Questions and Answers
What is the classification of computers based on purpose?
What is a general purpose computer?
Computers designed to perform a variety of tasks when installed with appropriate programs.
What is a special purpose computer?
Computers developed to perform a specific task.
What does ATM stand for?
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Which of the following are examples of special purpose computers? (Select all that apply)
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What kind of tasks do robots typically perform?
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What is a hybrid computer?
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What are the three classifications of computers according to data handled?
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What is a microcomputer?
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What is the main purpose of a supercomputer?
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What is the storage capacity range of a large computer?
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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.
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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.
