Question: …………. computer is a medium sized computer

Answer:

The term you are referring to is "minicomputer."

A minicomputer, also known as a midrange computer, is a medium-sized computer system that falls between mainframe computers and microcomputers (personal computers) in terms of processing power, size, and capabilities. Minicomputers emerged in the 1960s and 1970s as a more affordable and compact alternative to mainframe computers.

Minicomputers were designed to provide computing power and resources to small to medium-sized businesses, research institutions, and scientific laboratories. They were more accessible in terms of cost and physical space requirements compared to mainframes, while still offering significant processing capabilities.

Some key features and characteristics of minicomputers include:

1. Size and Portability: Minicomputers were smaller in size compared to mainframes, typically fitting within a few cabinets or racks. They were more portable and required less dedicated space.

2. Processing Power: Minicomputers offered moderate to high processing power, capable of handling complex calculations and running multiple concurrent tasks or user sessions.

3. Multiuser and Multitasking: Minicomputers supported multiple users and offered multitasking capabilities, allowing several users to access the system simultaneously and run different programs concurrently.

4. Peripheral Support: Minicomputers could connect to a wide range of peripheral devices, such as disk drives, printers, and terminals, to support data storage, input, and output.

5. Operating Systems: Minicomputers had their own dedicated operating systems, which provided system management, resource allocation, and user interface capabilities.

Over time, advancements in microcomputer technology, including the development of powerful desktop and server-class computers, contributed to the decline of minicomputers. Many of the functions and capabilities that were once exclusive to minicomputers became accessible on smaller-scale systems.

However, the term "minicomputer" is still used in certain contexts to describe medium-sized computing systems, such as specialized servers or high-performance computing clusters, that are more powerful and capable than personal computers but fall short of the scale and complexity of mainframe systems.