Note:
Digital computers have higher accuracy and speed than the analog ones.
Hybrid Computers
: The best features of analog and digital computers can be combined
into a single device to form a hybrid computer. A hybrid computer processes the information
by collecting input data with analog methods and converting it into digital quantities;
processes the digital values and then converts the output from digital to analog form.
Example:
The following paragraph describes an example of the application of a hybrid
computer in healthcare
Introduction To Computer Science
24
In hospital or healthcare centers analog devices can be used to measure a patient’s heart
function, temperature and other vital signs. These measurements can then be converted
into numbers and supplied to a digital component in the system. This component is used to
monitor the patient’s vital signs and sends an immediate signal to the healthcare station if any
abnormal readings are detected.
Classification by purpose of application
Computers can be applied or used for different purposes. Based upon their application, they
are classified as special purpose or general-purpose computers.
Special purpose computers
: They are designed to solve a single type of problem, that is
their components and functions are uniquely adapted to a specific situation involving specific
application.
Example:
a.
The public telephone box,
b.
Traffic control system,
c.
Ticket machines (used in grocery, super markets etc ),
d.
Pocket calculators,
e.
Counters etc
Most analog computers are special purpose computers.
General-purpose computers
: They are designed to solve variety of problems through the
use of “store program concept”. A program or set of instructions designed to solve a problem
is read and stored into the memory and then executed by the computer one by one. The same
computer can be applied to solve another set of problem using different program. General
purpose computers are more flexible and versatile.
Examples:
A.
Micro computers
B.
Mini computers
C.
Super computers etc.
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