Ø What is a Digital Computer?
Digital computer is a
general purpose Computer. Digital computers are computers that process the data in
binary form ‘0’s and ‘1’s. It is a Counting
Device.
A digital
computer takes input data, processes it, then displays the information or
result on an output device.
In a
digital computer, all the content that is written in English, Spanish, and all
the other languages converted into a binary number system.
History
of Digital Computers: From Vacuum Tubes to Transistors:-
·
The
first commercial digital computer, the Ferranti Mark 1 was introduced in 1957.
·
The
first mass-produced computer, the IBM System /360 , was introduced in
1964.
·
The
first commercial personal computer, the IBM PC , went on sale in 1981.
·
The
mass-produced personal computer was the Macintosh , released by Apple in 1984.
·
The
first tablet computer was the Apple iPad , which began selling in 2010.
·
The
first microprocessor was developed in 1971 by the Intel Corporation.
Features of Digital computer
- Good Memory –
Digital computers can store a large amount of data and can retrieve data
in a fraction of second. The data can be stored for any duration and
retrieved anytime.
- Very Flexible –
These computers can perform multi-tasking without any human interference
and hence they are very flexible and versatile.
- Good Speed –
Digital computers are high in speed and carry out all the operations with
very fast speed.
ü
Accurate – These devices help in storing all the information which
helps in retrieving accurate data at any point in a given time.
Advantage :
- Signals represented digitally can be
transmitted without degradation due to noise.
- A more precise representation of a signal can
be obtained by using more binary digits to represent it.
- Less expensive.
- More reliable.
- Easy to manipulate.
- Flexible.
- Compatibility with other digital systems.
- Only digitized information can be transported
through a noisy channel without degradation.
- Integrated networks.
Disadvantage
:
- Digital circuits use more energy than analog
circuits to accomplish the same tasks, thus producing more heat which increases
the complexity of the circuits such as the inclusion of heat sinks.
- Digital circuits are sometimes more expensive.
- Sampling Error.
- Digital communications require greater
bandwidth than analogue to transmit the same information.
- The detection of digital signals requires the
communications system to be synchronized, whereas generally speaking this is
not the case with analogue systems
Example: Personal
Computers (Desktops, Laptops, Notebooks, and Chromebooks).
Classification of Digital Computer:-
Mainframe Computer:-
Definition & Meaning – Mainframe computer likes as a big centralized
machine that contains the vast amount of memory, huge storage space, multiple
high grade processors, so it has ultra-processing power compare to
standard computer system. So, mainframe
computer system’s importance is
increasing for large scale organization, scientific research, consumer statistics,
and census data, because it is capable to execute multiple complex programs
concurrently at the ultra-speed. Most eminent vendors of mainframe computers
are IBM, Hitachi, etc.
Example:- UNIVAC I (UNIVersal Automatic Computer I) mainframe computers was first developed by J. Presper Eckert and John Mauchly in
USA, in 1951.
Characteristics of Mainframe Computer
·
Mainframe computer allows to process huge amount of data
simultaneously without getting any malicious attacks.
·
Mainframe computers are more popular due to their long life
performance, because it can run smoothly up to 50 years after its proper
installation.
·
Mainframe application programs get outstanding performance due to
their large scaled memory management.
·
Mainframe computer systems are capable to share their over
workload on the other multiple processors and I/O terminals, and due to this
process enhances its performance.
·
Mainframe systems have ability to manage different complicated
operating systems such as UNIX, VMS, and other IBM O/S like as Z/OS, Z/VM.
·
Mainframe systems have less probability in getting any errors, and
bugs during processing time. If any time, some errors tries to enter in the
system then they are able to remove them.
·
Mainframe systems are designed to support “Tightly Coupled
Clustering Technology”, due to this feature; it can manage approximate 32
systems along with single system image. If system gets fails due to any hardware component damage
then running tasks could be shifted to other live system, and any data do not
corrupt in this entire process.
·
Mainframe system is eligible to support maximum Input/output
devices.
·
Mainframe system is able to execute multiple programs
concurrently.
·
In mainframe system, virtual storage system can be used.
·
It can generate I/O bandwidth in large amount.
·
It supports to Zero fault tolerant computing system.
·
It is capable to manage several users.
·
It can also support centralized computing system.
Advantages of Mainframe
Computer
Ultra Computing Power
Mainframe computer is capable to process huge data and run
complicated applications with ultra computing speed.
