Unit 1 An overview of Computer System Classification

Unit 1 An overview of Computer System Classification of Computers

Classification of Computers • • Supercomputer Mainframe computer Minicomputer Desktop computer – Microcomputer – Home computer – Personal computer – Workstation – Server – Special communications computer

Classification of Computers • Portable computer (or luggable computer) • Wearable computer • Embedded computer • Mobile Computers – Desktop Replacement Computer – Laptop Computer – Tablet Personal Computer – Handheld Computers • Pocket Computer • Calculator

Classification of Computers • Personal or micro • Mini • Main Frame • Super

Classification of Computers Personal = micro Portable Types: Hand-held Notebook Palmtop

Classification of Computers Personal = micro Portable Types: Desktop Hand-held Notebook Palmtop

Classification of Computers Personal = micro Portable Types: Hand-held Palmtop Notebook Desktop Workstations Users: anyone requiring modest computing facilities

What is a notebook computer? – Portable, small enough to fit on your lap – Also called a laptop – Generally more expensive than a desktop computer

Handheld Computers • What is a personal digital assistant (PDA)? – Provides personal organizer functions • Calendar • Appointment book • Address book • Calculator • Notepad

Classification of Computers Minicomputers Originally for specific tasks, like engineering calculations Users: medium-sized organisations or departments of large companies.

Servers (how it’s used more than what it is) Designed to support a computer network More powerful Larger memory Larger storage capacity High speed communications

What types of servers are there? Midrange server- Powerful, large computer that supports up to a few thousand computers Mainframe- Very powerful, expensive computer that supports thousands of computers Supercomputer- The fastest, most powerful, most expensive computer. Used for applications requiring complex mathematical calculations

Classification of Computers Main frame Large systems for hundreds of users Requires special environment IBM the main manufacturer (AS/400) – More common in large organisations Users: insurance companies, banks, airlines

Classification of Computers Supercomputers Extremely powerful machines for applications requiring extreme accuracy (e. g. NASA, earth sciences etc. ) Used for weather forecasting, engineering design and testing, serious decryption Cost several million dollars Users: NASA, Meteorological Office.