Lesson 3:

The Different Types of

Computers
 Computers differ in
size, capability, and
function.
They vary depending
on their capacity to
handle volumes of
computer-related tasks.
1. Supercomputers
 These are the most
powerful computers.

 They are used for work

that needs maximum
speed and power like
weather forecasting,
science research, and
other complicated tasks.
2. Mainframe
 These computers are used by
Computers
government organizations and big
companies like banks. They use
mainframe computers to store large
amounts of data that would not fit
in normal sized computers.

 Are you familiar with the Automated

Teller Machines (ATM)? ATMs are
smaller computers connected to a
bigger “mainframe” computer.
2. Mainframe
Computers
 The mainframe computer
contains all the data about the
bank’s client.

 It processes the transactions

immediately and sends the
information back to the ATMs
even from remote locations.
3. Minicomputers
 These types of computers have high
processing powers and capacities but are
smaller in size compared to a mainframe
computer.

 A mainframe computer looks like a huge

cabinet that can take up a lot of space.

 A minicomputer is about as large as a

washing machine or freezer.

 Some companies would prefer to buy a

minicomputer because it is less expensive
and will not occupy too much space.
4. Microcomputers or Personal
Computers
 These are portable
computers or personal
computers that are easy to
handle.
 These computers come in
different shapes, sizes, and
brands.
 Here are the different types
of microcomputers by size
and capacity:
1. Handheld Computer
 It is a computer that is
small enough to be
handheld with your
hands. Its features may
include a calendar, a
dictionary, and a lot
more.
 2. Personal Digital Assistant
(PDA)
 It is a lightweight device
that looks like a
handheld PC but
designed to perform
only specific tasks. It can
serve as your diary, a
telephone, and an alarm
clock.
 3. Tablet Computer
 It is a wireless and flat
screen computer. You can
take notes using this
device with the help of a
stylus or digital pen on a
touch screen. It can also
be used for playing games,
watching movies, and
listening to music.
4. Laptop or Notebook
 It is a portable computer
that is used by people
who frequently travel
and need to be able to
work while on the road.
It has a flip-up screen
and functions with a
battery.
5. Desktop Computer
 It is a computer that is
designed to be placed on top
of a table or desk. It usually
consists of four basic parts –
a mouse, keyboard, system
unit, and monitor that are
connected using cables and
wires. It is also known as
Personal Computer.
 6. Smartwatch
 This gadget is a wearable
computing device that closely
resembles a wristwatch. The
wearer of the device can use it to
read text message or email, answer
phone calls from a mobile phone,
and listen to music using a
Bluetooth connection.

 Bluetooth is a wireless technology

used in exchanging information
from a short distance.
 TYPES OF
MICROCOMPUTE
RS BY PLATFORM
1. PC Compatible
 These are computers that
Computers
run using the Windows
Operating System (OS). The
Windows OS was created by
the Microsoft Company
founded by Bill Gates.
 You will learn more about
the Windows Operating
System in our next lessons.
 2. Android
 There are mobile phones
Computers
that can perform a number
of tasks like a computer.
 They usually have
touchscreen, an Internet
access, and an operating
system that can download
applications or program.
3. Macintosh (Mac) or Apple
Computers
 These are computers that
run using a program or
operating system made by
Apple Inc. (macOS).
 Macintosh computers are
known to be the first
personal computers to use
computer graphics on
computer screens (GUI –
Graphical User Interface) and
introduced the mouse to
operate the computer.
3. Macintosh (Mac) or Apple
 The Apple Inc. created a
Computers
number of amazing devices.
You might have seen them
in computer stores or
through TV commercials.
 Steve Jobs, the founder of
Apple, invented the first
Macintosh computer with
the help of his friend Steve
Wozniak. It was Wozniak
who designed the Apple II in
1977