Unit-1 Introduction to Computer and Information Technology:

Introduction of Computer : Today, almost all of us in the world make use of

computers in one way or the other. It finds applications in various fields of
engineering, medicine, commercial, research and others. Not only in these
sophisticated areas, but also in our daily lives, computers have become
indispensable. They are present everywhere, in all the devices that we use
daily like cars, games, washing machines, microwaves etc. and in day to day
computations like banking, reservations, electronic mails, internet and many
more.

DEFINATION :-

The word computer is derived from the word compute. Compute means to
calculate. The computer was originally defined as a super fast calculator. It had
the capacity to solve complex arithmetic and scientific problems at very high
speed. But nowadays in addition to handling complex arithmetic computations,
computers perform many other tasks like accepting, sorting, selecting, moving,
comparing various types of information. They also perform arithmetic and
logical operations on alphabetic, numeric and other types of information. This
information provided by the user to the computer is data. The information in
one form which is presented to the computer is the input information or input
data.
Information in another form is presented by the computer after performing a
process on it. This information is the output information or output data.
The set of instructions given to the computer to perform various
operations is called as the computer program. The process of converting the
input data into the required output form with the help of the computer
program is called as data processing. The computers are therefore also
referred to as data processors
Therefore a computer can now be defined as a fast and accurate data
processing system that accepts data, performs various operations on the data,
has the capability to store the data and produce the results on the basis of
detailed step by step instructions given to it.. The terms hardware and
software are almost always used in connection with the computer.

The Hardware : The hardware is the machinery itself. It is made up of the

physical parts or devices of the computer system like the electronic Integrated
Circuits (ICs), magnetic storage media and other mechanical devices like input
devices, output devices etc. All these various hardware are linked together to
form an effective functional unit. The various types of hardware used in the
computers, has evolved from vacuum tubes of the first generation to Ultra
Large Scale Integrated Circuits of the present generation. •

The Software: The computer hardware itself is not capable of doing

anything on its own. It has to be given explicit instructions to perform the
specific task. The computer program is the one which controls the processing
activities of the computer. The computer thus functions according to the
instructions written in the program. Software mainly consists of these
computer programs, procedures and other documentation used in the
operation of a computer system. Software is a collection of programs which
utilize and enhance the capability of the hardware.

Brief History of devlopment of computer & Generations of computer :-

HISTORY OF COMPUTER :-
Until the development of the first generation computers based on vacuum
tubes, there had been
several developments in the computing technology related to the
mechanical computing devices.
The key developments that took place till the first computer was
developed are as follows—

1. Abacus :-
Abacus was invented by the Chinese around 4000 years ago. It’s a wooden
rack with metal rods with beads attached to them. The abacus operator
moves the beads according to certain guidelines to complete arithmetic
computations.

2. Napier’s Bone :-
John Napier devised Napier’s Bones, a manually operated calculating
apparatus. For calculating, this instrument used 9 separate ivory strips
(bones) marked with numerals to multiply and divide. It was also the first
machine to calculate using the decimal point system.

3. Pascaline :-
Pascaline was invented in 1642 by Biaise Pascal, a French mathematician
and philosopher. It is thought to be the first mechanical and automated
calculator. It was a wooden box with gears and wheels inside.
4. Stepped Reckoner or Leibniz wheel :-
In 1673, a German mathematician-philosopher named Gottfried Wilhelm
Leibniz improved on Pascal’s invention to create this apparatus. It was a
digital mechanical calculator known as the stepped reckoner because it
used fluted drums instead of gears.

5. Difference Engine :-
In the early 1820s, Charles Babbage created the Difference Engine. It was
a mechanical computer that could do basic computations. It was a steam-
powered calculating machine used to solve numerical tables such as
logarithmic tables.

6. Analytical Engine :-
Charles Babbage created another calculating machine, the Analytical
Engine, in 1830. It was a mechanical computer that took input from punch
cards. It was capable of solving any mathematical problem and storing
data in an indefinite memory.

7. Tabulating machine :-
An American Statistician – Herman Hollerith invented this machine in the
year 1890. Tabulating Machine was a punch card-based mechanical
tabulator. It could compute statistics and record or sort data or
information. Hollerith began manufacturing these machines in his
company, which ultimately became International Business Machines (IBM)
in 1924.

