Computer System

Computer System

The Personal Computer (PC) is although the most popular computer system, there are other computer systems too, which are categorized on the basis of size, cost and performance.

Before we describe some of these computer systems, it is essential to understand the term system. A system is a group of integrated parts that have a common purpose of achieving an objective.

The various categories of computers are :

Personal Computer or Microcomputers

The microcomputer is also known as Personal Computer or (PC). The most popular form of the computer in use today is probably the PC or Personal Computer. The PC can be used for various applications and, in fact, there are millions of PCs already in use by individuals and organizations. The PC is small in size but capable of handling large tasks. It can perform a diverse range of functions, from keeping track of household accounts to keeping records of the stores of a large manufacturing company.

The most widespread example is the IBM PC, based on microprocessors from Intel Corporation, PS/2 and Apple's Macintosh.

Minicomputers

A popular computer system is the mini-computer, which is a small, general-purpose computer. It can vary in size from a small desktop model to the size of a small filing cabinet. A typical mini system is more expensive than a PC and surpasses it in storage capacity and speed.While most PCs are oriented towards single users, mini systems are usually designed to simultaneously handle the needs of multiple users, i.e. more than one person use a mini-computer at the same time.

Mainframe Computer

A mainframe is another form of a computer system that is generally more powerful than a typical mini system. Mainframes themselves may vary widely in cost and capability. They are used in large organizations for large-scale jobs.

However, there is an overlap between the expensive minis and small mainframe models in terms of cost and capability. Similarly, there is an overlap between the more powerful PC systems and the mini computer.

Currently, IBM mainframes are dominant in the market, with Hitachi, Amdahl, and Fujitsu also producing machines. Prices start at several hundred thousand dollars.

Super Computer

A the end of the size and capability scale are the supercomputers These systems are the largest, fastest and the most expensive computers in the world. They are used for Bio-medical Research, whether forecasting, Chemical Analysis in Laboratory, complex scientific and defense applications.

NEC's Earth Simulator in Japan is now the world's fastest supercomputer.