ICT Class 6 - Types Of-Computers Notes

Comprehensive study notes for Class 6 - Types Of-Computers olympiad preparation

Types of Computers

Welcome to the chapter on Types of Computers for Class 6. In this chapter, you will learn about different types of computers, their features, and where they are used. By the end of this chapter, you will be able to identify and describe various computers used in daily life and industries!

Introduction

Computers come in many shapes and sizes. Some are small enough to fit in your hand, while others are very large and powerful. Each type of computer is designed for specific tasks.

Types of Computers

  • Supercomputers: The fastest and most powerful computers. Used for scientific research, weather forecasting, and complex calculations.
  • Mainframe Computers: Large computers used by banks, government offices, and big companies to process large amounts of data.
  • Minicomputers: Smaller than mainframes, used in small organizations for tasks like managing databases and networks.
  • Microcomputers: Also called personal computers (PCs). Used at home, schools, and offices. Examples: desktops, laptops.
  • Embedded Computers: Tiny computers built into other devices like washing machines, cars, and mobile phones.

Features of Different Computers

  • Supercomputers: Very fast, very expensive, used for special tasks.
  • Mainframes: Can handle many users at once, very reliable.
  • Minicomputers: Medium size, used for specific tasks.
  • Microcomputers: Easy to use, affordable, for personal and office work.
  • Embedded computers: Small, do one job, found in everyday devices.

Where Are These Computers Used?

  • Supercomputers: Space research centers, weather stations.
  • Mainframes: Banks, airlines, government offices.
  • Minicomputers: Small businesses, laboratories.
  • Microcomputers: Homes, schools, offices.
  • Embedded computers: Cars, TVs, washing machines, ATMs.

Fun Activity: Spot the Computer!

Make a list of all the computers you see at home, school, or outside. Are they desktops, laptops, or embedded in other devices?

Summary

  • There are many types of computers: supercomputers, mainframes, minicomputers, microcomputers, and embedded computers.
  • Each type is used for different tasks and places.
  • Computers help us in science, business, homes, and everyday devices.

Practice Questions

  1. Name two places where supercomputers are used.
  2. What is another name for a microcomputer?
  3. Where are embedded computers found?
  4. Which type of computer is used in banks?
  5. Give one example of a device with an embedded computer.

Challenge Yourself

  • Draw and label different types of computers.
  • Find out which type of computer your school uses.

Did You Know?

  • The fastest supercomputers can do billions of calculations in one second!
  • Your mobile phone has an embedded computer inside it.

Glossary

  • Supercomputer: The most powerful type of computer.
  • Mainframe: A large computer used by many people at once.
  • Microcomputer: A personal computer like a desktop or laptop.
  • Embedded computer: A computer built into another device.

Answers to Practice Questions

  1. Space research centers, weather stations.
  2. Personal computer (PC).
  3. In devices like cars, washing machines, ATMs, TVs.
  4. Mainframe computer.
  5. Washing machine, ATM, mobile phone (any one).

Computers come in many types and sizes. Learn about them and see how they help us every day!