Clasification of computer by size (SIZE OF THE COMPUTERS).



Clasification of computer by size
SIZE OF THE COMPUTERS.

MAINFRAME:

They receive this name, large computers of size, power and speed of execution. They are used in the process of large-scale data, both in its management component and in the scientific field.

The general structure of a mainframe or macro-computers is not different from the smaller computers; It consists of CPU, main memory and peripherals of input and output. The difference lies in the potential of these elements.

These machines are often used as repositories of large amounts of data, which can be accessed directly by mainframe users, or from microphones connected to a mainframe.

 MINI-COMPUTERS:

It has the same structure as large computers, it only differs from them in the smallest size and cost.

The main features of the minicomputers are: low cost, central memory: 521 Kb, 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, 16, or 32 Mbyte. Word length: the main minicomputers of the sixties used 8-bit words, currently most of them use words of 16 bits, 32 bits and 64 bits.

The minicomputers work in multiuser mode. The number of terminals it supports is variable and lower than the mainframes.

One of the advantages of minicomputers versus mainframes is their manageability. They do not require such sophisticated installation conditions. They do not need such large rooms, nor cooling systems that are so complex and expensive.

The minicomputers are used for management and scientific applications.


MICROCOMPUTER:

Microcomputers are the smallest, least expensive and most popular computers on the market. Computers are used in companies for many things, from the preparation of spreadsheets to "desktop" publications.

Thanks to the microprocessor, the microcomputers are small enough to fit on the cover of a desk, or sometimes, in a portfolio. Microcomputers can operate as stand-alone units, or connect with other microcomputers or mainframes to expand their capabilities.


SUPERCOMPUTER:

They are the fastest and most expensive computers. They can run several calculations simultaneously, processing in a minute what it would take weeks not several months to a PC or personal computer. Scientists from the Sandia National Laboratiry of New Mexico, USA, built a supercomputer that consisted of 1024 processors. Each processor has the capacity of a small computer, and is assigned a part of a problem at high volume that is solved by all processors at once. Called Hypercube, this supercomputer solves problems 1000 times faster than a typical mainframe.

Most supercomputers are used in scientific work, particularly to create mathematical models of the real world. Called simulation, this process is especially useful in seismology, oil exploitation, climate prediction and the expansion of pollution.