(Chapter 1: Discover Computer); Types of Computer

Types of Computers

All types of computers have CPU, keyboard and a screen to display output. But they differ in their sizes, cost and speed. On the basis of size and shape, computers are mainly classified as:

Microcomputer

These are the smallest computers. Their size ranges from a calculator to a desktop. Any computer that has a microprocessor chip as its CPU is called a Microcomputer. It is a single-user computer. Examples of Microcomputers are:

• Desktop
• Laptop Computer
• Smartphone
• Tablet Computer
• Hybrid
• Netbook

These are used in various places like home, shops, schools etc. to do different jobs.

 Microcomputer is also known as Grandchild Computer.

Minicomputer

These are more powerful, faster, have more memory space and larger than microcomputers. These are multi-user computers, which can support up to two hundred users at the same time. These are used in places like banks.

Minicomputer is also called Midsize Computer or Child Computer.

Mainframe Computer

These are large computers. They are faster and have greater memory space than minicomputers. These are also multi-user Computers, capable of supporting hundreds, or even thousands of users at the same time. These are used by large companies or government agencies to store large amounts of data in a centralized location. These are mostly used for scientific research.

 The Mainframe Computer is also called the Father Computer.

Supercomputer

These are the fastest and the most powerful types of Computer. These are very expensive, big in size as compared to Mainframe Computers. Supercomputers are used for special purposes like weather forecasting, weapons research and development.

Supercomputer is also known as Grandfather Computer.

• PARAM 10000 is the name of Supercomputer designed by India.