Chapter: 01. Categories Of Computers And Computer Languages
Categories of Computer and Computer Languages
This chapter will help you understand the different types of computers and computer languages, building on your previous knowledge of computer programs and programming. A computer is an electronic device used for various purposes, from managing accounts in schools to personal use at home.
CATEGORIES OF COMPUTERS
Computers are categorized based on their:
Size, Speed, Processing Power, and Cost Let’s explore each category in detail.
Type
Based on their type or how they function, computers are classified into three categories:
Operates by measuring physical quantities instead of counting digits. Measures continuously changeable physical quantities such as voltage, pressure, and water flow. Generally displays output in the form of a graph. Examples: Analog thermometers, speedometers in cars, old radios.
Uses digits (binary numbers 0s and 1s) to generate, process, and display data. Results produced are more accurate than analog computers. All modern computers we use are digital. Examples: Desktops, laptops, smartphones, digital watches, digital thermometers, electricity meters.
A special type of computer that combines features of both digital and analog computers. Uses the speed of an analog computer and the accuracy of a digital computer. Generally used in scientific research and specialized applications. Example: The heartbeat measuring machine used in hospitals.
Purpose
Based on their purpose, computers can be of two types:
General Purpose Computer: Can perform many different tasks equally well. Designed to handle a wide range of jobs efficiently. Examples: Personal computers like desktops, laptops, smartphones, and tablets. Special Purpose Computer: Designed to do a specific job very quickly and efficiently. Cannot perform other tasks. Uses: Controlling machines in factories, predicting the weather.
Size, Speed, Processing Power and Cost
Computers vary significantly in their physical size, processing power, speed, and cost. Based on these factors, computers are categorized as follows:
Microcomputer
A small type of computer that uses one microprocessor as its main processing unit. Small, less expensive, and digital. Designed for one person to use at a time. Also known as a Personal Computer (PC). Developed for regular use. Generally placed in a single location on a desk or table. Components (keyboard, mouse, storage) are connected, either wired or wirelessly. Not portable due to its size and power requirements. Commonly used in schools, colleges, and offices.
Small and portable personal computer suitable for travel. Designed to fit on your lap. Has a built-in screen, keyboard, and mouse. Features a rechargeable battery that allows it to work for 4 hours or more without being plugged in. Often used by professionals like marketing executives who travel frequently. Small and portable digital computer, smaller than a laptop. Uses a touchscreen as its input device instead of a mouse. Has a rechargeable battery, similar to a laptop. Usually has fewer features compared to laptops. Frequently used by professionals in various organizations.
Minicomputer
Bigger, more expensive, and more powerful than a microcomputer. Can contain one or more microprocessors as processing units. Mainly used for scientific and engineering computations. Capable of serving a number of users simultaneously. Also known as a small or midsize server computer. Examples: PDP-11, PDP-8, HP-3000.
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A server is also a computer that provides data and other services to other computers. It is used in offices where many computers are connected to each other, allowing them to share resources and communicate effectively.
Mainframe Computers
Very large, fast, powerful, and more expensive than minicomputers. Can have multiple microprocessors as their processing units. Some are so big that they require as much space as a room. Generally used in big organizations where a large amount of data is processed. Examples: Banks (for large data processing), IBM zSeries, IBM 4381, ICL 39.
Supercomputers
The largest and fastest of all types of computers. Some supercomputers require as much space as a floor of a building. Can process a very large amount of data quickly. Used in very big organizations and government departments. Uses: Weather forecasting, rocket launching. India’s first supercomputer: PARAM (developed in 1991). Other examples: PACE, Titan, Sunway TaihuLight, Pratyush, Mihir.
SOME OTHER SPECIAL COMPUTERS
Beyond the categories discussed, there are other special types of computers, including embedded computers and handheld computers.
Embedded Computers
A special type of microprocessor-based system developed for performing a specific task. Different from a general-purpose computer. Used in various applications today. One of the most commonly used embedded computers. Modern cameras have tiny built-in computers, making them smart with many new features. Main functions: Capture photos and shoot videos. Has memory to store captured photos and videos.
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