COMPUTER
The term computer has been borrowed from the word compute that means --to calculate. Typical computer has these characteristics -- speed, accuracy , diligence, versatility , data storage ; it is dumb and has no emotions .
HISTORY OF COMPUTER
An early calculating device called abacus was developed more than 2000 years ago . It is still in use in some countries . Several mathematicians and scientists have worked during thee last three centuries to develop computer.
The early electronic computers , called the first generation computers were based on vaccum tubes . The second generation computers were based on transistors, and the third generation computers were based on ICs . The fourth generation computers are based on LSI and VLSI ICs .
CLASSIFICATION OF COMPUTERS
One of the most commonly used classification of computers is based on its size . Here, the compters are divided into three categories -- Large (MAINFRAME) , mini and micro . The PCs that you use fall in the micro category . Large companies , banks, airlines, etc. normally use large (main frame) computers. The mini computers fall between the mainframes and micro computers .
Computers are also be classified as analog and digital . PC is a digital computer. The computers used in offices and homes are generally digital . Digital computer operates directly on numbers that are expressed as digits . Digital computers are more accurate than analog computers. They can be used for data processing as well as for scientific , engineering and industrial applications . On the other hand , analog computers that are normally used in the process industry or in instruments can directly measure physical parameters, such as voltage , However , now a days , digital computers are also being used for industrial application .
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