COMPUTER CLASSIFICATION

Computers may be classified based on the followings;-

i. Classification by process/Operating principles (Based on their construction and workings)

ii. Applications/Purpose.
iii. Size and capability.
iv. Numbers of Micro-processors
v. Number of users

CLASSIFICATION BASED ON OPERATING PRINCIPELS/CLASSIFICATION BY PROCESS

In this Category, computers are classified according to how the data processed is represented. In
Computers, data is processed when presented in the form of either discrete values, variable quantities or
both.

Therefore, classification of computers in this category can further be classified as:

A. Digital computers
B. Analog computers
C. Hybrid Computers.

i. DIGITAL COMPUTERS;
Digital computers are computers whose characters are represented to the computers in form
of bits and bytes.
Alternatively; Digital computers are computers that process data that is represented in form
of discrete values.

Discrete values are those values that are defined or “whole” these are values like 1,2,3,4 etc.
The actual values that modern computers represent their data processed is the binary digits
i.e. the states of “1” and “0”. Examples of digital computers includes; all personal
computers(PCs), Laptops, Digital Watches.

ii. ANALOG COMPUTERS

These are computers which process data that are in continuous form or measurable quantities
or units.
Alternatively; Analog computers are computers that process data that varies continuously
e.g. weather forecasting, pressure, electrical voltage etc. Therefore, analog computers
process information by comparing data to standardized scales. Example of analogue devices
 includes those used in devices like thermometers, voltmeters and common speedometers in
cars.

iii. HYBRID COMPUTERS

Hybrid computers as the name suggests, Are those computers that use both features of the
analog and digital computers. They may process analogous data converted in digital form or
the reverse process.

CLASSIFICATION BASED ON APPLICATION/PURPOSE

Computers can be categorized by purpose; whereby they are classified according to the type of tasks they
are designed to perform. The two categories in this classification are;-
i. Special Purpose computers.
ii. General Purpose computers.

A. SPECIAL PURPOSE COMPUTERS

These are computers designed for a particular job and solve a particular problem of a
restricted nature. For examples computers used in digital watches, petrol pump, car
security alarm, calculators etc. For instance, in digital watches and calculators, it computes
no other tasks other than time and arithmetic computations respectively.

B. GENERAL PURPOSE COMPUTERS.

These are computers designed to solve a wide variety of problems/activities. A typical
computer in this category can perform calculations, keeps dates and time, typeset
documents and perform several other tasks.

CLASSIFICATION ACCORDING TO SIZE/CAPACITY

Here, we consider the physical size and the number of people the computer can accommodate at
the same time. The categories that falls under this classification includes;-
i. Super Computers.
ii. Mainframe computers
iii. Mini computers
 iv. Micro Computers.
SUPER COMPUTERS
These are high intelligent specialized computers designed to handle sophisticated tasks in large
plants.

A super computer is the fastest, most powerful computer and the most expensive. They were
designed to perform calculation as fast as the current technology allows and used to solve complex
problems. It is used in defense, climate and weather stations, scientific research, and
manufacturing plants.

Application of Super Computers

(a) In petroleum industry; to analyze huge volumes of data gathered during oil seeking
exploration to identify areas of possibility of getting petroleum products.
(b) In meteorological centre; for weather forecasting.
(c) In aerospace industry; to stimulate airflow around an aircraft at different speeds and altitude
to help manufacturers produce effective aerodynamic design for best performance.
(d) In automobile industry; to stimulate designs of automobiles before manufacturing.
(e) In biomedical research; for making atomic nuclear and study of viruses e.g. HIV, ebola.
(f) For weapon research and development, sending rockets in space and managing them in
space.
(g) In structural mechanics; to solve complex engineering problem to ensure safety, reliability,
and costs effectiveness. E.g. designing of bridge.

Examples of super computers are;- Cray-X-MP-14, CDC-205, ETA GF-10, FUJITSU VP-400,
NEC SX-2, PARAM, Pace etc.

Characteristics of super computers

(h) They are approximately 50,000 times faster than microcomputers.
(i) They can handle large Volumes of scientific computations.
(j) They are generally the most expensive in terms of initial outlay and maintenance costs.
(k) Consumes a lot of electricity power which could light up to about 100 houses.
(l) Have hundreds of processors.
(m) Has large storage capacity.

