SkipCaptcha
292
edits
Changes
Jump to navigation
Jump to search
Line 31:
Line 31: + + +
Added Workstations
===Microcomputers===
===Microcomputers===
Microcomputers are computers that use microprocessors for the [[CPU]]. Some used the same instruction set as minicomputer CPUs, but implemented in one or two microprocessor chips, which allowed them to run the same software. In some cases, these computers could timeshare several users just as minicomputers. However, increasing CPU power and lower costs eventually led to the microcomputers being used by a single user at a time and being called "personal computers" (see below).
Microcomputers are computers that use microprocessors for the [[CPU]]. Some used the same instruction set as minicomputer CPUs, but implemented in one or two microprocessor chips, which allowed them to run the same software. In some cases, these computers could timeshare several users just as minicomputers. However, increasing CPU power and lower costs eventually led to the microcomputers being used by a single user at a time and being called "personal computers" (see below).
===Workstations===
Workstations were typically single-user computers with specialized hardware to support a given application. One common use of workstations was for CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing), which allowed engineers to develop machines, parts, or buildings on the computer before physically constructing the items. This typically required high-end graphical hardware and monitors, large amounts of RAM, and CAD/CAM software unique to the given workstation. As a consequence, workstations were much more expensive than general-purpose single-user computers. With the advent of more powerful CPUs and their additional memory capacity, along with mass-market graphics cards (designed for games) that exceeded workstation graphics capabilities at far lower cost, workstations were largely supplanted by cheaper microcomputers. The specialized CAD/CAM software, however, still must be purchased. Sometimes the term "workstation" is loosely used to mean any personal computer dedicated to a specific task.
==Usage Classifications==
==Usage Classifications==