8. Differential Analyzer :-
Vannevar Bush introduced the first electrical computer, the Differential
Analyzer, in 1930. This machine is made up of vacuum tubes that switch
electrical impulses in order to do calculations. It was capable of
performing 25 calculations in a matter of minutes.

9. Mark I :-
Howard Aiken planned to build a machine in 1937 that could conduct
massive calculations or calculations using enormous numbers. The Mark I
computer was constructed in 1944 as a collaboration between IBM and
Harvard.

Generation of Computer :
The concept of “generations” in computing refers to the evolutionary stages of
technology. Initially, it was used to categorize computers based on hardware
differences, but today, it is about both hardware and software components
that make up a computer system. Over centuries the modern computer has
reached its present state. There are five generations of computers,
In the following subsections :-

First Generation (1940 to 1956): Using Vacuum Tubes

Hardware Technology : The first generation of computers used vacuum tubes

for circuitry and magnetic drums for memory. The input to the computer was
through
punched cards and paper tapes. The output was displayed as printouts.

 Software Technology: The instructions were written in machine

language. Machine
language uses 0s and 1s for coding of the instructions. The first generation
computers
could solve one problem at a time.
 Computing Characteristics: The computation time was in milliseconds.
 Physical Appearance: These computers were enormous in size and
required a large room
for installation.
 Application: They were used for scientific applications as they were the
fastest computing
device of their time.
 Examples: UNIVersal Automatic Computer (UNIVAC), Electronic
Numerical Integrator
And Calculator (ENIAC), and Electronic Discrete Variable Automatic
Computer
(EDVAC).

The first generation computers used a large number of vacuum tubes and thus
generated a lot of
heat. They consumed a great deal of electricity and were expensive to operate.
The machines
were prone to frequent malfunctioning and required constant maintenance.
Since first generation
computers used machine language, they were difficult to program.

Second Generation (1956 to 1963): Using Transistors

 Hardware Technology :Transistors (Figure 1.5) replaced the vacuum

tubes of the first
generation of computers. Transistors allowed computers to become smaller,
faster,
cheaper, energy efficient and reliable. The second generation computers used
magnetic
core technology for primary memory. They used magnetic tapes and magnetic
disks for
secondary storage. The input was still through punched cards and the output
using
printouts. They used the concept of a stored program, where instructions were
stored in
the memory of computer.

 Software Technology : The instructions were written using the assembly

language.
Assembly language uses mnemonics like ADD for addition and SUB for
subtraction for
coding of the instructions. It is easier to write instructions in assembly
language, as
compared to writing instructions in machine language. High-level programming
languages, such as early versions of COBOL and FORTRAN were also developed
during
this period.
 Computing Characteristics : The computation time was in
microseconds.
 Physical Appearance : Transistors are smaller in size compared to
vacuum tubes, thus, the
size of the computer was also reduced.
 Application : The cost of commercial production of these computers
was very high,
though less than the first generation computers. The transistors had to be
assembled
manually in second generation computers.
 Examples : PDP-8, IBM 1401 and CDC 1604.

Second generation computers generated a lot of heat but much less than the
first generation
computers. They required less maintenance than the first generation
computers.

Third Generation (1964 to 1971): Using Integrated Circuits

 Hardware Technology : The third generation computers used the

Integrated Circuit (IC)
chips. Figure 1.6 shows IC chips. In an IC chip, multiple transistors are placed
on a
silicon chip. Silicon is a type of semiconductor. The use of IC chip increased the
speed
and the efficiency of computer, manifold. The keyboard and monitor were
used to
interact with the third generation computer, instead of the punched card and
printouts.

 Software Technology : The keyboard and the monitor were interfaced

through the
operating system. Operating system allowed different applications to run at
the same
time. High-level languages were used extensively for programming, instead of
machine
language and assembly language.
 Computing Characteristics : The computation time was in nanoseconds.
 Physical Appearance : The size of these computers was quite small
compared to the
second generation computers.
 Application : Computers became accessible to mass audience.
Computers were produced commercially, and were smaller and cheaper
than their predecessors.
 Examples : IBM 370, PDP 11.

