Classification of Computers
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Which of the following is NOT a defining characteristic of a microcomputer?

  • Compact dimensions
  • Designed for multiple users simultaneously (correct)
  • Designed for individual use
  • High processing power compared to mainframes

    • What is a key characteristic that distinguishes a minicomputer from a microcomputer?

  • Minicomputers are designed for individual use.
  • Minicomputers are larger in size.
  • Minicomputers have lower processing power.
  • Minicomputers can support multiple users simultaneously. (correct)

    • Which of the following is NOT an example of a microcomputer?

  • Notebook
  • Laptop
  • Mainframe (correct)
  • Desktop PC

    • What makes mini computers ideal for businesses?

    <p>They can support multiple users simultaneously.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a common use for microcomputers?

    <p>Controlling an entire country's air traffic system</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the context of the text, what does the term 'compatibility' refer to in relation to microcomputers?

    <p>The ability to run various software and hardware</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Based on the text, which of these statements about minicomputers is TRUE?

    <p>They are significantly cheaper than mainframes.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main difference between a microcomputer and a supercomputer?

    <p>Microcomputers are smaller and less powerful.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following applications is commonly associated with supercomputers?

    <p>Weather forecasting</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main characteristic of an analog computer?

    <p>Uses mechanical or hydraulic components</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what way does a digital computer represent data?

    <p>Using binary numbers</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What allows a hybrid computer to perform efficiently?

    <p>Combination of analog and digital features</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following tasks could be best performed by an analog computer?

    <p>Solving differential equations</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do digital computers process data compared to analog computers?

    <p>Through discrete binary values</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement best describes supercomputers?

    <p>They are powerful machines used for specialized scientific tasks.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which classification does NOT fit into the main categories of computers based on capacity?

    <p>Quantum computer</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are the main components of a hybrid computer?

    <p>Analog and digital components</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following characteristics best defines a special purpose computer?

    <p>Optimized for a specific task or set of tasks</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which device is an example of a special purpose computer?

    <p>Automated Teller Machine (ATM)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In terms of capacity, which type of computer can perform a variety of tasks?

    <p>General purpose computer</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of data do analog components in a hybrid computer process?

    <p>Real-world data such as voltage and temperature</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a popular type of special purpose computer?

    <p>Web servers</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a defining feature of a general purpose computer (GPC)?

    <p>Capable of running various software applications</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following computer types typically utilizes Turing completeness?

    <p>General purpose computers</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key distinction between mainframe computers and supercomputers?

    <p>Mainframe computers can handle large volumes of data, while supercomputers specialize in complex computations and intensive tasks.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a typical use case for mainframe computers?

    <p>Gaming</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common characteristic shared by mainframe computers and supercomputers?

    <p>Both have a high level of processing power.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of computer utilizes parallel processing to achieve its high performance?

    <p>Supercomputers</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of these is an example of a popular mainframe computer?

    <p>IBM z14</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What unique hardware components are often employed in supercomputers to enhance their performance?

    <p>GPUs and TPUs</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary reason supercomputers are used in research and scientific fields?

    <p>They have the immense processing power needed to handle complex simulations and computations.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When considering the size of a supercomputer, which of these factors is most relevant?

    <p>The number of individual computers working together</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Classification of Computers

    • Computers can be classified based on size, capacity, and purpose.
    • A computer's size can be categorized as micro, mini, mainframe, and supercomputers.
    • Microcomputers are small, personal computers (PCs), often laptops, desktops, mobile phones, and notebooks. They are characterized by compact dimensions, low price and versatility.
    • Minicomputers are between mainframes and microcomputers, possessing a wide range of capabilities and supporting up to 250 users simultaneously. Examples are PDP-11, AS/400e, Honeywell 200, and TI-990.
    • Mainframes are large, expensive computers supporting hundreds to thousands of users simultaneously. They can run many programs concurrently and support simultaneous program execution. Mainframe examples include IBM zSeries mainframes (like z14 and z15), Unisys ClearPath, Fujitsu GS21 Series, and Hitachi VOS3. Processing capacity is frequently measured in MIPS (million instructions per second). Mainframes are widely used in finance, government, and healthcare.
    • Supercomputers are the most powerful, designed for high-performance computing, complex and intensive tasks not easily handled by other computers. Supercomputers can vary in size from small clusters to massive installations. Examples include Fugaku, Google Sycamore, Baidu's quantum supercomputer, and Sierra. These machines employ specialized hardware like GPUs or TPUs for tasks such as graphics rendering and machine learning.

    Computer Classification Based on Capacity

    • Computers are categorized based on capacity into analog, digital, and hybrid computers.
    • Analog computers use physical means like mechanical or hydraulic components for computations with continuous data. They excel at solving differential equations and simulating dynamic systems.
    • Digital computers use binary numbers (0 and 1) to represent data and perform arithmetic calculations and complex data processing. They have input, processing, and output components.
    • Hybrid computers combine the features and capabilities of analog and digital computers to perform various tasks efficiently by leveraging both technologies. They include both analog and digital components, facilitating the processing of real-world data alongside complex calculations.

    Computer Classification Based on Purpose

    • Computers can also be categorized into special-purpose and general-purpose computers according to their function.
    • Special-purpose computers (SPCs) are optimized for specific tasks, performing those tasks with high efficiency, speed and accuracy. Examples include embedded systems, digital signal processors, automated teller machines (ATMs), medical equipment, and spacecraft computers. Embedded systems control specific functions within devices.
    • General-purpose computers (GPCs) perform a wide range of tasks and functions. They are versatile and can be used for various purposes with different software and applications. Key features include Turing completeness, programmability, general-purpose operating systems, and input/output capabilities.

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    Classification of Computers Week 2 PDF

    Description

    This quiz explores the different classifications of computers based on their size, capacity, and purpose. Learn about microcomputers, minicomputers, and mainframes, including their characteristics and uses. Perfect for understanding the computer hierarchy and their applications.

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