Class IX Types of Computer (chap-1)

 

TYPES OF COMPUTER

1)      PURPOSE WISE

a.      Specific Purpose: Built for a single dedicated function. Highly optimized for speed and efficiency. These are more reliable and limited flexibility.

Example:

·         Embedded system like Washing Machine Microwave Oven

·         Traffic Light Controllers

·         ATM

·         Digital Watches and calculators etc.

 

b.      General Purpose: Perform multiple types of tasks, programmable, high flexibility and versatility used for everyday and professional work.

Example: Desktop computer, Laptops, Smartphones etc.

 

2)      PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION WISE

a.      Analog Computer-  Work on Continuous data (physical Quantities-Temperature, Speed, Pressure, Voltage, Current, Time, Distance ) etc. It provides approximate result.

Example: Speedometer, Thermometer, Analog Clock etc.

 

b.      Digital Computer- Work on discrete data (numbers and Symbols). Use binary system (0 and 1). It provides accurate results.

Example: Pcs, Laptop, PDA, smartphones, all modern Computers etc.

 

c.       Hybrid Computer: Analog+ Digital. Handle both continuous & discrete data.

Example: ICU Monitoring, Weather Forecasting System etc.

 

TYPES OF DIGITAL COMPUTER

Purpose wise digital computers can be special purpose computers or general purpose. But based on their configuration i.e. their size, speed and capability digital computers are:-

1)      Embedded Computers: These computers are in the form of tiny chips embedded within the circuitry of appliances, such as televisions, washing machines and wrist watches and are typically preprogrammed for a specific task.

2)      Micro Computers:  A microcomputer is a computer whose CPU is a microprocessor and preform basic operations like educational, training, small business applications, playing games etc. used in homes, schools, shops, stores etc. Example Mobile/handheld computer, Portable PC Desktop PC and Workstation

3)      Mini Computers:  Mid-range servers. Used by departmental servers and small business  Ex- PDPII, VAX, 7500 Magnum

4)      Mainframe Computers: support more than 100 users at same time. Very large and expensive have great processing speeds and very large storage capacity and memory as compared to minicomputer. Used by banking, airline reservation, government system as servers.

5)      Supercomputers: These computers are the most powerful computers among digital computers. These consist of several processors running together and are extremely fast, extremely expensive and used in weather forecasting, scientific research, nuclear research, aerodynamic modeling, medical research etc.

First super computer is CDC 6600 (1964) much faster than other computer of its time used for scientific research.

Frontier is world fastest super computer.

Airawat fastest super computer of India used in AI Research.