Computer Specifications

We have four different computer types classified according to their performance, power and size. A computer is an electronic device that accepts data, processes it, stores, and then produces an output.

Hey, If you are new to this stuff I want you to know that the word size on this topic is not the size of the display that you see but it the size of PC ( central processing unit (CPU) + motherboard+ hard drive+ ram+other stuff as required ). So, if you are still reading this, let's talk about them.

1. Super Computers

A supercomputer is a computer with a high level of performance compared to a general-purpose computer. Performance of a supercomputer is measured in floating-point operations per second instead of million instructions per second (MIPS). As of 2017, there are supercomputers which can perform up to nearly a hundred quadrillion FLOPS.

Use: Weather Forecasting, Scientific Research, Intelligence Agencies, Data Mining

2. Mainframe Computers

Mainframes are a type of computer that generally is known for their large size, amount of storage, processing power and high level of reliability. They are primarily used by large organizations for mission-critical applications requiring high volumes of data processing.

3. Minicomputers

A minicomputer is a type of computer that possesses most of the features and capabilities of a large computer but is smaller in physical size. A minicomputer fills the space between the mainframe and microcomputer and is smaller than the former but larger than the latter. Minicomputers are mainly used as small or mid-range servers operating business and scientific applications.

4. Microcomputers

A microcomputer is a computer with a central processing unit (CPU) as a microprocessor. Designed for individual use, a microcomputer is smaller than a mainframe or a minicomputer. The term microcomputer is not as commonly used as it was during the 1970s-1980s. We now refer to microcomputers as, simply, computers or personal computers (PC).

* Presumption

Nowadays we can’t see the big difference between Minicomputers and Microcomputers. Some Minicomputers are smaller than Microcomputers and sometimes opposite. If you search for the image of Minicomputer vs Microcomputer on the internet you will get more confused. Think like, both are the same looking computer but different processing power. So, in this case, we have to divide them on the basis of primarily use.

-Minicomputers were primarily used for process control and performing financial and administrative tasks, such as word processing and accounting. Some machines were designed for medical laboratory and teaching aids.

-Microcomputers are primarily used for word processing, managing databases or spreadsheets, graphics and general office applications.