Computers

Description:

Computers are general-purpose electronic machines that are used for storing and processing data according to the information that is already stored internally either permanently or temporarily. The four main components of computers are arithmetic and logical section (ALU); control unit; memory; and peripheral devices or I/O devices. The ALU, control unit, and memory are collectively termed as “Central Processing Unit” (CPU). Some basic input devices of a computer include keyboard, mouse, joystick, light pen, microphone, scanner, etc. The output devices of a computer include monitors, printers, plotters, etc. The computer receives the data that have to be processed through its input devices. In the end, the processed data is sent out through its output devices. Computers and all the equipments attached to the computers are known as hardware.

Types of computers:

Computers can be categorized based on their operations, physical structure and usage, and size. They are listed below:

Based on principle of operations:

• Analog computers
• Digital computers
• Hybrid computers (combination of analog and digital)

Based on physical structure and usage:

• Mainframe computers
• Micro computers
• Mini computers

Based on size:

• Desktop computers
• Personal computers (including industrial/rugged PCs)
• Laptops (including rugged laptap and notebook PCs)
• Palmtops
• Workstations
• Embedded
• Servers
• Super computers
• Personal Digital Assistance (PDA)
• Pocket PCs

Advantages:

• It has the ability to process huge quantity of data
• Complex tasks can be performed quickly, reliably and precisely
• High storage capacity i.e. large data can be stored up in a small space
• Great accuracy
• Versatility (Jobs can be done efficiently)
• Data security

Applications:

Computers are used everywhere in the world in daily life in an extensive range of applications like banking, traffic light control, teaching and educational purposes, aviation, health care, etc. The desktop computers and laptops are used in office and homes for general purposes.