Computer Classifications by Size and Speed

Classifications of Computers

• Computers are classified by size, processing speed, data handled, and purpose.

According to Size and Processing Speed

• Supercomputers:

  • Fastest computers, costly, used for complex mathematical computations.
  • Applications include weather forecasting, animated graphics, fluid dynamics, nuclear research, and petroleum exploration.
  • Examples include NEC Earth Simulator, IBM ASCI White.

• Mainframe Computers:

  • Large, expensive, support hundreds/thousands of simultaneous users.
  • Slower than supercomputers; utilized in e-commerce, banking, and organizations for database management.
  • Examples include IBM 3090.

• Minicomputers:

  • Mid-sized, multi-processing systems, support 4 to 200 users.
  • Commonly used in medium-sized businesses and government departments.
  • Example: IBM AS/400e.

• Microcomputers (Personal Computers):

  • Designed for individual use, utilizing microprocessor technology.
  • Used for word processing, accounting, and database management.
  • Examples include Apple II and IBM PC.

Types of Microcomputers

• Personal Computers:

  • Popular for their power, affordability, and user-friendliness.

• Portable Computers:

  • Include notebooks, laptops, and tablets; designed for mobility.

• Laptop/Notebook Computers:

  • Small, portable, can be used on the lap.

• Subnotebook Computers:

  • Lighter, smaller keyboards/screens, similar functionality to full-sized notebooks.

• Personal Digital Assistants (PDA):

  • Handheld devices integrating computing and networking features.

• Tablet PCs:

  • Full functionality of a notebook PC with natural handwriting input.

According to Data Handled

• Analog Computers:

  • Operate on continuous physical variables (e.g., temperature, pressure).
  • Examples: Planimeter, analog operational amplifiers.

• Digital Computers:

  • Handle discrete numerical values, superior accuracy, versatile, and reprogrammable.
  • All modern computers are digital.

• Hybrid Computers:

  • Combine features of both analog and digital types.
  • Used for applications requiring both data types, e.g., medical devices and industrial processes.

According to Purpose

• General-purpose Computers:

  • Capable of solving a variety of problems with the ability to run different programs.
  • Example: Desktop Computers.

• Special Purpose Computers (Dedicated Computers):

  • Designed for specific tasks with built-in programs for efficiency.
  • Examples: Nuclear monitoring systems and space mission computers.

Components of a Computer System

• Hardware:
  • Physical components of a computer system, including input, output, storage, and system unit.

Input Devices

• Allow data entry and command execution, examples include:
  • Keyboard: Main data entry device.
  • Mouse: Controls cursor movement on-screen.
  • Joystick: Used for gaming control.
  • Microphone: For sound input and voice recognition.
  • Scanner: Digitizes images and documents.

Output Devices

• Present or record output from the system:
  • Monitor: Displays visual output.
  • Printer: Creates hard copies, variations include laser, inkjet, and dot-matrix printers.

Storage Devices

• Used for data retention, classified as:
  • Primary Storage: Main memory (RAM and ROM).
  • Secondary Storage: External memory (hard disks, CD-ROM, flash drives).

System Unit

• The core component for processing data, consists of:
  • Main Circuit Board (Motherboard): Central hub of connections.
  • Central Processing Unit (CPU): The brain of the computer, processes instructions.

Software

• Programs and data utilized by computers to perform tasks and functions.

This quiz explores the different classifications of computers according to their size and processing speed, including supercomputers, mainframe computers, minicomputers, and microcomputers. Understand the specific applications and characteristics of each type of computer, particularly focusing on supercomputers and their usage in various fields.