Types of Computers

Types
of Computers

Computers are divided into different types based on different
criteria. 

1. Micro Computer


2. Mini Computer


3. Mainframe Computer


4. Super Computer


5. Workstations

1. Micro Computer:

It is a single-user
computer which has less speed and storage capacity than the other types. It
uses a microprocessor as a CPU. The first microcomputer was built with 8-bit
microprocessor chips. The common examples of microcomputers include laptops,
desktop computers, personal digital assistant (PDA), tablets, and smartphones.
Microcomputers are generally designed and developed for general usage like
browsing, searching for information, internet, MS Office, social media, etc.

2. Mini Computer:

Mini-computers are also
known as "Midrange Computers.". They are multi-user computers
designed to support multiple users simultaneously. So, they are generally used
by small businesses and firms. Individual departments of a company use these
computers for specific purposes. 

3. Mainframe Computer:

It is also a multi-user
computer capable of supporting thousands of users simultaneously. They are used
by large firms and government organizations to run their business operations as
they can store and process large amounts of data. For example, Banks,
universities, and insurance companies use mainframe computers

4. Super Computer:

Super-computers are the
fastest and most expensive computers among all types of computers. They have
huge storage capacities and computing speeds and thus can perform millions of
instructions per second. The super-computers are task-specific and thus used
for specialized applications such as large-scale numerical problems in
scientific and engineering disciplines including applications in electronics,
petroleum engineering, weather forecasting, medicine, space research and more.

5. Work stations:

It is a single-user
computer. Although it is like a personal computer, it has a more powerful
microprocessor and a higher-quality monitor than a microcomputer. In terms of
storage capacity and speed, it comes between a personal computer and
minicomputer. Work stations are generally used for specialized applications
such as desktop publishing, software development, and engineering designs.