CLASSIFICATION OF COMPUTERS

BY:
AISHA LAWAL
Computer's classification based
on Size
Computer's classification based on Size
 As per the size, a computer can be broadly

classified as follows −
 Micro Computer
 Mini Computer
 Mainframe Computer
 Super Computer
Computer's classification based
on Size
 Micro Computer
 Microcomputers, also known as personal computers

(PCs), are a type of computer designed for individual

use. They are distinguished by their compact
dimensions, small size, processing power,
compatibility, internet connectivity, portability, low
price, and versatility. In the 1970s and 1980s,
microcomputers gained popularity and became more
popular in the modern computing era.
Computer's classification based on Size
(MICRO COMPUTERS)
 Size − Microcomputers are small in size. These are portable.
 Example − Some of the popular microcomputers are laptops and desktops,
standard PCs, mobile phones, and notebooks.
 Why microcomputer ?
 Microcomputers have become an important part of modern life. They have
had a big impact on society, companies, education, and related areas.
 Uses of Microcomputers − Microcomputers are most widely used in
education and learning, entertainment and media, innovation and
creativity, research and science, healthcare and medicine, home
automation, remote work, and e-commerce and online shopping.
Computer's classification based on Size
(MINI COMPUTERS)
 A minicomputer is a type of computer that is smaller in size than large
computers. It possesses all the capabilities of a large computer. Hence, it
is a midsize multi-processing system capable of supporting up to 250
users simultaneously.
 Size − Its size falls between mainframes and microcomputers.
 Example − Some of the popular minicomputers are the PDP-11, IBM's
AS/400e, Honeywell 200, and TI-990.
 Why a Mini Computer? Mini computers are also known as mini PCs or
small-form-factor (SFF) computers. These have impressive computing
capabilities, high performance, connectivity options, portability, and
versatility features.
 Uses of Minicomputers − Minicomputers are most widely used in
scientific computations, engineering, business transaction processing, file
handling, and database management.
Computer's classification based on Size
(MAINFRAME COMPUTERS)
 The mainframe is very large and is an expensive computer capable of
supporting hundreds or even thousands of users simultaneously. The
mainframe executes many programs concurrently and supports
simultaneous execution of programs.
Computer's classification based on Size
(MAINFRAME COMPUTERS)
 Size − Mainframe computers can vary in size; their size
generally depends on their specifications and the specific
model being considered.
 Example − Some of the popular mainframe computers are
IBM zSeries mainframes (BM z14 and IBM z15), Unisys
ClearPath, Fujitsu GS21 Series, and Hitachi VOS3.
 Why a mainframe computer?
 The processing capacity of mainframes is frequently
measured in MIPS (million instructions per second) or other
units. This enables them to process a large volume of
transactions and perform extensive data processing.
 Uses of the Mainframe − Mainframe computers are
most widely used in finance, government, healthcare, and
more.
Computer's classification based on Size
(SUPER COMPUTERS)
 Supercomputer
 A supercomputer is a special type of computer that is more
powerful and capable of high-performance computing. It is
specifically designed to compute complex and intensive tasks
that regular computers cannot do efficiently.
 Size − Supercomputers can vary in size, from small clusters
of computers to massive installations. A supercomputer may
contain 10, 100, 1000, or more computers that all work
together.
Computer's classification based on Size
(SUPER COMPUTERS)
 Example − Some of the popular supercomputers are Fugaku,
Google Sycamore, Baidu's quantum supercomputer, and Sierra.
 Why Supercomputer?
 A supercomputer's processing speed is exceptional and can perform
billions of calculations per second. Multiple processors work in
parallel mode to execute tasks, which makes processing powerful.
 Supercomputers are specially built using specialized hardware like
GPUs (Graphics Processing Units) or TPUs (Tensor Processing
Units), which are used in graphics rendering or machine learning
tasks.
 Supercomputers represent the pinnacle of computing power, and
these are very expensive and are employed for specialized
applications.
Computer's classification based on Size
(SUPER COMPUTERS)
 Uses of the Supercomputer − Supercomputers are most
widely used in scientific research, data analysis, weather
forecasting, scientific simulations, graphics, fluid dynamic
calculations, nuclear energy research, electronic design, and
the analysis of geological data.
Computer's classification based on Capacity

