1. Classification of Computers

2. How Many Classes Are There? 4, they are:  Microcomputers  Minicomputers  Mainframe computers  Supercomputers

3. Microcomputers  PERSONAL COMPUTERS - also known as PCs  LAPTOPS  ELECTRONIC ORGANIZERS/ PALMTOP COMPUTERS

4. Characteristics of PCs  One user  Small size & low cost  Easy to use  Consists of system unit, keyboard, mouse, display screen  Used for personal applications

5. Characteristics of a Laptop PPortable computer FFlat display screen WWeighs about 1 to 4 kg

6. Types of Laptops  Notebook computers  Weigh about 2- 4 kg  Approximately 35 x 25 x 4 cm.  Equipped with touchpad or track ball  Sub-notebook computers  Weighs about half a kilogram  Can fit in a jacket pocket  Can perform some of the functions of notebooks

7. Characteristics of Electronic Organizers & Palmtop Computers  Fits in the palm of your hand  Smaller  Less powerful than notebooks & sub-notebooks  Stylus for data entry and making selections

8. Minicomputers oAoAre outdated oCoCost and capabilities >micro & mainframe< oFoFacilitates (10 – 60 users) oDoDifficult to use oEoEach user has a terminal >>> accesses the main computer oUoUsed by medium sized organizations, colleges, libraries, banks, research labs

9. Mainframe o Very large and powerful o Very expensive o More powerful than a minicomputer o Over 100 users at a time o Difficult to use o Found in large organizations: banks, government departments and insurance companies.

10. SUPERCOMPUTERS (monsters) Largest Fastest Most powerful Most expensive Main uses: complex scientific applications – space exploration medicine industry

11. Embedded Computers o So S pecial-purpose computer o Used inside a device o For specific functions o Connected to a sensor Found in – washing machines cars microwaves clocks cameras

12. ASSESSMENT