Microcomputer and Minicomputer

Although the terms microcomputer and minicomputer sound similar, there is a significant difference between them. Microcomputers are the kind of computers that most people use on a daily basis, such as desktop PCs or laptop. Moreover, they have a higher processing rate than minicomputers. 

In the early 1990s, the minicomputers were employed, which had relatively slow working and computational power. When compared to microcomputers, minicomputers are often slower and larger in size. Furthermore, as the microcomputer has a huge memory, it is increasingly more commonly used for daily tasks.

Microcomputer

These are the smallest computers intended specifically for personal use. These computers are tiny in size, affordable, and have a high level of reliability. Microcomputers have only one chip, data memory, and I/O buses, and can only handle one user at a time. Smartphones, desktop microcomputers, and other gadgets fall under this category of computers. Some of the examples include desktop, IBM-PC and laptop.

The characteristics are as followed-

• Among all other types of computers or systems, this one is the tiniest computer
• It is primarily intended for personal use and has a single user interface
• Low-cost and simple-to-use
• It does not necessitate any special knowledge or training to utilise
• Able to use a single semiconductor microchip
• Printing, internet browsing, and watching movies are all examples of multitasking

Minicomputer

In terms of features and capabilities, these are one of the most popular computers. This sort of computer can handle numerous users and has all of the same functionality as larger systems. They are also compact but have a fast processing speed, which is why they are used for commercial applications and services, among other aspects. Some examples of minicomputers are MV 1500, AS/400 and Motorola 68040.

The characteristics are as followed-

• The size of a minicomputer is smaller than that of a mainframe computer
• It is less expensive than a supercomputer or a mainframe computer
• Minicomputers are less powerful than supercomputers and mainframe computers, but they are more powerful than microcomputers
• Multitasking and multiprocessing are important skills to have
• Individuals and small enterprises will find it useful
• Simple to use and maintain
• It’s easy to carry because it’s small and light
• Quick and reliable

Differences between Microcomputer and Minicomputer

1. Minicomputers are mini computers that were first launched in 1960 and are utilised in a wide range of corporate and scientific applications. Microcomputers, on the other hand, are personal computers which are used for a wide range of tasks and were first developed in 1970 to handle the majority of them.
2. Microcomputers are utilised for a variety of educational, presenting, and entertainment reasons. Minicomputers, on the other hand, are utilised to control the manufacturing processes for these computers.
3. Microcomputers support  are composed of a single processing unit for optimization and evaluation, whereas Minicomputers are used for optimization and are composed of a double processing unit for any evaluation and manipulation.
4. In comparison to minicomputers, microcomputers are less expensive and easier to use, but minicomputers are more sophisticated and expensive. It’s also more difficult to use than a minicomputer.
5. When it is seen in terms of storage and size, minicomputers are bulkier and have storage measured in Terabytes (TB), but microcomputers are lightweight and have storage measured in Gigabytes (GB).
6. Minicomputers are used for process control, a variety of administrative tasks, and financial performance, all of which are primarily related to industry tasks, whereas microcomputers are used for word processing, management of the database, spreadsheet programs, graphics, and general office applications, which can be completed quickly and easily.
7. When comparing minicomputers to microcomputers, minicomputers are more powerful, and vice versa.
8. Microcomputers employ tapes and discs to frame their entire storage devices, whereas minicomputers use magnetic discs and tapes for secondary storage, particularly for any read or writing activity that must be conducted on them.
9. Microcomputers are much slower in terms of performance and speed when compared to minicomputers, which are much quicker due to the presence of a multiprocessing system that has all of these capacities, especially for managing numerous users concurrently.
10. Microcomputers are typically used for educational and recreational purposes, whilst minicomputers are typically employed by businesses to complete their responsibilities.
11. A microcomputer costs between 500 and 5500 dollars, whereas a minicomputer costs between 18000 and 500000 dollars.

Conclusion 

Most consumers are now tech-savvy, and technological innovation has accelerated dramatically since the 1960s, with the emergence of microcomputers from minicomputers. Microcomputers have seen significant advancements in respect of processing and efficiency rates, as well as attempts to make them portable and light in weight.