MAINFRAME COMPUTER Meaning and
Definition
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A mainframe computer refers to a powerful and robust type of computer that is designed to manage and handle significant amounts of data processing and storage for large-scale organizations and enterprises. It serves as the central computing system within a network, having the capacity to accommodate numerous users concurrently.
Mainframe computers possess substantial processing power, memory, and input/output capabilities. Such systems are specifically crafted to ensure reliability, availability, and fault tolerance. They are built to cater to critical applications that require high performance, such as those in financial institutions, government agencies, and scientific research facilities.
These machines are known for their ability to support multiple operating systems concurrently, providing users with diverse computing environments. They typically incorporate redundancy and error-checking mechanisms to prevent system failures and ensure data integrity.
Mainframes often have substantial physical footprints, occupying a significant amount of floor space within a data center. Additionally, they typically require specialized cooling systems and power supply arrangements to support their extensive computing capabilities.
Despite the emergence of smaller, more affordable computing alternatives, mainframe computers continue to play a fundamental role in various industries, primarily due to their immense processing power, reliability, and capability to handle vast volumes of data.
Common Misspellings for MAINFRAME COMPUTER
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- maindrame computer
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Etymology of MAINFRAME COMPUTER
The word "mainframe computer" is a compound term.
The first part, "main", originates from the Old English word "mægen", which means "strength" or "power". Over time, "mægen" evolved into "main", referring to something that is primary or principal.
The second part, "frame", comes from the Old English word "framian", meaning "to shape" or "to construct". It is related to "frame" as a noun, which denotes the structure or framework on which something is built or supported.
When combined, "mainframe" signifies a computer system that is the central or principal frame or structure of a larger computing infrastructure. The term was first used in the 1960s to describe large, powerful computers designed for high-performance computing, data processing, and enterprise-level applications.
