Types of Computer | IBPS PO Prelims & Mains Preparation - Bank Exams PDF Download

We can categorize computer by three ways:

• Based on data handling capabilities 
• Based on size. 
• Based on Utility

On the basis of data handling capabilities, the computer is of three types:

• Analogue Computer 
• Digital Computer 
• Hybrid Computer

Analogue Computer

Analogue computers are designed to process the analogue data. Analogue data is continuous data that changes continuously and cannot have discrete values such as speed, temperature, pressure and current. The analogue computers measure the continuous changes in physical quantity and generally render output as a reading on a dial or scale.
Analogue computers directly accept the data from the measuring device without first converting it into numbers and codes. Speedometer and mercury thermometer are examples of analogue computers.

Digital Computer

Digital computer is designed to perform calculations and logical operations at high speed. It accepts the raw data as digits or numbers and processes it with programs stored in its memory to produce output. All modern computers like laptops and desktops that we use at home or office are digital computers.

Hybrid Computer

Hybrid computer has features of both analogue and digital computer. It is fast like analogue computer and has memory and accuracy like digital computers. It can process both continuous and discrete data. So it is widely used in specialized applications where both analogue and digital data is processed. For example, a processor is used in petrol pumps that converts the measurements of fuel flow into quantity and price.

On the basis of size, the computer can be of four types:

• Microcomputer 
• Mini Computer 
• Mainframe computer 
• Supercomputer

Microcomputer

Microcomputer is also known as personal computer. It is a general purpose computer that is designed for individual use. It has a microprocessor as a central processing unit, memory, storage area, input unit and output unit. Laptops and desktop computers are examples of microcomputers.

• Desktop Computer: a personal or micro-mini computer sufficient to fit on a desk. 
• Laptop Computer: a portable computer complete with an integrated screen and keyboard. It is generally smaller in size than a desktop computer and larger than a notebook computer. 
• Palmtop Computer/Digital Diary /Notebook /PDAs: a hand-sized computer. Palmtops have no keyboard but the screen serves both as an input and output device.

Mini Computer 

Minicomputers possess most of the features and capabilities of a large computer but are smaller in physical size. They are used as small or midrange operating business and scientific applications.

Mainframe computer 

Mainframe computers are designed to support hundreds or thousands of users simultaneously. They can support multiple programs at the same time. It means they can execute different processes simultaneously. These features of mainframe computers make them ideal for big organizations like banking and telecom sectors, which need to manage and process high volume of data.

Supercomputer 

Supercomputers are the biggest and fastest computers. They are designed to process huge amount of data. A supercomputer can process trillions of instructions in a second. It has thousands of interconnected processors.
Supercomputers are particularly used in scientific and engineering applications such as weather forecasting, scientific simulations and nuclear energy research. First supercomputer was developed by Roger Cray in 1976.

Some other computers are

• Miniframe computer It is a midsize multiprocessing computer. It consists of two or more processors and can support 4 to 200 users at one time. Miniframe computers are used in institutes and departments for the tasks such as billing, accounting and inventory management.
• Workstation is a single user computer that is designed for technical or scientific applications. It has faster microprocessor, large amount of RAM and high speed graphic adapters. It generally performs a specific job with great expertise; accordingly, they are of different types such as graphics workstation, music workstation and engineering design workstation.

On the basis of Utility, the computer can be of two types

• General Purpose Computer: A general purpose computer can perform an extensive variety of operations. It can store and execute different programs in its internal storage. All mainframes, servers, laptop and desktop computers, smartphones and tablets are general-purpose devices.
• Special Purpose Computer: Special purpose computers are designed to solve specific problems. The instructions are pre-programmed permanently in the computer. It completely controlled by automated manufacturing processes. Example – Aircraft control system, Electronic voting machines etc.