Different types of Computer - IBPS PO Prelims & Mains Preparation - Bank

Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. Analog Computer
3. Digital Computer
4.  Hybrid Computer
5. Micro Computer
6. Mini Computer
7. Mainframe Computer
8. Super computer
9. Servers
10. Workstation
11. Information appliances
12. Embedded System
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Introduction

Computers play a crucial role in modern society, serving various purposes based on their design and processing power. They are categorized into types such as analog, digital, hybrid, micro, mini, mainframe, and supercomputers, each suited for specific tasks. Analog computers process continuous data, while digital computers handle numerical data in binary. Hybrid computers combine both technologies. Microcomputers are used for personal tasks, while mini and mainframe computers manage more complex operations. Supercomputers are the most powerful, used for intensive research and problem-solving. Understanding these types helps in choosing the right computer for different needs.

Analog Computer

• It was Lord Kelvin who first introduced the Analog computer. In such a computer numerical data are represented by physical variables which can be measured, for example, electrical voltage. A thermometer is a very good example analog computer.

Digital Computer

A certain type of computer that accepts data and processes it in the form of numbers is popularly known as a Digital Computer. In such a computer all the characters are converted into binary code.

 Hybrid Computer

• A computer which has the features of analogue, as well as the digital machine, is known as a Hybrid Computer. The hybrid computer is generally noticed in the geological departments.

Micro Computer

• Microcomputers are small computer which are specifically designed for personal and office use. They are usually inexpensive and have minimum storing and processing speed. Some common examples are laptop or desktop.
  

Mini Computer

• Minicomputers are more powerful than a microcomputer. They have faster memory with better-operating speeds and large storage capacities than microcomputers. They are generally used as a server and are capable of supporting up to 200 users.

Mainframe Computer

• Mainframe computers are those types of computers which have very high memory and processing speed. Hence Mainframe computers are used as a server since they can support thousands of users.

Super computer

• Supercomputers are the most powerful computers which are used mainly for the purpose of difficult problem-solving requirements. Hence Supercomputers are used in times of research, weather forecasting and Weapon designing and much more.
• The first successful supercomputer: CDC 6600
• The fastest supercomputer in the world: Sunway TaihuLight of China
• India's first Super Computer: PARAM-8000 which was developed by CDAC Pune in 1998.
• India's fastest super computer: Shasra T which was manufactured by IIS (Indian Institute of Science).

Servers

• Servers are certain computers that are designed specifically to monitor and solve the needs or request of other programs or computer.

Workstation

• Workstations are like desktop terminals. These are more powerful than microcomputers and are typically networked. A workstation usually serves a single user only.

Information appliances

• Information appliances are computers which are used for a specific purpose which is as per the requirements of the user. Such activities may include playing music or photography etc.

Embedded System

• A computer system which performs a dedicated function that is for a special purpose is known as an Embedded System. They function within a larger system.