Computer Studies / Information Communication Technology (ICT)

Topic: Classification of Computers by Size

Class: SS 1

Term: First Term

Week: Week 6

Reference Materials:

• Online Materials
• Scheme of Work
• Textbooks

Instructional Materials:

• Computer Studies Resources
• Online Resources

Previous Knowledge:

The pupils have prior knowledge of the Classification of Computers by Types, which was taught in the previous lesson.

Behavioral Objectives:

At the end of the lesson, the pupils should be able to:

1. State another name for a supercomputer.
2. Mention two examples of mainframe computers.
3. Explain the concept of a supercomputer.
4. Write out two characteristics of a supercomputer.

Content

Week Six: Classification of Computers by Size

Computers can be generally categorized into four major types based on their size:

1. Supercomputers
2. Mainframe Computers
3. Mini Computers
4. Micro Computers

1. Supercomputers

Supercomputers are the largest, fastest, and most expensive type of computers, with costs reaching several million dollars. They can execute between 600 million to 900 million instructions per second (MIPS).

• Alternate Name: Supercomputers are often referred to as “monsters” due to their processing power.
• Applications: They are extensively used in fields that require intensive computations, such as weather forecasting, scientific simulations, and complex calculations.
• Examples: Notable examples include CRAY and X-MP supercomputers.

2. Mainframe Computers

Mainframe computers are large-scale computers that are characterized by their high price, extensive internal memory, and speed.

• Characteristics: They support multiple peripheral devices, such as printers and plotters, and require specialized environments for operation, including controlled dust, temperature, and humidity levels.
• Usage: These computers are typically utilized in large organizations, including banks and airports.
• Examples: IBM 360/370 and NCR-V 8800 are well-known mainframe computers.

3. Mini Computers

Mini computers, developed in the 1970s, serve specialized tasks and are smaller, less powerful, and less expensive than mainframes.

• Characteristics: They are easier to install and operate compared to larger systems.
• Examples: Notable mini computers include PDP II, VAX 750/6000, and DEC HP 3000.

4. Micro Computers

Microcomputers are computers whose central processing unit (CPU) is based on a microprocessor.

• Popularity: They are the most widely used type of computer today due to their small size and ease of use.
• Alternate Name: Microcomputers are often referred to as Personal Computers (PCs).
• Reasons for Popularity:
  • Affordable pricing.
  • Compact size.
  • Do not require a specialized environment for operation.
  • Versatile usage in various settings.
• Examples: Desktop PCs, laptops, and tablets.

Conclusion

In summary, computers can be categorized into four main types based on size: supercomputers, mainframe computers, mini computers, and microcomputers. Microcomputers are the most commonly used due to their accessibility and versatility.

Evaluation

1. What is another name for a supercomputer?
2. Mention two examples of mainframe computers.
3. Define a supercomputer.
4. List two characteristics of a supercomputer.
5. How does a supercomputer differ from a regular computer?
6. What are some common applications for a supercomputer? Mention two.
7. Name two examples of mainframe computers.

General Evaluation

1. Mention four classifications of computers by size.
2. Differentiate between mini and microcomputers.
3. Give two examples of mini computers.
4. Mainframe computers are commonly used in __________.

Weekend Assignment

1. The most commonly used category of computers is:
   A. Microcomputer
   B. Minicomputer
   C. Supercomputer
2. Another name for a microcomputer is:
   A. Home Computer
   B. Personal Computer
   C. Analog Computer
3. HP 3000 is an example of:
   A. Supercomputer
   B. Mainframe
   C. Mini Computer
4. Mini computers were developed in the:
   A. 1970s
   B. 1980s
   C. 1990s
5. Mainframe computers can be used in:
   A. Banks
   B. Churches
   C. Markets
   D. None

Theory Questions

1. List two examples of mini computers.
2. What is another name for microcomputers?
3. List two reasons why microcomputers are widely used.

Presentation

The topic will be presented step by step as follows:

Step 1:

The teacher will review the previous topics with the class.

Step 2:

Introduction of the new topic will be presented by the teacher.

Step 3:

Students will be encouraged to share their examples, and the teacher will provide corrections as necessary.

Conclusion

The teacher will conclude the lesson by summarizing key points and providing a short note on the topic. The teacher will also circulate to ensure notes are well copied and correct any errors as needed.

