What is a computer? explain the Characteristics or features of a computer!

Definitions of Computers

Computer has been defined by an American institute as,  "a device capable of solving problems by accepting data, performing described operation the data and supplying the results of these operations. Various types of Computers are calculators, digital Computers and analogue Computers".

Characteristics or features of computer

The following are some of the important Characteristics of Computer :

(1) Speed : A Computer is a very fast device,  It may perform in a few seconds, the amount of work that a human being can do in a year-- If he worked day and night and did nothing else. To put it in a different manner, a computer does in one minute, what would take a man his entire life time..

(2) Accuracy : The accuracy of a computer is consistently high and degree of accuracy of a particular computer depends upon it's design. But for a particular Computer, each and every calculation is performed with the same accuracy. Error can occur in a computer, but these are mainly due to human rather than technological weaknesses, that is due to imprecise thinkiy by programmer or due to inaccurate data. The main examples in front of us are space shuttle; nuclear simulation reaction.

(3) Diligence : Unlike human being, a computer is free from monotony, tiredness, lack of concentration etc. and hence can work for hours together, without causing any errors and without grumbling. Due to this property, Computers obviously score over human beings in doing routine work, which requires greater accuracy.

(4)  Versatility  : Versatility is one of the most wonderful thing about the computer. one moment, it is preparing the results of particular examination, the next moment it is busy in preparing electricity bills, and in between, it may be helping an office secretary to trace an important letter in seconds. All that is required to change its talents is to slip in a new program. Briefly, a computer is capable of performing any test provided that the task can be reduced to a series of logical steps. Their Versatility can further be demonstrated by their use in cleaning the step of a city, improving the existing sewage system to landing man or Mars.

(5) Memory  :  As a human being required new knowledge, the brain subconsciously select what is feels to be important and worth retaining in it's memory, and relegates unimportant details to the back of the mind or just forget them. With Computers, this is not the case . A  computer can store and recall any amount of information because of its secondary storage capability. Every piece of information can be retained as long as desired by a user and can be recalled as and when required.

(6) Intelligence quotient : A Computer is not a magical device. It can only performed tasks with unthinkable speed and accuracy. It possesses no Intelligence of its own. It's I.Q is zero, at least till today. It has to be told what to do and in what sequence. Hence, only the user can determine what tasks a computer is to perform. A computer can not take it's own decisions in this regard.

(7) No feelings : Computers are devoid of emotions they have no feelings and instincts because they are machines. Although men have succeeded in building a memory for the computer,  but no Computer possesses the equivalent of human hearts and soul. Based on our feelings, taste, knowledge and experience, we often make certain judgement, in our day to day life. But Computer cannot make such judgement on their own. Their judgement is based on the instructions given to them in the form of programs that are written by us . They are only as good as man makes and uses them.

(8) Reliability  : Computer system are widely accepted due to their exceptional reliability. Unlike human being they are capable of operating under the most adverse conditions for extended periods of time without showing any sign of fatigue. Computers are very reliable. We can consider them as very faithful Super servants of humanity.

(9) Scientific approach  :  A Computer operates scientifically and never gets  emotional while solving the problems. It always acts in a neutral manner and is never affected by the feeliy and opinions of someone.

(10)  Consistency :  As compared to human being, the computer are more consistent as they can do the repetitive works as many times you want to do.