Classification of Computers by Size, Purpose, Generation and Functionality

A computer is like a super-smart machine that can do all sorts of tasks for us. It’s not just the laptop or desktop you might use at home or school, but there are many different types of computers out there. Some are big and powerful, while others are small and fit in your pocket. These computers can be grouped into categories based on their size, capabilities, and what they’re used for. In this page about the classification of computers, we’ll explore these different categories to help you understand the exciting world of computers better.

Classification of Computers

Computers are essential tools in today’s digital age, serving a wide range of purposes and functions. Classification of computers are based on various factors, such as size, purpose, and architecture, to help us understand their unique characteristics and capabilities. In this section, we will delve into the classification of computers and explore how they are categorized according to their size, purpose, and more. Whether you’re curious about mini computers, digital computers, or the generation of computers, we’ll shed light on these classifications and provide examples to make it easier to grasp the diversity of these remarkable machines.

Also Check: History of Computers

Classification of Computer According to Size

When it comes to computers, size matters! Computers can be classified based on their physical dimensions and processing capabilities. This classification system helps people choose the right computer for their specific needs, whether it’s for personal use, business tasks, or specialized applications.

Here are the classification of computers on the basis of size main categories:

1. Supercomputers: These are the giants of the computer world. Supercomputers are enormous and incredibly powerful, often used for complex scientific simulations, predicting the weather, and tackling advanced research challenges.
2. Mainframe Computers: Mainframes are sturdy and sizable machines primarily employed by organizations. They excel in tasks like processing data, handling financial transactions, and managing large databases.
3. Mini Computers: Smaller than mainframes but more capable than personal computers, mini computers find their niche in scientific laboratories and mid-sized businesses. They’re perfect for specific tasks that require more oomph than a personal computer can provide.
4. Micro Computers: Also known as personal computers or microcomputers, these are the little guys of the computer world. They’re compact and the most common type of computers used for individual purposes, whether it’s for work or entertainment.

By understanding the classification of computers based on size, you can make informed choices when picking a computer system that matches your needs. Factors like processing power, storage capacity, and physical size all come into play.

Also Check: ADCA Full Form

Classification of Computers

Based on Data Handling Capabilities

Computers come in different types, and we classify them based on how they manage data. This helps people pick the right computer for their needs. Here are the computers classified according to their capacity to manage data:

Mainframe Computers

These are super-strong in dealing with lots of data all at once. Industries like finance and healthcare use them for important tasks.

Supercomputers

They’re like the superheroes of computing, especially good at doing really hard math and simulations quickly.

Mini Computers

While not as powerful as supercomputers, they’re still pretty good at handling data. You’ll find them in medium-sized organizations and research places.

Micro Computers (Personal Computers)

These are your everyday computers, like desktops and laptops. Great for regular stuff like office work and browsing the internet.

Embedded Systems

These are specialized computers made for specific jobs, like controlling machines or appliances. They only handle what they need to do their job.

Mobile Devices

Think smartphones and tablets – they’re easy to carry around and can handle tasks like talking, texting, and using apps.

Workstations

These computers are in between regular ones and super powerful servers. They’re used for things like 3D design and scientific simulations.

Servers

Servers are like the backbone of the internet. They store and provide data for websites and networks. Really important for businesses and online services.

Quantum Computers

These are the newest and most advanced. They use special quantum physics to handle data in totally different ways. They could change the game for things like security and problem-solving.

Based on Operating System

Operating systems come in different types, depending on how they work and what they’re used for. Here are some common types of operating systems:

1. Single-Tasking Operating System: This type only lets one program run at a time. You have to close one program before you can open and use another.
2. Multi-User Operating System: These operating systems allow many people to use the computer at the same time. Examples include Novell, UNIX, Linux, and Windows NT/2000.
3. Batch Operating System: With this type, you don’t directly interact with the computer. Instead, someone groups similar tasks together into a batch, and then the computer does them all one after the other.
4. Time-Sharing Operating System: Also called multitasking systems, these let multiple programs run at the same time, sharing the computer’s resources efficiently.
5. Distributed Operating System: These systems manage resources across multiple computers connected through a network. They allow sharing files, printers, and more among connected computers.
6. Network Operating System: These run on servers and help manage data, users, security, and other networking stuff.
7. Real-Time Operating System: These are for tasks that need to happen super quickly and precisely, like industrial control systems or medical equipment.
8. Mobile Operating System: Designed for phones and tablets, these have colorful screens and icons to make them easy to use.

Examples of operating systems you might have heard of include Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. Each type of operating system has its own good and not-so-good points, depending on what you need it for.

Based on Performance

Based on performance, computers can be classified into several categories, such as supercomputers, mainframes, personal computers, workstations, and minicomputers. Here’s a brief overview of each category:

1. Supercomputers: These are incredibly powerful computers used for really complex tasks like weather forecasting and scientific simulations. They’re measured in terms of how fast they can do calculations, called FLOPS.
2. Mainframes: Mainframes are big, sturdy computers that handle a lot of data. They’re often used in businesses to manage huge amounts of information, like transactions and databases.
3. Personal Computers (PCs): PCs are the ones most of us have at home or work. They come in two types: desktops and laptops. You can use them for gaming, work, or watching videos.
4. Workstations: These computers are like supercharged PCs for professionals. They’re great for tasks like designing buildings or editing videos because they’re really fast and have top-notch graphics.
5. Minicomputers: These are in-between mainframes and personal computers. They’re used by smaller businesses for tasks like handling data, managing databases, and running networks.

