Analog computer
Analog computer is another kind of a computer that represents data as variable across a continuous rang of values.
- The earliest computers were analog computer.
- Analog computers are used for measuring of parameter that vary continuously in real time, such as temperature, pressure and voltage.
- Analog computer may be more flexible but generally less precise than digital computers.
- Based on analog mechanism.
- These are fast and multi-tasked.
- Results displayed by these computers less accurate.
- Analogue computers are used in hospital to measure the size of stone in kidney and mental disease diagnostics (CT scan with photos).
- Powerful in solving differential equation.
- These computers use OP-AMP (Operational Amplifier) Example: seismograph.
Digital computer
A digital computer uses distinct value the represent data internally.
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All information represented using the digits 0’s and
1’s.
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The computer that we use at our home and offices are
digital computers.
- Digital signals represent particular state that is 0 (low) or 1(high), YES or NO, On or OFF, TRUE or FALSE.
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The system store and process the data in digital form
(strings of 0’s and 1’s).
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They are capable of processing analog signals but the
analog signals have to be converted into digital signals using and ADC
before feeding into the digital computer.
Hybrid Computer (analog +digital)
- These computers are a combination of digital and analog computers.
- Hybrid computers are computers that exhibit features of analog computers and digital computers.
- The digital component normally serves as the controller and provides logical operations, while the analog component normally serves as a solver of differential equation.
- The hybrid computers can transfer data from analog to digital and digital to analog.
- Used in industrial process control, jet plans, airplanes.
- These computers are mainly used in hospitals to measure the heartbeat of patient.
- Simulation: simulation is the process in which the computer system and program are used to produce.