Mainframes, Minicomputers and Microcomputers
A mainframe computer is a large computer system comprised of a large central processing unit, separate memory banks, multiple data-storage devices and peripherals. It is found in computer installations which process immense amounts of data. This powerful machine has a larger repertoire of more complex instructions which can be executed more quickly.
A minicomputer is much smaller than the mainframe computer. It was developed to perform limited functions in scientific environments with less computing capacity. It became possible to reduce the size of the computer with the replacement of vacuum tubes by transistors and the development of multicircuit “chips”.
A microcomputer is the smallest of the three sizes of computers. The central processor of a micro, called the microprocessor, is built as a single semiconductor device, that is, all the elements necessary to perform all the logical and arithmetic functions are manufactured as a single chip. The microprocessor literally contains a computer on a chip that can pass through the eye of a needle.
VOCABULARY
Comprised of= including = incluindo, compreendendo, composto de
Multiple= tendo muitas partes; múltiplo
Repertoire= repertório, conjunto
Enveironments= surroundings = ambientes
