Computer Assignment
Computer Assignment
Computer assignment
Submitted By
Group 4
Topics
i. Types of Computer:
ii. Classification Of Computer:
iii. Types of Storage:
Submitted To
Madam Saman.
Govt, Graduate College Samanabad Faisalabad
Computer:
An electronic device for storing and processing
data, typically in binary form, according to
instructions given to it in a storage.
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Types Of Computer:
You must be aware that a computer is a machine that is used to store, manipulate,
transmit, and receive information or data. There are different types of computers. Do you
know how many types of computers have been invented till now? If you don't know the
answer to this question, there is no need to worry. In this article, readers will be able to
learn about the different types of computers.
The first thing that you need to know is that computers can be categorized in two ways.
Computers can either be differentiated based on their data handling capabilities or based
on their sizes. If we take data handling capabilities into account, then there are three types
of computers. These three types of computers are
Analog Computer
Digital Computer
Hybrid Computer
Computers can also be classified based on their computing power and speed, and the
categories of this type of classification are mentioned in the table below.
Type of
S.No. Description
Computer
Now, you must have a brief idea about computer systems and their types. In this section,
we will discuss the different types of computers in more detail.
Analog Computer:
Let us begin with analogue computers. These computers were specifically designed to
process analogue data. For readers who are not familiar with the term, analogue data is a
type of continuous data that continually changes and does not have discrete values.
It can also be said that analogue computers are used when the users are not familiar with
the exact values like temperature, speed, current, and pressure. An intriguing feature of
analogue computers is accepting the measuring device's data without converting it into
relevant codes and numbers.
This feature allows analogue computers to measure continuous changes in physical
quantity. In most cases, the output of these computers is read on a dial or scale. Some
examples of analogue computers are the mercury thermometer and speedometer.
There are many advantages of using analog computers. Some of those advantages are as
follows.
These computers allow real-time computation and operations at the same time.
Further, it continuously represents all data within the range of the analog computer
system.
In some applications, analog computers help perform calculations without using
transducers to convert both the inputs and outputs to a digital electronic form and
vice versa.
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Programmers can also scale the problem for the dynamic range of analog
computers. This provides excellent insight into the actual situation. It also helps in
learning about any errors and their effects.
There are different types of analog computers. The various types of analog computers are
discussed below.
Slide Rule:
The slide rule is one of the simplest types of mechanical analog computer systems. It was
developed initially to perform necessary mathematical calculations. These computer
systems consist of two rods. When the computer performs any calculation, the hashed rod
slides to line up with the specific markings placed on another rod.
Differential Analyzers:
Differential analyzers are used to perform differential calculations. These computer
systems perform integration by using a wheel-and-disc mechanism. This helps in solving
differential calculations.
Castle Clock:
According to various sources, the first castle clock was invented by Al-Jara. This
computer system was made to save all programming instructions. The original machine's
height was around 11 feet, and it came with the display of zodiac, time, and the lunar and
solar orbits. These devices can also allow users to set the length of the day according to
the current season.
Electronic Analog Computer:
An electronic analog computer is a type of analog computer in which electrical signals
flow through resistors and capacitors. This simulates different physical phenomena. In
these devices, mechanical interactions of computers do not take place. Also, the voltage
of the electrical signal is used to generate the correct displays in these devices.
Digital Computer:
Digital computers were invented to perform different calculations and logical operations
at a very high speed. These computers accept the raw data as input, done in binary
numbers (0 and 1) or digitals.
After that, the device processes the information with programs that are already stored in
the device's memory. This process is followed to generate the output. Some examples of
digital computers include laptops, desktops, and other electronic devices like
smartphones.
There are many advantages of digital computers. Some of those advantages are
mentioned below.
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Digital computers allow users to store a large amount of information. The stored
information can be retrieved whenever it is required.
New features can easily be added to the digital systems.
Ability to change the program without making any changes in the hardware of the
system.
The cost of the hardware of digital computers is often less because of the
advancement in the Integrated Circuit (IC) technology.
These systems process data digitally at a very high speed.
Digital computers use error correction codes because of which these systems are
very reliable.
The output is not affected by humidity, noise, temperature, or other natural
properties, leading to the results' high reproducibility.
Hybrid Computers:
Hybrid computers are devices that have features of both digital and analog computers.