Advantages of super computers

i. Decreased processing time.
ii. Saves costs (Testing are done from computer instead of physical test)
 iii. Improved safety (Highly dangerous operation and testing can be stimulated using super
computers)
Disadvantages
i. It is expensive.
ii. Takes up a lot of space.
iii. Requires a trained staff.
iv. Does not replace physical testing.
v. May only be good for specific applications.
vi. Requires special maintenance required to cool them.

MAINFRAME COMPUTERS
 These are computers which can support processing requirement of a hundred to a thousand
users at a time. The basic principle here is that each user works separately at a separate
terminal that consists of an input and output devices (e.g. Keyboard, monitor and a mouse) but
they all share the same processing unit. They are used mostly by banks, aviation companies,
universities, etc.

Areas of application of Mainframe computers

i. Used to process large amount of data at a very high speed such as in Banks/Insurance,
companies/Hospitals, Railway stations etc.
ii. It is used in Space exploration.
iii. Used to manage large centralized database.
Characteristics of Mainframe computers
 They have relatively stronger multi-processors if compared to mini-computers.
 They are relatively big if compared to micro and mini-computers.
 They are relatively expensive if compared to mini-computers.

MINI COMPUTERS
These computers are also known as mid-range computers. These are computers, which can support 2-
50 users at a time. It also uses the same principal as the mainframe computers but is considerably
smaller. They are mainly used in educational institution, industrial areas and industrial areas.
Characteristics of Mini-Computers
They also have the following features:
 Have multiprocessor CPUs.
 They are relatively expensive if compared to micro-computers.
 They are used in small and medium size.
MICRO COMPUTERS
These are computers which can support one person at a time. They are also called personal
computers (PCs). Personal computers are usually meant to be used by only one person at a time.
Micro-processor have smallest memory and least expensive. Typical examples includes;- IBM
PS/2, Apple Macintosh computers etc.

Characteristics of Micro-Computer.
They also have the following additional characteristics;
 Use a micro-processor chip as its CPU.
 They are the smallest type.
 Relatively cheap.
 They permit fewer peripherals to be attached.

Micro-computers in this classification can further be categorized as;-

- Desktop computers.
- Notebook/Laptop computers
- Palmtops/Personal Digital Assistance/Handheld computers.
- Tablet computers
- Smart phones

i. Desktop Computers
These are computers designed for use on desk in an office environment. That is to say,
they are designed so that the system unit, input devices and any other devices fit entirely
on a desk or table. A typical desktop computer is characteristics with a separate keyboard
unit, a computer system unit, and a desktop mouse as the common detachable
components.

Benefit
- They are easier to upgrade and expand.
- New components/parts can be added easily.
- It is less costly.
ii. Laptop computers/Notebook computers
These are PCs sufficiently small enough for its users to set it on his laps or carry
around. They operate on a main electricity supply or by a re-charge battery, they are
portable.

Benefit
- They are portable.
- Can be charged.
Disadvantage
 - Difficult to upgrade its component.
iii. PALMTOPS/PERSONAL DIGITAL ASSISTANTS/HANDHELD COMPUTERS

These are handheld digital computers that emulate the features of a desktop computer. Due to
their size, PDA’s have been designed to perform routine tasks like checking e-mails,
appointment reminders, calculators and other basic function.

The most common characteristics of a PDA is the flat touch screen and a pen like stick (Stylus)
that is used with the help of a few button to act as the input devices.

iv. Tablet computers

Tablet PCs are mobile PCs. That combines features of laptops and handheld computers. Like
laptops, they are powerful and have a built-in screen. You can write notes or draw pictures
usually with a tablet pen instead of a stylus. They can also convert your handwriting into text.

v. Smart phones

Are mobile phones with some capabilities similar to those of a desktop/laptop computer. You
can use a smart phone to make telephone calls, access the internet, organize contact
information, send emails and text messages, play games, and watch movies amongst others.
They usually have a large touch screen without a physical keyboard but a virtual one.

vi. Wearable/Wrists Computers

The latest trend in computing is wearable computers. Essentially, common computer

applications like email, database, multimedia, calendar/scheduler, recorders etc are integrated
into watches, cell phones, visor and even belts.