Each type of computer has its strengths and weaknesses, depending on what you need it for. When judging how good a computer is, we look at how well it does its job, how efficient it is, and how fast it can complete tasks

Based on Usage Environment

Computers can be classified according to usage environment based on their purpose, user base, and the specific tasks they are designed for. Here are some common classifications of computers based on usage environment:

Home Computers

These are personal PCs and laptops used for everyday activities like gaming, getting work done, and enjoying multimedia content.

Office Computers

Found in workplaces, these machines handle tasks such as document processing, communication, and data management to keep businesses running smoothly.

Industrial Computers

In the world of manufacturing and automation, you’ll find industrial computers. They play vital roles in controlling processes, robots, and machinery.

Mobile Computers

Portable devices like smartphones and tablets fall into this category. They allow users to surf the web, communicate, and perform tasks while on the move.

Specialized Computers

Designed for specific purposes like gaming, graphic design, or video editing, these computers are equipped with high-end hardware and specialized software to excel in their niche.

Server Computers

Servers are dedicated computers serving other devices, offering services like security, databases, and websites to users.

Classification of Computers According to Functionality

Computers come in various forms, and they can be categorized based on functionality.

1. Analog Computers: These computers work with continuously changing physical quantities to solve problems. They are commonly used in situations that require real-time data processing and control, such as scientific experiments and industrial processes.
2. Digital Computers: Digital computers process discrete, non-continuous data and are versatile devices used in a wide range of fields for handling digital information. They are probably the most common type of computer you encounter in everyday life.
3. Hybrid Computers: Hybrid computers combine the strengths of analog and digital computing technologies to handle both continuous and discrete data processing. They find applications in areas like signal processing and control systems.
4. Server Computers: Server computers are specialized machines set up to provide services to clients. Examples include security servers, database servers, and web servers. They are essential for managing networks and delivering online services.
5. Workstation Computers: Workstations are high-performance computers designed for individual users. They typically run multi-user operating systems and are used for tasks like gaming, productivity, and multimedia editing.
6. Personal Computers (PCs): PCs are small, self-contained computers designed for personal use. They are incredibly versatile and can be used for a wide variety of tasks, from gaming to productivity and multimedia consumption.
7. Microcontrollers: Microcontrollers are small, energy-efficient computers often used in embedded systems. They aren’t usually employed as standalone devices but play crucial roles in controlling various electronic devices and appliances.
8. Smartphones: Smartphones are portable devices that combine the functionalities of a phone, computer, and other tools like cameras and music players. They are designed for on-the-go communication, internet access, and multitasking.
9. Supercomputers: Supercomputers are incredibly powerful machines used for complex and intensive computational tasks. They find applications in fields like quantum mechanics, weather forecasting, climate research, and simulations for industries such as oil and gas exploration.

Flynn’s Classification of Computer Architecture

Classification of computers refers to grouping different types of computers based on certain criteria. One widely recognized method is Flynn’s classification of computer architecture, introduced by Michael Flynn in 1966. This classification sorts computers based on the combination of instruction and data streams they process.

There are four primary according to Flynn’s classification of parallel computers

Single Instruction Stream, Single Data Stream (SISD)

This is the most basic and widespread computer architecture. It involves a single processor executing one set of instructions on one set of data in a step-by-step manner.

Single Instruction Stream, Multiple Data stream (SIMD)

This design is tailored for parallel processing, greatly enhancing performance for specific tasks like image processing. In this setup, one set of instructions is processed simultaneously across multiple data sets by several processors.

Multiple Instruction Stream, Single Data Stream (MISD)

This is a rare architecture where multiple sets of instructions are applied to a single data set. Its practical use is limited.

Multiple Instruction Stream, Multiple Data Stream (MIMD)

Highly adaptable for various applications, this architecture allows multiple processors to work on different sets of instructions and data concurrently.

Apart from these, other computer architectures exist, like analog computers, optical computers, quantum computers, cell processors, DNA computers, and neural nets.

The selection of a specific architecture depends on the application’s unique requirements. Flynn’s classification is a handy framework for understanding these diverse architectures.

Classification of Computers By Purpose

Computers are broadly divided into two main types based on purpose: general-purpose computers and specific-purpose computers.

General-Purpose Computers are designed to handle a range of tasks and can store various programs. This category includes familiar devices like personal computers, laptops, and tablets. They are versatile, suitable for use in different environments like offices, educational settings, and homes. However, they may not be as fast or specialized as specific-purpose computers.

Specific-Purpose Computers are tailored for a specific function, making them more efficient and faster for particular tasks. This category is ideal for complex scientific and engineering work. Examples include supercomputers and embedded systems.

