Categories of Computers

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Learner Outcomes:

Upon successful completion, learners will be able to:

 differentiate between categories of computers

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Categories of computers
 Personal computer/micro-computer and mobile computer
 Workstation
 Server
 Mini-computer/midrange
 Mainframe computer
 Supercomputer

 Exercise: Locate examples of these. Include brand names,

features, processor speed, memory, prices etc.
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Personal computer (PC) and Mobile computer
 For one user
 Uses MOS (Metal Oxide Semiconductor) technology
 Single main processor (microprocessor)
 Single chip (integrated circuit)
 Small, portable
 Cheap
 Relatively slow
 Limited memory compared to the others
 Motherboard links all components together
 No special power supply or air conditioning needed

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Workstation

 A powerful single user computer.

 It is like a PC but has a more powerful microprocessor

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Mini-computer/Midrange

 Uses Bi-Polar technology or multichip modules

 Higher speeds
 Smaller version of a mainframe
 Supports more users than a PC

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Mainframe
 Hundreds to thousands of users
 Uses Bi-Polar technology
 Powerful
 Needs Air Conditioning
 Raised floors
 Special transformers for power
 Fills an entire room
 Can hold large amounts of data
 Fault tolerant

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Super computer

 Hundreds to thousands of users

 Used by scientists and engineers
 Massively parallel system
 Fills a room

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Embedded computer

 Combination of hardware and software

 Fixed in capability or programmable
 Designed for a specific function within a larger system
 Included in the following:
 Industrial machines, agricultural and process industry
devices, automobiles, medical equipment, cameras,
household appliances, airplanes, vending machines and
toys, mobile devices.

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Exercise:

 State the differences among the various categories of

computers.

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Practice Questions

1. Which of the following is a factor that influences

computer design?
A. Speed
B. Power requirements
C. Physical size
D. All of the above
E. None of the above

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2. What category is used by scientists?
A. Micro
B. Mini
C. Mainframe
D. Super

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3. What category has one main processor?
A. Micro
B. Mini
C. Mainframe
D. Super

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4. Which of the following is NOT portable?
A. Smartphone
B. Laptop
C. Mainframe
D. Tablet

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5. Which categories need a special power supply (choose
all that apply)?
A. Micro
B. Mainframe
C. Super
D. All of the above
E. None of the above

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