Lesson 2 : Types of Computers
2.1 Learning Objectives
On completion of this lesson you will be able to
• classify computers based on purposes
• classify computers based on types
• classify computers based on capacity.
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2.2 Outline
The computer systems are available in various sizes and with a variety of peripheral or support devices to cover just about every processing need. Because of the variety of computer power and functions available, computers are classified on the basis of purpose, type, and capacity.
2.3 Purpose
There are either special-purpose or general-purpose computers. Specialpurpose computers are designed for a specific application or type of application. They are also known as dedicated computers. Many such computers have instructions permanently programmed into them that are designed to perform only one major function. Special-purpose computers are used, to control traffic lights, to control the collection of tolls on certain highways, and in automobiles, weapons, appliances and games etc.
General-purpose computers are used to handle a variety of tasks. This is possible by the stored-program concept. By this concept, a program containing a series of instructions is prepared for each application and input to and temporarily stored in the computer. Once stored in the computer's memory, this program can be executed, causing the computer to perform the specific function. After the completion of the execution of this program, another program can be input to the computer and the cycle repeated. That is, the same combination of hardware can be used to execute many different programs.
General-purpose computers have the advantage of versatility over special-purpose computers. But typically general purpose computers are less efficient and slower than special-purpose computers when applied to the same task.
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