Computer Knowledge:Classification of Computer Based on Size for Competitive Exams

Classification of Computer Based on Size

On the basis of size, computer are categorise as follows:

1) Microcomputer

Microcomputers are the least powerful, yet the most widely used and fastest growing type of computers and are also called portable computers. Microcomputer consists of three basic categories of physical equipment i.e system unit, input/output and memory. They are categorized into 5 types:

a) Desktop Computer or Personal Computer (PC): These are small, relatively inexpensive computers. These are based on the microprocessor technology (Integrated Circuit).

b) Notebook: Notebook computers, also known as ultra book or laptop, are portable lightweight and fit into most briefcases. They include rechargeable battery, so these can work any where, Laptops were developed by  Alan Kay.

c) Handheld Computer or Palmtops: These are the smallest and are designed to fit into the palm. So, these are also known as Palmtop/PDA. They are practical for certain functions such as phone books and calenders. They used the pen for input instead of keyboard.

d) Tablet Computer: They have key features of the notebook computer, but it can accept input from a pen instead of the keyboard or mouse.

e) Smart Phone: Smart Phones are cellular phones that works both as a phone ans as a small PC. They may use a pen or a small keyboard. They can be connected to the internet wirelessly. Apple, Blackberry, Nokia are some manufacturers of smart phones.

2) Mainframe Computer

Mainframe computers are those having large internal memory storage and comprehensive range of software. Mainframe computer serves as a backbone for the entire business world. It is considered as the heart of a network of computers or terminals that allows a large number of people to work at the same time. Mainframe computers are IBM-370, IBM-S/390, UNIVAC-1110.

3) Minicomputer

Minicomputer are smaller in size, faster, cost lower than mainframe computers. Initially, the minicomputer was designed to carry out some specific tasks, like engineering and Computer Aided Design (CAD) calculations. But now, they are being used as central computer which is called as sever. Mini computers are IBM-17, DECPDP-11, HP-9000,etc.

4) Supercomputer

Supercomputers are the fastest and the most expensive machines. They have high processing speed compared to other computers. The speed of supercomputers are measured in FLOPS (Floating Point Per Second). Super computers are used for highly calculation intensive tasks, such as weather forecasting, nuclear research, military agencies and scientific research laboratories. Supercomputers are most poweful, large in size and memory, compared to all other computers.