The third generation computers used less power and generated less heat than
the second
generation computers. The cost of the computer reduced significantly, as
individual components of the computer were not required to be assembled
manually. The maintenance cost of the
computers was also less compared to their predecessors.

Fourth Generation (1971 to present): Using Microprocessors

 Hardware Technology : They use the Large Scale Integration (LSI) and
the Very Large
Scale Integration (VLSI) technology. Thousands of transistors are integrated on
a small
silicon chip using LSI technology. VLSI allows hundreds of thousands of
components to
be integrated in a small chip. This era is marked by the development of
microprocessor.
Microprocessor is a chip containing millions of transistors and components,
and,
designed using LSI and VLSI technology. A microprocessor chip is shown in
Figure 1.7.
This generation of computers gave rise to Personal Computer (PC).
Semiconductor
memory replaced the earlier magnetic core memory, resulting in fast random
access to
memory. Secondary storage device like magnetic disks became smaller in
physical size
and larger in capacity. The linking of computers is another key development of
this era.
The computers were linked to form networks that led to the emergence of the
Internet.
This generation also saw the development of pointing devices like mouse, and
handheld
devices.
 Software Technology : Several new operating systems like the MS-DOS
and MSWindows
developed during this time. This generation of computers supported Graphical
User Interface (GUI). GUI is a user-friendly interface that allows user to interact
with the
computer via menus and icons. High-level programming languages are used for
the
writing of programs.
 Computing Characteristics : The computation time is in picoseconds.
 Physical Appearance : They are smaller than the computers of the
previous generation.
Some can even fit into the palm of the hand.
 Application : They became widely available for commercial purposes.
Personal computers
became available to the home user.
 Examples : The Intel 4004 chip was the first microprocessor. The
components of the

computer like Central Processing Unit (CPU) and memory were located on a
single chip. In 1981, IBM introduced the first computer for home use. In 1984,
Apple introduced the
Macintosh.

The microprocessor has resulted in the fourth generation computers being

smaller and cheaper than their predecessors. The fourth generation computers
are also portable and more reliable.
They generate much lesser heat and require less maintenance compared to
their predecessors.
GUI and pointing devices facilitate easy use and learning on the computer.
Networking has
resulted in resource sharing and communication among different computers.

Fifth Generation (Present and Next): Using Artificial Intelligence

The goal of fifth generation computing is to develop computers that are

capable of learning and self-organization. The fifth generation computers use
Super Large Scale Integrated (SLSI) chips that are able to store millions of
components on a single chip. These computers have large
memory requirements. This generation of computers uses parallel processing
that allows several instructions to be executed in parallel, instead of serial
execution. Parallel processing results in faster processing speed. The Intel dual-
core microprocessor uses parallel processing.The fifth generation computers
are based on Artificial Intelligence (AI). They try to simulate the human way of
thinking and reasoning. Artificial Intelligence includes areas like Expert System
(ES), Natural Language Processing (NLP), speech recognition, voice recognition,
robotics, etc.
Characteristics & Features of Computer system :-

High Speed

• Computer is a very fast device.

• It is capable of performing calculation of very large amount of data.

• The computer has units of speed in microsecond, nanosecond, and even the
picosecond.

• It can perform millions of calculations in a few seconds as compared to man

who will spend many months to perform the same task.

Accuracy
• In addition to being very fast, computers are very accurate.

• The calculations are 100% error free.

• Computers perform all jobs with 100% accuracy provided that the input is
correct.

Storage Capability
• Memory is a very important characteristic of computers.

• A computer has much more storage capacity than human beings.

• It can store large amount of data.

• It can store any type of data such as images, videos, text, audio, etc.

Diligence
• Unlike human beings, a computer is free from monotony, tiredness, and lack
of concentration.

• It can work continuously without any error and boredom.

• It can perform repeated tasks with the same speed and accuracy.
Versatility
• A computer is a very versatile machine.

• A computer is very flexible in performing the jobs to be done.

• This machine can be used to solve the problems related to various fields.

• At one instance, it may be solving a complex scientific problem and the very
next moment it may be playing a card game.

Reliability
• A computer is a reliable machine.
• Modern electronic components have long lives.

