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Minicomputer: meaning, definitions and examples

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minicomputer

 

[ˈmɪniˌkəmˌpjuːtə ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

computing technology

A minicomputer is a mid-sized computer, smaller than a mainframe but larger than microcomputers. It was popular during the 1960s through the 1980s for business and academic applications. Minicomputers typically supported multiple users simultaneously and were used for tasks such as data processing and control of machines in industrial environments.

Synonyms

mid-range computer, mini computer.

Examples of usage

  • The research lab upgraded to a new minicomputer for better data analysis.
  • Minicomputers paved the way for modern server technology.
  • In the 1970s, many universities adopted minicomputers for teaching.
  • A local factory utilized a minicomputer to monitor production lines.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term combines 'mini,' meaning small, and 'computer,' which refers to machines that process data.
  • The concept emerged in the 1960s as technology advanced, allowing for smaller, yet powerful computing devices.

Historical Origins

  • Minicomputers rose to prominence in the mid-20th century, providing businesses affordable access to computing power.
  • Companies like Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC) were pioneers in this field, developing models that became very popular.

Pop Culture

  • In the 1980s, some films and TV shows depicted minicomputers as essential tools for scientists and spies, highlighting their advanced capabilities.
  • The term is less common today but played a crucial role during the computing revolution in popular culture.

Science and Technology

  • Minicomputers paved the way for the more portable computers we use today, influencing the design of laptops and tablets.
  • They are still used in industrial settings for process control and data acquisition, showing their long-lasting relevance.

Psychology

  • The introduction of minicomputers influenced how people interact with technology, making computing more accessible to non-experts.
  • They changed workplace dynamics, allowing more people to perform tasks that previously required specialized knowledge.

Translations

Translations of the word "minicomputer" in other languages:

🇵🇹 minicomputador

🇮🇳 मिनीकंप्यूटर

🇩🇪 Minicomputer

🇮🇩 minikomputer

🇺🇦 мінікомп'ютер

🇵🇱 minikomputer

🇯🇵 ミニコンピュータ

🇫🇷 minordinateur

🇪🇸 minicomputadora

🇹🇷 minibilgisayar

🇰🇷 미니컴퓨터

🇸🇦 حاسوب صغير

🇨🇿 minipočítač

🇸🇰 minipočítač

🇨🇳 小型计算机

🇸🇮 minikompjuter

🇮🇸 mínitölva

🇰🇿 Миникомпьютер

🇬🇪 მინიკომპიუტერი

🇦🇿 minikompüter

🇲🇽 minicomputadora

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,881, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.