IS Hardware

The evolution of computer systems:

From mainframe computer systems to microcomputer systems

Mainframe Computer

A mainframe is a large, expensive and powerful computer that can handle hundreds or thousands of connected users simultaneously and difficult to use than PCs. Most major corporations use mainframe for business activities because it able to store huge amounts of data, instruction and information.

Beside that, mainframes act as servers in a network environment. Servers and other mainframes can access data and information from a mainframe. People also can access program on mainframe by using terminal or personal computer. Mainframe computer has benefit such as it may require less maintenance than a network of smaller computer and it is security and system control. 

Midrange computer

Formerly called “minicomputer”, the physical size is smaller than mainframe computer. It is a computer system between mainframe computer and microcomputer. Midrange computer is more powerful and capable than personal computer but less powerful and capable than mainframe computer. Midrange computer covers a wide range of systems that support more than one user to more than 750 users.

Microcomputer 

The introduction of low-cost computers known as personal computers that is suitable for homes, offices, and schools. It is an ongoing development of faster, cheaper, more efficient microprocessors, easier to use and more powerful in this evolution today.

A microcomputer is a computer with a microprocessor as its central processing unit. Their size is smaller compare to mainframe computer. Many microcomputers are equipped with a keyboard and screen for input and output. They are also often containing communication devices.