• Computers are designed to make maintenance easy.

Automation
• Computer is an automatic machine.

• Automation is the ability to perform a given task automatically. Once the

computer receives a program i.e., the program is stored in the computer
memory, then the program and instruction can control the program execution
without human interaction.

Reduction in Paper Work and Cost

• The use of computers for data processing in an organization leads to

reduction in paper work and results in speeding up the process.

• As data in electronic files can be retrieved as and when required, the

problem of maintenance of large number of paper files gets reduced.

• Though the initial investment for installing a computer is high, it substantially

reduces the cost of each of its transaction.
Capabilities of Computer Systems:

1. Processing Power: Modern computers are capable of

performing complex calculations and executing instructions at
incredibly high speeds.
2. Multitasking: Computers can handle multiple tasks
simultaneously, thanks to features like multitasking operating
systems.
3. Storage: They can store vast amounts of data, from text files to
multimedia content, on various storage media such as hard
drives, SSDs, and cloud storage.
4. Data Manipulation: Computers can process and manipulate
data in a variety of ways, from performing mathematical
calculations to complex data analysis.
5. Connectivity: They can connect to networks, allowing for
communication and data exchange between multiple devices.
6. Automation: Computers can perform repetitive tasks
automatically through programming, which can greatly increase
efficiency.
7. Accuracy: When programmed correctly, computers can
perform tasks with a high level of accuracy and precision,
reducing human error.
8. Speed of Communication: Through the internet, computers
can transmit data globally at high speeds, enabling instant
communication and information sharing.
9. User Interface Variety: Computers can be interacted with
through various interfaces, including graphical user interfaces
(GUIs), command-line interfaces (CLIs), and voice recognition
systems.
10. Virtualization and Simulation: They can create virtual
environments or simulate real-world scenarios for testing,
training, and research purposes.
11. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: Computers
can be trained to recognize patterns, make predictions, and
perform tasks that were previously thought to require human
intelligence.
12. Graphics and Multimedia Processing: They can handle
complex graphics rendering and multimedia tasks, enabling
activities like video editing, gaming, and 3D modeling.

Limitations of Computer Systems:

1. Limited Processing Speed: While computers are fast, there are

computational tasks that can still be time-consuming.
2. Finite Memory Capacity: RAM has a finite size, which can limit
the amount of data a computer can process simultaneously.
3. Storage Capacity Constraints: Local storage (e.g., hard drives)
has limits, which can be a challenge when dealing with large
datasets.
4. Input and Output Bottlenecks: The speed at which data can be
transferred between the computer and its peripherals can be a
limiting factor.
5. Power Consumption: Computers require electricity, and there
are practical limits to how much power they can draw.
6. Security Vulnerabilities: Computers are susceptible to various
forms of cyber-attacks, and security measures must be in place
to protect against them.
7. Software Compatibility: Not all software is compatible with all
hardware configurations or operating systems, which can limit
application choices.
8. Lack of Common Sense or Intuition: Computers operate based
on explicit instructions provided by programmers and lack
human-like intuition.
9. Ethical and Moral Considerations: Decisions made by
computers can sometimes lead to ethical dilemmas due to the
absence of moral judgment.
10. Environmental Impact: The production and disposal of
computers can have significant environmental consequences.
Understanding these capabilities and limitations is crucial for
effectively using and managing computer systems, as well as for
making informed decisions about their deployment and
development.

Block Diagram of a Computer :-

1. Input Unit
The input unit takes all the data received by the computer. The input unit
comprises different devices such as a mouse, keyboard, scanner, etc. All
of these devices act as intermediaries between the users and the
computer. The input unit takes the data that has to be processed. The
raw data is accepted by the computer in binary form. This data is then
processed and the desired output is produced.

The major functions of the Input Unit are-

1.The Input Unit takes the data to be processed by the user.

2.The data is then converted into machine-readable form.
3.The Input Unit then transmits the converted data into the main
memory of the computer.
4.The main purpose of this process is to connect the user and the
computer by creating an easy connection between them.
2. Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The Central Processing Unit or CPU is known as the brain of the
computer. Just like the human brain controls all human activities, the CPU
also takes care of all the tasks. The CPU is responsible for performing all
the arithmetic and logical operations within the computer. All the major
calculations, operations and comparisons are performed inside the CPU.

