Basic Computer Science

Classification of Computers

Computer come in different shape, type, size, and feature. The functionality and data processing capability of each type of computer is different from each other. Some computers have very high capacity and fast processing speed, while some have little capacity and slow processing speed. Depending upon the requirements their are being developed.

Computer can be classified into three main categories:

1. Purpose of the computer
2. Operation of the computer
3. Size and capacity of the computer

Classification of Computer by Purpose

1. General purpose computers - General purpose computers are designed to perform a range of tasks such as print report, financial analysis, solving mathematical equation, databasing, and complex calculations with accuracy and consistency.
2. Special Purpose computers - Special purpose computers are designed to handle a particular problem or to perform a specific task. They are usually used for those purposes which need great accuracy and response like satellite launching, weather forecasting, space research, engineering, science research etc.

Classification of Computer by Operation

1. Analog Computer
2. Digital Computer
3. Hybrid Computer

1. Analog Computer

Analog computer is designed to measure the physical quantities, speed, temperature, pressure and electric current. Analog computer directly accept the data from the measuring device without first converting it into numbers and codes. They measure the continuous changes in physical quantity and generally render output as a reading on a dial or scale. Speedometer and mercury thermometer are examples of analog computers.

2. Digital Computer

Digital computer is designed to perform calculations and logical operations at high speed. It accepts the raw data as input in the form of digits or binary numbers (0 and 1) and processes it with programs stored in its memory to produce the output. All modern computers like laptops, desktops including smartphones that we use at home or office are digital computers.

3. Hybrid Computer

Hybrid computer has features of both analog and digital computer. It is fast like an analogue computer and has memory and accuracy like digital computer. It can process both continuous and discrete data. It accepts analog signals and convert them into digital form before processing.

This type of computer is widely used in specialized applications where both analogue and digital data is processed. For example, a processor is used in petrol pumps that converts the measurements of fuel flow into quantity and price. Similarly, they are used in airplanes, hospitals, and scientific applications.

Classification of Computer by Size

1. Micro Computer
2. Mini Computer
3. Mainframe Computer
4. Super Computer
5. Workstation

1. Micro Computer

Microcomputer is also known as a personal computer. It is a general-purpose computer that is designed for individual use. It has a microprocessor as a central processing unit, memory, storage area, input unit and output unit. Laptops and desktop computers are examples of microcomputers. They are suitable for personal use such as office work, academic research, or watching movie.

Characteristics of a Micro Computers:

• It is the smallest in size among all types of computers.
• A limited number of software can be used.
• It is designed for personal work and applications. Only one user can work at a time.
• It is less expansive and easy to use.
• It does not require the user to have special skills or training to use it.
• It is capable of multitasking such as printing, scanning, browsing, watching videos, etc.

2. Mini Computer

It is a midsize multiprocessing computer. It consists of two or more processors and can support 4 to 200 users at one time. Mini computers are used in institutes and departments for tasks such as billing, accounting and inventory management.

Characteristics of Mini Computers:

• It is light weight that makes it easy to carry and fit anywhere.
• It is less expensive than mainframe computers.
• It is very fast compared to its size.
• It does not require a controlled operational environment.

3. Mainframe Computer

Mainframe computers are designed to support hundreds or thousands of users simultaneously. They can support multiple programs at the same time. These features of mainframe computers make them ideal for big organizations like banking and telecom sectors, which need to manage and process a high volume of data that requires integer operations such as indexing, comparisons, etc.

Characteristics of Mainframe Computers:

• It can process huge amount of data in a second.
• It gives excellent performance with large scale memory management.
• It has the ability to share or distribute its workload among other processors and input/output terminals.
• There are fewer chances of error or bugs during processing in mainframe computers. If any error occurs it can fix it quickly without affecting the performance.

4. Super Computer

Supercomputers are designed to process huge amount of data. A supercomputer can process trillions of instructions in a second. It has thousands of interconnected processors. These type of computers are particularly used in scientific and engineering applications such as weather forecasting, scientific simulations and nuclear energy research.

Characteristics of Super Computers:

• It is used for virtual testing of nuclear weapons and critical medical tests.
• It can study and understand climate patterns and forecast weather conditions.
• It helps in designing the flight simulators for pilots at the beginner level for their training.
• It has played a vital role in managing the online currency world such as stock market and bitcoin.
• It helps in the diagnosis of various critical diseases and in producing accurate results in brain injuries, strokes, etc.
• It helps in scientific research areas by accurately analysing data obtained from exploring the solar system, satellites, and movement of Earth.

5. Workstation

Workstation is a single user computer that is designed for technical or scientific applications. It has a faster microprocessor, a large amount of RAM and high speed graphic adapters. It generally performs a specific job with great expertise.

Characteristics of Workstation Computer:

• It is a high-performance computer system designed for a single user for business or professional use.
• It has larger storage capacity, better graphics, and more powerful CPU than a personal computer.
• It can handle animation, data analysis, CAD, audio and video creation and editing.