The computer: a definition.

From: Ron Hudson <rhudson_at_cnonline.net>
Date: Fri Nov 21 20:04:36 2003

On Friday, November 21, 2003, at 04:26 PM, Bob Shannon wrote:

> So what is a computer versus a caluclator, or a programmable
> controller?
>
> Actually this is very simple, until you disagree with the definition
> and insert religion...
>
> A computer is a programmable computing system that can run
> pre-prepared 'software'.
>
> A masked programmed microprocessor ~probably~ is not a computer (the
> STAMP is clearly
> an exception here).
>
> A programmable calculator generally is ~not~ a computer, although
> advanced ones with
> mass storage and off-the shelf applications programs clearly IS a
> computer.
>
> So is the fuel injection processor chip in your car a computer?
> Clearly not.
>
> How about a HP-41? Clearly this meets the above definition, as it has
> applications programs
> available.
>
> Ok, what about a HP-33? Hmm, probably a programmable calculator, by
> the above definition.

If you did not think the HP35 had "off the shelf" programs written for
it (only amateur program)
then it is a programmable calculator, but If you suddenly located a
package for sale that provided
some sort of solution, then it suddenly becomes a computer?

What If I wire wrap a 6502 with some memory and a serial port, put a
monitor in ROM and proceed to
single handedly and as an amateur write an OS, a C compiler, A
database. now say I will never
sell the "device" or the "software". Is it a computer, or is it
something else?




>
> What about a PLC (programmable logic controller)? Clearly not a
> computer, no software as
> such, and its not primarily a computational device, its really just a
> fancy state machine.
>
> While any definition will leave some grey areas, this definition seems
> a bit clearer than most.
>
>
Received on Fri Nov 21 2003 - 20:04:36 GMT