Classification of Computers

Study Notes

Classification of Computers

Classification is based on purpose, data handling, and capacity.

General Purpose Computer

Designed to perform a variety of tasks with appropriate software installed.

Special Purpose Computer

Developed for specific tasks; cannot perform beyond intended functions.

Examples of Special Purpose Computers

ATM machines: Allow access to bank accounts via special cards.
Robots: Utilize in manufacturing and military applications.
Mobile phones: Used for communication and entertainment.
Calculators: Designed solely for mathematical calculations.

Purpose-Based Classification

Divided into general and special purpose categories.

Data Handling Classification

Classified as analog, digital, or hybrid based on data processing.

Analog Computers

Recognize data as continuous measurements of physical properties (e.g., voltage).
Examples include automobile speedometers and thermometers.

Digital Computers

High-speed, programmable devices capable of mathematical calculations and data storage.
Recognize data through discrete signals representing voltage states.

Hybrid Computers

Process both analog and digital data by converting analog signals into digital form.
Examples include vital sign machines and petrol pumps.

Capacity-Based Classification

Includes microcomputers, minicomputers, medium-sized computers, large computers, and supercomputers.

Microcomputers

Known as personal computers (PCs); based on microprocessors.
Include notebooks, laptops, and desktops with varying capacities.

Minicomputers

Perform basic arithmetic and logic functions.
Smaller and less expensive than mainframes, suitable for non-large volume data tasks.

Medium-Sized Computers

Faster operating speeds and larger storage capacities than minicomputers.
Support management information systems for organizations like banks and universities.
Examples: IBM System 370, Burroughs 3500 System, NCR Century 200 system.

Large Computers

Offer high system sophistication and speed.
Storage from 512k to 8192k and internal operating speeds in nanoseconds.
Used for complex modeling, simulations, business operations, and engineering.
Can function as server systems for networks of smaller computers.

Supercomputers

The largest and fastest computing machines available.
Designed for extensive calculations, applied in nuclear development and weather forecasting.
Serve as host processors for local computer networks and time-sharing applications.

Description

This quiz explores the classification of computers based on purpose, data handling, and capacity. Learn about general purpose and special purpose computers, including examples like ATMs, robots, and mobile phones. Additionally, it covers analog and digital computers, enhancing your understanding of various computer types.