Classification of Computers

A computer is a digital electrical machine that automatically performs arithmetic or logical tasks on configuration. Programs are generic collections of operations that modern computers can execute. Computers can now do a wide range of jobs thanks to these programmes. A computer system is a “full” computer that comprises the hardware, operating system (primary software), and peripherals required for “full” operation. A computer network or a computer cluster are both examples of this phrase. Industries also have varied use for computers. The daily usage computers that we use fall into the category of Micro Computer. Our workstation or a simple Laptop Computer is a Micro Computer.

Classification of Computer

Computers are classed in a variety of ways:

• Size

• Function

• Processing Capacity 

Based on Function

Supercomputers

• The most powerful computer systems are supercomputers. Unlike a general-purpose computer, a supercomputer performs at a higher level. FLOPS represent the performance of a supercomputer instead of MIPS

• Linux-based operating systems are used on all of the world’s fastest 500 supercomputers

• Supercomputers play a significant role in computation in several domains, including quantum physics, weather forecasting, climate research, oil and gas exploration, molecular modelling, and physical simulations

• Supercomputers have proven critical in the field of cryptanalysis throughout history

• For example, PARAM, jaguar, and roadrunner are some Supercomputers

Mainframe Computer

• A mainframe is a powerful computer capable of multiprogramming and running up to 100 programs simultaneously

• It has a massive storage capacity and a high-speed data processing system. Additionally, it can handle hundreds of input and output devices simultaneously

• It is a powerful computing device capable of performing complex calculations in parallel over a long time

• The microprocessors in these computers can process data at a high level of speed and performance. Mainframes outperform our current personal computers on practically every parameter

• The average CPU consumption easily reaches 85 percent of total power

Mini Computer

• Minicomputers are digital, multi-user computers linked by many CPUs

• As a result, numerous individuals can operate on these computers simultaneously instead of a single person

• It can also work with other devices like a printer and plotter. Minicomputers are medium-sized computers with more capabilities and a higher price tag than microcomputers

• On the other hand, Minicomputers are larger in size, storage, and performance than mainframes and supercomputers

Micro Computer

• With the invention of microprocessors in 1970, it became possible to utilise computers for personal use at a cheap cost and fair pricing, known as the Digital Personal Computer

• A microcomputer is a compact, low-cost computer having a microprocessor as its central processing unit. It consists of a single printed circuit board with a microprocessor, memory, and minimal I/O circuitry 

• Mainframes and minicomputers, which preceded these systems, were significantly larger, more difficult to maintain, and more expensive

• Microcomputers laid the groundwork for today’s microcomputers and smart devices daily

Types of Micro Computers

Desktop microcomputer

Users rely on desktop microcomputers to accomplish various complex tasks in a short period with little difficulty. This machine stands on a tabletop and uses wires to link various components such as a keypad, mice, display, and operating unit. Users can utilise these components to insert commands and obtain output following the input instructions.

Laptop Computer

As their name suggests, laptops are computers that look like sleek briefcases. Additionally, they can serve as desktop computers and run on both an internal battery and a wall outlet.

Tablet Micro Computers

The tablet microcomputer is a portable computer with a touchscreen interface that is less bulky than a notebook computer but larger than a smartphone. With its LCD, users can perform both input and output tasks. Wi-Fi and cellular networks enable users to access the internet.

Smartphone

Smartphones are touch-screen mobile phones that can perform functions similar to computers, such as installing operating systems, downloading programs, and accessing the Internet.

PDA and Palmtop Micro Computer

The Personal Digital Assistant refers to a portable device similar to a tablet, palmtop, or smartphone in size and portability. It is equipped with both an input and output LCD. A palmtop microcomputer is referred to as a “pocket computer.” It is a thinner microcomputer than a PDA, and it consumes less power due to its tiny size and portability.

Workstation Micro Computer

Many microprocessors, known as robust one-side computers, are used in workstation microcomputers. An individual builds a microcomputer to run certain applications that require more power than a standard PC.

Server Micro Computer 

Despite looking like a computer, the server microcomputer possesses various additional characteristics that allow it to transfer data to another interface over several networks, including LANs and wide-area networks (WANs). The Apache HTTP Server manages all web pages, while the Mail server sends and receives emails.

Conclusion

In this century, everyone should know about computers. The knowledge of different categories of computers will help them in the long run. They should know that the computers we use are a type of Micro Computer. To know more about this subject, one can go through the division of computers based on size and processing capacity.