Evaluation Questions

1. The largest, fastest, and most expensive type of computer is called a ________.
   a) Mainframe
   b) Microcomputer
   c) Supercomputer
   d) Mini computer
2. Another name for a supercomputer is ________.
   a) Giant
   b) Monster
   c) Titan
   d) Mega
3. Mainframe computers are typically used in ________ settings.
   a) Home
   b) Small businesses
   c) Large organizations
   d) Schools
4. An example of a mainframe computer is ________.
   a) IBM 360/370
   b) HP 3000
   c) PDP II
   d) X-MP
5. Mini computers were primarily developed in the ________.
   a) 1960s
   b) 1970s
   c) 1980s
   d) 1990s
6. Microcomputers are often referred to as ________.
   a) Workstations
   b) Personal Computers (PCs)
   c) Supercomputers
   d) Mainframes
7. The speed of supercomputers can reach between ________ instructions per second.
   a) 100 million to 300 million
   b) 400 million to 600 million
   c) 600 million to 900 million
   d) 1 billion to 2 billion
8. Mini computers are ________ than mainframe computers.
   a) Larger and more powerful
   b) Smaller and less powerful
   c) Equally powerful
   d) Non-existent
9. One characteristic of supercomputers is that they require a ________ environment to operate.
   a) Specialized
   b) Portable
   c) Casual
   d) Flexible
10. The most popular type of computer used today is the ________.
    a) Mainframe
    b) Microcomputer
    c) Mini computer
    d) Supercomputer
11. Supercomputers are commonly used in ________ applications.
    a) Basic word processing
    b) Scientific simulations
    c) Web browsing
    d) Graphic design
12. Mainframe computers usually have ________ peripheral devices compared to mini computers.
    a) Fewer
    b) The same number of
    c) More
    d) No
13. A feature of microcomputers is that they ________.
    a) Are very expensive
    b) Require a special operating environment
    c) Can be used anywhere
    d) Are primarily used in large organizations
14. An example of a mini computer is ________.
    a) CRAY
    b) NCR 9300
    c) IBM 360/370
    d) X-MP
15. The key difference between mini and microcomputers is their ________.
    a) Power
    b) Size
    c) Cost
    d) All of the above

Class Activity Discussion

1. What is a supercomputer?
   • A supercomputer is the largest, fastest, and most expensive type of computer used for complex calculations and simulations.
2. What is another name for a supercomputer?
   • Another name for a supercomputer is “monster,” reflecting its high processing capabilities.
3. What are the applications of supercomputers?
   • Supercomputers are used in weather forecasting, scientific research, and complex simulations.
4. What is a mainframe computer?
   • A mainframe computer is a large and powerful computer used in large organizations for critical applications.
5. Can you name two examples of mainframe computers?
   • Examples of mainframe computers include IBM 360/370 and NCR-V 8800.
6. What are mini computers used for?
   • Mini computers are used for specialized tasks and are smaller and less powerful than mainframe computers.
7. What is a microcomputer?
   • A microcomputer is a personal computer that uses a microprocessor as its CPU and is widely used for general tasks.
8. What are some characteristics of microcomputers?
   • Microcomputers are inexpensive, compact, and do not require a specialized environment for operation.
9. How do mainframe computers differ from microcomputers?
   • Mainframe computers are larger, more powerful, and used for critical tasks in large organizations, while microcomputers are smaller and used for general tasks.
10. What are the advantages of using microcomputers?
    • Microcomputers are affordable, portable, and versatile for various applications, making them popular for personal and business use.
11. What types of organizations commonly use mainframe computers?
    • Large organizations, such as banks and airlines, use mainframe computers for their data processing needs.
12. Why are supercomputers important in scientific research?
    • Supercomputers can process vast amounts of data quickly, enabling researchers to conduct simulations and analyze complex phenomena.
13. What are some examples of tasks suitable for mini computers?
    • Mini computers are suitable for tasks such as data processing, specialized applications in industries like healthcare, and scientific research.
14. What features distinguish supercomputers from other types of computers?
    • Supercomputers have unparalleled processing power, speed, and the ability to handle massive datasets.
15. What role do peripheral devices play in mainframe computers?
    • Peripheral devices enhance the capabilities of mainframe computers by enabling input and output of data in various formats.

Evaluation

1. List two examples of mainframe computers.
2. What is the speed range of supercomputers?
3. Describe the primary use of mini computers.
4. How do microcomputers differ from mainframe computers?
5. What is the significance of peripheral devices in mainframe computers?
6. Explain why supercomputers are essential for scientific research.
7. What are two characteristics of mini computers?
8. Describe the applications of microcomputers.
9. What are the advantages of supercomputers over other types?
10. Identify a key difference between mini and microcomputers.