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•   Digital: It refers to a device that uses binary digits (0’s and 1’s) to generate,
                    process, and display data. The results produced by digital computers are more

                    accurate than analog computers. They work as per IPO (Input - Process - Output)
                    cycle. All the modern computers that we currently use, like desktops, laptops, and
                    smartphones, are examples of digital computers. Some other examples of digital
                    computers are digital watch, digital thermometer, electricity meter, etc.
                                                                                                     A Digital Computer
                  •   Hybrid: It refers to a computer that provides the functionality of both,

                    an analog and a digital  computer while processing and displaying
                    data. It uses the speed of an analog computer and the accuracy of
                    a  digital  computer.  These  types  of  computers  are  generally  used
                    in  scientific  research  and  specialised  applications.  The  heartbeat
                    measuring machine , ECG machine and Ultrasound machine used
                    in hospitals are the most common examples of a hybrid computer.               A Hybrid Computer

                  Purpose

                  On the basis of the purpose of computers, they can be of two types:
                  •   General Purpose Computer: It refers to a computer that can perform different kinds of jobs
                    with equal efficiency. Personal computers, including desktops, notebooks, smartphones, and
                    tablets, are all examples of general-purpose computers. They are commonly found in homes,

                    offices and schools.
                  •   Special Purpose Computer: It refers to a computer with unique operating systems that are
                    made to perform specific tasks and functions. It does the specific task very quickly and cannot
                    be used for any other purpose. These types of computers are generally used for controlling
                    the process of manufacturing and for weather forecasting systems. Other examples of Special

                    Purpose  Computer  include  Automatic  teller  machine,  traffic-control  computer  and  military
                    planes controlling computer.
                  Size, Speed, Processing Power and Cost

                  Computers  differ  in  size,  processing  power,  speed,  and  cost.  On  the  basis  of  these  factors,
                  computers can be categorised as follows:
                  Microcomputer


                  A microcomputer is a type of computer that has one microprocessor as its processing unit. It is
                  a small and less expensive digital computer. This type of computer is made to be used by a single
                  user at a time. A Microcomputer is also called a Personal Computer (PC). Some examples of
                  microcomputers are:

                  •   Desktop: A desktop is primarily used in offices and at homes.
                    It  is  designed  to  fit  comfortably  on  a  desk.  It  is  a  personal
                    computer developed for regular use and generally placed in a
                    single location on a desk or table. All its components, such as
                    a keyboard, mouse, and storage devices, are connected to CPU                      Desktop



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