Classification of Computers by Generation

Over the years, the evolution of computers has been categorized into distinct generations, each defined by major technological breakthroughs. This is a brief summary of how computers have been classified by generation:

• First Generation (1940-1956) – Vacuum Tubes: This era was characterized by the use of vacuum tubes in computer circuitry and magnetic drums for memory storage. These first-generation computers were massive, occupying entire rooms, and incurred high operational costs. They operated on machine language, the most fundamental programming language for computers. The ENIAC and UNIVAC are prominent examples from this period.
• Second Generation (1956-1963) – Transistors: The second generation witnessed the transition from vacuum tubes to transistors. This change led to computers that were more compact, quicker, more dependable, and energy-efficient. They utilized assembly language and advanced programming languages such as FORTRAN and COBOL. Key models from this era include the IBM 7094 series and the CDC 1604.
• Third Generation (1964-1971) – Integrated Circuits: Marking the third generation was the invention of integrated circuits, which allowed for the placement of numerous transistors on a single silicon chip. This innovation resulted in further miniaturization and enhancement of computer power and efficiency. Operating systems were introduced during this period, facilitating the simultaneous running of various applications. Noteworthy models include the IBM 360 series and the PDP-8.
• Fourth Generation (1971-Present) – Microprocessors: The advent of microprocessors, embedding thousands of integrated circuits on a single silicon chip, heralded the fourth generation. This era is significant for the emergence of personal computers (PCs), making computers more affordable and widely available. Examples from this generation include the Apple II, the IBM PC, and contemporary laptops.
• Fifth Generation (Present and Beyond) – Artificial Intelligence: Currently, the focus of the fifth generation is on developing computers capable of processing and understanding natural language, equipped with artificial intelligence and neural network capabilities. This generation is still evolving, with ongoing advancements in quantum computing, machine learning, and AI-powered technologies.

Classification of Computer Memory

Computer memory is grouped into two main types: primary memory and secondary memory. Primary memory, also called internal memory, is where data and programs needed by the CPU during a program’s execution are stored. This type of memory is divided into two parts: random-access memory (RAM) and read-only memory (ROM). RAM is a kind of memory that can be both read from and written to, and it’s temporary, meaning it loses its data when the power is off. ROM, on the other hand, is permanent and can only be read from.

Secondary memory, often referred to as external memory, is where data and programs not currently being used are kept. This memory is categorized into three types: magnetic disks, optical disks, and flash memory.

Classification of Computer Network

Computer networks come in different types depending on how big they are and what they’re used for. Here are the main kinds:

Personal Area Network (PAN): This is a small network, usually just around one person’s work area. It can reach up to 100 meters. It’s for hooking up things like your computer, phone, or tablet that are close to you.

Local Area Network (LAN): This network is for a small place, like one building or a campus. It’s great for linking computers and gadgets in offices, schools, or homes.

Metropolitan Area Network (MAN): This one is bigger and can cover a whole city or a big campus. It joins several local networks in that area.

Wide Area Network (WAN): This network is the biggest, stretching over cities, countries, or continents. It links local and metropolitan networks and is used for talking over long distances.

There are also other types of networks like Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN), Campus Area Network (CAN), and Storage Area Network (SAN). Each of these has a special job and helps with different kinds of communication.

Classification of Digital Computer

Digital computers can be grouped into different types based on their size, how fast they are, and how much memory they have. We see classification of digital computer mainly in four types: microcomputers, minicomputers, mainframe computers, and supercomputers.

Microcomputers are compact and affordable, designed for just one person. This category includes everyday devices like desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones. Minicomputers are a bit larger, supporting several users at once, and offer more power than microcomputers but less than mainframes.

Mainframe computers are powerful machines used by businesses for big tasks like managing financial transactions and data in sectors such as banking and insurance. They handle large volumes of information. The most powerful among these classifications are supercomputers. They perform extremely fast calculations and are key in fields that need a lot of data processing, such as scientific research and engineering.

Classification of Computers Software

Computer software can be divided into two primary types: system software and application software.

System software is the kind that manages and runs the computer. It works with the hardware and is necessary for the computer to operate. This software acts as a base for application software. Examples of system software are operating systems like Windows or macOS, drivers that connect hardware like printers, language processing tools, and utility programs that help in maintenance.

Application software, on the other hand, is used for doing specific tasks. These include programs like Microsoft Word for writing, Excel for spreadsheets, databases for storing data, software for creating graphics, and video games. Application software comes in different forms: general-purpose software for common tasks, special-purpose software for specific needs, and custom-made software designed for particular users.

FAQs on Classification of Computers

What are the names of dried fruit?

Dried fruits include raisins, apricots, dates, figs, and prunes. These are some examples of dried fruits.

What is a good dry fruit?

Almonds are a good dry fruit. They are nutritious and tasty. Other good options include walnuts and pistachios.

Which dry fruit is best for weight loss?

Almonds and walnuts are good for weight loss. They are low in calories and provide healthy fats and protein.

Which dry fruit is costly?

Saffron is one of the costliest dry fruits. It is known for its unique flavor and aroma, but it can be expensive.

How many dry fruits eat daily?

It's best to eat a small handful of mixed dry fruits daily for their health benefits. About 1-2 ounces is a good daily portion.