Characteristics of Computer

All the computers have certain common characteristics irrespective of their type and size. The major characteristics of computer are speed, accuracy, diligence, storage capability, versatility, Word length and automation

• Speed: Computer performs its operation at very high speeds. Example, A microcomputer can execute millions of instructions per second over and over again without any mistake. Super computer can operate at speed measured in nanoseconds and even in picoseconds.
• Accuracy: The accuracy of the computer system is very high. Errors in hardware can occur, but error detecting and correcting technique will prevents false results. In most cases, the errors are due to human factor rather than the technological flaws. Example, If a program is wrongly coded, the data is corrupted or the program logic is flawed, then we will always get wrong result. So if wrong input is given, the output will be wrong-GIGO (i.e, garbage in garbage out)
• Diligence: A computer is free from tiredness, lack of concentration, fatigue, etc. If millions of calculation are to be performed, a computer will perform every calculations with the same accuracy.
• Storage capability: Computer can store large amount of data. Computers have main memory and auxiliary memory system. With more and more auxiliary storage devices, which are capable of storing huge amount of data the storage capacity of a computer is virtually unlimited. The factor that makes the computer storage unique is not that it can store vast amount of data, but the fact that it can retrieve the information that the user wants in few seconds.
• Versatility: It means the capacity of performing completely different types of work. Computer can perform activities from simple calculation to complex CAD modeling and simulation to navigating missiles and satellites.