Page 32 - Computer

Computer Science Classification of be Personal Computers
Personal Computers (PCs) are small computers
computers
designed for personal use. Their small sizes,
computers
can
Modern
capabilities, and affordable prices make them
classified using different criteria.
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This section uses four main criteria
software applications that are installed on
to classify computers. useful and comfortable for personal use. Some
PCs include, word processing, spreadsheets,
Classification based on databases, web browsers, and e-mail clients.
performance Personal computers may be connected to
Based on this criterion, computers a network using either a cable or a wireless
are classified into personal connection. A personal computer may be a
computers, workstation computers, desktop or a laptop as shown in Figure 2.2 (a)
minicomputers, mainframe and (b), respectively.
computers, and supercomputers.

(a) Desktop (b)Laptop

Figure 2.2: Examples of personal computers

Workstation computers

Workstation computers are desktop computers that are more powerful than normal
PCs in terms of processing power. Workstation computers have very good graphics
capabilities and large display screens (monitors). These computers are mainly used
by engineers and scientists for demanding tasks that require high processing power
and high-quality images. For example, Computer-Aided Design (CAD), used in

engineering designs, and Computer Aid Manufacturing (CAM), used to automate
manufacturing processes, constitute tasks that need high processing power. Figure
2.3 shows an example of an engineering workstation computer with multiple
monitors.

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