YABA COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY

SCHOOL OF INDUSTRIAL AND MANUFACTURING

ENGINEERING

DEPARTMENT OF COMPUTER ENGINEERING

COURSE: - COMPUTER INSTALLATION

AND
MAINTENANCE
COURSE CODE: - CTE 413

ACTIVITY 1

LECTURER
ENGR. ADEBARI.

STUDENT
NAME MATRIC. No:
AREAGO TOMIWA SAMUEL F/HD/19/3410003

ACTIVITY 1

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In your own statements, describe each of the following computer systems:

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

ANSWERS
1. Mainframe Computers: - This can be described as the type of computers that have the
potential of operating and processing huge amount of data in a short period of time.
Mainframe computers derived the name from on the combination of the computers, which
includes: - the central processing unit; and main memory, that are enclosed in a larger
cabinet known as a mainframe, distinguishing it from other computers. Mainframe
computers operates effectively with the aid of multitasking and multiuser computer
operating systems like the UNIX as well as some types Linux operating systems and they
have the ability to host multiple operating systems. Mainframes. Mainframes are designed
to handle very high-volume input and output (I/O) and emphasize throughput computing.
A single mainframe can replace dozens or even hundreds of smaller server computer
system and it also have the system capacity to replace hard drive; CD-ROM drive; or
power supply, while it remains in operation without disruption. They used in the banking
sector, government agencies, process control in industries and other applications that
involves processing of bulk data. Examples of the mainframe computers are ENIAC,
UNIVAC, ASCC.

2. Mini Computers: - This is also known as Midrange Computers and can be described as
computers that possess one or more processors, support multiprocessing and tasking, and
are generally flexible to high workloads. Mini-computers smaller in physical size
compared to mainframe or supercomputers and are more powerful than personal
computers and workstations, in which they are generally used as mid-range servers that
operates using mid-sized software applications and simultaneously support numerous
users. Examples of Minicomputers include Data General Nova, IBM midrange
computers, Hewlett-Packard HP 3000 series and HP 2100 series.

3. Micro Computers: - This can be referred to as a computer built-on a small scale that
operates based on a single-chip microprocessor as its central processing unit (CPU). It is

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 also known as personal computer as it is designed for use by one person at a time.
Microcomputers are smaller compared to minicomputers or mainframes. This type of
computer exists in various forms like desktop, laptop, game console, palmtop, and
handheld devices like tablet, smartphone, and so many others.

4. Embedded Computers: - This can be referred to as computers designed with a

combination of hardware and software to perform a specific function within another
system that can be an electrical system or a mechanical system. For example, computers
are being integrated inside recent inverter systems used in a photovoltaic power system.
Such computers implanted inside of the inverter system have functions designed for
making the inverter work interactively with photovoltaic power system to achieve the
purpose of supply the amount of power needed. Embedded computers are also known as
Microcontrollers. Embedded computers vary depending on their applications, of which
they are basically included in all digitally interfaced appliances such as watches,
dishwashers, microwave cookers, washing machines, cameras, telephones, or big
stationary installations such as factory controllers and traffic lights.

5. Super Computers: - This can be described as computers that are the fastest and biggest
in size, the most powerful and very expensive, and also possess the highest processing
speed, in which they are used to perform intense numerical calculations and scientific
computations, such as weather forecasting, theoretical astrophysics, fluid dynamics,
nuclear simulations, etc. For the purpose of proper function, supercomputers are kept in a
cool environment. The processing speeds of supercomputers. are measured in floating-
point operations per second (FLOP). An example of a floating-point operation is the
calculation of mathematical equations in real numbers. In terms of computational
capability, memory size and speed, I/O technology, and topological issues such as
bandwidth and latency. Examples of special-purpose supercomputers include Belle, Deep
Blue, and Hydra for playing chess, Gravity Pipe for astrophysics, MDGRAPE-3 for
protein structure prediction and molecular dynamics, and Deep Crack for breaking the
DES cipher.

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