Types of Computer

2. Mainframe Computer
Used to process large amounts of information quickly.
Extremely large.
Applications
• Government departments
• Airline industry
• Weather forecasting
• Commerce (banks)

3. Processor 1 Processor 2
Processor 4Processor 3
Mainframe Computer
Contains several very fast processors.
Large tasks are shared between the processors (known as multi-processing).
Task

4. Processor 1 Processor 2
Processor 4Processor 3
Mainframe Computer
Contains several very fast processors.
Or each processor can be given a separate task to do.
Task Task Task Task
Task Task
Task Task

5. Mainframe Computer
RAM can be up to several terabytes.
Backing storage is provided via hard disk packs, and backed up to tape.

6. Mainframe Computer
Users connect to the mainframe via a dumb terminal which has no
processor or memory.

7. Desktop Computer
Used by an individual at work, school or home.
Applications
• Word processing
• Graphics
• Database
• Spreadsheet
• Internet
• Email
• Games
etc.

8. Desktop Computer
Originally contained a single processor, but many desktop computers now
have dual or quad processors.

9. Desktop Computer
Originally contained a single processor, but many desktop computers now
have dual or quad processors
Processor speed
From 1.6GHz to 3.5GHz

10. Desktop Computer
Originally contained a single processor, but many desktop computers now
have dual or quad processors
Processor speed
From 1.6GHz to 3.5GHz
Memory
From 2GB to 8GB

11. Desktop Computer
Originally contained a single processor, but many desktop computers now
have dual or quad processors
Backing storage
Hard disk drive - 80Gb to 1Tb
CD-RW disk - 850Mb
DVD-RW disk - 4.7Gb
Processor speed
From 1.6GHz to 3.5GHz
Memory
From 2GB to 8GB

12. Desktop Computer
Originally contained a single processor, but many desktop computers now
have dual or quad processors
Backing storage
Hard disk drive - 80Gb to 1Tb
CD-RW disk - 850Mb
DVD-RW disk - 4.7Gb
Input / Output devices
Keyboard, mouse, printer, monitor,
microphone, speakers, scanner, digital
camera.
Processor speed
From 1.6GHz to 3.5GHz
Memory
From 2GB to 8GB

13. Laptop Computer
Same applications as a desktop computer, but it is portable.
Similar processors, memory and backing storage as found in a desktop
computer. Generally laptop computers have a slightly lesser specification
than desktop models.
The price of an average laptop = much more powerful desktop.

14. Palmtop Computer
Used by an individual while on the move.
Also know as PDAs (Personal Desktop Assistants) or Handheld
Computers.
Applications
• Word processing
• Sketchpad
• Diary
• Notes
• Email
• Database
• Spreadsheet
etc.

15. Palmtop Computer
Palmtop processor speeds range from 100 MHz to 1 GHz.
Memory ranges from 32MB to 512MB.

16. Smartphones and Tablets
Since the launch of the iPhone in 2007, the line between palmtops and
mobile phones has blurred. A mobile phone which can surf the net and run
other applications is known as a Smartphone.
In 2010 Apple launched the iPad heralding another new category of device –
the Tablet.

17. Embedded Computer
Used to control dedicated systems.

18. Credits
Higher Computing – Computer Structure – Types of Computer
Produced by P. Greene for the City of Edinburgh Council 2004
Adapted by M. Cunningham 2010
All images licenced under Creative Commons 3.0
• Mainframe Computer by Dave Winer (scrtiptingnews on Flickr)
• IBM Mainframes by Tom Purves
• Hard disk pack by Barry Demchak, Torrey Pines Software, Inc
• VIA VB8003-Top-heatsink by viagallery.com
• Intel Core i5 by Flutlicht PR on Flickr
• 1GB DDR3 Memory Module by William Warby (wwarby on Flickr)
• Logitech MX518 Gaming Mouse by gcg2009 on Flickr
• Sony Compact Digital Camera by Digitpedia.Com

19. Credits
Higher Computing – Computer Structure – Types of Computer
Produced by P. Greene for the City of Edinburgh Council 2004
Adapted by M. Cunningham 2010
All images licenced under Creative Commons 3.0
• Apple Keyboard by Declan Jewell
• TT2 Laptop by KIE HPI
• ESOM270_eSOM300_Computer_on_Modules by Lakshmin
• LG Washing Machine by LGEPR
• Sharp Carousel Microwave by Chris Kelly
• BMW 750Li by Paul Tan