CHARACTERISTICS OF COMPUTERS
Computers has the following characteristics;-
i. Speed; Computers are very fast in their operation in that their processing speeds are
measured in millions of instructions per second. Therefore, a computer with 100MIPS is
capable of processing about 100 instructions per second.
ii. Accuracy; once given the right instructions, computers is very precise and exact.
Computers are even capable of detecting mistakes and correcting them once made by
the users. In fact, computer users make mistakes not the computers. Just as the saying
goes, garbage in, garbage out.
iii. Storage; Unlike other data processors, computers are capable holding data for long
time without losing it through their storage media like; HDD, CDs, flash disks, DVDs,
etc.
 iv. Diligence; computers have the ability to perform the same tasks repeatedly, without
getting bored and each time, they produce consistent result without any divergence
from the previous results. For example, computerized industrial robots.
v. Artificial Intelligence; Computers are very intelligent devices and can receive and
respond to requests, and give the appropriate response. When a computer outputs the
result from a computation, it is considered to be intelligent but of course it is artificial.
vi. Versatility; Modern computers can perform different tasks at the same time. This is
also known as multitasking.
vii. Automation: Computers possess the ability to work automatically. They do not need to
be reminded to perform any of the instructions when executing a programmed routine.
For example, you do not need to remind a computer to sound a daily alarm at a specific
time, yet its routine was set for that function

ADVANTAGES OF USING COMPUTERS

i. High speed; computers are very fast with the capability of performing millions of tasks
or calculations in a few second unlike human being, who can spend months doing the
same tasks.
ii. Accuracy; In addition to being fasts, computers can perform jobs 100 percent error
free.
iii. Storage capability; computers have much more storage capability than human beings.
They can store large volumes of data and all types (images, videos, text, audio and any
other types).
iv. Diligence; Unlike human beings, a computer is free from monotony, tiredness and lack
of concentration. It can continuously do the same work without errors and boredoms.
v. Versatility; computers are highly versatile with flexibility to solve problems relating to
different fields. You can be editing a video while at the same time performing a complex
calculation.
vi. Reliability; computers are highly reliable machines designed to make maintenance
easy.
vii. Automation; computers can perform tasks automatically. Once a program is given to
the computer, the program and instructions can control the program execution without
human interaction.
viii. Reduction in operation expenditure; The use of computers for data processing in
businesses and organizations has led to reduction in paper work and speeds up the
process. Data in electric files can be retrieved if required, the problems of maintenance
of large number of files gets reduced.

DISADVANTAGES OF USING COMPUTERS

 i. No feelings; computers have no feeling. They cannot make judgments based on
feelings, tastes, experience and knowledge unlike a human being.
ii. Unemployment; a number of tasks are now performed automatically using computers.
It reduces the need for labour (people) thereby increasing unemployment in society.
iii. Wastage of time; There are many people who use computers and smart gadgets
(phones and media players without positive purpose). They play games and chat for a
long period of time. Causes wastage of time and energy.
iv. Information/data insecurity; Information stored on computers can be accessed by
unauthorized people with bad intentions. Such data can be leaked to the public and
cause problems in the society.
v. Computer crimes; some people use computers for negative activities. They hack into
banks, government information and communication database and misuse the
information to steal from such organizations.
vi. Privacy violation; computers are used to store private data. People’s privacy can be
violated if the personal and confidential records are not protected properly.
vii. Health risks; the improper and prolonged use of computers can result in injury or
disorders of the back, eyes, elbows, wrist, hands and the brains.

APPLICATION OF ICT/COMPUTERS IN DIFFERENT AREAS

ICT/computers have many applications in our daily life. The application of ICT/Computer can be
discussed into details under the following categories.
- Education - Arts, Leisure and Entertainment
- Business - Industrial, Technical and Scientific Uses.
- Health/Medical Field - Office
- Military and Security

A. MEDICAL FIELD
1. Hospital Administration; Hospital is an important organization. Computers can be used in
the administration of hospital i.e. Accounting, Payroll management, Stock system, Record
keeping of different medicines, their distribution and use in different wards etc.
2. Recording Medical History; Computers can be used to store medical histories of patients.
It can store important facts about a patient, his/her past treatment, suggested medications
and the results.
3. Monitoring system; some serious patients must be monitored continuously. Monitoring is
needed especially in operation theatres and intensive care units. Many computerized
devices are used to monitor the blood pressure, heartbeat and brain of the patients.
 4. Life support system; Life support system are used to help the disabled persons. Many
devices are used that help deaf persons to hear, Scientists are trying to create a device to
help blind person to see.
5. Diagnosis of Diseases; Different software are available to store data about different
diseases and their symptoms. Diagnosis of diseases is possible by entering the symptoms
of a patient. Different computerized devices are used in laboratory for differ tests of blood.
6. Medical training; Medical training is facilitated by simulation software and online data
sources

