Types of Computers Lecture 5 PDF

Information Technology Types of Computers  Types of Computers Depending on the size performance and capacity, computers are classified into various types: 1. Supercomputers 2. Mainframe Computers 3. Minicomputers 4. Servers 5. Microcomputers...

Information Technology Types of Computers  Types of Computers Depending on the size performance and capacity, computers are classified into various types: 1. Supercomputers 2. Mainframe Computers 3. Minicomputers 4. Servers 5. Microcomputers Desktop computers: Single Unit Systems Video game consoles 6. Mobile Computers Laptops Netbooks Tablet Cellphones and smartphones  Supercomputers ❑ the most powerful in terms of speed and accuracy. ❑ They are types of computers used in solving complex mathematical computations. ❑ They are capable of executing trillions of instructions per second ❑ The operating systems that run in supercomputers vary depending on the manufacturer but are generally based on the Linux Kernel.  Supercomputers ❑ They handle exhaustive scientific applications that require complex and real-time processing. ❑ Cluster system computing means that machines use multiple processors in one system, rather than arrays of separate computers in a grid.  Mainframe Computers ❑ Mainframe computers are large sized computer types. ❑ They are equally powerful but fall short in terms of the computation ability in supercomputers. ❑ They are like big file servers, enabling multiple users from nearby and remote locations to access resources at the same time.  Mainframe Computers ❑ these systems can handle massive amounts of data going in and out simultaneously. ❑ This makes them popular with businesses. ❑ Users access the mainframe using terminals or personal computers. ❑ They are used in large organizations where thousands of clients have to access data simultaneously. For examples: Performing ATM cash withdrawals and deposits. During the process, communication between the mainframe and remote computer will help accomplish the financial transactions at hand.  Minicomputers 1. Minicomputers are general purpose devices without the huge expenses associated with a larger system. 2. Their processing power is below that of mainframe systems but above the capabilities of personal computers.  Minicomputers 1. Minicomputers are general purpose devices without the huge expenses associated with a larger system. 2. Their processing power is below that of mainframe systems but above the capabilities of personal computers. 3. Over the years, their usage was limited to dedicated control assignments in mid-range organizations. Control and monitoring of manufacturing activities.  Servers 1. These are types of computers used to provide resources, services, and functionality to client computers in a server- client network model. 2. Servers are optimized to run 24 hours and are capable of hot swapping of storage and other hardware without having to shut down the system. 3. Resources provided are based on the functions of a particular server, which may fall under these categories: File server Database server Print server FTP servers Application server Web server  Microcomputers -Desktop computers ❑ Microcomputers are the smallest, least expensive and the most used types of computers. ❑ They have a small memory, less processing power, are physically smaller, and permit fewer peripherals compared to super and mainframe computers. ❑ Desktop computers are made up of separate components such as: The system unit; a rectangular case that contains important parts like the motherboard, microprocessor, memory modules, disk drive, and optical drive. The monitor. A mouse. A keyboard. Microcomputers - Single Unit Systems 1. Single unit computers, also known as all-in-one PCs, are a sub- type of desktop computers. They integrate the monitor and system unit within a single unit. 2. They also have connectivity to a mouse, keyboard, and other peripherals, usually through USB ports. Microcomputers -Video game consoles 1. Some people don’t think of video game consoles as computers, but they are. 2. They have many of the same hardware components as computers, but are usually less advanced, which is why they’re able to cost much less than a top-notch gaming computer.  Mobile Computers ❑ Mobile devices have become the norm in recent years. Most users opt for laptops and tablets due to ease of use on the go, and battery power. ❑ Particular features that make mobile systems a favorite include: Extended battery use. Wi-Fi capabilities. Mobility. ❑ The most common types of mobile computers include: Laptop computers. Netbooks Tablets. Smartphones.  Mobile Computers - Laptops ❑ Portable computers designed to be carried from place to place. ❑ Laptops are lightweight mobile PCs with a thin screen. They were initially called notebook computers because of their small size. They operate on batteries. ❑ Because of their size and convenience, these are some of the most popular computers for everyday use.  Mobile Computers - Netbooks ❑ Netbooks can be thought of as mini laptops. ❑ They are smaller in size, price, and processing power. ❑ they are primarily designed for web browsing, electronic communication, and cloud computing.  Mobile Computers - Tablet ❑ A tablet is a mobile computer equipped with a touch screen or hybrid screen, which allows the user to operate it by use of a digital pen or fingertip. ❑ Most tablets today are both multi-touch and multi-tasking, making it possible to manipulate them using multiple fingers and accomplishing multiple tasks simultaneously. Mobile Computers - Cellphones and smartphones ❑ The iPhone, released in 2007, was the first true smartphone. ❑ It became an instant hit with consumers worldwide. It started the smartphone industry that still persists today. ❑ Most smartphones today use an operating system such as IOS and Android. ❑ They often have the ability to add applications.  Quiz ❑ This computer is mainly used in homes for recreation: A. Personal Computer B. Mainframe Computer C. Minicomputer ❑ Complex scientifc research is usually done using: A. Mainframe Computer B. Supercomputer C. Minicomputer  Quiz ❑ Mainframe computers are very cheap. ❑ A. True ❑ B. False ❑ Minicomputers have become outdated. A. True B. False ❑ A laptop is an example of a personal computer. A. True B. False  Quiz ❑ Personal computers are also called microcomputers. A. True B. False ❑ Supercomputers are used extensively in the scientific field for research and simulations. A. True B. False ❑ They can operate on batteries and hence are very popular with travelers. a) Mainframes b) Laptops c) Microprocessors d) Hybrid