Computer Types

a) On the basis of function/Activity

i) Analog computer
An analog computer is one that measures physical, continuous data such as temperature or pressure that fall along a continuous scale or variance in temperature of pressure. They give approximate result. For example an analog computer connects fuel flow measurements into quantities and price value.
Analog devices are speedometer, Seismograph, Thermometer etc.

ii) Digital Computer
The computer which accepts discrete (discontinuous) data is known as digital computer. Basically digitally computer counts digits which present numbers or letters.
Examples: IBM-PC, IBM compatibles

iii) Hybrid Computer
The data processing device, which uses both continuous and discrete data, is known as Hybrid computer.
Auto flight or Safe flight system is used in flight is known as Hybrid computer.

b) On the basis of brand / Manufacture

i) IBM-PC
The personal computer manufactured by the IBM (International Business Machine) company is known as IBM-PC.

ii) IBM-Compatible
The computers having the same functional characteristic of IBM Company are called IBM compatibles. (Assembled Computer)
iii) Apple/Macintosh
The computer developed & manufacture by Apple Company having different architecture and system known as Apple/ Macintosh computer.

c) On the basis of size / volume

i) Super Computer
Supercomputer are the most powerful and the fastest computer system, are used in weather forecasting, rocket launching, seismology, nuclear physics and so on. Examples: CRAY-1, CRAY X-MP, SX-2, HITAC S300 etc.

ii) Mainframe Computer
A Mainframe is the largest, fastest computer systems of general use having largest storage capacity; more then 100 people can work at the same time. Examples: IBM-1401, IBM-4300 HP9000model 3705/300 & 8705/400

iii) Mini Computer
Minicomputers resemble mainframe computers but they are comparatively small and less expensive.
Examples: IBM-AS/400/b60, HP-900, VAX-8842, Wipro-s68030 v, MIPS-II-52

iv) Micro Computer
A computer, which is based on microprocessor, is called a microcomputer. Types of Microcomputer are: 1. Desktop Computer 2. Laptop Computer 3. Palmtop Computer

d) On the basis of speed/model
i) XT (Extended technology) 8086, 8088 with speed 4.77 MHZ
ii) PC/AT (Personal Computer Advanced Technology) 80286, 80386, 80486. Pentium i, ii, iii, iv
iii) PS/2 (Personal System-2) other types of model from IBM since 1990.