Scale-ability
Mainframe computer can support to extra big power processors, and
it can be expended with adding multiple ultra power processors, memory,
and storage
device when to require of processing huge data concurrently.
Virtualization System
With using its Virtualization property, Mainframe computer system
can be divided into small logical segments for eliminating the memory
limitation, and we can great computing performance.
Reliability
Mainframe computer system is able to identify their errors and
bugs, and it can self recover of them without any other embedded resources.
Today, Modern mainframe computer systems are capable to run frequently for 40
to 50 years without getting any errors.
Self-Serviceability
If, mainframe computer system gets errors during processing time
then it is capable to fix them without degrading its performance in short
duration.
Protection
Mostly, mainframe computer are used by large scale organizations
because they need to secure their confidential data. So, mainframe
computer system allows to more attention on authentication protection for
storing data.
Flexible Customization
Mainframe computer system’s Customization is performed as per the
client’s requirement. Mainframe computer can support multiple operating systems at
same time.
Mainframe computer systems are getting more popularity due to
their long lasting performance (up to 40 years).
Mainframe computer system can support millions of transactions per
second.
It can control the millions of users and applications
concurrently.
Disadvantages of
Mainframe Computer
- Mainframe systems are very expensive, and these types of computer cannot be used in the home. Due to its more processing power, they are used by large scale companies, banks, and other government sectors.
- In mainframe computer system, we can use the normal operating system such as Windows and Android. In mainframe system is used the custom operating system and hardware as the client need, and they are more costly.
- Mainframe computer system requires the more space and less temperature.
- If, any errors or bugs are occurred while performing the massive task, then need the well trained staff for eliminating the errors.
- Entire system can gets down due to major damage of hardware component’s system.
- Difficult to read its instructions which are used on the command based interface.
- It Consume more resources.
Examples:- ENIAC (Electric Numerical Integrator and Calculator), UNIVAC, ASCC (Automatic Sequence Control Computer)
Definition: A supercomputer is the fastest computer in the world
that can process a significant amount of data very quickly. The computing
Performance of a “supercomputer” is measured very high as compared to a general
purpose computer. The computing Performance of a supercomputer is measured in
FLOPS (that is floating-point operations per second) instead of MIPS. The
supercomputer consists of tens of thousands of processors which can perform
billions and trillions of calculations per second.
They have evolved from grid to cluster system of massive parallel computing. Cluster system computing means that machine uses multiple processors in one system instead of arrays of separate computers in a network.
These computers are most massive concerning size. A most
powerful supercomputer can few feet to hundreds of feet. The supercomputer
price is very high, and they can vary from 2 lakh dollar to over 100 million
dollars.
Characteristics
of Supercomputer
• They can support more than a hundred users at a time.
• These machines are capable of handling the massive amount of
calculations that are beyond the human capabilities, the human is unable to
solve such extensive calculations.
• These are the most expensive computers that can ever be made.
Features of
Supercomputer
• They have more than 1 CPU (Central Processing Unit) which contains
instructions so that it can interpret instructions and execute arithmetic and
logical operations.
• The supercomputer can support extremely high computation speed
of CPUs.
• They can operate on pairs of lists of numbers instead of pairs
of numbers.
• They were used initially in applications related to national
security, nuclear weapon design, and cryptography. But nowadays they are also
employed by the aerospace, automotive and petroleum industries.
Uses of
Supercomputer
• Supercomputers are not used for everyday tasks because of their
superiority.
• Supercomputer handles those applications, which required the
real-time processing. The uses are as follows:
• They’re used for scientific simulations and research such as
weather forecasting, meteorology, nuclear energy research, physics, and
chemistry, as well as for extremely complex animated graphics. They are also
used to interpret new diseases and predict illness behavior and treatment.
• The military uses supercomputers for testing new air crafts, tanks, and weapons. They also use them to understand the effect on soldiers and wars. These machines are also used for encrypting the data.
• Scientists use them to test the impact of nuclear weapon
detonation.
• Hollywood uses supercomputers for the creation of animations.
• In entertainment, supercomputers are used for online gaming.
Supercomputers help in stabilizing the game performance when a lot
of users are playing the game.
Advantages
of a supercomputer:
1.
This supercomputer can easily decrypt
your password for your security purpose.
2.
It may save money.
3.
It can be used for R&D.
4.
More organizations use this computer
part-time.
5.
The supercomputer has the superb
power of reading the animation in an excellent result.
