Mainframe ComputerUsed to process large amounts of information quickly.

Extremely large.

Applications• Government departments• Airline industry• Weather forecasting• Commerce (banks)

Processor 1 Processor 2

Processor 4Processor 3

Mainframe ComputerContains several very fast processors.

Large tasks are shared between the processors (known as multi-processing).

Task

Processor 1 Processor 2

Processor 4Processor 3

Mainframe ComputerContains several very fast processors.

Or each processor can be given a separate task to do.

Task Task Task Task

Task Task

Task Task

Mainframe ComputerRAM can be up to several terabytes.

Backing storage is provided via hard disk packs, and backed up to tape.

Mainframe ComputerUsers connect to the mainframe via a dumb terminal which has no processor or memory.

Desktop ComputerUsed by an individual at work, school or home.

Applications• Word processing• Graphics• Database• Spreadsheet• Internet• Email• Gamesetc.

Desktop ComputerOriginally contained a single processor, but many desktop computers now have dual or quad processors.

Desktop ComputerOriginally contained a single processor, but many desktop computers now have dual or quad processors

Processor speedFrom 1.6GHz to 3.5GHz

Desktop ComputerOriginally contained a single processor, but many desktop computers now have dual or quad processors

Processor speedFrom 1.6GHz to 3.5GHz

MemoryFrom 2GB to 8GB

Desktop ComputerOriginally contained a single processor, but many desktop computers now have dual or quad processors

Backing storageHard disk drive - 80Gb to 1TbCD-RW disk - 850MbDVD-RW disk - 4.7Gb

Processor speedFrom 1.6GHz to 3.5GHz

MemoryFrom 2GB to 8GB

Desktop ComputerOriginally contained a single processor, but many desktop computers now have dual or quad processors

Backing storageHard disk drive - 80Gb to 1TbCD-RW disk - 850MbDVD-RW disk - 4.7Gb

Input / Output devicesKeyboard, mouse, printer, monitor, microphone, speakers, scanner, digital camera.

Processor speedFrom 1.6GHz to 3.5GHz

MemoryFrom 2GB to 8GB

Laptop ComputerSame applications as a desktop computer, but it is portable.

Similar processors, memory and backing storage as found in a desktop computer. Generally laptop computers have a slightly lesser specification than desktop models.

The price of an average laptop = much more powerful desktop.

Palmtop ComputerUsed by an individual while on the move.

Also know as PDAs (Personal Desktop Assistants) or Handheld Computers.

Applications• Word processing• Sketchpad• Diary• Notes• Email• Database• Spreadsheetetc.

Palmtop ComputerPalmtop processor speeds range from 100 MHz to 1 GHz.

Memory ranges from 32MB to 512MB.

Smartphones and TabletsSince the launch of the iPhone in 2007, the line between palmtops and mobile phones has blurred. A mobile phone which can surf the net and run other applications is known as a Smartphone.

In 2010 Apple launched the iPad heralding another new category of device – the Tablet.

Embedded ComputerUsed to control dedicated systems.

CreditsHigher Computing – Computer Structure – Types of Computer

Produced by P. Greene for the City of Edinburgh Council 2004

Adapted by M. Cunningham 2010

All images licenced under Creative Commons 3.0• Mainframe Computer by Dave Winer (scrtiptingnews on Flickr)• IBM Mainframes by Tom Purves• Hard disk pack by Barry Demchak, Torrey Pines Software, Inc• VIA VB8003-Top-heatsink by viagallery.com• Intel Core i5 by Flutlicht PR on Flickr• 1GB DDR3 Memory Module by William Warby (wwarby on Flickr)• Logitech MX518 Gaming Mouse by gcg2009 on Flickr• Sony Compact Digital Camera by Digitpedia.Com

CreditsHigher Computing – Computer Structure – Types of Computer

Produced by P. Greene for the City of Edinburgh Council 2004

Adapted by M. Cunningham 2010

All images licenced under Creative Commons 3.0• Apple Keyboard by Declan Jewell• TT2 Laptop by KIE HPI• ESOM270_eSOM300_Computer_on_Modules by Lakshmin• LG Washing Machine by LGEPR• Sharp Carousel Microwave by Chris Kelly• BMW 750Li by Paul Tan