INTRODUCTION to ICT

COMP 20013
CLASSIFICATION OF COMPUTERS

Computers can be classified according to

 Purpose
 Capacity/Size
 Input/type of Processing
CLASSIFICATION OF COMPUTERS

By Purpose

Special Purpose Computers

- Dedicated to a specific task

- May be more efficient because of specialized programs
(advantage)

General Purpose Computers

- Handles a variety of tasks

- Versatile (advantage)
CLASSIFICATION OF COMPUTERS

By Input/Type of Processing

Analog

- operate on mathematical variables in the form of

physical quantities that are continuously varying
Analog data is not discrete, but rather is of a
continuous nature.
CLASSIFICATION OF COMPUTERS

By Input/Type of Processing

Digital

- Uses discrete numbers; result obtained is precise and

repeatable ; It operates on data, including magnitudes,
letters, and symbols, that are expressed in binary code

Hybrid

- Machines that incorporate measuring capabilities of

the analog devices and the counting capability of the
digital devices
CLASSIFICATION OF COMPUTERS

By Capacity/Size

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

o They are big computer systems sensitive to

temperature, humidity, dust etc.
o Qualified & trained operators are required to
operate them.
o They have wide range of peripherals attached.
o They have large storage capacity. They can
use wide variety of softwares.
o They are not user friendly. They can be used
for more mathematical calculations.
o They are installed in large commercial places
or government organizations.
Mini Computers

o They have less memory & storage capacity

than mainframe computers.
o They offer limited range of peripherals.
o Limited range of softwares can be used by
them.
o The end users can directly operate it.
o They are not very sensitive to the external
environment
Super Computers

o They are huge computers installed in space

centres, nuclear power stations etc.
o They are used for performing complex
mathematical calculations.
o Only scientists and mathematicians can
operate them.
o They have huge memories & tremendous
processing speed.
o They are used for weather forecasting,
animation graphics etc.
Micro Computers

o They are cheap and user friendly.

o The main components are Monitor, CPU,
Keyboard, Mouse, Speakers, Modem and
Printer.
o They have limited peripherals attached to
them.
o This type of computers can use wide range of
softwares.
o Their operation can be easily learnt by anyone
having logical aptitude.
Data Processing

Data processing cycle: I-P-O

Input (Data) – raw facts including texts, numbers,

images, and sounds

Output (Information) – processed data which is more

meaningful to the user
Methods of Data Processing
Batch Processing
•Data is collected and processed all at the same time
by batch.

Real-Time (on-line) Processing

•Data is processed at the same time the transaction
occurs
Thanks!