To understand the classification of
computer of the Basis of size, working
principle, and purpose.
Classification of computer
There are the different types of computers available these days. The
function of each type of computer is to process the data and provide
some output to the users. However, the methods or techniques used
by these computers to process and handle the data may be
different. We can classify the computer according to the following
three criteria:
1. On the basis of working purpose:
i. Analog computer:
The analog computers represent data in the form of
continuous electrical signals having a specific magnitude.
These computers are very fast in their operations to be
carried out at the same time. They are a powerful tool to
solve differential equations. Its accuracy is low and it is a
general purpose computer.
ii. Digital computer:
The digital computer is also known as the digital
information processing system, is a type of computer that
stores and processes data in the digital form.. The output
produced by these computers is also in the digital form.
Its accuracy is high and it is a general purpose computer.
iii. Hybrid computer:
The hybrid computer is a combination of analog
computer and digital computer because it encompasses
the best features of both these computers. Therefore the
hardware components of hybrid computers are usually
the mixture of analog and digital components. The hybrid
computer is also less expensive than the digital
computers.
2. On the basis of size:
a. Super computer:
A super computer is the fastest type of computers that
can perform complex operations at a very high speed.
Super computer are more expansive than the other
categories of computers. This computer is special
purpose and is capable of handling huge amount of
calculation.
b. Mainframe computer:
A mainframe computer is a very large computer that is
employed by the large business organization for handling
major applications such as financial transaction
processing. The processing speed of mainframe
computer is slower than super computer but faster than
mini and personal computer.
c. Minicomputer:
A minicomputer was first introduced in 1960s. They were
called minicomputers because of their smaller size than
the other computers of those time. It is work group
computer system; smaller but powerful multi user system
computer with excellent memories and processing speed.
d. microcomputer:
A microcomputer is a small and cheap digital computer
that is designed to be used by individuals. It is built
around a microprocessor and storage unit. The
microcomputers are generally in the form of PCs,
workstations and notebook computers. The
microcomputer are divide into non-portable and portable
microcomputer.
Some non-portable microcomputer are:
I. Personal computer
II. Workstation computer
Some portable microcomputer are:
a) Laptop
b) Notebook
c) Tablet pc
d) Palm top
e) PDA( Personal Digital Assistant)
3. On the basis of purpose:
Different computers are designed for a different purpose so
that they can perform their tasks according to their
capabilities. On the basis of different applications or purpose,
computers can be classified into the following categories:
a) General purpose computer:
They are designed in such a manner that they can work
in all environments. The general purpose computers are
versatile and can store a number of programs meant for
performing distinct tasks. The general purpose computers
are not efficient and consume a large amount of time in
generating the results.
b) Special purpose computer:
They are designed in such a manner that they can
perform only a specified task. The special purpose
computers are not versatile and their speed and memory
size depend on the task that is to be performed. The
special purpose computers are efficient and consume less
amount of time in generating the results.
