Introduction to

Computer

Evolution of the
Computer
Evolution of the Computer
 Types of computers
1) Supercomputer
• Supercomputer is a computer that led the
world (or was close to doing so) in terms of
processing capacity, particularly the speed of
calculation, at the time of its introduction.
2) Mainframes
Mainframes are designed to handle very
high volume input and output (I/O) and
emphasize throughout computing. It is
used mainly, by large organizations for
critical applications, typically bulk data
processing, industry and consumer
statistics, ERP, and financial transaction
processing.
3) Mini Computer
Minicomputer is a midsized computer. It is an
old term for a class of multi-user computers,
lies between the largest multi-user systems
(mainframe computers) and the smallest
single-user systems (microcomputers or
personal computers).
4) Microcomputer
Small desktop or portable computer, typically
designed to be used by one person at a time,
although individual computers can be linked in
a network so that users can share data and
programmes. Its central processing unit is a
microprocessor, contained on a
single integrated circuit.
5) Work Station
• A type of computer used for engineering
applications (CAD/CAM), desktop publishing,
software development and other types of
applications that require a moderate amount of
computing power and relatively high quality
graphics capabilities.
 Different Types of Computer
• PC - The personal computer (PC) defines a computer designed for general
• use by a single person.. PCs were first known as microcomputers because they were a
complete computer but built on a smaller scale than the huge systems in use by most
businesses.
• Desktop - A PC that is set up in a permanent location(not portable). Most
• desktops offer more power, storage and versatility for less cost than their
portable brethren.
• Laptop - Also called notebook. Laptops are portable computers that
integrate the display, keyboard, a pointing device or trackball, processor,
memory and hard drive all in a battery-operated package slightly larger than
an average hardcover book.
• Palmtop - More commonly known as Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs),
palmtops are tightly integrated computers that often use flash memory
instead of a hard drive for storage. These computers usually do not have
keyboards but rely on touchscreen technology for user input. Palmtops are
typically smaller than a paperback novel, very lightweight with a reasonable
battery life.
• Workstation - A desktop computer that has a more powerful processor,
• Server - A computer that has been optimized to provide services to other
computers over a network. Servers usually have powerful processors, large
memory and hard drives.