Types of Computer
Analog Computer
Analog computers are computers that measure physical
quantities (e.g., pressure, temperature, length, etc.) and convert them to numeric
values. For example, a thermometer does not perform any
calculation but measures the temperature of the body by comparing the relative expansion of mercury. Another example is
voltmeter which measures voltage. They give relative results hence are accurate to within 0.1% of the
correct value.
Digital Computer
Digital computers are counting digital devices. It directly
counts the numbers (or digits that represent numerals, letters, or other
special symbols). For example, a digital calculator or a
digital watch. The majority of computers used
for business and scientific
applications are digital.
The features of analog and digital machines are combined to create a hybrid computing system. For example,
in a hospital, an analog
Cardiogram measures a patient's
vital signs like temperature,
heart functions. These are then converted to numbers and supplied to the digital
components that monitor the patient's
vital signs, any fluctuation can
thus be noticed immediately.
Classification of Computer
|
Sr.No |
Type |
Specifications |
|
1 |
PC (Personal
Computer) |
It is a
single user computer system having moderately powerful microprocessor |
|
2 |
WorkStation |
It is also a
single user computer system which is similar to personal computer but have
more powerful microprocessor. |
|
3 |
Mini Computer |
It is a
multi-user computer system which is capable of supporting hundreds of users
simultaneously. |
|
4 |
Main Frame |
Mainframe is
very large in size and is an expensive computer capable of supporting
hundreds or even thousands of users simultaneously. Software technology is
different from minicomputer. |
|
5 |
Supercomputer |
It is an
extremely fast computer which can execute hundreds of millions of
instructions per second. |
1) PC (Personal Computer)
- A PC can be defined as a small, relatively inexpensive computer designed for an individual user.
- PCs are based on the microprocessor technology that enables manufacturers to put an entire CPU on one chip.
- The most popular use for personal computers is playing games and surfing Internet.
- Personal computers are designed as single-user systems
2) Workstation
- Workstation is a computer used for engineering applications (CAD/CAM), desktop publishing, software development, and other such types of applications which require a moderate amount of computing power and relatively high quality graphics capabilities.
- Workstations generally come with a large, high-resolution graphics screen, large amount of RAM, inbuilt network support, and a graphical user interface.
- Common operating systems for workstations are UNIX and Windows NT.
3) Minicomputer
- It is a midsize multi-processing system capable of supporting up to 250 users simultaneously.
4) Mainframe
- Mainframe is very large in size and is an expensive computer capable of supporting hundreds or even thousands of users simultaneously.
- Mainframe executes many programs concurrently and supports many simultaneous execution of programs.
5) Supercomputer
- Supercomputers are one of the fastest computers currently available.
- Supercomputers are very expensive and are employed for specialized applications that require immense amount of mathematical calculations (number crunching).
- For example, weather forecasting, scientific simulations, (animated) graphics, fluid dynamic calculations, nuclear energy research, electronic design, and analysis of geological data (e.g. in petrochemical prospecting).
