What is Computer?

Computers range from the very small to the very large. Some are capable of doing
millions of calculations in a single second, while others may take long periods of time to do even
the most simple calculations. But theoretically, anything one computer is capable of doing;
another computer will also be able to do. Given the right instructions, and sufficient memory, a
computer found in a wristwatch should be able to accomplish anything a supercomputer can —
although it might take thousands of years for the wristwatch to complete the operation.

It is the ability to take instructions — often known as programs in the parlance of

computers — and execute them that distinguishes a computer from a mechanical calculator.
While both are able to make computations, a calculator responds simply to immediate input. In
fact, most modern calculators are actually computers, with a number of pre-installed programs to
help aid in complex tasks.