Advantages of using computer monitor the Health of Patients

- Reduce the risk of exposing the nurses to contagious diseases.
- Computer readings are more accurate.
- Graph can be produced automatically.
- Reading can be taken frequently or continuously.
- Automatic working can be generated.

B. USES OF ICT/COMPUTER IN DEFENSE /MILITARY/SECURITY FIELD;

There are many uses of computers in defense such as;-
i. Controlling UAV or unmanned air-crafts, security cameras, automatic number plates
recognition etc.
ii. They are also used on Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs) that uses GPS and
computers to help the missile get to the target.
iii. Computers are used to track incoming missiles and help slew weapons systems onto
the incoming target to destroy them.
iv. Computers are used in helping the military find out where all their assets are
(Situational Awareness) and in communication/Battle management system.
v. Computers are used in logistics and ordering functions of getting equipments to and
around the battlefield.
vi. Computers are used to hold records of personnel and are very useful in field hospitals.
vii. Computers are used in Tanks and planes and ships to target enemy forces.
viii. Computers are used to hold documents, maintenance records and records of events.

C. APPLICATION OF ICT/COMPUTER IN OFFICE

Office automation is the process of automating office tasks. Many types of tasks are performed in
an office. These tasks include;-
i. Decision-making.
ii. Data Manipulation.
 iii. Document Handling.
iv. Communication and storage.
Many computerized technologies are used to perform these activities in an office easily. Some
computerized systems used in an office are as follows;-
a) Document Management system (DMS); DSM consists of different applications like word
processing, desktop publishing, reprographic, image processing and archival storage
applications
i. Word processing; Is used to create document electronically. It is used to produce
high quality letters, proposals, reports and brochures etc.
ii. Desktop publishing; Is used to make these documents attractive with photos and
graphics etc. it is used to publish the documents.
iii. Spreadsheet application; is used to maintain records and calculate expenses,
profits and losses. It is also used to perform mathematical, statistical and logical
processing.
iv. Reprographics; Is the process of producing multiple copies of a document.
v. Image processing; is used to scan and store an image in the computer. It can also
modify and improve the quality of images.
b) Message Handling System; It is used to send messages or documents from one location
to another. Many techniques are used for this purpose such as facsimile (fax), email and
voice mails etc.
c) Office Support system; It is used to coordinate and manage the activities of a work group.
The members of a workgroup can share their work and coordinate with one another. Group
ware and desktop organizers are example of the system.
d) Telecommuting; computers enable people to work from home using computers connected
to the employer’s network or via the internet.

D. USES OF COMPUTERS IN BUSINESS

The use of computer technology in business provides many facilities. Business men are using
computers to interact with their customers anywhere in the world. Many business tasks are
performed more quickly and efficiently. Computers are used in business in the following ways;-
i. Communication; Communication is key when gaining and maintaining clients and
other important contacts. Computers give businesses access to email, instant
messaging and customer care contact system. Computerized phone system allow for
automated support during off-hours and a virtual operator can quickly direct callers to
the direct department for faster support.
 ii. Marketing; Computers allows business to create websites, stunning ads and complete
marketing campaigns. Marketing videos and custom adverts can be edited and created
with specialized software.
iii. Accounting; Accounting soft wares in computers allow businesses to simply input their
financial data and instantly see gains and losses. All necessary tax reports are
available the moment the data is entered. Using the computers for invoicing, managing
expenses and calculating payroll is vital to ensure financial data is as accurate as
possible.
iv. Storage; Instead of filing cabinets, businesses are able to store millions of files using
computers and servers. Data can be stored centrally for easy access from multiple
computers or stored locally for individual use. Computerized storage saves space and
provides a far more efficient organization strategy.
v. Documents and reports; Most businesses have some sort of productivity software
which typically includes a word processor and spreadsheet application. These two
programs allow businesses to create reports, memos, tutorials and even colorful
adverts for company events.
vi. Research; From learning more about the competitors to discovering what customers
really want, researching isn’t as difficult as it once was. This has been made possible
by the use of computers. The internet provides a wealth of information and research
data for businesses.
vii. Education; Businesses use computers to help educate employees on software,
company policies, standard procedures and safety. Instead of hiring teachers,
computers can be used to educate employees at their own pace or through online
webinar with live questions and answers.
viii. Budgeting and forecasting; Computer is very helpful for budgeting and forecasting.
There are many soft wares available for budgeting and forecasting. This software are
helpful for estimating future sales and business expansion. Spreadsheet programs such
as excel are helpful for budgeting and forecasting.
ix. Managing employees; Human resource software can help businesses do everything
from finding potential employees to disciplining them when problems occur. By storing
employees information in a central repository, Human resource applications also makes
it easier for Human resource personnel to track employee performance, maintain
information about benefits and communicate with employees effectively.

