Computers in General Classification

Computer based on the latest literature classifies four things, namely that the data is processed, use, shapes and sizes, and generation.




1. Data Processed
a. Analog Computer
Used to process qualitative data, to work continuously and in parallel. usually do not require an intermediary language. for example, computers used to measure temperature, speed of sound, and electrical voltage.
b. Digital Computer
Used for quantitative data processing (letters, numbers, combinations of letters and numbers, and special characters). typically, require an intermediary language, one example is a PC computer.
c. Hybrid Computer
combination of analog and digital computer, for example fax.



2. Use
a. special purpose computer.
general use, such as for graphics processing, multimedia processing, data base processing, and processing of other programs.
b. general-purpose computer
used specifically and only has one job function, such as servers, PCs router, or a dumb terminal.



3. Generation
Computer is divided into several generations as follows:

• The first-generation computer (1946-1959)
• Second-generation computer (1959-1964)
• Third-generation computer (1964-1970)
• The fourth-generation computers (1979-present)
• The fifth-generation computer (now)

4. Shapes and Sizes
a. Supercomputer
type of computer being used to solve problems that require very complex calculations. because the shape and relatively expensive, we rarely encountered this computer. typically, used in universities and government
mainframe computer
types of computers used in environments when users need access to run the program, and use the data jointly. Usually, this kind of computer system is widely used as e-commerce server that serves the transaction via the internet.
b. Minicomputer
This kind of computer smaller than a mainframe computer, but greater than the type of microcomputer. typically, has a terminal beerapa. This type of computer used as server computer network or Internet server.
c. Computer Workstation
single-user computers (used by one person) who is very powerful. could, be used for applications that require complex calculations and heavy jobs, such as making computer animation.
d. Microcomputer / Personal Computer (PC)
Kind of a personal computer used by one person, whose performance depends on the needs. Types of computers include desktop computers, laptops, and PDA.