The different types of computers!

Types of computers

Any classification of computer is somewhat arbitrary. Traditionally, Computers have been classified by their size, processing speed and cost.

in general, classification of computers is more relevant on the basis of :

1. Storage Capacity
2. Electronics
3. Usage

(1) Classification of Computers on the basis of Storage Capacity

The computers are broadly classified into four categories based on there size and type : (i) Micro Computers,  (ii) mini-computers, (iii) Main frame Computers, and (iv) Super Computers

(i) Micro Computer : A digital Computer whose central processing unit (CPU) consists of a micro Processor, a single semiconductor integrated circuit chip. It also contain a memory System (typically read only memory and random access memory), a bus system and input/  output ports, typically housed in a mother  board. Once less powerful than larger computers, micro computers are now as powerful as the mini computers and super mini-computers of just several years ago.

Micro Computer are physically small compared to main frame Computers and mini Computers. Micro computers are the driving technology behind the growth of personal computers (PCs) and work stations. They are designed to be used by individuals, whether in form of PCs, work stations or note book computers.

The abbreviation 'micro' was common during 1970s but has now fallen out of common usage.

(ii) Mini Computers : Mini Computers bare digital Computers. These are generally used in Multi user systems. they have high processing speed and high storage Capacity than the micro Computers. These computers are at least 5 times faster than micro - computerscan support 4 to 200 users simultaneously. The users can access the mini Computer through their PCs or terminals. They are used for real time applications in research centers, industries etc.

(iii) Main frame Computers  : Main frame Computers are multi user, multi-programming and high performance computers. They operate at a very high speed, have very large storage Capacity and can handle the workload of many users. These computers are large and powerful system generally used in centralized databases. The users can access the mainframe computer through their PCs or terminals. These computers are used in banks or Companies where many people require frequent access to the same data.

(iv)  Super Computers  : Super Computers are the fastest and most expansive machines. Some of the fastest super Computers can performed trillions of calculations per second. These Computers are built by inter connecting thousands of processors that can work in parallel. These computers are used for highly calculation- intensive tasks, such as, nuclear research, climate research, weather forecasting, biological research and aircraft design.

(2) Classification of Computers on the basis of electronics

(a) Analog Computers  : This Computer operates on the principle of creating a physical Analogy of mathematical problem to be solved. It obtains answer by measuring and is mostly used in science and research because of its ability to carry out complicated scientific and mathematical calculations at a speed. It is difficult to use these Computers without the knowledge of advanced mathematics which is necessary for programming. Moreover, the storage facilities are limited, therefore, they cannot be of much use in business.

(b)  Digital Computers  : These Computers obtain answers by counting and are very useful in business as they deal directly with the numbers involved in the processing of business data. Digital Computers provide more accurate data processing than analog Computer.

(iii) Hybrid computers  :  It is a combination of both and hence can be used with more advantage. They are having the speed of analog Computers and the accuracy of digital Computers. These are specifically used in the situation in which input data derived from measurement is converted into digits and processed by computer.

(3) Classification of Computers on the basis of  Usage

(i) Desktop  : It is not design for portability. The expectation with desktop System is that you will set the computer up in a permanent location.

(ii)  Laptop  : Also called Note Book Computers. They are portable Computers that can run on batteries.

(iii)  Palmtop  : More commonly known as personal Digital Assistants (PDAs). Palmtops are tightly integrated Computers that often use flash memory instead of a hard drive for storage. They used touched screen technology for user input. Palmtops can topically fit in your arm. A slightly larger and heavier version of the palmtop is called hand held computer