CLASSIFICATION OF COMPUTER
Classification entails grouping computers into
various units with common features. Varying classification in this case are
possible. The classification here will be done based on certain features. In
this case therefore, the following classification is made:
Classification based on mode of processing (forms)
- Digital
Computer: Digital computer
uses digits in representation of its variables. The raw materials is uses
representing numbers, letters or symbols are converted in to binary form
on output to the computer. It is worth to note that the raw material
(data) passed through some stages after which the binary digits are
changed back to alphanumeric form for output. Digital computers are used
for such applications like invoice, inventory control, and payroll. Owning
to the various functions they perform, they are mostly used in commercial
and business places.
- Analog Computer:
Analog computers are
computers that make use of physical quantities in representing their
variables, that is to say instead of counting variables, analog computers
measure. The variable is represented by a quantity: small or large. Common
type represents its variables in terms of electrical voltages and set up
circuit analogs to the regulations connecting the variables. An analog
computer, unlike a digital voltmeter, gives an exact answer. Answers are
not approximated. Once it is programmed, analog computer gives two useful
properties.
i.
It
is simple to change the value of a constant or coefficient and study the effect
of changes.
ii.
It
is possible to link certain variables to a time pulse to study, changes with
time as a variable and chart that results on an X-Y plotter. Unlike digital,
analog computer is not used in business places. The following are the uses of
analog computer.
i.
it
is used by engineers to solve systems of partial differential equations.
ii.
It
is used in controlling and monitoring of systems in such areas as hydrodynamics
and rocketry.
iii.
It
is used in production control in industries as petroleum refining and food
production.
iv.
The
simulation of such mechanical systems as a spring under pressure and
mathematical modeling.
DIFFERENCES BETWEEN DIGITAL AND ANALOG COMPUTER
Analog Digital
i. Gives
an exact answer Answer
not exact
ii. Not used for business used for business
iii. best at measurement best at counting
iv. low efficiency level high level of efficiency
v. Knobs are used for operations Buttons are used for
operations
- Hybrid Computer:
Hybrid Computer is a
resultant computer effects from a combination of analog and digital
computer. It is achieved when one intends to get the output from an analog
computer as process by a digital computer. The combination effect of aalgo
computer and digital computer give the resultant hybrid computer element
that are both in hybrid and digital computer. In this case therefore, the
hybrid computer is used for special-purpose device which is built for
specific task. It needs a conversion element which accepts analog inputs,
and output digital value. Such converter is called digitizer. There is need
for a converter from analog to digital also. It has the advantage of
giving real-time response on a continuous basis. Complex calculations can
be dealt with by the digital elements, thereby giving a large memory,
accurate results in case of programming. It is used in aerospace and
process control applications.
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