Different Types of Computer

Different Types Of Computers

A computer is termed to be a device that processes data into meaningful output. It facilitates the input as per the set of instructions assigned by the user and accordingly delivers the preferable results. Computers are recognized to be of various types and mainly they have been segmented on the basis of their size and data-handling abilities. In this post, we will discuss all the types of computers in a detailed format.

List Of Computer Types

In today’s time, the basics of the computer must be crystal clear to all age group people. It not only helps in doing the task quickly but also saves time. There are different types of computers available. People, as per their needs, prefer using different types of computers. They are categorized on the basis of size and data handling capabilities. The most used one is the Personal Computer as it is handy and can be carried anywhere. In this article, candidates can check the different types of computers.

What is a Computer?

To the answer of What Is A Computer, we can say that a computer is an electronic device that stores and processes data into meaningful information. The user gives a set of instructions to the computer, then the input is processed, and after that, the desired output is obtained.

Different Types of Computer

There are different types of computers. Two factors are considered for categorizing the computers: One on the basis of size and the other on the basis of data handling capabilities.

On the basis of size

When size is taken as a factor, then there are 5 different types of computers.

Supercomputer

The characteristics of supercomputers are:

• Biggest and Fastest Computers
• First developed by Roger Cray in 1976
• Can process a large amount of data in just a few seconds
• Supercomputers have thousands of interconnected processors
• They are used in areas like science, engineering, education, defense, aerospace, etc.
• Can be used for weather forecasting, scientific simulations, and research in nuclear energy
• Much expensive
• Several organizations and in stock market supercomputers are used

Mainframe Computer

The features of mainframe computers include:

• Can process a huge amount of data
• High Storage capacity
• These computers can support several users at the same time
• Multiple programs can run simultaneously on the mainframe computers
• Long life span
• Runs smoothly for a long time
• The performance of the computer is much better
• Expensive computer
• Mainframe computers are used in banks, the telecom sector, institutions, libraries, etc.

Minicomputers

The Minicomputers have the following special characteristics:

• Intermediate computer between the mainframe and microcomputer
• It is smaller than a mainframe computer but larger than a microcomputer
• Medium size multiprocessing computer
• 2 or more processors are used in minicomputers
• 4-200 users can be supported at a single time
• They are called as small or midsize servers
• Used for different purposes like billing, accounting, etc.
• The small organizations mostly prefer using Minicomputers

Workstation

The workstation possesses the following qualities:

• Comprises a fast microprocessor with a huge amount of RAM along with it have high-speed graphic adapter
• Only a single person can use a workstation at a single time
• Has much storage capacity
• Used to perform a particular task with much accuracy
• Workstation is used for technical or scientific applications
• In the complex works, workstation is used
• Expensive Computer
• One can perform animation, analyze data, CAD, create and edit audio and videos

Personal Computer

The most used computers are personal computers because it has the mentioned features:

• Also known as microcomputer
• Smallest in size
• A limited number of software can be used
• It has been designed for personal use
• It is very handy to use
• The microprocessor in it is a central processing unit(CPU).
• There are 4 units: CPU, memory, input, and output unit.
• Examples of personal computers are laptops, desktops, etc.
• Used for individual uses such as watching movies, doing assignments, etc.

Server Computer

Check out the important aspects of server computers here:

• This type of computer combines programs and data.
• Server computers store and share the applications and electronic data.
• Server computers are capable of solving minor problems.
• When a user search for something, a server computer will access the research and will deliver the desired results.

On the basis of Data Handling Capacity

There are 3 types of computers on the basis of data handling capacity.

Analogue Computer

The key features of Analogue Computer are:

• Used to process analog data
• Data that is represented physically is called analog data
• These computers do not convert the data into codes and accept in its original form
• Processes continuous data

Digital Computer

The characteristics of Digital Computer are:

• Can perform logical operations and calculations at a very high speed
• The digital computers understands the binary number 0 and 1
• The examples of digital computers are laptops, desktops, smartphones, etc

Hybrid Computer

The main highlights of Hybrid Computers are:

• It is a combination of both analog and digital computers
• Hybrid computers are fast like an analog computer
• Have accuracy like that of a digital computer
• Can process both continuous and discrete data

Tablet and Smartphones

Smartphones and Tablets are such type of computers that are extremely pocket-friendly.

• They are portable and can be carried to everywhere.
• This is known to be one of the best technology
• These type of computer have broad hardware capabilities and huge operating system.
• Multimedia functionalities of these type of computers are high.