Computers can be classified based on size, processor, and capability. The four main classifications are: 1) Microcomputers are the smallest and least expensive, designed for individual users using microprocessors. Examples include desktops and laptops. 2) Minicomputers are larger and more powerful than microcomputers, serving multiple users simultaneously for uses like colleges and research organizations. 3) Mainframe computers are the largest in size and have very high processing speeds, capable of supporting thousands of users simultaneously for uses like large corporations and government agencies. 4) Supercomputers are the fastest and most powerful computers used for specialized applications requiring huge calculations, like weather forecasting and nuclear research.

1. Classification of computers-
based on
size, processor
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2. Prerequisites:
Classifications of computers- based on size,
processor.
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3. Digital computers based on their size, cost
and performance
 Micro computers
 Mini computers
 Main frame computers
 Super computers
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4. Super computers
 Super computers are fastest type computers.
 They are very expensive and used for
specialized applications, which require huge
amount of calculations.
 Example: Forecasting of weather, nuclear
energy and research.
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5. Main frame computers
 Main frame computers are very large type.
 These are capable of supporting thousands of
users simultaneously.
 Mainframe computers can process several
million instructions per second
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6. Main frame computers (contd)
 Main frame computers are commonly used in
corporations and government agencies.
 They are also used as e-commerce servers,
handling transactions over internet.
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7. Mini computers
 Mini computer is a multi user system
 It serves several users at a time.
 They have larger RAM and storage capacity.
 Mini computers are medium in size
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8. Mini computers (contd)
 These computers are relatively smaller and less
expensive than mainframe computer.
 These are used more and more often as
network servers and servers.
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9. Micro computers
 These are known as personal computers (PC).
 These are designed for individual users.
 Smaller in size.
 The CPU of a micro computer is called as micro
processor
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10. CLASSIFICATION OF COMPUTERS BASED ON SIZE AND
CAPABILITY
Type of capability Word Speed HDD Application Examples
computer length Capacity
Micro computer Smallest and 16 to 32 bits Payroll Desktop
least expensive preparation for computers,
and used employees, laptop,
microprocessors training of notebook
students in computers .
schools etc.
Mini computer Larger, more 16 to 32 bits 10 to 59 MIPS 380 MB to 3 In colleges, VAX (Virtual
powerful and (Millions of GB universities, Address
expensive than Instructions Per research Extension),
micro computer Second) organization, WIPRO-
govt. organization 68030V &
and industries. HCL
Mainframe Larger storage 64 bits 100 to 300 1 GB to 10 GB Scientific IBM 4300
computer capacity and MIPS research & big series, IBM
very high speed organizations like 308X series,
BHEL,ONGC etc, latest model is
banks, airline IBM 3090
reservation. series, HP
9000 model
870s/400.
Super Largest and 128 bits 400 to 10,000 2GB and more In govt. agencies, PARAM,
Computer fastest MIPS weather CRAY3, SX-2,
computers forecasting latest &
Oil exploration, fastest is
weapon research, HITACS-300
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11. Summary
In this class, we have learnt about
 Classification of computers- based on size,
cost, capacity and processor
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12. Frequently Asked Questions
1. Explain the classification of digital computers?
2. Differentiate different types of computers?
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13. Quiz
1. The computer which is a multi user system.
a. mini computer
b. micro computer.
c. main frame computer
d. super computer
Answer: a
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14. Quiz
2. The CPU of a microcomputer is called as
a. microprocessor
b. control unit
c. ALU
d. none
Answer: a
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15. Quiz
3. Which type of computer is applicable for
weather forecasting?
a. main frame computers
b. super computers
c. mini computers
d. Micro computers
Answer: b
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