Classification of Computers

Classes of Computers

Computers can be classified, or typed, in many ways. Some common classifications are briefly summarized below.

1.      Classes by Size

2.      Classes by Function

3.      Classes by Usage

Classes by size

Microcomputers (Personal Computers)

Microcomputers are the most common kind of computers in use as of 2014. The term “microcomputer” was introduced with the advent of systems based on single chip microprocessors. The best-known early system was the Altair 8800, introduced in 1975. The term "microcomputer" has practically become an anachronism.

These computers include:

Desktop computers – A case and a display, put under and on a desk.

In-car computers (carputers) – Built into a car, for entertainment, navigation, etc.

Game consoles – Fixed computers specialized for entertainment purposes (video games).

Smaller microcomputers are also called mobile devices:

Laptops and notebook computers – Portable and all in one case.

Tablet computer – Like laptops, but with a touch-screen, entirely replacing the physical keyboard.

Smartphones, smartbooks, PDAs and palmtop computers – Small handheld computers with limited hardware.

Programmable calculator– Like small handhelds, but specialized on mathematical work.

Handheld game consoles – The same as game consoles, but small and portable.

A Brief History of Computer

A BRIEF HISTORY OF COMPUTER

The computer as we know it today had its beginning with a 19th century English mathematics professor name Charles Babbage. He designed the Analytical Engine and it was this design that the basic framework of the computers of today are based on.

First Computers

 

 Eniac Computer

The first substantial computer was the giant ENIAC machine by John W. Mauchly and J. Presper Eckert at the University of Pennsylvania. ENIAC (Electrical Numerical Integrator and Calculator) used a word of 10 decimal digits instead of binary ones like previous automated calculators/computers. ENIAC was also the first machine to use more than 2,000 vacuum tubes, using nearly 18,000 vacuum tubes. Storage of all those vacuum tubes and the machinery required to keep the cool took up over 167 square meters (1800 square feet) of floor space. Nonetheless, it had punched-card input and output and arithmetically had 1 multiplier, 1 divider-square rooter, and 20 adders employing decimal "ring counters," which served as adders and also as quick-access (0.0002 seconds) read-write register storage.