For this reason, this document will only cover capability, size, and speed. Under this classification, computers are classified into mainframe computers, minicomputers, and microcomputers. However, the present technological trend is to build smaller machines at reduced cost, but with increased speed, enlarged storage capacity, and advanced capabilities. Therefore, the dividing lines between the three types of computers are beginning to blur and are sometimes arbitrary. 2.1 Mainframe Computer Mainframes were among the first type of computers built and have been in use since the early 1950's.
Mainframes are the largest and faster type of computers.
They have a large internal memory and require a large amount of floor space. In fact, a typical mainframe usually occupies a large room. Minicomputer A minicomputer is smaller than a mainframe. It started to appear in the 1960's. While it may share many features which a mainframe has, a minicomputer has less central memory and therefore takes up much less room.