Computer vs. Abacus — What's the Difference?

A computer is a machine that can be programmed to carry out sequences of arithmetic or logical operations automatically. Modern computers can perform generic sets of operations known as programs.

The abacus (plural abaci or abacuses), also called a counting frame, is a calculating tool. It has been used since ancient times.

A device that computes, especially a programmable electronic machine that performs high-speed mathematical or logical operations or that assembles, stores, correlates, or otherwise processes information.

A manual computing device consisting of a frame holding parallel rods strung with movable counters.

Such a device along with peripherals, especially a monitor, keyboard, and mouse.

(Architecture) A slab on the top of the capital of a column.

One who computes.

A table or tray scattered with sand which was used for calculating or drawing.

A person employed to perform computations; one who computes.

A device used for performing arithmetical calculations; (rare) a table on which loose counters are placed, or (more commonly) an instrument with beads sliding on rods, or counters in grooves, with one row of beads or counters representing units, the next tens, etc.

A male computer, where the female computer is called a computress.

(architecture) The uppermost portion of the capital of a column immediately under the architrave, in some cases a flat oblong or square slab, in others more decorated.

A programmable electronic device that performs mathematical calculations and logical operations, especially one that can process, store and retrieve large amounts of data very quickly; now especially, a small one for personal or home use employed for manipulating text or graphics, accessing the Internet, or playing games or media.

A board, tray, or table, divided into perforated compartments for holding bottles, cups, or the like; a kind of buffet, cupboard, or sideboard.

One who computes.

A table or tray strewn with sand, anciently used for drawing, calculating, etc.

An electronic device for performing calculations automatically. It consists of a clock to provide voltage pulses to synchronize the operations of the devices within the computer, a central processing unit, where the arithmetical and logical operations are performed on data, a random-access memory, where the programs and data are stored for rapid access, devices to input data and output results, and various other peripheral devices of widely varied function, as well as circuitry to support the main operations.

A calculating table or frame; an instrument for performing arithmetical calculations by balls sliding on wires, or counters in grooves, the lowest line representing units, the second line, tens, etc. It is still employed in China.

Same as digital computer.

The uppermost member or division of the capital of a column, immediately under the architrave. See Column.

A machine for performing calculations automatically

A board, tray, or table, divided into perforated compartments, for holding cups, bottles, or the like; a kind of cupboard, buffet, or sideboard.

An expert at calculation (or at operating calculating machines)

A tablet placed horizontally on top of the capital of a column as an aid in supporting the architrave

A calculator that performs arithmetic functions by manually sliding counters on rods or in grooves