Computer Types and Classification

Computer Types and Classification

• Objectives: Students will identify different computer types, understand their classification based on size and function, and develop a prototype technology.

Mother of Computer

• Ada Lovelace, Countess of Lovelace, was a mathematician and writer, known for her work with Charles Babbage's Analytical Engine.
• She's considered the "Mother of Computer" for her pioneering work.

Abacus

• The abacus is a simple calculating tool, with beads on rods.

First Computer (ENIAC)

• ENIAC (Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer) was the first electronic, Turing-complete device used for ballistic trajectory calculations.
• It was built for the United States Army, and marked a significant step in computing history, as the first programmable computer in the U.S.

Different Types of Computers

Analog Computers

• Analog computing technology is on the decline.
• Analog computers process information using physical quantities like voltage or pressure.
• They perform calculations simultaneously, unlike digital computers.

Digital Computers

• Digital computers are prevalent today.
• Digital computers use binary code (bits 0 and 1) to represent data.
• This is analogous to "on" and "off" states.

Hybrid Computers

• Hybrid computers combine analog and digital features.
• Digital segments manage tasks, while analog parts perform processes through signal conversions.

Classification of Computers

Mainframe Computers

• Large organizations use mainframes for critical applications, like bulk data processing.
• They can host multiple operating systems and act as virtual machines, effectively replacing several small servers.

Mini Computers

• Minicomputers, also called mid-range systems or workstations, are intermediate in size and processing capacity between mainframes and microcomputers.
• They gained popularity during the 1960s, as smaller third-generation computing devices.

Servers

• Servers provide services to client devices in a network.
• They handle large storage and have powerful processors, allocating resources, memory, and time for clients.
• Their robust construction, with many hard drives and powerful processors, ensures reliability and stability.

Supercomputers

• Supercomputers handle highly intensive calculations—quantum physics, weather forecasting, and molecular theory are some examples.
• Their parallel processing ability and memory hierarchy provide great processing power for complex tasks.
• Supercomputers are often found in banks and government departments.

Microcomputers

• Microcomputers, or personal computers (PCs), have microprocessors.
• They are smaller and less costly than mainframes.
• They are well-suited for single-user tasks and are commonly used in offices, schools, and homes.

Examples of Microcomputers:

• Desktop computers
• Laptops
• Netbooks
• PDAs
• Tablets
• Wearable computers

Personal Computers:

Desktops

• Designed for use in a single location.
• Desktop computer parts are readily available at lower costs.

Laptops

• Designed for portability, similar to desktops.
• Operates on batteries or external charging adapters.

Netbooks

• An inexpensive, smaller variation of laptops.
• Netbooks have limited features for faster efficiency and lower cost.

Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs)

• Handheld computers that can be used as portable audio players and web browsers, often with touch screens, for easy data storage, using memory cards.
• Access to internet is usually with Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.

Tablets

• Mobile computers using touch screens.
• Commonly used for tasks where input is via touchscreen.
• Often includes onscreen keyboards or external stylus/digital pens.

Wearable Computers

• Designed for wearing on the body.
• Useful in health, behavioral modeling, and military applications.
• Often run in the background, without user intervention.

Activity (Prototype Technology)

• Create a prototype of a technology useful in 5 years.
• Include the name, features, and usefulness.

Real-life Application Questions

• What is the importance of computers in your life as a student?
• Why is learning about different computer types important?