Some of the main functions of a CPU are-

1. All the components of a computer system, software, and data

processing are controlled by the CPU.
2. The Input devices provide data to the CPU which is then executed
and then the CPU sends the output to the Output devices.
3. All the operations including the arithmetical and logical are
processed by the CPU.
The CPU comprises two parts- ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit) and CU
(Control Unit). These units work in sync to help the CPU process the
whole data. Let us know about these components-

I. Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)

The Arithmetic Logic Unit is comprised of two terms- arithmetic and logic.
The two primary functions that the ALU performs are-

1. Data is entered into the primary memory via the input unit. Then,
the ALU carries out essential arithmetic operations on this data,
including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. After
performing all sorts of calculations required on the data, it sends
back data to the storage.
2. The ALU also performs logical operations such as AND, OR, Equal to,
Less than, etc. In addition, it also handles tasks like merging,
sorting, and selecting the given data.
II. Control Unit (CU)

As the name suggests, the Control Unit (CU) is the controller of all the
activities, tasks and operations. All these operations are performed inside
the computer. The memory unit sends a set of instructions to the control
unit which is then converted by the CU. These instructions are then
converted to control signals. The purpose of these control signals is to
help in prioritizing and scheduling activities. So, the control unit ensures
that all tasks inside the computer work together smoothly, coordinating
with the input and output units.

III. Memory Unit

The Memory Unit stores all the data that has to be processed or has been
processed. The memory unit serves as a central hub for all the data. This
data is then transmitted to the required part of the computer whenever
necessary. This unit works in sync with the Central Processing Unit to help
in faster accessing and processing of the data. This results in making the
tasks easier and quicker.

Computer Memory is of two types-

Primary memory: The primary memory cannot store a vast amount of

data. Hence, it is only used to store recent data which is temporary. Once
the power is switched off, the data stored can get erased. Hence it is also
called temporary memory or main memory. An example of primary
memory is Random Access Memory (RAM). This memory is directly
accessible by the CPU and is used for reading and writing purposes. The
data has to be first transferred to the RAM and then to the CPU for
processing.
Secondary memory: Since the primary memory stores temporary data
and it cannot be accessed in the future. So, for permanent storage
purposes, secondary memory is used. It is also known as permanent
memory or auxiliary memory. An example of secondary memory is the
hard disk. The data does not get erased easily even in case of a power
failure.
3. Output Unit :-
Once the information sent to the computer is processed, the user
receives the results through the output unit. Examples of output units are
devices such as printers, monitors, projectors, etc.

The output unit presents the data either as a soft copy (on the screen) or
as a hard copy (on paper). The printer is for the hard copy. The monitor is
for the display. The output unit receives data in binary form from the
computer and converts it into a readable format for the user.

The Output Units perform these functions-

1. The Output Unit accepts all the data and information from the main
memory of a computer system in binary form.
2. The Output Unit also converts the binary data into a human-
readable form for a better understanding.

Types of Computers
A computer is a device that converts data into meaningful information, processes the
input based on the set of instructions provided by the user, and produces the desired
output.
Computers are classified into two categories based on the size of computers and
based on the data handling abilities of the computer.

Based On the
Data handling Based On Size
Capabilities

Analog Micro
Computer Computer
Analog Computer
These types of computers process analog data. (Analog data is constantly changing
data that cannot have discrete values.) These computers read the continuous
change in input, process it, and then output it.
Analog computers can be classified into four types: slide rules, differential analyzers,
castle clocks, and electronic analog computers. These computers also monitor real-
world conditions such as temperature, wind, sound, and movement.
Some of the advantages of using these types of computers are:
 Sensors are not required to convert the input/output to/from digital form.

 Since this computer supports parallel and real-time operations, many signal
values can be computed at the same time.
 The analog computer setup requires the programmer to scale the dynamic
range of the computer, which provides a good understanding of the system
and the problem.
Some of the disadvantages of using these types of computers are:
 Analog computers are quite costly.

 The accuracy of these types of computers is limited.