These devices are similar in speed to analog computers and are identical to digital
computers in their memory and accuracy.
Hybrid computers can process both discrete and continuous data. These devices work by
accepting analog signals and converting those signals into a digital form before
processing. This is why these devices are popularly used in specialized applications
where both analog and digital data has to be processed.
For example, the processors used in petrol pumps convert fuel flow into values for both
quantity and price. Similar devices are used in hospitals, airplanes, and many scientific
applications.
There are many benefits of using hybrid computers. A few of those benefits are
mentioned below.
The computing speed of hybrid computers is very high. This is due to the all-
parallel configuration of the analog subsystem.
These computers help in online data processing.
Hybrid computers can manage and solve large equations in real-time.
The results are produced quickly and in a more efficient manner. The final results
are both accurate and useful.
Workstation:
Minicomputer:
A minicomputer is a midsize, multi-processing system. Minicomputers are capable of
supporting up to 250 users at the same time. Usually, these devices have two or more
processors.
It is common for minicomputers to be employed in institutes and departments related to
accounting, inventory management, and billing. Some experts also believe that
minicomputers lie somewhere between a microcomputer and a mainframe because
minicomputers are smaller than a mainframe but more extensive than a microcomputer.
Minicomputers are lighter in weight. These devices can easily fit anywhere and are
portable. These devices are less expensive and very fast compared to their size.
Minicomputers tend to remain charged for long intervals and can function in an
environment without controlled operations.
You might also want to learn that minicomputers are primarily used to perform three
functions. These three functions are mentioned below.
Processing Control:
Minicomputers are mainly used to possess control in manufacturing. These devices
performed the functions of collecting data and feedback. In case of any abnormalities
during the process, the minicomputer detects the abnormality and makes the necessary
adjustment to fix the situation.
Managing Data:
Small organizations use minicomputers to collect, store, and share data. For example,
local hotels and hospitals use minicomputers to record their customers and patients,
respectively.
Communications Portal:
Minicomputers also can play the role of a communication device in larger organizations.
A minicomputer achieves this aim by serving as a portal between the central processor or
computer and the human operator.
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Mainframe:
Supercomputer:
Supercomputers are one of the fastest computers in the world. These computers are costly
and are only employed for specialized applications that require a large number of
mathematical calculations or number crunching.
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For example, supercomputers' tasks are animated graphics, scientific simulations, weather
forecasting, and geological data analysis in industries like petrochemical prospecting,
fluid dynamic calculations, nuclear energy research, and electronic design.
It is exciting to note that supercomputers can process trillions of instructions in a single
second! This is mainly because these devices have thousands of interconnected
processors. Also, the first supercomputer was developed in 1976 by Roger Cray.
Did you know that supercomputers can decrypt your password? This task can be done to
improve protection for security reasons. It also produces excellent animations and is
valuable in the virtual testing of nuclear weapons and critical medical tests.
A Supercomputer is also employed in NOAA's system (National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration). That supercomputer can execute any logical or
straightforward data.
Supercomputers are also used for extracting useful information from data storage centers
or cloud systems. An excellent example of this is the insurance companies.
Supercomputers also play an essential role in managing the online world of currencies
like the stock market and Bitcoin.
Microcomputer:
These devices can scan, browse, print, watch videos, and perform many other tasks.
Computer Classification
A computer is a device that transforms unusable data into information. According to the
set of instructions the user gives it, it processes the input and generates the desired
outcome. Modern digital computers are classified on the basis of their size and capacity.
The size and data handling capabilities of the various types of computers may be used to
categorize them into two groups.
Personal computer.
Classification of Computers
Classification of Computers
Different classifications of Computers are as follows.
1. Supercomputers
Supercomputer
The most efficient computers in terms of processing data and performance are
supercomputers. These computers are used for research and
Exploratory purposes. Supercomputers are exceedingly large and highly expensive. It can
only fit in large, air-conditioned spaces.
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Supercomputers are used for a range of tasks, such as space exploration, seismic research,
and the testing of nuclear weapons.
Supercomputer Features:
They make use of AI (Artificial intelligence)
They are the fastest and strongest;
They are very costly.
They are enormous in size.
They are employed by companies that manufacture goods.
They process information at a rapid rate.
