Computer Classifications by Size and Speed
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Questions and Answers

Which type of computer is known for its immense processing power and specialized applications?

  • Minicomputers
  • Microcomputers
  • Supercomputers (correct)
  • Mainframe computers

    • What is a major use for mainframe computers?

  • Weather forecasting
  • E-commerce and web servers (correct)
  • Animated graphics
  • Fluid dynamic calculations

    • What is a key characteristic of minicomputers?

  • They are only used in large enterprises.
  • They are the fastest type of computer available.
  • They can support up to 200 users. (correct)
  • They can only support one user at a time.

    • Which of the following is a common synonym for microcomputers?

    <p>Personal Computers</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which classification includes computers like laptops and tablets?

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

    What is a distinct feature of portable computers?

    <p>They can operate on batteries.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Supercomputers are less commonly used for which application?

    <p>Word processing</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Mainframe computers are slower than which type of computer?

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

    What distinguishes special purpose computers from general-purpose computers?

    <p>They perform one specific task efficiently.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a primary component of computer hardware?

    <p>Networking Devices</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which input device is specifically designed for controlling computer graphics in a two-dimensional space?

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

    What is a key characteristic of general-purpose computers?

    <p>They can perform a variety of operations.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which device allows a user to enter audio data into a computer?

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

    What is the main function of storage devices in a computer system?

    <p>To permanently store data and programs.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of a barcode reader?

    <p>To read text converted into bar codes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of scanner is best suited for scanning thick objects like books?

    <p>Flatbed scanner</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is an example of a special purpose computer?

    <p>Computer for monitoring nuclear reactions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which input device enables the user to manipulate information directly on a display screen?

    <p>Light pen</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a characteristic of handheld scanners?

    <p>They require manual movement across the image.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which output device is primarily used for auditory output?

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

    What technology does a laser printer utilize for printing documents?

    <p>Toner and internal laser</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which kind of printer creates characters by striking pins against an ink ribbon?

    <p>Dot-Matrix Printer</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main output format of a monitor?

    <p>Textual or graphical</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What distinguishes a drum scanner from other types of scanners?

    <p>It captures the highest resolution images.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does primary storage primarily consist of?

    <p>Read Only Memory (ROM) and Random Access Memory (RAM)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement correctly describes Random Access Memory (RAM)?

    <p>It loses stored information when the power is turned off.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the function of the main circuit board in a computer?

    <p>To act as the central nervous system of the computer</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does a CD-ROM primarily use for data retrieval?

    <p>Laser technology</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of the Central Processing Unit (CPU)?

    <p>Processing, controlling, and internal storage circuitry</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a flash drive categorized as?

    <p>A secondary storage device</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How is data commonly measured in computing?

    <p>In bytes and bits</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which description best fits Secondary Storage?

    <p>It is also known as external memory.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a characteristic of subnotebook computers compared to full-sized notebook computers?

    <p>They are lighter and smaller.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which device is classified as a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA)?

    <p>A handheld device for computing and networking.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main function of a tablet PC?

    <p>To allow natural handwriting input.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do analog computers represent mathematical variables?

    <p>With continuously varying physical quantities.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following describes the primary characteristic of digital computers?

    <p>They process discrete numerical values.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What distinguishes hybrid computers from other types of computers?

    <p>They combine features of both digital and analog computers.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what application are hybrid computers commonly used?

    <p>Measuring heartbeat in hospitals.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common feature of digital computers that differentiates them from analog computers?

    <p>They use binary forms for calculations.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    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.

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    Related Documents

    Classifications Of Computer PDF

    Description

    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.

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