Types of Computer

Types Of Computer

Computer is an electronic device used in almost every field even where it is most unexpected. That is why this age is called as the era of IT. And now we cannot imagine a world without computers. It is made up of two things one is the hardware and other is software. All physical components of computer like keyboard, mouse, monitor etc. comes under the hardware whereas all the programs and languages used by the computer are called software. These days’ computers are the tools for not only engineers and scientists but also they are being used by millions of people around the world. (2)

 The different types of computers can be grouped into six major categories according to size. Each category excels at specific functions.

·         Supercomputers

·         Mainframes

·         Mini-computers

·         Servers

·         Personal computers

·         Embedded systems

Generally, sizes of computers determine the processing abilities. Larger computers have higher processing speeds while smaller ones offer the better experience for personal computing. (3)

Supercomputers

A supercomputer is a computer that performs at or near the currently highest operational rate for computers.  Traditionally, supercomputers have been used for scientific and engineering applications that must handle very large databases or do a great amount of computation (or both). Although advances like multi-core processors and GPGPUs (general-purpose graphics processing units) have enabled powerful machines for personal use (like: desktop supercomputer, GPU supercomputer), by definition, a supercomputer is exceptional in terms of performance. The operating systems that run in supercomputers vary depending on the manufacturer but are generally based on the Linux Kernel. A few popular ones include,

·         CNK OS used in Blue Gene from IBM

·         Cray Linux Environment used in Titan

·         Sunway Raise OS in Sunway TaihuLight

These computers are the largest in terms of size. They can occupy anything from a few feet to hundreds of feet. They also don’t come cheap as they can be priced between $200,000 to over $100 million.

Mainframes

Mainframe computers are large sized computer types. They are equally powerful but fall short in terms of the computation ability in supercomputers. They are like big file servers, enabling multiple users from nearby and remote locations to access resources at the same time. Also known as big iron, these systems can handle massive amounts of data going in and out simultaneously. This makes them popular with businesses. They are also resilient as they are capable of operating for over 10 years without failing. Users access the mainframe using terminals or personal computers. This can happen within the same building or via wide area network (WAN).Most of these systems run the z/OS (operating system) on 64bit architecture.

Minicomputers

Minicomputers are general purpose devices without the monumental expenses associated with a larger system. Their processing power is below that of mainframe systems but above the capabilities of personal computers. Also known as mid-range computers, these became popular in the late 1960s but have become almost extinct because of the popularity of personal computers. The latter can now perform most of the tasks reserved for minis. The first minicomputer was unveiled in 1967 by Digital Equipment Corporation and was followed later by designs from IBM and other companies. They became popular for control related functions as opposed to computing prowess. Over the years, their usage was limited to dedicated control assignments in mid-range organizations.

Minicomputers were intended for a number of activities listed below:

·         Switchboard control.

·         Dedicated applications for graphics and computer design.

·         Time-sharing, to allow multiple users to interact concurrently on a single system.

·         Control and monitoring of manufacturing activities.

·         Monitoring and control of laboratory equipment.

Texas Instrument TI-990, K-202 and MicroVAX II are examples of minicomputers.

Servers

These are types of computers used to provide resources, services, and functionality to client computers in a server-client network model. Resources provided are based on the functions of a particular server, which may fall under these categories:

·         File server

·         Database server

·         Print server

·         FTP servers

·         Application server

·         Web server

Their sizes will depend on purpose and tasks in the network. Of course bigger and more multitasking installations will require multiple system and storage installation. A common errant is that desktop systems can be used as servers. Far from it, true server systems are specialized computers with abilities far beyond what personal computers can deliver. Servers are optimized to run 24 hours and are capable of hot swapping of storage and other hardware without having to shut down the system.

Micro computers/Personal computers

Microcomputers are the smallest, least expensive and the most used types of computers. They have a small memory, less processing power, are physically smaller, and permit fewer peripherals compared to super and mainframe computers. They are more commonly known as personal computers or simply PCs. The term was initially used to refer to IBM compatible computers. They became popular in the 70s and 80s, at the dawn of the microprocessor chips. These chips meant that a machine used by one individual was now feasible. The advent of PCs meant cheaper alternatives to more expensive and centralized systems. They were more affordable for office use and created cheaper networking environments. By the mid-1990s, they became the de facto computer of choice for offices and homes. The last 20 years have seen the proliferation of even smaller systems. This signaled the start of the mobile age, which continued to go with the trend of smaller devices as the new century progressed. This ultimately gave birth to wearable computers and gadgets.

The operating system used in personal computers vary, but the common ones include,

·         Windows

·         Mac OS X

·         Linux

·         IOS

·         Android

Categories of personal computers include:

·         Desktop computers

·         Mobile computers

·         Wearable computers

Embedded Systems

These are computer-based systems which are standalone electronic hardware designed to perform dedicated computing tasks. They are not general purpose installations like the personal computer. Actually, they are computers which may not always seem to be computers! They include a combination of the outer hardware, microprocessor chip, and software. The core of such systems is the microprocessor or micro-controller which execute the assigned task. The embedded software, usually firmware, is but not always fixed onto volatile memory which may not always require post-installation configurations. In any case, the hardware does repetitive assignments. The old cell phones used well before the smartphones became a phenomenon, could easily fall under the category of embedded systems since their sole purpose was to make and receive calls. Smartphones today, however, have evolved into general purpose mobile computers. Firmware on these systems is written in the read-only memory (ROM) or flash memory chips. Despite the seemingly persistent firmware which is deemed unaltered, they can be re-programmed to suit evolving demands.

Popular devices that may be categorized under embedded systems are listed below:

·         Set-top boxes

·         MP3 players

·         DVD players

·         Drones

·         Printers

·         Antilock braking systems

·         USB devices like internet dongles

·         Streaming players like Google Chromecast and Roku

·         Thermostats

·         Calculators

·         Toys

·         Digital cameras

·         ATM machines

·         Video game consoles

·         Routers and network peripherals

·         Computer add-on cards and peripherals

·         Digital watches