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We all know a PC, probably heard of supercomputers. And like mainframes mini computers are not so known to the general public.
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Supercomputers |
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Mainframes |
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Mini computers |
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Microcomputers |
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Terminals |
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Embedded computers |
The ranking of a mini is as you can see in the middle of the spectrum.
Historically, a mini is associated with de-centralized computing. Meaning most computing takes (physically) place on the mini itself.
Minicomputers are introduced in the early 1960s and announced a new era in computing. They are relatively low cost and small. This setup allowed more people to have access to computers and as a result a splurt of new applications in universities, industry, and commerce are created. Digital Equipment Corporation developed the PDP-1 minicomputer in 1960, and the PDP-8 virtualy conquered the market is a sweep and sold over 40,000 units. In time some 200 companies produced this type of minicomputers. DEC got at the top of the market with the PDP-11, and with the VAX 11/780 system. The latter will become a landmark system in the history of computing.
Have a look at some early mini's
Conclusion
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Last Updated on April 16, 2005 | For suggestions please mail the editors |
Footnotes & References
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