Computer And its
Applications in Pharmacy
(Theory)
PHARM 519
[Link].03
Data Processing System Types
A data processing system is a system that collects,
processes, and produces useful information from raw data.
It can be categorized into different types based on how it
handles data. Below are the definitions of various types:
1. Transaction Processing
2. Distributed Processing
3. Real-time Processing
4. Batch Processing
5. Multiprocessing
Data Processing Methods
Why Do Different Data Processing
Methods Matter?
• The method of data processing used will
determine the response time to a query and
how reliable the output is. Thus, you need to
choose your data processing technique
carefully. For instance, in a situation where
availability is crucial, such as a stock
exchange portal, transaction processing
should be the preferred method.
Transaction Processing
Transaction Processing is a method of processing data where
individual transactions are executed immediately to maintain
accuracy, consistency, and efficiency in an information system. It is
commonly used in business, banking, and retail applications.
Key Features of Transaction Processing:
• Atomicity → Each transaction is either fully completed or not
executed at all.
• Isolation → Multiple transactions do not interfere with each other.
• Durability → Once a transaction is completed, it is permanently
stored in the system.
Distributed processing
Distributed processing is a computing process where operations are
partitioned across several computers connected via a network. The goal
of distributed processing is to provide faster and more reliable service
than can be achieved by a single machine.
Very often, datasets are too big to fit on one machine. Distributed data
processing breaks down these large datasets and stores them across
multiple machines or servers, improving data management.
A distributed data processing system has a high fault tolerance. If one
server in the network fails, you can reallocate data processing tasks to
other available servers, which is not a very time-consuming job.
Real-Time Processing
Real-time processing is the process of computing data as
soon as it is generated or received. It’s a form of distributed
processing that allows you to capture and analyze incoming
data streams in real-time, allowing you to act quickly on
the insights given by the analysis.
Real-time processing is similar to transaction processing in
that you use it in situations where you expect output in
real-time. However, the two differ in how they handle data
loss. Real-time processing computes incoming data as
quickly as possible. If it encounters an error in incoming
data, it ignores the error and moves to the next chunk of
data input coming in. GPS-tracking applications are the
most common example of real-time data processing.
Batch Processing
Batch processing is when chunks of data, stored over a period
of time, are analyzed together or in batches. Batch processing
is required when business owners and data scientists require a
large volume of data to analyze for detailed insights.
For example, sales figures will typically undergo batch
processing, allowing businesses to use data visualization
features like charts, graphs, and reports to derive value from
data. Since a large volume of data is involved, the system will
take time to process it. Processing the data in batches saves on
computational resources.
Multiprocessing
Multiprocessing is the method of data processing where two or
more processors work on the same dataset. It might sound
exactly like distributed processing, but there is a difference. In
multiprocessing, different processors reside within the same
system. Thus, they are present in the same geographical location.
If there is a component failure, it can reduce the speed of the
system.
Distributed processing, on the other hand, uses servers that are
independent of each other and can be present in different
geographical locations.
Multiprocessing
Multiprocessing is the method of data processing where two or
more processors work on the same dataset. It might sound
exactly like distributed processing, but there is a difference. In
multiprocessing, different processors reside within the same
system. Thus, they are present in the same geographical location.
If there is a component failure, it can reduce the speed of the
system.
Distributed processing, on the other hand, uses servers that are
independent of each other and can be present in different
geographical locations.
Types of Computer Operations
Working Process:
[Link] and data are entered through
the Input Unit.
[Link] Control Unit fetches instructions
from the Storage Unit.
[Link] Control Unit interprets the
instructions and directs them to the ALU
if calculations or logic operations are
needed.
[Link] ALU processes the data and sends it
back to the Storage Unit.
[Link] final processed information is sent to
the Output Unit to be displayed as
results.
Types
.
of Computer Operations
[Link] Unit
1. Receives data and instructions from external sources (e.g., keyboard,
mouse, scanner).
2. Converts input into a machine-readable format and sends it to the storage
unit.
[Link] Unit
1. Temporarily holds data and instructions before processing.
2. Stores intermediate results and final outputs.
3. Works with primary (RAM) and secondary storage (hard drives, SSDs).
[Link] Unit (CU) - Part of the CPU
1. Directs the flow of data between different components.
2. Retrieves and interprets instructions from the storage unit.
3. Sends signals to the arithmetic logic unit (ALU) and other components to
execute operations.
