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4 Classification of Computer

Computers are classified into three main types based on data processing: analog, digital, and hybrid computers. Digital computers are further categorized into four types based on size: microcomputers, minicomputers, mainframe computers, and supercomputers, each serving different user needs and applications. Analog computers measure continuously variable data, while digital computers use discrete units, and hybrid computers combine features of both.

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15 views

4 Classification of Computer

Computers are classified into three main types based on data processing: analog, digital, and hybrid computers. Digital computers are further categorized into four types based on size: microcomputers, minicomputers, mainframe computers, and supercomputers, each serving different user needs and applications. Analog computers measure continuously variable data, while digital computers use discrete units, and hybrid computers combine features of both.

Uploaded by

pankaj.sahu.cs24
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Classification of

Computers
Classification of Computers

The computers are divided mainly three types on the based on data
processed:
1. Analog computers
2. Digital computers
3. Hybrid computers
Analog Computers

▪ In Analog Computers, data is represented as continuously varying


voltage and operate essentially by measuring rather counting.
▪ As the data is continuously variable, the results obtained are
estimated and not exactly repeatable.
▪ It can able to perform multiple tasks simultaneously and also capable
to work effectively with the irrational number. E.g. 1/8 = 0.125 and
1/6=0.1666
▪ Voltage, temperature and pressure are measured using analog
devices like voltmeters, thermometers and barometers.
Digital Computers

▪ The digit computer is a machine based on digital technology which


represents information by numerical digit.
▪ In Digital Computers data is represented as discrete units of electrical
pulses. The data is measured in quantities represented as either the
‘on’ or ‘off’ state
▪ Therefore, the results obtained from a digital computer are accurate.
▪ Virtually all of today’s computers are based on digital computers
Hybrid Computers

▪ It combines the good features of both analog & digital computers.


▪ It has a speed of analog computer & accuracy of digital computer.
▪ Hybrid Computers accept data in analog form and present output
also in digitally.
▪ The data however is processed digitally.
▪ Therefore, hybrid computers require analog-to-digital and digital-to-
analog converters for output.
CLASSIFICATION OF COMPUTERS

The digital computers that are available nowadays vary in


their sizes and types. The computers are broadly classified
into four categories based on their size and type—
▪ Microcomputers
▪ Mini- computers
▪ Mainframe computers
▪ Supercomputers
Microcomputers

Microcomputers are small, low-cost and single-user


digital computer.
They consist of CPU, input unit, output unit, storage
unit and the software.
Although microcomputers are stand-alone machines,
they can be connected together to create a network
of computers that can serve more than one user..
Microcomputers

IBM PC based on Pentium microprocessor and Apple


Macintosh are some examples of microcomputers.
Microcomputers include desktop computers,
notebook computers or laptop, tablet computer,
handheld computer, smart phones and netbook.
Contd…

PC Laptop Netbook

Tablet PDA Smart Phone


Minicomputers

Minicomputers are digital


computers, generally used in
multi-user systems.
They have high processing speed
and high storage capacity than
the microcomputers.
Minicomputers can support 4–
200 users simultaneously.
Minicomputers

The users can access the


minicomputer through their PCs
or terminal.

They are used for real-time


applications in industries,
research centers, etc. PDP 11,
IBM (8000 series) are some of the
widely used minicomputers.
Mainframe Computers

Mainframe computers are multi-user, multi- programming


and high performance computers.

They operate at a very high speed, have very large storage


capacity and can handle the workload of many users.
Mainframe computers are large and powerful systems
generally used in centralized databases.
Mainframe Computers

The user accesses the mainframe computer via a terminal


that may be a dumb terminal, an intelligent terminal or a PC.
A dumb terminal cannot store data or do processing of its
own. It has the input and output device only.
An intelligent terminal has the input and output device, can
do processing, but, cannot store data of its own.
Contd…

The dumb and the intelligent


terminal use the processing
power and the storage facility
of the mainframe computer.
Mainframe computers are
used in organizations like
banks or companies, where
many people require frequent
access to the same data. Some
examples of mainframes are
CDC 6600 and IBM ES000
series.
Supercomputers

Supercomputers are one of the


fastest computers currently
available.
Supercomputers are very
expensive and are employed for
specialized applications that
require immense amount of
mathematical calculations
(number crunching).
Supercomputers

For example, weather


forecasting, scientific
simulations, (animated) graphics,
fluid dynamic calculations,
nuclear energy research,
electronic design, and analysis of
geological data (e.g. in
petrochemical prospecting).

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