Types of computers – Key Concepts of Computer Studies (2024)

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• Supercomputers
• Mainframe computers
• Minicomputers
• Personal computers (PCs) or microcomputers

Supercomputers

Supercomputer – a powerful computer that can process large amounts of data and do a great amount of computation very quickly.

Supercomputers are used for areas related to:

• Science
• Engineering
• Education
• Defence
• Aerospace

Supercomputers are useful for applications involving very large databases or that require a great amount of computation.

Supercomputers are used for complex tasks, such as:

• Weather forecasting
• Climate research
• Scientific simulation
• Oil and gas exploration
• Quantum mechanics
• Cryptanalysis

Mainframe computers

Mainframe computer – a high-performance computer used for large information processing jobs.

Mainframe computers are primarily used in :

• Institutions
• Research
• Academics
• Health care
• Libraries
• Large businesses
• Financial institutions
• Stock brokerage firms
• Insurance agencies

Mainframe computers are useful for tasks related to:

• Census taking
• Industry and consumer statistics
• Enterprise resource planning
• Transaction processing
• e-business and e-commerce

Minicomputers

Minicomputer – a mid-range computer that is intermediate in size, power, speed, storage capacity, etc., between a mainframe and a microcomputer.

Minicomputers are used by small organizations.

“Minicomputer” is a term that is no longer used much. In recent years, minicomputers are often referred to as small or midsize servers (a server is a central computer that provides information to other computers).

Personal computers

Personal computer (PC) – a small computer designed for use by a single user at a time.

A PC or microcomputer uses a single chip (microprocessor) for its central processing unit (CPU).

“Microcomputer” is now primarily used to mean a PC, but it can refer to any kind of small computer, such as a desktop computer, laptop computer, tablet, smartphone, or wearable.

Types of personal computers

Desktop computer – a personal computer that is designed to stay at one location and fits on or under a desk. It typically has a monitor, keyboard, mouse, and a tower (system unit).

Laptop computer (or notebook) – A portable personal computer that is small enough to rest on the user’s lap and can be powered by a battery. It includes a flip down screen and a keyboard with a touchpad.

Tablet – A wireless touchscreen PC that is slightly smaller and weighs less than the average laptop.

Smartphone – A mobile phone that performs many of the functions of a personal computer.