Today, due to the rapid progress of almost all areas of human activity, the fields of application of electronic computers are extremely diverse and continue to expand continuously. Not a single branch of the national economy, scientific or technical discipline can do without modern computers now.
Such a grandiose variety of areas of use and types of computer technology itself has generated a huge number of different features, according to which the computer classification is performed. In a clear, consistent systematization of electronic computers , an urgent need arose due to too many different parameters and the purpose of these technical means.
Such signs are considered the principle of action, technical characteristics; destination; equipment installation object; operating conditions and service rules; applicable system architecture and its design base; various economic factors, etc. The probable influence of all these circumstances must be taken into account when designing, manufacturing and installing a computer system.
The most rational and appropriate is the generalized classification of computers by a limited number of basic features, since such a systematization principle allows you to highlight the fundamental distinguishing features of various groups, types, categories and classes. This approach is considered the most practical and reasonable.
Depending on the principle of operation, computer classification defines the following categories of computer systems: digital, analog-digital and analog types of computers. Digital computers process signals presented in the form of a binary digital code. The equipment of the analog principle of operation, respectively, works with analog signals. Well, a combined system combines both of these principles. Of course, the dominant distinguishing feature of these systems is their component configuration.
The classification of computers for the intended purpose is the most extensive. This includes specialized, managers, supervisors, personal, training (various simulators), general purpose and many others. Universal computer systems are focused primarily on tasks of the widest range and focus: mathematical, astronomical, engineering, economic, statistical, etc. Such a classification of computers implies the presence in this category of machines capable of performing a wide variety of tasks using any algorithms.
A distinctive feature of general-purpose computing is the architecture that allows you to connect a wide range of various peripheral devices , depending on the specifics of the task. Changing their number and technical parameters allows not only instantly switch to tasks of a completely different specificity and vary the principles of data processing, but also provide the maximum level of interaction between the system and the user.
In addition, in this context, the classification of computer software is extremely important. It is currently hundreds of thousands of diverse software products, sometimes designed to solve very specific problems. All software can be divided into the following main categories: basic software (which, as a rule, includes operating systems and software shells), translators, tools, and application programs.