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categorizing_computer

The document categorizes computers into three main types: Analog, Digital, and Hybrid. It further classifies digital computers based on size and capacity into Supercomputers, Mainframe Computers, Mini Computers, Micro Computers, and Workstations, each serving different purposes and user capacities. The distinctions highlight the varying capabilities and applications of each computer type.

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20 views

categorizing_computer

The document categorizes computers into three main types: Analog, Digital, and Hybrid. It further classifies digital computers based on size and capacity into Supercomputers, Mainframe Computers, Mini Computers, Micro Computers, and Workstations, each serving different purposes and user capacities. The distinctions highlight the varying capabilities and applications of each computer type.

Uploaded by

rajukh
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Categorizing Computer

There are major three types of computer. They are


Analog Computer
Digital Computer and
Hybrid Computer

Analog Computer
An analog computer (spelt analogue in British English) is a form of computer that
uses continuous physical phenomena such as electrical, mechanical, or hydraulic
quantities to model the problem being solved.

Digital Computer
A computer that performs calculations and logical operations with quantities
represented as digits, usually in the binary number system

Hybrid Computer (Analog + Digital)


A combination of computers those are capable of inputting and outputting in both
digital and analog signals. A hybrid computer system setup offers a cost effective
method of performing complex simulations.
On the basis of its Size and Capacity digital computer can be classified as
following:

Super Computer
The fastest and most powerful type of computer Supercomputers are very expensive
and are employed for specialized applications that require immense amounts of
mathematical calculations. For example, weather forecasting requires
a supercomputer. Other uses of supercomputers include animated graphics, fluid
dynamic calculations, nuclear energy research, and petroleum exploration.
The chief difference between a supercomputer and a mainframe is that a
supercomputer channels all its power into executing a few programs as fast as
possible, whereas a mainframe uses its power to execute many programs
concurrently.
Mainframe Computer
A very large and expensive computer capable of supporting hundreds, or even
thousands, of users simultaneously. In the hierarchy that starts with a
simple microprocessor (in watches, for example) at the bottom and moves to
supercomputers at the top, mainframes are just below supercomputers. In some ways,
mainframes are more powerful than supercomputers because they support more
simultaneous programs. But supercomputers can execute a single program faster than
a mainframe.

Mini Computer
A mid sized computer. In size and power, minicomputers lie between workstation and
mainframes. In the past decade, the distinction between large microcomputers and
small mainframes has blurred, however, as has the distinction between small
minicomputers and workstations. But in general, a minicomputer is a multiprocessing
system capable of supporting from 4 to about 200 users simultaneously.

Micro Computer or Personal Computer


• Desktop Computer: a personal or micro-mini computer sufficient to fit on a desk.
• Laptop Computer: a portable computer complete with an integrated screen and
keyboard. It is generally smaller in size than a desktop computer and larger than a
notebook computer.
• Palmtop Computer/Digital Diary /Notebook /PDAs: a hand-sized computer.
Palmtops have no keyboard but the screen serves both as an input and output device.

Workstations
A terminal or desktop computer in a network. In this context, workstation is just a
generic term for a user’s machine (client machine) in contrast to a “server” or
“mainframe.”

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