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Computers

The document outlines the evolution of computers from the first generation using vacuum tubes to the current focus on artificial intelligence and quantum computing. It categorizes various types of computers, including personal computers, desktops, laptops, servers, mainframes, and wearable devices, highlighting their features and intended uses. Overall, it emphasizes the significant impact of computers in the Information Age and their diverse applications in society.

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3 views

Computers

The document outlines the evolution of computers from the first generation using vacuum tubes to the current focus on artificial intelligence and quantum computing. It categorizes various types of computers, including personal computers, desktops, laptops, servers, mainframes, and wearable devices, highlighting their features and intended uses. Overall, it emphasizes the significant impact of computers in the Information Age and their diverse applications in society.

Uploaded by

annaliesetanja04
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Computers​

Computers are among the most important contributions of advances in the Information Age to society. A

computer is an electronic device that stores and processes data (information). It runs on a program that

contains the exact, step-by-step directions to solve a problem (UShistory. org, 2017). ​

History of Computers

1.​ First Generation (1940s-1950s):

○​ Utilized vacuum tubes for circuitry and magnetic drums for memory.

○​ Large, expensive, and generated enormous heat.

○​ Example: ENIAC and UNIVAC.

2.​ Second Generation (1950s-1960s):

○​ Used transistors, making computers smaller, faster, and more reliable.

○​ Used assembly language and early programming languages.

3.​ Third Generation (1960s-1970s):

○​ Implemented integrated circuits (ICs), enhancing processing power.

○​ Increased efficiency and reduced size.

4.​ Fourth Generation (1970s-Present):

○​ Introduction of microprocessors that consolidated the CPU, memory, and input/output

controls on a single chip.

○​ Enabled the development of personal computers (PCs).

5.​ Fifth Generation (Present and Beyond):

○​ Focused on artificial intelligence (AI), natural language processing, and quantum

computing.

○​ Incorporates machine learning and parallel processing.


​

Types of Computer

Computers are associated with numerous terms and descriptions. Most people suggest the dimensions,

intended use, or the computer's power. While the term "computer" can apply to virtually any device that

has a microprocessor in it, most people think of a computer as a device that receives input from the user

through a mouse (hand-guided directions tool) or keyboard, processes it in some fashion, and presents the

result on a screen.

1. Personal Computer (PC)

It is a single-user instrument. PCs were first known as microcomputers since they were a complete

computer but built on a smaller scale than the enormous systems operated by most businesses.

2. Desktop Computer

It is described as a PC that is not designed for portability, The assumption with a desktop is that it will be

set up in a permanent spot. A workstation is simply a desktop computer that has a more powerful

processor, additional memory, and enhanced capabilities for performing special group of tasks, such as

3D graphics or game development. Most desktops offer more storage, power, and versatility than their

portable versions (UShistory.org, 2017).

3. Laptops

These are portable computers that integrate the essentials of a desktop computer in a battery-powered

package, which are somewhat larger than a typical hardcover book. They are commonly called notebooks.

4. Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs)

These are tightly integrated computers that usually have no keyboards but rely on a touch screen for user

input. PDAs are typically smaller than a paperback, lightweight, and battery-powered (UShistory.org,

2017).

5. Server

It refers to a computer that has been improved to provide network services to other computers. Servers

usually boast powerful processors, tons of memory, and large hard drives (UShistory.org, 2017).
6. Mainframes

These are huge computer systems that can fill an entire room. They are used especially by large firms to

describe the large, expensive machines that process millions of transactions every day. The term

"mainframe" has been replaced by enterprise server. Although some supercomputers are single computer

systems, most comprise multiple, high-performance, parallel computers working as a single system

(UShistory.org, 2017).

7. Wearable Computers

They involve materials that are usually integrated into cell phones, watches, and other small objects or

places. They perform common computer applications such as databases, email, multimedia, and

schedulers (UShistory.org, 2017).

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