2. Mainframe Computers
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Mainframe Computers
Despite being less efficient than supercomputers, mainframe computers are nevertheless
extremely expensive. Large corporations and governmental organizations frequently
employ mainframe computers to run everyday operations. They have the ability to store
and analyze a lot of data. To maintain information on their customers, students, and
insurance policyholders, banks, colleges, and insurance companies utilize them. They
may also act as a server in a network environment. Hundreds of users may be managed
simultaneously by them.
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3. Minicomputers
Mini Computer
Minicomputers are used by small businesses and industries. They go by the term
"Midrange Computers." These minicomputers frequently have several users, just as
mainframe computers. They are a bit slower than mainframe computers.
Govt, Graduate College Samanabad Faisalabad
For example, the manufacturing department may employ minicomputers to keep an eye
on specific production processes.
Features of Minicomputers:
It is smaller than mainframes or supercomputers in terms of size.
In comparison to a mainframe or supercomputer, it is less costly.
It is able to perform many jobs at once.
It may be utilized by several users simultaneously.
It is utilized by small businesses.
4. Microcomputers.
Micro Computer
Based on Capacity
According to fundamental operating principles, there are three different kinds of
computers. They are as follows:
1. Analogous Computers
Analog computers process analog data. Temperature, pressure, weight, depth, and voltage
are a few examples of this type of data. These have an infinite range of values and are
continuous quantities.
The first computers were analog, and they laid the groundwork for today's digital
computers.
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Analogous Computers
2. Digital Computers
In digital computers, letters, numbers, and other special symbols are represented by
digits. On-off (ON-OFF) inputs are used by digital computers, and ON-OFF signals are
also generated by them.
Digital Computer
3. Hybrid Computers
Computers that combine digital and analog components are called hybrid
computers. It combines the best features of both types, having the speed
of an analog computer with the memory and precision of a digital computer. Hybrid
computers are typically used in specific applications where both forms of data need to be
processed. As an example, a gas pump contains a processor that converts measurements
of fuel flow into information about quality and cost.
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Summary
Computers are divided into several categories based on their architecture, the
speed at which commands or instructions are carried out, the peripherals they use,
and the tasks for which they were designed.
The different computer types may be divided into two groups based on their size
and capacity for handling data.
There are five main kinds of computers based on size: PC (Personal Computer),
minicomputer, microcomputers, supercomputers, and mainframe.
Additionally, there are three different kinds of computers based on their capacity
to manage data: A computer can be digital, hybrid, or analog.
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The storage devices are the components of a computer system that holds data and orders that will be
analyzed. Secondary storage is a component of computer hardware that stores data to process the results of
computing activity. A system will not allow functioning or even load up without a storage device. In other
terms, a data store is a piece of equipment that is used to transfer, store, or extract data files. It may also
temporarily and permanently store data and information.
A storage device is among the essential components of any computer system, and it comes in a variety of
shapes and sizes depending on the requirements and functionality. It holds almost all of the large datasets in a
computer, except the exception of hardware-software. A storage device comes in a variety of shapes and sizes;
for example, a computer has numerous file systems such as a hard drive, RAM, and cache. These have also
optical disc drives and USB drives that may be linked outside. There are two sorts of storage systems that store
data: main and secondary.
2. Secondary storage devices: From the name itself this can be known that this is a type of secondary
storage which is external to the computer system. It is not as primary storage as here the data is being
stored for the long term or we can say it’s permanent storage.
ROM
ROM means read-only memory. This is also known as non-volatile memory as the information here is stored
permanently until and unless it’s deleted by the user.
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Hard disk
It’s a hard disc drive (HDD) that uses magnetic storage to store and retrieve data. It’s a non-volatile device that
stores data that could be changed or deleted an infinite number of times.
The hard drive is the component used to permanently store data instead of RAM,
which is erased whenever the computer is restarted. This is why the term mass
storage device is sometimes used to refer to hard drives. The hard drive is
connected to the motherboard using a hard drive controller that acts as an
interface between the processor and the hard drive. The hard drive controller
manages the drives linked to it, interprets commands sent by the processor, and
routes them to the drive.
