There are either special-purpose or general-purpose computers. A special-purpose computer is designed for a specific application. It is also known as dedicated computuer. Many such computers have instructions permanently programmed into them that are designed to perform only one major function. Special-purpose computers are used to control traffic lights, to control the collection of tolls on highways, and in automobiles, weapons, appliances and hands etc.
General-purpose computers are used to handle a variety of tasks. This is possible by the stored-program concept. By this concept, a program containing a series of instructions is prepared for an application and temporarily stored in memory. Once stored in the computers memory, the program can be executed to perform the specific function. After the completion of the execution of one program, another program can be used for some other task. That is, the same hardware can be used to execute many different programs.
General-purpose computers are more versatile than special-purpose computers. But typically general-purpose computers are less efficient and slower the special-purpose computers when applied to the same task.
General-purpose computers are used to handle a variety of tasks. This is possible by the stored-program concept. By this concept, a program containing a series of instructions is prepared for an application and temporarily stored in memory. Once stored in the computers memory, the program can be executed to perform the specific function. After the completion of the execution of one program, another program can be used for some other task. That is, the same hardware can be used to execute many different programs.
General-purpose computers are more versatile than special-purpose computers. But typically general-purpose computers are less efficient and slower the special-purpose computers when applied to the same task.
