Types of computer according to purpose

According to purpose, computers are used by the nature of task to be performed. On the basis of purpose, computers are classified in to the following ways:

 General purpose computers

General purpose computers are designed so that they do not require any specific instruction in order to compile problems and tasks. They are programmed in their design to do themselves. These computers are common in day to day life and are often used to perform tasks including data processing and numerical problems. Personal computers that are used at home or at work are general purpose computers. General purpose computers are used for everyday use at homes for family use, or inside our offices. All computers from micro to mainframe are general purpose. Even computers in toys, games and single-function devices follow instructions in their built-in programs. It can be used for typing documents, listening to music, watching movies, browsing the web or for playing video games.

 Special purpose computers

The special purpose computers are not designed to be versatile in their tasks and require human input to do them. Their purpose is in built when the computer is being designed and cannot be reprogrammed. They can be designed to perform for only numerical or data processing tasks among others. Special purpose computers are designed to do a specific job for special purpose. These computers also have the same components such as the CPU, monitor, keyboard, etc. The only difference is that the keyboard is designed to input numeric characters and pre-set product and price combinations. The computer will not run any other program other than the defined system. These computers include: Home appliances, Toys and games, Cash machines, Vehicle computers, etc.

 

Difference between General purpose computers and special purpose computers

 

General purpose computers	Special purpose computers
1.      General purpose computers are designed to perform variety of common tasks.	1. Special purpose computers are designed for a specific application.
2.      General purpose computers are more versatile.	2. Special purpose computers are less versatile.
3.      These computers are less efficient than special purpose computers.	3. They are more efficient than general purpose computers.