Types of

Computer
Systems
T. Vinothraj
Lecturer in Computer Science
Eastern University Sri Lanka

1. Classification based on
operational principle

Analog Computer

DigitalComputer

Hybrid Computers

Classification based on
operational principle

Analog Computer

Analog computers are the first computers being developed

An analog computer is a form of computer that

usescontinuousphysical phenomena such as electrical,
mechanical, or hydraulic quantities to model the problem
being solved

Analog computers are used to process analog data. Analog

data is of continuous nature and which is not discrete or
separate.

Analog computers are widely used for certain specialized

engineering and scientific applications, for calculation and
measurement of analog quantities.

The analog computer has become obsolete type of computer

these days.

Classification based on
operational principle

DigitalComputer

A computer that performs calculations and logical

operations with quantities represented as digits,
usually in the binary number system

Hybrid Computers

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.

2. Classification based on
Computer sizes and power

Computers can be generally classified by size and

power as follows (though there is considerable
overlap)

Personal computer

Workstation

Minicomputer

Mainframe

Supercomputer

Supercomputer

An extremely fast computer that can perform hundreds

of millions of instructions per second.

Very expensive

Employed for specialized applications that require

immense amounts of mathematical calculations

For example

weather forecasting

scientific simulations,

nuclear energy research

fluid dynamic calculations,

analysis of geological data

Supercomputer

Example: Titan
The fastest supercomputer in the world is used to
study alternative energy resources and climate
change simulations in a global level.

Mainframe

A powerful multi-user computer capable of

supporting many hundreds or thousands of users
simultaneously.

A very large and expensive computer

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.

Mainframe

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Minicomputer

Mini computers like the mainframe computers are

used by business organization.

A multi-user computer capable of supporting up to

hundreds of users simultaneously.

a midsize computer

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Workstation

A workstation is like a personal computer, but it has

a more powerful microprocessor and, in general, a
higher-quality monitor.

A powerful, single-user computer

Used for engineering applications (CAD/CAM),

desktop publishing, software development

The most common operating systems for

workstations are UNIX and Windows NT.

workstations are typically linked together to form a

local-area network, although they can also be used
as stand-alone systems.

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Server

A computer that has been optimized to provide

services to other computers over a network. Servers
usually have powerful processors, lots of memory
and large hard drives. The next type of computer
can fill an entire room.

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Embedded system

An embedded system is a computer system with a

dedicated function within a larger mechanical or
electrical system, often with real-time computing
constraints.

It is embedded as part of a complete device often

including hardware and mechanical parts.
Embedded systems control many devices in
common use today.

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Microcomputer/Personal
Computers

A small, single-user computer based on a

microprocessor

A small, relatively inexpensive computer designed

for an individual user

Used for word processing, accounting, desktop

publishing, and for running spreadsheet and
database management applications.

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Personal Computer Types

PCs: Two basic flavors of chassis designs

Desktop models and Tower models

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Personal Computer Types

Laptops

Also callednotebooks

Laptopsare portable computers that integrate

thedisplay, keyboard, a pointing device or trackball,
processor,memoryandhard driveall in abatteryoperated package

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Personal Computer Types

Netbook This is similar to a laptop, the only

difference being that it is smaller in size, which
makes it even more portable. It is also less
expensive and performs the basic functions, but its
internal parts are not as powerful as a desktop or
laptop.

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Personal Computer Types

Tablet computers

A tablet computer is a mobile, quite thin device, having

a flat surface. The device can be easily held in your
hand.

It contains a touch screen which is operated using your

fingers in various ways such as tapping, double
tapping, swiping and pinching.

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Personal Computer Types

Smartphones

These are true multifunctional devices. Quite recently

the mobile phone has developed into what is now
called a 'smartphone'.

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Personal Computer Types

Wearable Computer

The latest trend in computing is wearable computers.

Essentially, common computer applications (e-mail,
database, multimedia, calendar/scheduler) are
integrated into watches, cell phones, visors and even
clothing.

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3. Classification based on
the Purpose

According to purpose, computers are either general

purpose or specific purpose.

General purpose computers are designed to

perform a range of tasks. They have the ability to
store numerous programs, but lack in speed and
efficiency.

Special purpose computers are designed to

handle a specific problem or to perform a specific
task. A set of instructions is built into the machine.

often attached to sensors to measure and/or control

the physical environment

E.g.: The processor used to control an Aeroplane,

missile

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Types of ComputersSummary
Digital
compute
rs

Purpose
wise

Specia General
l
Purpos
Purpos
e
Comput
e
ers

Analog
computer
s

Hybrid
compute
rs

Size &
performance
wise

Micro
Server Workstat Mini Main Super
Comput Comput
ion
Compu Frame Comput
ers
ers
Compute
ter
er
r

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Thanks!