E. APPLICATION OF COMPUTERS IN EDUCATION FIELD.

i. For Simulation of experiment or real life situations that may be hazardous/dangerous
e.g. nuclear reaction.
 ii. Computer Based Training (CBT): For example computer Assisted instruction (CAI)
which helps the teachers to present teaching materials in a more interesting way.
iii. Computer Assisted Learning (CAL); Here the students use computers and
appropriate software to learn at their own pace.
iv. Online Education (E-Learning); this is a form of distant learning where classes are
attended over the internet.
v. Research work; Computers are also used for research work. Internet is a huge source
of information on any topic. Different researchers can share their research work using
the internet.
vi. Computer Assisted assessments (CAA); Here, computer can be used to assess the
learner’s progress which may reduce the time and labour to mark the answer script.
vii. Institute Administration; Computers are being used to perform many tasks in
educational institutions easily and quickly; for example;-
- Keeping records of students.
- Storing records of employees of the school.
- Managing accounts of the institutions.
- Fees collection and maintenance of fees record.
- Circulation of instructions/notices and getting it in printed form.
- Preparation of school or college magazines etc.
viii. Online registration (E-registration); Is a system which allow schools/institutions to
register students, upload photos and download resources from the portal through the
internet.

F. APPLICATION OF COMPUTERS (ICT) IN BANKS

The use of ICTs in business will focus on banking electronic money transfer and electronic Funds
transfer. The followings are some application of ICT in banking sector;

i. Online Banking; Online banking also known as internet banking, e-banking or virtual
banking is an electronic payment system that enables a bank customer or other
financial institutions to conduct arrangement of financial transactions through the
internet.

Services offered by Online Banking;

- Viewing the status of the account such as balance and transaction history.
- It usually allows users to transfer funds, bills, requests, and cheque books.
- Download monthly transaction information (e-statement)
ii. Automatic Teller Machine (ATM); An ATM is a self banking machine attached to a
host computer through network.
Services offered by ATM Machine
o Cash withdrawal.
o Cash and Cheque deposit.
o Obtain account balance.
o Transfer money between accounts.
Benefits of Using ATM in the Banking sector
o ATM offers 24hours services i.e. money can be withdrawn or deposited
anytime.
o Confidentiality of transactions; the cashier will not know how much one has
withdrawn.
o Financial facilities can be accessed from any affiliated branches.
iii. Electronic Fund Transfer (E.F.T); Electronic transfer of funds refers to any transfer of
funds initiated through an electronic terminal including credit card, ATM and Point of
Sales (P.O.S) transactions. It is used for both credit transfers, such as payroll payment
and for debit transfer such as mortgage payment.
iv. Cheque Clearing; It is a process of moving a cheque from the banks in which it was
deposited to the bank on which it was withdrawn. And the movement of money in the
opposite direction.

v. Mobile Money Transfer; Mobile money is an electronic wallet service which enables
users to keep, send and receive money using their mobile phones.
Advantages of Mobile Money
o Time saving- Money transfer between virtual accounts usually takes a few minute
and faster.
o Reduce risks of loss and theft of cash.
o User-friendly, mobile service is designed to suit variety of users.
o Money can be sent and received at any time.
Disadvantages of Mobile Money
o Mobile money depends entirely on a network i.e. when there is no network, there is
no service.
o It requires a phone which may be expensive for others.