6.
A Supercomputer solves bigger
problems.
7.
It runs more problems in a shorter
time.
8.
This allows for virtual testing.
9.
Protecting the environment.
10.
It has the advance graphic
capability.
Disadvantages
of a supercomputer:
1.
It can be expensive.
2.
It requires trained staff.
3.
This computer does not replace
physical testing.
4.
Takes up a lot of space.
5.
The bandwidth of data does not
synchronize with the device’s hard drive storage. So the speed processing is
too much disturbed.
6.
May only be good for specific
applications.
7.
High power requirement
8.
They heat up quickly, due to a large
number of processors as well as the load on devices.
9.
In this device, the major issue of
heat-up problems, So Most of the devices get damaged quickly.
10.
Supercomputers need water cooling in
addition to an A/C system, it produces more heat during the processing time.
11.
It requires more maintenance.
12.
It is not useful for broad
applications.
13.
Need massive external storage for
huge data.
14.
A supercomputer requires a lot of
electricity to run. A supercomputer like a summit can consume energy equal to
5000 houses.
Examples:-
|
Year |
Supercomputer |
Peak speed (Rmax) |
Location |
|
2021 |
Sunway Oceanlite |
1.05 exaFLOPS (unofficial) |
Qingdao, China |
|
2021 |
Fujitsu Fugaku |
442 PFLOPS |
Kobe, Japan |
|
2018 |
IBM Summit |
148.6 PFLOPS |
Oak Ridge, Tenn. |
|
2018 |
IBM Sierra |
94.6 PFLOPS |
Livermore, Calif. |
|
2016 |
Sunway TaihuLight |
93.01 PFLOPS |
Wuxi, China |
|
2013 |
NUDT Tianhe-2 |
33.86 PFLOPS |
Guangzhou, China |
|
2012 |
Cray Titan |
17.59 PFLOPS |
Oak Ridge, Tenn. |
|
2012 |
IBM Sequoia |
17.17 PFLOPS |
Livermore, Calif. |
|
2011 |
Fujitsu K computer |
10.51 PFLOPS |
Kobe, Japan |
|
2010 |
NUDT Tianhe-1A |
2.566 PFLOPS |
Tianjin, China |
A Minicomputer is also known as Mini, it is a class of small computing devices. It was developed in the mid of 1960s. It has all the features and functionality of a large computer, but it’s look like smaller in size. The Minicomputers are multiprocessing computer. It consists of two or more processors. The Minicomputers are used in an organization for basic tasks such as billing, accounting, and inventory management.
History
The minicomputer came into existence in the mid of 1960s. At that time, It was the only small computer that uses transistors and core memory technologies. The first minicomputer was known as Digital Equipment Corporation. It cost approximately 16000 USD.
Size of Minicomputer
The Minicomputer size ranges between 7 to 12 inches in width or less than 7 inches. Its smaller size is its beauty that attracts users as it is smaller in size, so it is lightweight and portable. It does not require much space for setup. It can be used anywhere.
Characteristics of Minicomputer
- It is smaller in size than a mainframe computer.
- It is less expensive than a super and mainframe computer.
- It is not much more powerful than the mainframe and supercomputer, but powerful than microcomputers.
- It uses Multiple processors.
- It supports multiprocessing and multi-tasking.
- It can be used by small organizations and individuals.
- It uses magnetic disks or tapes for secondary storage.
Usage of Minicomputer
Minicomputers are used for entertainment, gaming, and other computing tasks such as, database management, business-transaction processing, scientific computations file handling, etc. It is useful for small organizations.
Advantages or pros of Minicomputer
- Minicomputers are easy to maintain and use.
- Minicomputers are smaller in size so that they can be placed anywhere.
- Minicomputers are portable.
- Minicomputers are fast.
- Minicomputers are reliable.
- They hold a charge for a long time.
Disadvantages or drawback of Minicomputer
- Few mini PCs do not have USB ports.
- They don't have a CD/DVD drive.
- The users find it hard to operate due to different operating systems.
- Mini computer have a small keyboard.
- There is not much storage in minicomputers.
- It has a smaller display that can be too small for some tasks.
- The user may not be familiar with the operating system
- It can be too small a device to do certain projects.
Examples:- Apple iPad, Samsung tab · Inspiron 1012 (Dell), HP mini 110 · Netbook · iPod · Apple iPhone,
Microcomputer is known as a personal computer like as a small computer.
