Characteristics, Capabilities and Limitations of Computer

Computer Computer is a programmable digital automatic machine. which takes input from the user, process it, and gives the output in the desi...

Computer

Computer is a programmable digital automatic machine. which takes input from the user, process it, and gives the output in the desired form to the user and stores it if necessary.

Characteristics

1. Speed : The data processing speed of the electronic computer is very fast because the signals can pass at the speed of electricity i.e. 2.977*10^8 m/s. Thus, millions of calculations can be done in one second.

2. Accuracy : The accuracy of computer is consistently high i.e. almost 100% accurate results are always the same as per design. Errors can occur in a computer system due to inaccurate data or instructions fed by human or end-users.

3. Word Length : Digital computer operates on binary digits i.e. 1 &0 and all information stored in terms of 0s & 1s. 8 bits is equal to one byte. The number of bits that a computer can process at a time in parallel is called its word length. Commonly used word lengths are 8, 16, 32 or 64.

4. Automation : Computer is an automatic machine. Once a task is initiated in a computer, it can proceed automatically if set of instructions and data are provided to the computer.

5. Diligence : Computer never gets tired and bored and perform repetitive tasks. It can continuously work for several hours or days after the data and programs are fed in it.

6. Reliability : Computer can do a lot of work with out any mistakes and tiredness. so, they are widely used everywhere because of their reliability. If the user feeds incorrect data and instructions for processing then the data automatically lead to faulty results which is known as GIGO. 

7. Versatility : Computer can perform different tasks depending upon the different program fed to it is know as versatility. It can perform operations from simple to complex calculation. Some of the applications of computer are bank, business, education, science and technology etc, so it is versatile in nature.

8. Storage capacity : A computer can store a huge amount of data and it has data storage known as memory. Memory can be divided into two types primary and secondary.

Capabilities

• It is capable of producing 100% accurate output.
• It is capable of permanently storing huge amounts of data and retrieving it wherever required.
• It can perform repetitive tasks with same speed and accuracy.
• It is capable to perform different types of tasks in different areas.
• It is capable to perform automatic task if instructions are provided.

Limitations

• It is the non-intelligent machine. It cannot think and give the right decisions as a human being.
• It cannot operate without electricity.
• Wrong information or failure in devices makes it un reliable.
• It requires instruction to perform a task.
• It cannot learn, think, reason. It cannot distinguish between good and bad.

Advantages

• It is faster than human being.
• It is always accurate and reliable.
• It is versatile i.e. perform all types of tasks in all fields.
• It can be used for communication among users.
• It never feels exhausted and tired like a human being.
• It is used to develop and control simulators.

Disadvantages

• It can be used for computer crime like hacking, cracking, creating and sending malicious software.
• It is still expensive.
• It has increased dependency on the machine. 
• Repair and maintenance are required frequently.
• Skilled manpower is required to work on it.
• Failure of device produce un reliable information or loss of data and information may occur.

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