CONTENTS
IDE
SCSI
Serial ATA
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When the USB standard appeared, external cases that could connect a hard drive using a
USB port were released, making hard drives easy to install and increasing storage
capacity for backups. These are called external hard drives instead of internal hard
drives plugged directly into the motherboard. They are the same disks, even though they
are connected to the computer using a case plugged into a USB port.
What is the structure of a hard drive?
A hard drive comprises several rigid metal/glass/ceramic disks stacked very close to one
another and called platters.
The disks quickly turn around an axle (currently several thousand revolutions per
minute) in a counter-clockwise direction. A computer works in a binary mode. The data
is stored as 0s and 1s (called bits). Hard drives hold millions of these bits, stored very
close to one another on a fine magnetic layer a few microns thick and covered by a
protective film.
They are read and written using read heads located on both sides of the platters. These
heads are electromagnets that raise and lower themselves to read or write data. The read
heads are only a few microns from the surface, separated by a layer of air created by the
rotation of the disks, which generates a wind of about 250km/h (150 mph)! Moreover,
these disks are laterally mobile, so the heads can sweep across their entire surface.
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However, the heads are linked to one another, and only one of them can read or write
at a given moment. The term cylinder refers to all the data stored vertically on each of
the disks.
This entire precision mechanism is contained within a fully airtight case, as the smallest
particle can degrade the disk's surface. This is why hard drives are closed shut with seals,
and the warning "Warranty void if removed", as only hard drive manufacturers can
open them (in particle-free cleanrooms).
How does it work?
The read/write heads are inductive, meaning they can generate a magnetic field. This is
especially important in writing: The heads, by creating positive or negative fields,
polarize the disk surface in a very tiny area so that when they are read afterwards, the
polarity reversal completes a circuit with the read head, which is then transformed by
an analog-digital converter (ADC) into a 0 or 1 which the computer can understand.
When the USB standard appeared, external cases that could connect a hard drive using a
USB port were released, making hard drives easy to install and increasing storage
capacity for backups. These are called external hard drives instead of internal hard
drives plugged directly into the motherboard. They are the same disks, even though they
are connected to the computer using a case plugged into a USB port.
What is the structure of a hard drive?
A hard drive comprises several rigid metal/glass/ceramic disks stacked very close to one
another and called platters.
The disks quickly turn around an axle (currently several thousand revolutions per
minute) in a counter-clockwise direction. A computer works in a binary mode. The data
is stored as 0s and 1s (called bits). Hard drives hold millions of these bits, stored very
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close to one another on a fine magnetic layer a few microns thick and covered by a
protective film.
They are read and written using read heads located on both sides of the platters. These
heads are electromagnets that raise and lower themselves to read or write data. The read
heads are only a few microns from the surface, separated by a layer of air created by the
rotation of the disks, which generates a wind of about 250km/h (150 mph)! Moreover,
these disks are laterally mobile, so the heads can sweep across their entire surface.
However, the heads are linked to one another, and only one of them can read or write
at a given moment. The term cylinder refers to all the data stored vertically on each of
the disks.
This entire precision mechanism is contained within a fully airtight case, as the smallest
particle can degrade the disk's surface. This is why hard drives are closed shut with seals,
and the warning "Warranty void if removed", as only hard drive manufacturers can
open them (in particle-free cleanrooms).
How does it work?
The read/write heads are inductive, meaning they can generate a magnetic field. This is
especially important in writing: The heads, by creating positive or negative fields,
polarize the disk surface in a very tiny area so that when they are read afterwards, the
polarity reversal completes a circuit with the read head, which is then transformed by
an analog-digital converter (ADC) into a 0 or 1 which the computer can understand.
Sd card
A Contactless Smart Card is what it’s called. It is commonly used for storing greater information on electronic
devices such as phones, cameras, and so on.
Memory card
It’s commonly found in digital cameras, printers, gaming consoles, and other electronic devices. It may be
used to carry lots of data and comes in a variety of sizes. A memory card reader is required to use a storage
device on a computer.
DVD
Digital Versatile Disc is the name given to it. DVDs are data storage discs that are round and flat. It is
available in two distinct sizes: 4.7Gigabyte solitary discs and 8.5Gigabyte dual discs.
Conclusion
The storage devices are getting smaller day by day with changing technology but can hold tons of data at a
time. Everyone has their data or some information to store and storage devices are the one that satisfies this
need of people and serve many purposes.