Hybrid Computer
A hybrid computer is made after combining analog and digital computers. As a
result, these computers are fast like analog computers and have memory and
accuracy like digital computers.
These computers are commonly used in specialized applications requiring analog
and digital data processing. A hybrid computer, for example, is used in hospitals to
monitor patients’ heartbeats.
Some of the advantages of using these types of computers are:
 Allows for online data processing

 It aids in the real-time solution of large equations.

 These types of computers produce quick and accurate results.
 It requires analog accuracy but digital computer speed.
Some of the disadvantages of using these types of computers are:
 A hybrid computer is more expensive than an analog or digital computer.

 Before designing a hybrid computer, proper planning for software,

hardware, and other configurations is required.

Digital Computer
These types of computers stores data in a numerical format (0 and 1) and performs
operations on that data using mathematical manipulation. Any input given in any
language is first converted into binary language, and then the computer processes
the information.
Some of the advantages of using these types of computers are:
 A digital computer is easily programmable; hence it can process many
different sets of instructions without being physically reconfigured.
 These types of computers can store loads of data, which is very accurate.
 Digital computers are more reliable, flexible, and compatible than analog
computers.
Some of the disadvantages of using these types of computers are:
 Analog computers use less energy and generate less heat than digital
computers.
 The components of a digital computer are highly fragile; hence it should be
handled with extreme care, as a single unit can bring an entire unit down.

microcomputer :- A microcomputer, often simply referred to as a "PC"

(personal computer), is a type of computer that uses a microprocessor as its
central processing unit (CPU). These computers are designed for individual use
and are typically small and affordable compared to larger mainframe and
minicomputers.

Some of the advantages of using these types of computers are:

Affordability: Microcomputers are relatively affordable compared to larger computer

systems like mainframes and minicomputers. This makes them accessible to a wide
range of individuals and organizations.

Compact Size: They are small and compact, which means they can fit on a desk or
even be portable (in the case of laptops and tablets). This makes them suitable for
environments where space is limited.

Individual Use: Microcomputers are designed for individual use, allowing users to
have their own computing environment tailored to their specific needs and
preferences.

Versatility: They are highly versatile and can be used for a wide range of tasks, from
word processing and internet browsing to gaming, programming, graphic design, and
more.

Some of the disadvantages of using these types of computers are:

Limited Processing Power : Microcomputers, especially entry-level models, may

have limited processing power compared to larger computing systems. This can
affect their ability to handle resource-intensive tasks.

Limited Scalability: While microcomputers can be upgraded to some extent (e.g.,

adding more RAM or a larger hard drive), they have limitations in terms of scalability
compared to larger computer systems.

Security Concerns: Microcomputers may be more susceptible to security threats

such as viruses, malware, and hacking attempts, especially if not properly protected
with security software and practices.

Dependence on Power Supply: Microcomputers rely on a stable power supply, and

any disruptions can lead to data loss or system instability.

Minicomputer
Minicomputers are smaller, less expensive, and less powerful than mainframes or
supercomputers but more pricey and powerful than personal computers. These
computers are multi-user systems with more than one user working simultaneously.
These computers are primarily used for engineering and scientific computations, file
management, business transaction processing, and other similar tasks.
Some of the advantages of using these types of computers are:
 Mini computers are inexpensive.

 Suitable for both private and commercial usage

 Due to their small size, it is easy to transport and use these types of
computers.
 This computer makes no noise during operation because it lacks heat
dissipation via fans.
Some of the disadvantages of using these types of computers are:
 These computers do not have either a CD or a DVD drive.

 The screen size in these types of computers is small, as is the keyboard.

 These computers cannot be upgraded because the hardware components
inside are fixed.
 Because they have limited RAM space, these computers cannot store large
amounts of data.

Mainframe computer
Mainframe computers have a large amount of memory and processors and can
perform billions of transactions and simple calculations in real time. This type of
computer is primarily used for transaction servers, commercial databases, and
applications that require high reliability, security, and speed. These are the
computers to have when ‘0’ downtime is acceptable.

