Types of Computer

Types Of Computer On the Basis Of Size.

On the basis of size computer are classified as:
Super computer:
They are extremely powerful computers used for manipulating large amount of data. They have large memory capacity and can perform complex scientific calculations. The speed of supercomputers is generally measured in “FLOPS”. Examples are Blue Gene/L, IBM ASCI White, etc.

Mainframe computer:
They have huge memory and extremely rapid processing power. They are mainly used in large organizations for various applications. They act as the central host computer in distributed data processing systems. It is designed for large-scale data processing and a huge amount of data storage. Examples are VAX 8842, IBM System z9, etc.

Minicomputer:
Minicomputers also called as mid-range servers, are more powerful computers than microcomputers in terms of processing power and capabilities. They have multiuser system where many users work on the system simultaneously. They are used in medium sized organization. Examples are VAX 7500, Interdata 8/32, etc.

Microcomputer:
They are small digital computer with microprocessor, single semiconductor integrated circuit chip in CPU. It is designed for using by one person at a time but now it can network together. They include desktop computer, palmtop, pocket computer, laptop, etc.

Types Of Computer On the Basis Of Working Principle.

On the basis of working principle computer are classified as:
Analog Computer:

  • The computer which process the continuous data is called an analog computer.
  • It operates by measuring rather than counting.
  • It has very less memory, and can store limited amount of data.
  • The speed of such computers is less than that of digital computers.
  • They are not as reliable as digital computers.
  • Its result are given out as voltage signals.
  • Example: Analog Clock, Speedometer.

Digital Computer:

  • The computer which works on discrete data is called digital computer.

  • It operates by counting and adding i.e. it calculates.

  • It has more memory space, hence stores large amount of data.

  • It has two steps: On and Off.

  • The speed of such computers is more in comparison to analog computers.

  • The output are in numbers, exact values are seen on displays.

  • Example: Desktop Computer.

    Note: Above points can be used in difference between Analog and Digital Computer.

Hybrid Computer:

  • A computer, which has a combined best feature of both analog and digital computers, is called hybrid computer.
  • They can convert data from analog to digital and vice-versa.
  • It is the special purpose computer.
  • It usually has a high cost compared to analog and digital computers.
  • It is mostly used in airplane, radar communication, rocket launching, weather forecasting, automated industry, hosptial systems as CT scan, heart valve analysis.