Definition and Basic Concept of Computer
Introduction to a Computer
In general speaking the computer is simply a calculating device. The name Computer is derived from a Latin word computare which mean “to compute”. As we know the Computer is a special type of programing machine having some basic characteristics like –
- Fast and reliable calculations
- Receive, process and store information
- A multitasking machine which can perform quickly, more accurately
What is Computer?
Some of the definitions of computer are as below –
Computer is an electronic machine which can store and process information. It is also defined as a stored program digital computing system.
Computer is an electronic device which can take instructions and can transmit data, store and manipulate information.
The Computer is a machine which accepts data may be numbers, letters or both or even sounds, then processes that data and gives output.
Computer System
Functions of a Computer Input, Storage, Process and Output Unit
4 basic functions of computer helps to understand computer basic concept
Input:
Storage:
Processing:
Processing is considered the basic computing operation. It execute the input instructions, control all storage data and input or output devices which are attached to the computer.
Output:
Finally the output unit shows the results from the operations of central processing unit CPU to the user. This output result can be both in hard or soft form i.e. visual display unit, headphones and printers.
Classification of Computers
Analog Computers:
Analog computer accepts analog input and gives analog output. Analog computer is used to represents physical quantities like temperature, acceleration, voltages or distance in electrical or mechanical circuits it may not require any storage device.
Examples of analog computer are speedometer, weight measuring machine and an analog clock.
Digital Computer:
It takes digital input and provide digital output results after processing information. All the operation are in binary system of 0 and 1. It perform all task using binary system of 0 and 1 only.
Examples of digital computers are IBM PC, Apple Macintosh etc.
Hybrid Computer:
In terms of speed and accuracy hybrid computer is a combination of both analog and digital computers. It can measure physical as well as digital quantities.
Machine measuring heartbeat in hospital and devices installed on fuel pumps are some of the examples of an hybrid computer.
Types of computers- analog computer, digital computer and hybrid computers
Difference between Analog, Digital and Hybrid computers
Analog Computer |
Digital Computer |
Hybrid Computer |
|---|---|---|
| Gives output in analog forms | Gives output in digital forms | Output may be both in analog or digital forms as per requirements |
| Analog computer need continuous signal | It works on a discrete signal | It is a combination of analog and digital Computers |
| It is generally slow in speed | It is very fast in giving output | Speed of output depends upon the given task, but it is faster then analog computers |
| Complex in use | Easy to use | Need complete knowledge of the process before using it |
| It measures analog quantities | It does complex digital calculations | It can process both digital and analog data |
| Mainly used in field of science | Can be used any where in any task | Mainly used for a specific requirements |
| Examples: Weighing machine, analog watch etc. | Modern Computers, digital watches etc. | Thermometers, Auto Gasoline pump installed in petrol pumps etc. |
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