Classification of computers

Dominic Boye Jnr.

Classification of computers

There are basically three main ways to classify computers. These are:By TypeBy PurposeBy Size/ Capacity

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By TypeThere are three main

types of computers under this class.

They include:Digital computersAnalogue computersHybrid computers

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Digital computers

These are computers that represent data /information in a binary form. That is they represent signals in just two states. 0s and 1s are used during data communication.

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Examples of digital computerso Desktop computerso Laptop computerso Mobile phoneso iPadso iPhoneso Scientific calculators

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Analogue computers

These computers represent data/information in a continuous form. That is there are no breaks during signal transmission. They represent information by processing measurable physical quantities.

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Examples of analogue computerso Speedometero Thermometero Conventional watch

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Hybrid computersThese computers exhibit

features of analogue computers and digital computers. The digital component normally serves as the controller and provides logical operations, while the analogue component normally serves as a solver of different equations.

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Examples of hybrid computerso Automated teller machine

(ATM)

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Examples of hybrid computerso Electrocardiogram

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By PurposeComputers can also be

classified according to the purpose or application to which it is put. There are two(2) main groups under this category, these are:

o Special purposeo General purpose

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Special Purpose Computers

A computer is said to be special purpose if it is designed to solve a specific class of problem for which it was made.

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Examples of special purpose computers

Computers for chemical processes.

Computers in digital watches.

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General Purpose Computers

A general purpose computer is not limited to the number of applications it can be used for.

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By Size/CapacityThe capacity of a computer

refers to the volume of data or information it can process or store and the speed at which it works.

The three main computers under this group are:

Macro ComputersMini ComputersMicro Computers

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Macro ComputersThey are the largest of all the

computers in terms of price, memory size, power and speed of processor.

Characteristics:Very expensiveGenerate a lot of heatLarge memory sizeWider variety of peripheral

support.Supports multiple users

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Examples of Macro ComputersMainframe

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supercomputer

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Micro computersThey are the smallest of all the

computers. They are also called Personal Computers because they are used by one person at a time.

Characteristics:Small in sizeUsed by one personGenerate less heatNot expensive

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Examples of Micro Computers

Desktop computersLaptopsWorkstationsIPadsMobile phones

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Mini Computers

A mini computer is one whose size, speed and capacity lies between those of macro computers and micro computers