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Classification of computers

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On the basis of size, performance


1. Super Computers
The fastest 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.

Advantages:
1. Solve bigger problems 2. Run more problems in shorter time 3. May save money 4. Allows for virtual testing 5. Can be used for R&D

Disadvantages:
Can be expensive Takes up a lot of space May only be good for specific applications Does not replace physical testing Requires trained staff

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2. Mainframe computers
These are also large in size. Both the super and mainframe computer are high speed computers performing billions of calculations per second and they have storage capacity. Specialized super computers could be used for designing weapons, weather forecasting, biomedical analysis, research and air craft design. Examples: paragon from inter corp. USA. They have important use in military department in developed countries. Mainframe computers on the other hand can support thousands of users at a time and it is used for data processing in large organization for information and data base management. But they are expensive and they generate a lot of heat.

Advantages of Mainframe :
1. Huge Memory. 2. High speed compared to volume of data. 3. High security 4. Superb Virtualization 5. Huge Data processing.

Disadvantages of Mainframe :
Cost of hardware: Normal persons can't afford to have their own mainframe. Special Operating Systems/ Software (more cost here too). Intense Human attention required. Intense Space Occupied. More Resource consumption.

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3. Mini Computers
These are small version of mainframe computers designed to support more than one user at a time but many take up to (200) users at a time. It is not portable and it is expensive and it generates a lot of heat.

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3. Micro Computers
These are latest technology in computer to reduce the size of computer hence, the development of personal computer (PC3) indicating that an individual can now have computer at home and small offices. They are durable, cheap, and fast and generate less heat. The following are the types of microcomputers: I.
Desktop computers

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II. III. IV.

Laptop computer Notebook computers Palmtop computers

I. esktop:
A computer designed to fit comfortably on top of a desk, typically with the monitor sitting on top of the computer. Desktop model computers are broad and low, whereas tower model computers are narrow and tall. Because of their shape, desktop model computers are generally limited to three internal mass storage devices. Desktop models designed to be very small are sometimes referred to as slim line models.

II.

Laptop
Portable and compact personal computer with

the same capabilities as a desktop computer. Laptop computers have an L-shape design and the screen can be lowered and closed to allow for easy transportation of the machine. The primary feature that attracts users to laptops over desktops is their

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portability. Laptop computers provide users the ability to run the machine using an internal battery or an outside power adaptor.

III.

Note book computers

A notebook is an extremely lightweight personal computer. Notebook computers typically weigh less than six pounds and are small enough to fit easily in a briefcase. Notebook computers use a variety of techniques, known as flat-panel technologies, to produce a lightweight and non-bulky display screen. In terms of computing power, modern notebook computers are nearly equivalent to personal computers. They have the same CPUs, memory capacity and disk drives. However, all this power in a small package is expensive. Notebook computers come with battery packs that enable you to run them without plugging them in. However, the batteries need to be recharged every few hours.

IV.

Palmtop Computers:

These are very small computers designed to be operated on the palm like mobile phone, calculator, organizer etc. This type of computer is among the smallest size of computer.

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On the basis of the purpose

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According to purpose, computers are either general purpose or specific purpose. .

General purpose Computers


A General Purpose Computer is a machine that is capable of carrying out some general data processing under program control. Refers to computers that follow instructions, thus virtually all computers from micro to mainframe are general purpose. Even computers in toys, games and single-function devices follow instructions in their built-in program.

Special purpose Computers


A computer that is designed to operate on a restricted class of problems.

Use special purpose computer equipment to obtain patient diagnostic information.

On the basis of technology

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Digital computers Computer capable of solving problems by processing information


expressed in discrete form. By manipulating combinations of binary digits ( see binary code), it can perform mathematical calculations, organize and analyze data, control industrial and other processes, and simulate dynamic systems such as global weather patterns.

Analogue computers Computer in which continuously variable physical quantities,


such as electrical potential, fluid pressure, or mechanical motion, are used to represent (analogously) the quantities in the problem to be solved. The analog system is set up according to initial conditions and then allowed to change freely. Answers to the problem are obtained by measuring the variables in the analog model. Analog computers are especially well suited to simulating dynamic systems; such simulations may be conducted in real time or at greatly accelerated rates, allowing experimentation by performing many runs with different variables. They have been widely used in simulating the operation of aircraft, nuclear power plants, and industrial chemical processes.

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Hybrid computers - A hybrid computer is a type of computer that is designed to


provide the features and functions that are found by both the digital and the analog computers. A hybrid computer system offers a much cost effective method that is used to perform complex simulations.

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A computer system is one that is able to take a set of inputs, process them and create a set of outputs. This is done by a combination of hardware and software .

Input(data)

Process

Output(information)

Input we can take data as inputs to the computer. We should convert them to the machine
understanding language (binary codes) before entering as inputs

Process - processing means converting data (row facts) to the meaningful information

Output processed data can give us meaningful information which is action motivation.

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