as flat-panel technologies, to

produce a lightweight and non-bulky display screen. In terms of computing power,

modern notebook computers are nearly equivalent to personal computers. They have

the same CPUs, memory capacity and disk drives. However, all this power in a small

package is expensive. Notebook computers come with battery packs that enable you to

run them without plugging them in. However, the batteries need to be recharged every

few hours.

IV. Palmtop Computers:These are very small computers designed to be operated on the palm like mobile

phone, calculator, organizer etc. This type of computer is among the smallest size of

computer.


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n the basis of the purpose


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According to purpose, computers are either general purpose or specific purpose.

.

General purpose Computers

A General Purpose Computer is a machine that is capable of carrying out some

general data processing under program control.

Refers to computers that follow instructions, thus virtually all computers from micro to

mainframe are general purpose. Even computers in toys, games and single-function

devices follow instructions in their built-in program.

Special purpose Computers

A computer that is designed to operate on a restricted class of problems.

Use special purpose computer equipment to obtain patient diagnostic information.

n the bas is of technology


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Digital computersComputer capable of solving problems by processing information

expressed in discrete form. By manipulating combinations of binary digits (see binary

code), it can perform mathematical calculations, organize and analyze data, control

industrial and other processes, and simulate dynamic systems such as global weather

patterns.

Analogue computersComputer in which continuously variable physical quantities,

such as electrical potential, fluid pressure, or mechanical motion, are used to represent

(analogously) the quantities in the problem to be solved. The analog system is set up

according to initial conditions and then allowed to change freely. Answers to the

problem are obtained by measuring the variables in the analog model. Analog

computers are especially well suited to simulating dynamic systems; such simulations

may be conducted in real time or at greatly accelerated rates, allowing experimentation

by performing many runs with different variables. They have been widely used in

simulating the operation of aircraft, nuclear power plants, and industrial chemical

processes.


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Hybrid computers - A hybrid computer is a type of computer that is designed to

provide the features and functions that are found by both the digital and the analog

computers. A hybrid computer system offers a much cost effective method that is used

to perform complex simulations.


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A computer system is one that is able to take a set of inputs, process them and create a

set of outputs. This is done by a combination of hardware and software .

Inputwe can take data as inputs to the computer. We should convert them to the machine

understanding language (binary codes) before entering as inputs

Process- processing means converting data (row facts) to the meaningful information

Outputprocessed data can give us meaningful information which is action motivation.

Input(data) Process Output(information)

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Classification of Computers According to Technology and Size