Definition
Computer comes from the Latin computare which mean count. Because the extent of arable fields of computer science, experts and researchers in defining termininologi slightly different computer.
* According to Hamacher [1], the computer is an electronic calculating machine that quickly and can receive a digital input information, then process them in accordance with programs stored in memory, and generate output information.
* According Blissmer [2], the computer is an electronic device that can perform several tasks as follows:
- Receives input
- Processing the last input in accordance with the program
- Keep the commandments and the results of processing
- Provides the output in the form of information
* Sedangan Fuori [3] argued that the computer is a data processor that can perform large calculations quickly, including the calculation of arithmetic and logic operations, without intervention from humans.
To realize the conception of computers as data processing to produce an information, then the required computer system (computer system) that its elements consist of hardware, software and brainware. The three elements of the computer system should be interconnected and form a unity. Hardware will not work if without the software, and vice versa. And both are not useful when there is no human (brainware) who operate and control it.
1. Hardware or Hardware: equipment that is physically visible and can djamah.
2. Software or Software: programs that provide instructions / commands to perform data processing.
3. Brainware: people who operate and control computer system.
Classification of Computers
Recent literature on the computer doing computer based classification tigal things: data processing, use, capacity / size, and generation.
Based Data Processed
1. Analog Computer
2. Digital Computer
3. Hybrid Computer
Based on its consumer
1. Computers For Special Purpose (Special Purpose Computer)
2. Computers for General Purpose (General Purpose Computer)
Based on the capacity and size
1. Micro Computer (Micro Computer)
2. Computer Mini (Mini Computer)
3. Small Computer (Small Computer)
4. Computer Medium (Medium Computer)
5. Computer Large (Large Computer)
6. Super Computer (Super Computer)
Based on the generation
1. First Generation Computers (1946-1959)
2. Second Generation Computers (1959-1964)
3. Third Generation Computers (1964-1970)
4. Fourth Generation Computers (1979-present)
5. Fifth Generation Computer