Simply put, computer is divided into two major types: a) GENERAL PURPOSE COMPUTER and b) SPECIFIC PURPOSE COMPUTER.
As the name implies, General Purpose computer
can be used for any purpose or anything you want it to do, while Specific
Purpose is meant for specific things you want computer to do. It is out of
these two we have the following:
Types of computer based on
the way they process data
Digital Computer: this type of computer makes use of binary digit to process data (i.e 0 and 1). Examples are: Microcomputers and Calculators. Digital Computers are the most popular ones in use.
Analog Computer: This type of computer processes data based on continuous variable quantities. It operates in form of physical contacts. Examples are; Thermometer, Speedometer, Scientific tools etc.
Hybrid Computer: The Hybrid Computer combines
both Digital and Analog Computer operation to process its data. It has a large
memory capacity and can be seen in most spacious program activities.
CLASSES OF DIGITAL COMPUTER BASED ON SIZE
Microcomputer: This is a single user computer; it is to be used by one person at a
time. It is the most popularly and widely used computer and can be found in
places like computer schools, offices, homes, etc. It is smaller in size and it
is the cheapest of all computers.
Minicomputer: This is a multi-user computer system; it is used for processing much
volume of data. It has more processing power compared to microcomputer. It is
bigger in size than microcomputer and processes data faster than microcomputer
but not has costly as it is.
Mainframe Computer: This
type of computer is said to be larger than the above two. It is used for
processing millions of data. It is predominately used by large companies for
centralized processing of data. It is very large and requires a large storage
location. It is very expensive compared to the above two.
TYPES OF MICROCOMPUTER
Desktop: This type of computer is placed on the Desk/table.
Laptop: This is a mobile computer, which can be placed on the Lap. It uses battery and can be used anywhere and anytime one feels like using it. It is very expensive. The cost of one Laptop can buy 2 or 3 Desktop Computers.
Mini Tower or Floor Tower: This type of computer is to be kept standing either on the floor or desk/table. The difference between this and Desktop is just the standing position, but they process data at the same rate and time. No difference in data processing.
NB: Microcomputer is also
known as Personal Computer (PC) since is to be used by one person
(single-user).