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Classification of Computers
Abstract:

This topic explores the classification of computers based on various criteria including

1. Size

2. Functionality

3. Usage

Introduction:

The history of computers dates back to the early 20th century,

with notable inventions such as the Analytical Engine by Charles
Babbage and the ENIAC, considered the first general-purpose electronic
computer. Over time, computers have evolved tremendously, transitioning
from bulky machines to sleek and powerful devices we use today. The
classification of computers is vital as it helps in understanding their
capabilities, limitations, and intended use. Computers are often classified into categories like
mainframes, supercomputers, minicomputers, microcomputers, and embedded systems, each serving
specific purposes. This classification assists in making informed decisions regarding which type of
computer to use for various tasks and enables better design, development, and optimization of computer
system

1. Classification Based on Size:

Computers can be classified based on their size into various

categories. The classification based on size includes mainframes, mini-computers, microcomputers, and
embedded systems. The Classification based on size includes Mainframe Computers, Super-
Computers, Mini-Computers, Micro-Computers systems. These based size computers is defined
below.

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i. Mainframe Computers:
Mainframe computers are
powerful, high-performance computer systems designed to handle large-
scale, mission-critical tasks and process massive amounts of data. They
have a long history and have played a crucial role in the development of
computing technology.

The concept of mainframes originated in the 1950s when enormous, room-

sized machines. The first commercially successful mainframe computer,
the IBM System/360, was introduced in 1964. It marked a significant milestone by offering compatibility
across a range of models, enabling customers to upgrade without completely overhauling their software
systems.

ii. Super-Computer:
A supercomputer is an extremely powerful computing system designed to perform
complex scientific, engineering, or mathematical calculations at phenomenal speeds. It is capable of
processing massive amounts of data and executing multiple tasks simultaneously. Supercomputers are
used for tackling computationally intensive problems that require immense computational power.

Characteristics of supercomputers include high processing speed, large memory capacities, parallel
processing capabilities, and specialized architectures optimized for performance.

Examples of supercomputers:

• IBM Summit:

Located at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory in the United

States, Summit is currently one of the world's most powerful
supercomputers.

• Fujitsu Fugaku:

Developed by Fujitsu and RIKEN in Japan, Fugaku is a supercomputer based

on an Arm architecture. It is known for its high energy efficiency and exceptional performance, drug
discovery, weather forecasting, and simulations in materials science.

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iii. Mini-Computer:
A mini-computer, also known as a midrange computer, is a type of
computer system that falls between mainframe computers and microcomputers (personal computers) in
terms of size, processing power, and capabilities. It is designed for mid-sized organizations or
departments within larger organizations, offering a balance between performance and affordability.

In terms of history, mini-computers emerged in the 1960s as a response to the need for computing power
that was more accessible and affordable than mainframe systems.

Mini-computers are smaller than mainframes but larger than microcomputers. They are typically
housed in cabinets or racks and require dedicated space. While mini-computers are less powerful than
mainframes. Mini-computers usually run specialized operating systems. Mini-computers often have
built-in networking capabilities, allowing them to connect to other computers and devices

Example:

iv. Micro-Computer:
A microcomputer, also known as a personal computer or PC, is a small,
self-contained computer system designed for individual use. It is a common computing device found in
homes, offices, educational institutions, and various other settings. Microcomputers offer a range of
functionality, from basic tasks like word processing and internet browsing to more advanced applications
such as multimedia editing and gaming.

Example:

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2. Classification based on functionality:

The classification of computers based on
functionality includes:

➢ Analog Computers:
Analog computers are a type of
computing device that represents data using continuous physical
quantities, such as electrical voltages or mechanical movements. Unlike
digital computers that use discrete values (like 0s and 1s), analog
computers process information in a continuous manner.

Example:

One classic example of an analog computer is the slide rule. The slide
rule is a mechanical device consisting of two rulers with logarithmic
scales. By sliding these rulers against each other, users can perform various mathematical operations,
such as multiplication, division, and logarithmic functions.

➢ Digital Computers:
A digital computer is a type of computing device that
processes data and performs calculations using discrete values, typically represented as binary digits
(bits), which can take on the values of 0 and 1. Digital computers manipulate these binary digits through
electronic circuits to execute instructions, store and retrieve data, and perform a wide range of tasks.

Example:

Personal Computers, Servers, Micro-Controller e.t.c…

➢ Hybrid Computers:
A hybrid computer is a type of computer system that combines the features
of both analog and digital computers. It can process both continuous data (analog) and discrete data
(digital) in a single system. This allows for versatile applications, especially in scientific and industrial
fields where both types of data are prevalent.

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Example: Weather prediction, Temperature and pressure analog e.t.c….

3. Classification based on Usage:

The general purpose of a computer is to process data
and perform tasks according to a set of instructions. Computers are versatile machines designed to handle
a wide range of applications and functions. Here are some of the key general purposes of computers:

Computers can be classified based on their usage into several categories. Here are some common
classifications:

➢ General purpose Computer:

A general-purpose computer is a versatile computing
device designed to handle a wide range of tasks and applications. Unlike specialized computers, which
are tailored for specific functions, a general-purpose computer is capable of performing diverse
operations based on user input and software programs.

Example:

The most common example of a general-purpose computer is a personal computer, which

includes both desktop and laptop computers.

➢ Special purpose Computer:

A special-purpose computer is designed and optimized
for a specific task or a narrow set of tasks. special-purpose computers are tailored to excel in particular
functions, often providing efficiency and performance advantages for specific applications.

Example:

special-purpose computers exist in various domains, including embedded systems, scientific

research, industrial automation, space stations and more.