Chapter :1 Fundamentals of Computer Part - 5 . based on purpose

Chapter :1  

Fundamentals of Computer

Part - 5 . based on purpose

Learn Computer,

Learn Computer,



 based on purpose :

On the basis of purpose, computers are categorised as following

General Purpose

These computers are designed to work on different types of applications. In these types of computers the programs are not stored permanently rather programs are input at the time of their execution. Personal computers, including desktops, notebooks, smart phones and tablets, are all examples of general-purpose computers. Various tasks can be accomplished by using general purpose computers : For example writing and editing (word processing), manipulating different facts and figures in various databases, tracking manufacturing inventory, making scientific calculations, controlling organization’s security system, electricity consumption, building temperature etc.

Special Purpose

Special-Purpose computers are task specific computers and are designed to solve a particular problem. They are also known as dedicated computers, because these computers are dedicated to perform a single particular task repetitively. Examples of such computer systems include the traffic control system ,they are also used in video games ,navigational systems in an aircraft, weather forecasting, satellite launch tracking, oil exploration, 

and in automotive industries, keeping time in a digital watch, or Robot helicopter. 

based on Memory Size and Performance

Computers can be generally classified by size and power as follows –

Micro Computer

A microcomputer is a computer that uses a microprocessor as its central processing unit. Microcomputers 

are physically smaller in size as compared to mainframe and minicomputers. Many microcomputers when 

equipped with a keyboard and screen for input and output respectively can be used as personal computers 

(in the generic sense) .Microcomputers are easier to use and also inexpensive as the memory used by them i.e 

microprocessors and semi conductors have become cheaper in the last few years. 

E.g. : The various micro computers widely available are IBM pcs , APPLE mac etc.the small types of pcs like 

the palmtop and handheld are now becoming available.

Minicomputer

It is a midsize computer. In the past few years the difference between large minicomputers and small 

mainframes has decreased significantly just like the distinction between small minicomputers and workstations. 

A minicomputer can support upto 200 users at the same time.

E.g. : The various machines widely available are vax series 8200 and 8300, honeywell(xps-100), icl’s series 

36 level 20,50,60 galaxy-21, hcl-4, nelco-5000 and others.

Mainframe

Mainframe computers known as the “Big Iron” are computers that are used primarily by corporate and 

governmental organizations . Modern mainframe design is generally defined by the following features:

◆ High reliability and security

◆ Extensive input-output facilities with the ability to offload to separate engines

◆ Strict backward compatibility with older version of software

Supercomputer

Supercomputer is a term used for one of the fastest computers that exist today. They are deployed for specialized applications that require SupercomputerSupercomputer is a term used for one of the fastest computers that exist today. They are deployed for specialized 

applications that require processing of highly critical data and immense amounts of mathematical calculations. 

E.g. :- Weather forecasting requires a supercomputer. 

◆ PARAM is a series of supercomputers designed and assembled by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) in Pune, India. The latest machine in the series is the PARAM Yuva II.

◆ China’s vast Tianhe-2 is the fastest supercomputer in the world. of highly critical data and immense amounts of mathematical calculations. 

E.g. :- Weather forecasting requires a supercomputer. 

◆ PARAM is a series of supercomputers designed and assembled by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) in Pune, India. The latest machine in the series is the PARAM Yuva II.

◆ China’s vast Tianhe-2 is the fastest supercomputer in the world.

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