Lecture 2

Introduction to
Computer
Applications
Lecture 2
Ms. Seerat Fatima
Classification of Computers
Classification of Computers
 Computers can be classified into different categories based on their

size, processing power, and functionality.
 Four major categories
1. Microcomputers
2. Mainframe Computers
3. Minicomputers
4. Supercomputers
Classification of Computers…
cont.
 1. Microcomputers (Personal Computers)
Microcomputers are smaller, less powerful computers designed for
individual use. They are based on microprocessors, which handle all the
processing functions of the computer.
 Characteristics:
 Single-user system: Typically designed for use by one person at a time.
 Compact size: Small and portable, ranging from desktops to laptops and
tablets.
 Affordable: Microcomputers are much cheaper than larger systems like
mainframes.
 Versatile: They can perform various tasks like word processing, internet
browsing, gaming, and software development.
cont.
 Applications:
 Home Use: Personal computers (PCs) are commonly used at home for
browsing the internet, playing games, managing personal finances,
watching movies, etc.
 Business: Microcomputers are used for office tasks like word processing,
creating presentations, managing spreadsheets, and communicating via
email.
 Education: Used by students and educators for research, assignments,
and online learning platforms.
 Multimedia: Used in video and audio production, graphic design, and
animation.
 Software Development: Microcomputers serve as workstations for
developers to write code, test software, and run applications.
cont.
 Examples:
 Desktops: Standard personal computers (e.g., Dell OptiPlex, HP Pavilion).
 Laptops: Portable computers with built-in screens and keyboards (e.g., MacBook,
Lenovo ThinkPad).
 Tablets: Touchscreen-based portable devices (e.g., iPad, Microsoft Surface).
 Smartphones: Handheld devices with computing capabilities (e.g., iPhone,
Samsung Galaxy).
 Workstations: A powerful computer used for professional tasks like 3D design,
engineering, or video editing, offering higher performance than regular PCs.
 Notebook Computer: A portable computer, also called a laptop, that combines a
screen, keyboard, and battery in one lightweight device.
 Handheld Computer: A small, pocket-sized computer used for basic tasks like
managing contacts or calendars, also known as a personal digital assistant (PDA).
cont.
 2. Mainframe Computers
Mainframe computers are large, powerful machines designed to

handle massive amounts of data and serve many users simultaneously.
They are typically used by large organizations for critical applications
that require high reliability, performance, and security.
cont.
 Characteristics:
 Multi-user system: Capable of handling thousands of users
simultaneously.
 Massive storage: Mainframes have vast storage capabilities for
managing large datasets.
 High processing power: These systems can process millions of
transactions per second, making them suitable for large-scale
operations.
 Reliability: Designed for continuous operation with minimal
downtime, often operating for years without interruption.
 Security: Mainframes offer advanced security features to protect
sensitive data and manage complex access control systems.
cont.
 Applications:
 Banking: Mainframes are used for processing millions of transactions daily,
handling tasks like customer account management, ATM transactions, and online
banking.
 Government and Defense: Used for critical applications such as tax processing,
military operations, census data management, and national security databases.
 Healthcare: Hospitals use mainframes to store and manage patient records,
medical imaging, and healthcare applications requiring high reliability and
security.
 Retail and E-commerce: Large retail businesses use mainframes to manage
their inventory, billing, and customer data.
 Telecommunications: Telecommunication companies use mainframes for billing
systems, managing customer accounts, and processing high-volume data traffic.
cont.
 Examples:
 IBM Z Series: A popular mainframe system used in industries like
finance, healthcare, and government.
 UNIVAC (Universal Automatic Computer): One of the earliest
mainframes used in the 1950s, which revolutionized large-scale
computing.
 Fujitsu GS21: A mainframe computer used by corporations for
critical data processing tasks.
Thank You

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Introduction to

 Computers can be classified into different categories based on their

Mainframe computers are large, powerful machines designed to

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