Computer Classification: By Size and

Computer Classification: By Size and Power

Most people associate a personal computer (PC)with the phrase computer.  A PC is a small and relatively inexpensive computer designed for an individual use. PCs are based on the microprocessor technology that enables manufacturers to put an entire CPU on one chip.Personal computers at home can be used for a number of different applications including games, word processing, accounting and other tasks.Computers are generally classified by size and power as follows, although there is considerable overlap. The differences between computer classifications generally get smaller as technology advances, creating smaller and more powerful and cost-friendly components.

• Personal computer: a small, single-user computer based on a microprocessor. In addition to the microprocessor, a personal computer has a keyboard for entering data, a monitor for displaying information, and a storage device for saving data.
• Workstation: a powerful, single-user computer. A workstation is like a personal computer, but it has a more powerful microprocessor and a higher-quality monitor.
• Minicomputer: a multi-user computer capable of supporting from 10 to hundreds of users simultaneously.
• Mainframe: a powerful multi-user computer capable of supporting many hundreds or thousands of users simultaneously.
• Supercomputer: an extremely fast computer that can perform hundreds of millions of instructions per second.

Recommended Reading: Webopedia's Computer Architecture Study Guide is an introduction to computer system basics