Some of the advantages of using this type of computer are:

 Manages terabytes of data in databases

 Handles high-bandwidth communication with ease

 Processes thousands of transactions per second on a large scale
 Support thousands of users and application programs accessing numerous
resources at the same time
Some of the disadvantages of using this type of computer are:
 A mainframe computer has significantly more expensive than a regular
computer.
 A mainframe computer requires more space, and a regular person cannot
perform maintenance.
 Because of the hardware components, installing a mainframe computer is
more complex than installing a regular computer.
 Environmental constraints must be met when placing mainframe
computers, such as the temperature of the surroundings should not be
excessively high.

Supercomputer
Supercomputers are the largest and fastest computers, capable of processing
trillions of functions in seconds. These computers are primarily used for data-
intensive and computation-intensive scientific tasks such as password encryption
and decryption, weather forecasting, exploring the solar system, molecular modeling,
etc.
Some of the advantages of using this type of computer are:
 Enables virtual testing

 Calculates up to ten trillion individual calculations per second

 Allows you to decrypt and encrypt your password easily
 Solves more significant issues and can be used for research and
development
 Runs more problems in less time and has advanced graphic capabilities
Some of the disadvantages of using this type of computer are:
 It is pricey and takes up a lot of space.

 This type of computer necessitates the use of trained personnel.

 It is not suitable for day-to-day operations and is best suited for specific
applications.

PERSONAL COMPUTERS
A personal computer (PC) is a general-purpose computing device designed for
individual use. It is intended to be operated directly by an end user, as opposed to a
mainframe or a server that is designed to support multiple users or processes
simultaneously.

personal computers come in various forms, including desktops, laptops, tablets, and
even some specialized devices like workstations or gaming PCs. They are equipped
with a central processing unit (CPU), memory (RAM), storage devices (such as hard
drives or solid-state drives), input/output ports, and typically run an operating system
(such as Windows, macOS, or Linux) that provides a user interface and manages
software applications.

Personal computers are used for a wide range of tasks, including word processing,
internet browsing, email, gaming, multimedia playback, graphic design,
programming, and much more. They have become an integral part of modern life
and are used in homes, businesses, educational institutions, and various industries
around the world.

Different Types of Personal Computers ( PC )

Today Personal computers come in different shapes & sizes, they can be used
for various purposes. There are various types of personal computers which
are given below.

1.Desktop Computer
A desktop computer is a type of PC it is designed & developed to be used on
a desk and table. Basically, desktop computers are in big size & heavy weight
it is used in a fixed place. There are different types of desktop computer.
A desktop computer is not a portable computer because it is made of different
components that are connected together & create a functional computing
system.
There are various components of a desktop computer, such as -
CPU, Motherboard, Memory, Storage device, Input devices, Output devices &
Power supply.

2. Laptop Computers

Laptop computers are also known as notebook computers. The laptop is a

portable personal computer it is developed to be used to move from one
place to another place easily.
A laptop computer is used for various work, such as - Word processing, Web
browsing, Email, Entertainment & Video editing. There are various types of
laptop computers.
Laptop computers have similar components to desktop computers, but laptop
components are integrated into a single board. Some of the key components
of a laptop computer. Such as - Central Processing Unit, Memory, Storage
device, Display, Keyboard, Touchpad & Battery.
3.Tablet Computers

Tablet computers are portable computing devices it is used to phone call,

video call, internet surfing, Sending Emails, reading e-books, watching videos
& playing games.
Tablet PC is designed to be held in our hands and offers a more compact and
lightweight compared to laptops and desktop computers.
Specially Tablet computers are used for games & education purposes.

There are various features of Tablet computers which are given below.

 Touchscreen
 Android OS
 Portability
 Connectivity
 Long Battery Life

4.Palmtop(Handheld Computers):
palmtop computers are also known as handheld devices. Handheld PC is
small & portable computing devices that are designed to be held and
operated with one hand.

Handheld computers are equipped with embedded processors, memory,

storage & operating systems by which users are capable to perform various
tasks on the go.

Handheld computers are typically compact in size and offer a various range of
functionalities & features, such as - Computing, Communication, multimedia,
Touchscreens, Applications, Portability & Long battery life.
Smartphones, Tablets, Personal Digital Assistants, Handheld Gaming Consoles,
Handheld Barcode Scanners & E-book Readers are examples of handheld
computers.