Classification of computers

Classification of computers

Computer can be classified  as follows:

1. According to function
2. According to purpose
3. According to size and capacity

ACCORDING TO FUNCTION:

Computer can be classified into three types. These classifications are according to function and hardware structure.

1. Digital Computers
2. Analog Computers
3. Hybrid Computers

These types are explained below:

• DIGITAL COMPUTERS:

A digital computer represents data in term of discrete number or digit. Thesenumber are used to perform arithmetic calculations and also make logical decisions to reach a conclusion depending on the data, they receive from the user. In general Digital Computers are easy to program and are in general purpose use. The IBM PC and all other personal computers belong to this category.

• ANALOG COMPUTERS:

Analog computer actually is a measuring device. An analog computer measurescontinuous type of data and use a physical quantity, such as electric current, speed, weight etc. Analog computers are the first computers being developed and provide the bases^. for the development of modern digital computers. These computers are mainly made of electronical devices like resisters, amplifiers and transistors. In general Analog computers are very fast in processing and are used for real-time simulation.

• HYBRID COMPUTERS:

The third type of computer is the so called Hybrid Computer. This is a computer which combines the analog and digital capabilities in the same computers system. This capacity is most significant where the digital processing of data collected in analog form is desirable. This is usually found in science laboratories as the controlling device in an industrial process.

ACCORDING TO PURPOSE:

Computers can be classified according to purpose in two ways

GENERAL PURPOSE:-

They are used for different purposes like inventory control, accounting, payroll, record-keeping, word processing, etc.

SPECIAL PURPOSE:-

As the name suggests these computers are used only for specific purposes e.g. acomputer fixed in a bio-medical x-ray instrument would be used only for x-raycontrols.

ACCORDING TO SIZE AND CAPACITY:

Computers can be classified according to configuration, size and capacityin 3 ways.

1. Micro Computers
2. Mini Computers.
3. Mainframe Computers.
4. Super Computer