Minicomputers

Minicomputers

Minicomputers are digital computers, generally used in multi-user systems. They have high processing speed and high storage capacity than the microcomputers. It is a class of small computers that was introduced into the world in the mid-1960s. A midsized computer, In size and power, minicomputers lie between workstations and mainframes. In the past decade, the distinction between large minicomputers and small mainframes has blurred, however, as has the distinction between small minicomputers and workstations. But in general, a minicomputer is a multiprocessing system. Minicomputers can support 4–200 users simultaneously. The users can access the minicomputer through their PCs or terminal. They are used for real-time applications in industries, research centers, etc. PDP 11, IBM (8000 series) are some of the widely used minicomputers.

minicomputer

Advantages of minicomputer

» They are easy to use
» They can fit anywhere
» They are small and very portable
» They are easy to carry
» As compared to their size, they are fast
» They hold a charge for a long time
» They did not require a carefully controlled operational environment
» They are more reliable

Disadvantages of minicomputer

» Some minicomputers don’t have USB ports
» Minicomputers do not have any CD/DVD drive
» The user may not be familiar with the operating system
» The keyboard can be small for fast typists
» In this, generally, there is not much storage on board
» It can be too small to do certain projects