Hierarchy of Computer Processes

Computer typically used in business today are commonly

identified as:

1. Supercomputers.
2. Mainframe
3. Minicomputers
4. Microcomputers
5. Personal Computers
•Supercomputers – these are the
largest type of computers.
•Mainframe - commonly refers to
the processing unit plus other
components contained in the same
physical cabinet as the processing unit
in a large computer system.
•MINICOMPUTERS
Were historically used in multi user or multi terminal
environments.
- Also called MidRange computer .
- Does not need special Environment
- Uses for industrial, general business communications and time shring
applications.
•Microcomputers – Generally they are
limited to one user per machine and are
portable- you may even carry the unit in your
hands.
- there are no special environmental
requirements.
- externals storage is usually on floppy diskettes
and/or magnetic tape cassettes.
• Personal Computers - are
microcomputers that serves the needs of
individual users.
- notebook, laptop, and palmtop computers
are the smallest forms of personal
computers.
Mode of Computer Operations
A. Based on the timing of transaction processing

• Batch Mode – data are collected in groups (

batches ) before processing. The collected data are
then processed at regular intervals to update
existing information.
- most often used in costumer billing system and a
payroll.
• On-line mode - data are processed
immediately after a transaction is a made to
update current information. Processing time in
this system is instantaneous
- Also known as real time processing ad used by
airlines and of track betting
B. Based on the physical location of the
equipment.
• In-house systems – computer hardware and personnel are
maintained by the company which utilizes them.
• Non in house or off premise systems
- Main processing hardware belongs to another
organization. The most off premise systems are
a. Block time
b. Time sharing
c. Service bureaus
Computer information systems
•Small Computers - also referred to as
micro computers, personal computers ,
laptop computers.

•Computer or IT Network –
- Local area networks
- Wide area networks
Telecommunications - also known as telecom.
Is the exchange of information over significant
distances by electronic means and refers to all
types of voice data and video transmission.
Telecom Links
•Electronic Commerce
-Business Practices
-Transaction Integrity
-Information protection
• Electronic Data Interchanger
•Electronic Funds Transfer
•Business to business
commerce
•Data base management
Systems
•End user computing
•Computer Service Bureau
•Internet, Intranet, Extranet
•Virtual Private Network
•Applications