Type of Computers

Computers can be divided into different categories based on their size, purpose, and functionality. Look at the below, the primary classification includes:

1. Some of Computers Based on the Application
2. Some of Computers Based on the Size and Capability

Computers are Based on Applications:

Computers are designed for different purposes so that they can perform tasks according to their capabilities. Based on different applications or purposes, computers can be classified into the following categories:

1. General Purpose the Computers
2. Special Purpose the Computers

General Purpose Computers:

These computers are designed to work in all environments. General purpose computers are used to perform various tasks, including playing games, listening to music, browsing information, creating documents, and preparing presentations. Examples: Desktop computers and Laptops.

Special Purpose Computers:

These computers are designed to perform only specific tasks. Special purpose computers are not versatile, and their speed and memory size depend on the task to be performed. These computers are more affordable because they do not include any unnecessary information. Special purpose computers are efficient and consume less time in generating results.

Computers Based on the Size and Capability:

Computers differ in terms of shape, size, and weight. Based on size and capability, computers can be categorized as follows:

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

Micro Computers:

A microcomputer is a small and low-cost digital computer designed for individual use. The microprocessor is the heart of the microcomputer, incorporating all the functions of a CPU onto a single Integrated Circuit (IC). Microcomputers are generally available in the form of personal computers (PCs), workstations, and notebook computers.

Depending on size, microcomputers can be further classified into the following types:

1. Desktop Computers & Workstations
2. Portable Computers

Desktop Computers:

Also known as personal computers (PCs), these are designed for individual use at a single location. The major components of these computers are the keyboard, mouse, CPU, monitor, and hard disk.

Workstations:

These are high-performance computers with high-end configurations, such as advanced graphics and processors. They are often connected to other computers in offices via networks and are commonly used in manufacturing, designing, publishing, and scientific applications.

Portable Computers:

These mini-sized computers, easily portable for travel anywhere, are classified based on size as follows:

• Laptops
• Palmtops
• Handheld Computers

The Laptops / Notebooks:

Laptops are portable computers that can be carried easily from one place to another. They are also known as notebooks. A laptop is a small-sized computer that incorporates all the features of a typical desktop computer. Laptops generally cost more than desktop computers.

The Palmtops / Handheld Computers:

Palmtops are very small-sized computers that can fit in a pocket. They have small display screens and limited storage capacity. These computers are less powerful compared to laptops and desktop computers. Input can be provided using a stylus or finger through touch screen technology.

The Handheld Computers:

These are extremely small compared to laptops but larger than palmtops. Examples include devices used for generating electricity bills or swiping credit cards.

The Mini Computers:

Mini computers are more powerful than microcomputers and are generally used in business environments, small companies, organizations, universities, and colleges. Mini computers are multi-user computers and can also act as network servers, connecting hundreds of desktops.

The Mainframe Computers:

Mainframe computers are very large and fast multi-user computers used by large business organizations for handling major applications such as financial transactions, scientific research, industrial operations, statistics, and census data. These computers are bigger and more expensive than others and require large spaces with closely monitored humidity and temperature levels. They maintain large databases that can be accessed remotely.

The Super Computers:

Supercomputers are the fastest type of computers, capable of performing operations at very high speeds. They are more expensive than other types of computers and are used for applications such as weather forecasting, scientific research, satellite operations, and nuclear energy. India’s first supercomputer was PARAM, developed by C-DAC (Centre for Development of Advanced Computing).

FAQs(Questions & Answers): Types of Computers

Q1: What are the main categories of computers based on applications? 

Computers based on applications are classified into:

• General Purpose Computers (e.g., Desktops, Laptops)
• Special Purpose Computers (designed for specific tasks)

Q2: What are the categories of computers based on size and capability?

Based on size and capability, computers are classified as:

• Micro Computers (e.g., Desktops, Laptops, Palmtops)
• Mini Computers
• Mainframe Computers
• Super Computers

Q3: What are general purpose computers? 

General purpose computers are versatile and used for tasks like gaming, browsing, and creating documents.

Q4: What are special purpose computers?

 Special purpose computers are designed for specific tasks and are more efficient in those tasks.

Q5: What is a microcomputer?

 A microcomputer is a small, low-cost computer for individual use, like PCs and laptops.

Q6: What are mini computers used for? 

Mini computers are used in business environments and can act as network servers.

Q7: What are mainframe computers? 

Mainframe computers are large, fast multi-user systems used by large organizations for critical applications.

Q8: What are supercomputers? 

Supercomputers are the fastest and most expensive, used for high-speed operations in fields like weather forecasting and scientific research.