Types of Computer

M1-R5.1 & CCC · Chapter 1: Introduction to Computer · 3 min read

Types of computer: The classification of computer based on work system is as follows:

Digital computer: 

  • Digital computers present all data in digits and perform all activties on the basis of digits.
  • These computers perform all the functions using the digits 0 and 1.
  • This types of computer are used for personal, commercial and research laboratories.
  • Ex: Calculator , Smartphone , Laptop, Desktop etc .

These computers are of four types based on their size, which are explained as follows:

1. Micro computer: 

  • In the year 1971, Intel corporation invented Microprocessor chip first time. E.D. Robert developed the first Micro computer.
  • All those computers who use the microprocessor as main components are called Micro computer.
  • Desktop computer,Personal computer,Note Book, Tablets PC, Handheld((PDA & Smart phone) are some common examples of Micro computer.

2. Mini computer: 

  • It's processor is small but larger than microcomputer.
  • This type of computer are smaller in size and are more powerful than microcomputer and it is multiuser device, used to carry out some specific task in engineering and computer added  design(CAD). 

3. Main Frame computer: 

  • Their processing capacity of Main frame computer is more than mini computers.
  • It is used as server in computer network and they are made for multiuser environment.
  • Therefore, it has more storage and processing capacity.
  • It is used mainly for scientific experiments and complex calculations.

4. Super computer: 

  • It is the fastest, most expansive machine available today and use for complex matematical calculations .
  • Super computers are used in weather forecasting ,rocket launching and nuclear research.
  • They are expensive; therefore, these are used for special tasks. Indian PARAM and IBM's Blue Gene are some  examples of super computers.

*FLOPS: Floating point operations per second or FLOPS is the Unite of measurement that the performance & capability of a super computer.

Analog computer:

  •   Analog computers are special types of computers.
  • They work on the basis of special signals like temperature, pressure,speed or electric flow etc. 

 Hybrid computer: 

  • These computers are the combination of Digital and Analog computers.
  • So, they work on the signals of temperature, pressure etc.
  • They work on the basis of digits of digits also.
  • Ex: ECG machine , ultra sound machine etc.

Applications of computer:

  • Commercial use
  • Medical science
  • Education
  • Research
  • Transport(Railways)
  • Enterainment
  • Banking
  • Technology
  • Personal use
  • Defence