Introduction To Computers
Introduction To Computers
Computers
Lecture 02
Engr. Sehrish Ferdous
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Categories of Computer
Before:
Computers are categorized into three main
categories from least to most powerful:
microcomputers
minicomputers
mainframe computers
Today:
A computer is categorized based on its
technology, function, size, performance, and cost
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Categories of Computer
Today’s Computer Categories
Personal computers
Handheld computers
Workstations
Videogame Consoles
Mainframes
Supercomputers
Servers
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Categories of Computer
Personal Computer
A personal computer is a type of microcomputer
designed to meet the computing needs of an
individual.
It consists of one or more input devices, Output
device, storage device, memory and processor.
It further categorized as:
Desktop computers
Notebook computers
Tablet PC
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Categories of Computer
Desktop Computer
It is designed in a way that all its components fit on
a desk or a table.
Notebook Computer
It is also called as Laptop Computer, it is small in
size and can be placed easily on lap.
It can be used using batteries, It can perform same
basic functions as a personal computer.
A notebook computer contains CPU, memory
capacity and disk drives.
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Categories of Computer
The keyboard and touchpad in notebook computer
are placed on the top of the system unit.
They are easy to carry and can be used outdoors in
airports and in classrooms without the need for the
nearby electrical outlet.
Tablet PC
A Tablet PC is a portable computing device
featuring a touch-sensitive screen that can be used
as a writing or drawing pad.
The user gives instructions with digital pen.
Many tablet PCs have built-in microphone. 6
Categories of Computer
Handheld Computers
A handheld computer is one that is designed to fit
into a pocket, run on batteries, and can be used
while you are holding it
Also called a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant)
Send and receive e-mail
Use maps and global positioning
Maintain expense account, contacts, to-do lists,
memos, etc.
Make voice calls using cellular service
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Categories of Computer
Workstation Computers
The term “workstation” has two meanings
Powerful desktop models designed for
specialized tasks
Ordinary personal computers connected to a
local area network.
A computer network is two or more computers or
other devices that are connected for the purpose of
sharing data and programs
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Categories of Computer
Mainframe Computers
A mainframe computer is a large and expensive
computer that is capable of passing data
simultaneously to many users
Used by governments and large corporations to
provide centralized storage
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Categories of Computer
Server
A server serves the computers on a network by
supplying them with data.
Client
A client receives data from a server
Any computer can be a server or a client
High performance servers are needed when there is
a need for lots of users and rapid response
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Categories of Computer
Super Computers
A supercomputer is one of the fastest computers
in the world
Breaking codes
Modeling weather systems
Simulating nuclear explosions
Research simulations
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Categories of Computer
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The End
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