What is a computer? What are the characteristics of a computer?

A computer, commonly known as a computer, is a modern electronic computing machine used for high-speed calculations. It can perform numerical calculations, logical calculations, and has a storage and memory function.

It is a modern intelligent electronic device that can run according to the program and process massive data automatically and at high speed.

Main features: Fast computing speed: The computer is composed of internal circuits that can complete various arithmetic operations at high speed and accurately.

The computing speed of today's computer systems has reached trillions of operations per second, and microcomputers can also reach more than 100 million operations per second, enabling a large number of complex scientific computing problems to be solved.

For example: the calculation of satellite orbits, calculations of large dams, and 24-hour weather calculations take years or even decades, but in modern society, they can be completed in just a few minutes using computers.

High calculation accuracy: The development of science and technology, especially the development of cutting-edge science and technology, requires highly accurate calculations.

The reason why computer-controlled missiles can accurately hit the intended target is inseparable from the precise calculation of the computer.

A general computer can have more than a dozen or even dozens of (binary) significant digits, and the calculation accuracy can range from a few thousandths to a few millionths, which is beyond the reach of any computing tool.

Strong logical operation ability: Computers can not only perform precise calculations, but also have logical operation functions and can compare and judge information.

The computer can save the data, programs, intermediate results and final results involved in the calculation, and can automatically execute the next instruction based on the judgment result for the user to call at any time.

Large storage capacity: The memory inside the computer has memory characteristics and can store a large amount of information. This information includes not only various types of data information, but also programs for processing these data.

High degree of automation: Because computers have the ability to store memory and logical judgment, people can incorporate pre-programmed program groups into computer memory. Under program control, the computer can work continuously and automatically without human intervention.

High cost performance: Almost every household has a computer, which is becoming more and more common and popular. In the 21st century, computers will surely become one of the indispensable appliances for every household.