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5. Classification of Computer Systems

The document classifies computer systems based on their fundamental functions, physical size, processing speed, storage capacity, and number of users. It outlines four main types of computers: Micro Computers (small, personal use), Mini Computers (medium, multi-user), Mainframe Computers (large, used by organizations), and Super Computers (largest, fastest, used for complex tasks). Each type has distinct features and typical use cases, highlighting their differences in size, processing power, and user capacity.

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2 views

5. Classification of Computer Systems

The document classifies computer systems based on their fundamental functions, physical size, processing speed, storage capacity, and number of users. It outlines four main types of computers: Micro Computers (small, personal use), Mini Computers (medium, multi-user), Mainframe Computers (large, used by organizations), and Super Computers (largest, fastest, used for complex tasks). Each type has distinct features and typical use cases, highlighting their differences in size, processing power, and user capacity.

Uploaded by

noahmorupisi
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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CLASSIFICATION OF COMPUTER SYSTEMS

All computers, no matter how small or large, have the same fundamental functions - input,
processing, storage and output.

➢ A single-user computer is used by one user at a time.

➢ A multi-user computer supports a number of terminals or users at a


time/simultaneously.

➢ A terminal/workstation consists of a monitor, keyboard and a mouse. It has no


processing capability, it connects to a central point (server) for data processing and
storage.
Workstations
Computers are generally classified according to the following features:

• Physical size
• Processing speed/performance
• Storage capacity/size
• Number of users at a time
• Area of use or purpose for use

TYPES OF COMPUTERS

Computers are categorized based on physical size and performance/processing power.

i. Micro Computers (small in size)


ii. Mini Computers (medium in size)
iii. Mainframe Computers (large in size)
iv. Super Computers (extra-large in size)
1. Micro Computers

The word microcomputer means “small computer”. Since microcomputers were originally
designed for personal use, they are also referred to as Personal Computers or PC. This type of
computers is mostly used by individuals and organizations.

Micro computers are mostly found at homes, schools, small organizations, etc. These
computers include Desktop computers, Laptops, Palmtops, Notebooks, Personal digital
assistants (PDAs), Tablets, etc.

Features of Micro Computers

• They are small in size hence portable.


• Have low cost of buying compared to the other types of computers.
• Allows one user at a time.
• They are easy to operate.
• They have a low processing power/speed.
• They have a low storage capacity.
• They are commonly used for personal applications.

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2. Mini Computers

A minicomputer is a medium-sized computer. It is a multi-user computer system which is


capable of supporting a number of users simultaneously. Its computing power lies between
that of a microcomputer and a mainframe computer. These machines are also called “minis”
for short. Most small banks uses a minicomputer for their banking operations. Some examples
of minicomputers are: IBM 36, HP 9000, DRS 6000, etc.

Features of Mini Computers

• They are bigger in size than micro computers/PCs.


• Allow more than one user to operate them at a time (usually 10 to 60 users).
• They are difficult to operate.
• They have more computing/processing power than micro computers/PCs.
• They are commonly used by medium-sized business organizations, colleges, libraries and
banks.

3. Mainframe Computers

A mainframe computer is a large sized, fast and expensive computer. Mainframe computer
software technology is different from that of minicomputer. Mainframe computers are mainly
used by large business organizations, universities and government departments. These are
costlier than the minicomputers. Some examples of mainframe computers are IBM 3091, ICL
39, VAX 9000, etc.

Features of Mainframe Computers

• They are bigger in size than minicomputers.


• They support a large number of users simultaneously.
• They are difficult to operate.
• They have more processing power/speed than minicomputers.
• They must be kept in a special air-conditioned room to cool their ever running system.
• Commonly used by big business organizations and government departments

4. Super Computers

Super computers are the largest, fastest and most expensive computers in the world. These are
extremely fast computer which can execute hundreds of millions of instructions per second.
Super computers are used for bio-medical research, weather forecasting, chemical analysis and
complex scientific and defense applications.

Features of Super Computers

• They are bigger in size than any other type of computers.


• Have the highest processing speed than any other type of computers.
• They support a large number of users simultaneously.
• They are very difficult to operate (need skilled users).
• They are more expensive than any other type of computers.

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