Types of Computers: Overview and Applications
Table of Content:
Types of Computer
Computers are classified on the basis of its size and its uses.
On the Basis of size.
|
Types |
Explanation |
|
Micro computers |
In such computers ALU are based in same chip. |
|
Personal computers |
It is single user system which is used in offices, workshops, business etc. It is a single user computer system having a moderately powerful microprocessor. These Computer are used by individual, thus a;so called PC or Personal Computer. These days PCs are largely used for domestic purposes. |
|
Workstation |
It is also a single user computer system, similar to the personal computer, however, has a more powerful microprocessor. |
|
Mini computers |
It is power full than microcomputer. It can be used by many users at same time. Its processing speed is very fast. |
|
Main frame computers |
These are larger in size and fabricated in steel frames. They can process an ample amount of data very rapidly. Banks, educational institute and insurance company mainly use this type of computer. It is a multi-user computer system, capable of supporting hundreds of users simultaneously. Software technology is different from minicomputer. |
|
Super computers |
These are the most powerful computers, which can process extremely complex data very quickly and its storage capacity is also very large. It is an extremely fast computer, which can execute hundreds of millions of instructions per second. It is the costliest and fastest working computer. Super computers are used in weather forecasting, space research, computerized nuclear tests, satellite launching, etc. |
Note:
The super computer developed in India are Flo Solver. (Developed by NAL, Bangalore), Multi Micro (developed by IIS, Bangalore), Param -10,000 (by C-DAC Pune), Mach (by IIT, Mumbai)
On the Basis of uses
|
Types |
Explanation |
|
Digital computer |
These computers do calculations digitally by algebraic addition. The special feature of these computers is accurate numerical calculations. These are used mainly in banking. |
|
Analog computers |
It measures temperature, length, pressure, etc. (all physical quantities) and converts it into numerical values. These are used in scientific and engineering works. |
|
Hybrid computers |
In hybrid computers digital and analogue both types of computers are utilized. These are used in automatic operating devices like a versatile robot, in factories and machines etc. |