Classification of computer on the basis of size.

Super Computers :

Super computers

Mainframe Computers :

Mini Computers :

Micro Computers or PC :

Laptop and Hand Held Computer :

Laptop

On the basis of sizes, computers can be classified into different categories such as.The Super Computers and Mini Computers are grouped under large size computers. The Minicomputers or Personal Computer (PC) are small sized computer and Laptop Handheld Computers are grouped under very small sized computers.The size and configurations of a system depends on the processing requirements, necessary functions and budget constraints.Super Computers are the most powerful, high performance and the most expensive computers ever made. They are physically some of the largest computers available. These computers have a very fast processing speed and can perform millions of processes in a second. The speed and power of the Super Computers make them ideal for handling large and highly complex problems that require large processing. Moreover, Super Computers consume enough electricity to a number of houses.Parallel processing is used for processing of data in case of Super Computers. In parallel processing, two or more CPU's or microprocessors work simultaneously on parts of the same problem, so that more than one problem can be handled at one time.Super Computers have very fast memory that help them to store and retrieve data very easily and quickly. Super Computers are primarily used in weather forecasting, remote sensing, image processing, nuclear reactions, chemical reactions, study DNA structures by scientist and engineers, aerodynamics and space flight simulations, artificial intelligence and expert system etc.The first Super Computer developed in 1976 is the cray-1 Super Computer. Some other Super Computer include cray-2, cray-T90, Fujitsu VP-200, HITACHI(S-Series)etc.A mainframe is a large, powerful computer that can handle processing needs of thousands of computer. It consists of several computer terminals which contains keyboard and monitor and are plugged into a single mainframe. These terminals act as a input/output device to the mainframe.Mainframe are basically used in large organizations like banks, flight scheduling, ticket reservations, large retail chains and insurance companies where a large number of people need frequent access to the same data which is usually organized into one or more huge databases.Some common mainframes series are MEDHA, Superry, DEC, ICL, PDP370, IBM-40 etc.Mini Computers is small general purpose computer that are the next step down, being smaller and less expensive. Their capability lies somewhat between the mainframe and personal computers. They contain less memory and processing capabilities than mainframe. Like mainframe, they can handle much more input and output than personal computers can.They are commonly used as servers in the network environment that can satisfy data sharing needs of other computers on the network. A large number of computers can be connected to a network with a minicomputer acting as a server. They are ideal for many organizations and companies that cannot afford mainframes. Some common mini computers are PDP-2 and PDP-45.The Micro Computer or Personal Computer (PC) as they are so called, are designed to meet the requirements of an individual. With the major changes in technology and cheaper hardware we could group the various hardware components like microprocessors, microchips, input/output devices and storage devices into a single machine called Micro Computers. As they were used for personal usage they came better to be know as Personal Computer.The micro computer originated in late 1970's. The first Micro Computer were built with 8-bit microprocessor chips. Zelog Z80, MSO 6502, Intel 8080 and MC 6809 are few 8-bit microprocessor chips.Personal Computers that are very small in size and can easily carried out in our lap or hand are called laptop computers. They are portable computers and can be easily carried from on place to another so they are also called mobile computers. They are very light in weight and small in size. These computers come fitted with batteries that need to be charged when it is down.Now a days these computers fitted with tough screen feature which help to operate with the tip of the finger. Some of these includePortable, personal computer designed to be fitted in your lap.Special type of very small sized computers that allows you to make selections with the help of digital pen.Special type of phone that provide personal information management functions. They possess most of the features of a computer. Most devices come fitted with portable medial player and fitted cameras.