 As per the capacity, a computer can be broadly classified as

follows−
 Analog Computer
 Digital computer
 Hybrid computer
 Analog Computer
 A computer that uses physical means like mechanical or
hydraulic components to do the computation rather than
electronic circuits is called an analogue computer. These
computers work with continuous data and can manage
physical quantities efficiently. They are particularly good at
solving differential equations and simulating dynamic systems.
Computer's classification based on Capacity
(ANALOG COMPUTER)

 In lieu of numbers, an analogue computer performs arithmetic

operations based on measurable quantities, such as
mechanical movement or the rotation of gears. In analogue
computers, data is processed as continuous signals for its
operation, whereas in digital computers, data is transmitted as
discrete signals (or discontinuous signals).
Computer's classification based on Capacity
(DIGITAL COMPUTER)

 A digital computer is a type of computer that

represents and processes data using discrete,
distinct values.
 In digital computers, data is processed using
binary numbers 0 and 1. These computers are
designed to perform arithmetic calculations and
complex data processing and manipulation. The
main components of a digital computer are input,
processing, and output.
Computer's classification based on Capacity
(HYBRID COMPUTER)

 Hybrid Computer
 A hybrid computer is a type of computer system
that integrates the features and capabilities of
both analogue and digital computers. This
integration allows the hybrid computer to
perform various tasks efficiently by leveraging
the strengths of both digital and analogue
technologies.
Computer's classification based on Capacity
(HYBRID COMPUTER)

 The main components of a hybrid computer are

the analogue and digital components −
 Analog Component − Analogue components in
a hybrid computer can process real-world data
like voltage, current, temperature, pressure, etc.
using analogue circuits and components.
 Digital Component − Digital computers work
with discrete data and are based on binary
numbers (0s and 1s). Digital components in a
hybrid computer provide the computational
power to perform complex calculations and
control the overall operation of the system.
Computer's classification based on
Purpose
 As per the capacity, a computer can be broadly
classified as follows −
 Special Purpose
 General Purpose
 Special Purpose Computer
 A computer that is designed and optimized for a
specific task or set of tasks is called a special
purpose computer (SPC). SPCs are designed to
excel at a single or limited set of functions,
frequently with a high degree of efficiency,
speed, and accuracy.
Computer's classification based on Purpose
(SPECIAL PURPOSE)
 Some of the following popular SPCs are:
 Embedded Systems − These systems are integrated with
devices to control specific functions. For example, a car's
engine control unit and microwave ovens
 Digital Signal Processors − These are commonly used in
applications like audio processing, image compression, and
telecommunications.
 Automated Teller Machines − ATMs are special-purpose
computers designed specifically for banking transactions and
interactions with customers.
 Medical Equipment − Machines like MRI and CT scanners are
specialized computers used for capturing and processing
medical images.
 Spacecraft Computers − Computers used in spacecraft have
to operate in extreme conditions and are optimized for the
demands of space missions.
Computer's classification based on Purpose
(GENERAL PURPOSE)
 A computer that is designed to perform a wide range of tasks and
functions is called A General Purpose Computer (GPC). A GPC is
versatile and can be used for various purposes by running different
software and applications.
 Some of the following popular GPCs are as follows −
 Turing Completeness − A GPC can simulate any algorithm or
computation that can be explored algorithmically.
 Programmability − GPCs can run different applications.
 General-Purpose Operating System − GPCs like Windows, macOS, or
Linux that provide an interactive user interface and manage hardware
resources, enabling the execution of various application programs.
 Input and Output Capabilities − GPCs have input and output devices
(keyboard, mouse, monitor, etc.) that permit users to interact with the
system and receive feedback.