Types of computers
Computers can be classified as one of three types of computers:
a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, or specialized
computer.
A general-purpose computer is what most people think of when
thinking about a computer and is what this page covers.
A special-purpose computer is embedded in almost all electronic
devices and is the most widely-used computer. This computer is
designed for a specific task and is found in ATMs, cars,
microwaves, TVs, the VCR, and other home electronics. See
our special-purpose computer page for further information and
examples.
A specialized computer is like a general-purpose computer but is
designed only to perform one or a few different tasks. See
our specialized computer for further information and examples of these
computers.
When talking about a computer or a "PC," you're usually referring to a
desktop computer found in a home or office. However, the lines of
what makes these computers are blurring. Below are different
examples of what's considered a computer today.