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Computer
A computer is a multipurpose electronic device that can receive, process and
store data.
Nowadays they are employed in every part of society. The computer is used to
record the keeping of important information, a database related to the cost of
cultivation, and the estimation of profits or losses of an agricultural
enterprise.
The Internet facilities also help farmers to contact and communicate with
agricultural experts related to their problems regarding the cultivation of
crops.
Components of computer
There are two main components of the computer.
Hardware
The equipment associated with a computer system and touchables is known as hardware.
Software
Software is a set of instructions that tells the computer what to do. To be more specific, Software is a program (A program is a set of step-by-step instructions that directs a computer to do the task you want it to do and to produce the result you want. )
Functions of Computer
A computer system performs the following functions -
1. Input:
Computers can receive data and instructions from various input devices like keyboards, mice, and sensors.
2. Processing:
They process the data using the central processing unit (CPU) to
perform calculations, execute programs, and manipulate information.
3. Storage:
Computers store data and programs in various types of memory, such as
RAM (random-access memory) for temporary storage and hard drives or
SSDs for long-term storage.
4. Output:
They can display or present processed information to users through
output devices like monitors, speakers, and printers.
5. Control:
Computers manage and control their internal operations and the
execution of tasks, ensuring that hardware components work together
efficiently.
These functions enable computers to perform a wide range of tasks and
applications in our daily lives.
Types of Computer
1. Based on GenerationFirst Generation (1940s-1950s):
Vacuum tubes were used for processing.
Very large, expensive, and unreliable.
Examples: ENIAC and UNIVAC.
Second Generation (1950s-1960s):
Transistors replaced vacuum tubes, making computers smaller and more
reliable.
Assembly language and punched cards were used for programming.
Examples: IBM 1401 and IBM 7090.
Third Generation (1960s-1970s):
Integrated circuits (ICs) led to smaller and more powerful computers.
High-level programming languages like COBOL and FORTRAN were developed.
Examples: IBM System/360 and DEC PDP-11.
Fourth Generation (1970s-1980s):
Microprocessors were introduced, making computers even smaller and more
affordable.
Personal computers (PCs) became popular.
Examples: IBM PC and Apple II.
Fifth Generation (1980s-Present):
The era of modern computing with powerful microprocessors, graphical
user interfaces, and networking.
Advancements in artificial intelligence and parallel processing.
Examples: Modern PCs, laptops, and smartphones.
Analogue Computer:
An analogue computer processes continuous data by representing values as
physical quantities, such as electrical voltages or fluid pressures.
Suited for tasks involving real-world physical phenomena like
simulations, scientific experiments, and engineering calculations.
Examples:
Analog Voltmeter: Measures voltage using a needle on a scale.
Analog Oscilloscope: Displays electrical waveforms
continuously.
Slide Rule: An early analogue calculation tool.
Digital Computer:
A digital computer processes discrete data in the form of binary digits
(0s and 1s) using electronic circuits.
Used for general-purpose computing, data processing, programming, and a
wide range of applications.
Examples:
Personal Computers (PCs): Like desktops and laptops.
Mainframes: Large-scale computers used for complex data
processing.
Smartphones: Handheld digital devices with various computing capabilities.
Hybrid Computer:
A hybrid computer combines features of both analogue and digital
computers to leverage the strengths of both technologies.
Useful for tasks that require real-time data processing and simulations
of complex physical systems.
Examples:
Flight Simulators: Use analogue components to simulate
aircraft movement and digital systems for control and feedback.
Medical Imaging Systems: Combine analogue sensors (e.g., X-ray detectors) with digital
processing for image analysis.
Weather Forecasting Systems: Utilize analogue sensors for data collection and digital computers
for complex weather modelling.
Supercomputer:
Supercomputers are the largest and most powerful computers designed for
extremely complex and computationally intensive tasks.
They are used in scientific research, weather modelling, nuclear
simulations, and other high-performance applications.
Example:
IBM Summit: Located at Oak Ridge National Laboratory,
PARAM is India's first supercomputer.
Mainframe Computer:
Mainframe computers are large, robust machines optimized for handling
massive data processing and managing critical business applications.
They are commonly used in banking, airlines, and large-scale
organizations for data storage and transaction processing.
Example:
IBM zSeries: The IBM zSeries mainframes are well-known in the industry
and used by many enterprises for mission-critical applications.
Mini Computer:
Mini computers are smaller and less powerful than mainframes but still
offer substantial processing capabilities.
They are used in scientific research, industrial control systems, and as
servers for mid-sized organizations.
Example:
DEC VAX Series: The Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC) VAX series of
minicomputers was popular in the 1980s and 1990s.
Microcomputer (Personal Computer):
Microcomputers are compact, general-purpose computers designed for
individual use.
They include desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones.
Used for a wide range of tasks, from office work to gaming and internet
browsing.
Examples:
Apple MacBook: A popular laptop computer.
Microsoft Surface: A range of versatile tablet and laptop devices.
Samsung Galaxy S Series: A line of smartphones.