The meaning of the microcomputer is a micro controller. It is used Some appliances such as microwaves, TV, refrigerator, and more. The microcomputer is used it during the 1970s-1980s.
Types of Micro computer
- Desktop micro computers
- Notebook or laptop micro computers
- Tablet and Smartphone micro computers
- Personal digital assistant and Palmtop
- Workstation and Server micro computers
- Mini Tower and Full Tower micro computers
Uses of Micro compute
- Home for Personal Usage:- Micro computers are used in the home such as entertainment (listen music, Watching movies), playing games.
- Business:-Microcomputers are vital role in every sectors of business because due to use of this computer, massive paperwork has been reduced through the use of this computer.
- Medical Sector:-Microcomputers are very useful in the medical purpose to keep all records & all kinds of patients in different areas such as small clinics and hospitals.
Features of Micro computer
- Affordable cost
- Small size
- Used by single user
- Less power consuming
- Mostly designed for personal usage
- Use single integrated semiconductor chip
- Less processing power
- Produce less heat
- Mostly microcomputers are portable
Advantage of Micro computer
- Size: The Micro computers are smaller in the small size as compared to mainframe and supercomputers.
- Making apps: PC is used for making different types of mobile apps. Nowadays every smartphone has to needs apps for better uses. each app in numerous app stores helps mobile users for fulfilling their wants.
- Stock Exchange: within the previous days, securities market business is generally done by phone calls. however today, each capitalist has the package put in on their computer by that they'll buy/sell stocks within the stock exchange.
- Maintenance is easy: Most of the computer users is aware of a way to fix the matter within the computer e.g.if there's one thing wrong happen within the computer then you'll merely setup the package. replacement hardware elements of the computer is additionally straightforward.
- Used in businesses: In these days life, each variety of business uses computer for handling their work. All the info of the business is currently hold on within the computer and in remote servers.
- Accounting: Accounting package is run within the computer that makes monetary reports of the corporate or anyone. In shops, accounting package is additionally used for day to day calculation of the product.
- Widely used: They are used by most of users at home. About 75% of U.S citizens use microcomputer at their home.
- Research and information: Students and marketers use PCs for his or her analysis work. folks get data from the web then save the data on completely different package.
- Connections with people: currently the globe is thought as a worldwide village. you'll connect with a person across the globe and communicate with a person via voice/video/text chat and emails. currently you'll share your views on any topic on-line.
- Portability: These computers area unit simply transportable owing to their little size. within the previous days (1970-80) computers were huge and canopy the entire space. They weren't straightforward to maneuver from one place to a different.
- Low cost: PC’s were expensive in previous days however currently PC’s area unit cheaper and everybody should buy it simply. There are a unit kinds, many sorts, many varieties} of desktop computers relying upon processor type (i3, i5, i7). For common use, you'll purchase cheaper computer which will do your common works like web browsing and looking movies.
- Accurate results: Human can make an error in the calculation but the computer is a very intelligent machine and it will give accurate result every time.
- Multiple uses: One personal computer may be used for multiple functions e.g. printing, scanning, browsing the web, booking tickets on-line, looking movies, work of various users, taking part in games, storing information, accounting, creating games, apps and desktop package etc.
Disadvantage of Micro computer
- Least powerful: PC’s have low process power as compared to mainframe and supercomputers.
- Computer addiction: youngsters and time of life users get passionate about games and web uses. These activities have an effect on their day to day routine.
- Less storage: Desktops have less storage and for storage massive information you may want further storage devices.
- Weak in performance: several PC’s have low processor which will result pc performance e.g. taking part in games and running huge package is tough thereon PCs.
- Negative physical effects: If you employ computer for an extended time then you may get physical effects like eye stain, neck pain and back drawback.
- Difficult to upgrade: As desktop computer’s have completely different motherboards for each variety of processor therefore it's tough to upgrade PC for top performance.
- Lack of security: Hackers will hack your pc if it's connected to the web and your sensitive information may be purloined or loss by virus attack.
- Public safety: currently youngsters will have access to adult content and other people will read sensitive content that's not allowed by the govt.
Examples:- Desktop Computer, Laptop, Smartphone, Notebook, Tablet.
Why microcomputer is called micro?
Microcomputer is known as a ‘Micro’ because it is built up with a microprocessor chip.
Which is the first Microcomputer?
The Altair 8800 is the first successful commercial microcomputer that was designed in 1949.
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