Introduction to Computer and operating systems group report
TOPIC : Evolution of Computers
Introduction
The development of computers is evidence of humanity's never-ending quest for knowledge and
innovation. This amazing trip shows how complex digital systems that are present in every area of
modern life evolved from simple mathematical tools. In this article, we explore the fascinating
history of how computers have changed over time, highlighting turning points, technological
advances, and the profound social effects. The way we live, work, and explore the boundaries of
possibility is forever changing as a result of the persistent push to harness the power of computers,
which may be understood by looking at this evolution.
Descriptions and Explanations
Pre-Computer Era: Prior to the development of electronic computers, basic computations were
performed by humans using abacuses and slide rules. Automated computing took its first tentative
steps with mechanical calculators like Pascaline and Leibniz's stepped reckoner.
First Generation Computers (1940s-1950s): Early electronic computers' main building blocks were
vacuum tubes. There were several notable instances, including the Electronic Numerical Integrator
and Computer (ENIAC) and UNIVAC I. Plugboards and wire were used to program these large, highly
energy-hungry computers.
Second Generation Computers (1950s-1960s): Vacuum tubes were replaced by transistors, which
led to smaller, more dependable computers. Programming became more approachable with the
emergence of high-level languages like FORTRAN and COBOL. Among the prominent computers of
this time were the IBM 1401 and UNIVAC 1107.
Third Generation Computers (1960s-1970s): Integrated circuits (ICs) increased performance while
furthering downsizing. Computers from this period include the DEC PDP-11 and the IBM System/360
series. Operating systems became more popular because they made resource management and
multitasking possible.
Fourth Generations Computers (1970s-1980s): By combining the whole CPU on a single chip,
microprocessors changed computing. The affordability of personal computers (PCs) contributed to
the growth of businesses like Apple and Microsoft. This generation is well represented by the
Commodore 64 and IBM PC.
Fifth Generation Computers (1980s-Present): Parallel processing and artificial intelligence have
come into emphasis. Intensely powerful supercomputers have developed, advancing simulations
and scientific research. Another component of this generation is mobile devices, which include
smartphones and tablets.
Interpretation of Concepts with Examples
Moore’s Law: According to this theory, first put out by Gordon Moore in 1965, the number of
transistors on a microchip roughly doubles every two years, resulting in an exponential rise in
computer capacity. This idea is demonstrated in action by Intel's ongoing delivery of microprocessors
with more transistors and better performance.
Parallel Processing and Supercomputing: The idea of parallel processing, which entails dividing up
large jobs into smaller ones that may be done simultaneously, is another important one. In the field
of supercomputing, where the goal is to achieve enormous computational capacity for scientific
simulations, weather forecasting, and genome sequencing, this idea has proven very significant.
Advancements in Artificial Intelligence: The study of artificial intelligence (AI) advanced significantly
as computers advanced. AI is the process of developing machines that can mimic human cognitive
processes like learning and problem-solving. Machine learning, a key branch of artificial intelligence,
allows computers to improve their performance on tasks by implicit learning rather than explicit
programming. Take the advancement of self-driving automobiles, for instance. These cars analyse
real-time sensory input from cameras and sensors using deep neural networks and machine learning
algorithms to make judgments while traversing various settings. This development demonstrates
how hardware and software developments work together to create transformational technologies.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages: Accelerated computation, allowing for more complicated calculations and data analysis.
increased worldwide connectedness and online accessibility to information. Increased automation
across sectors results in higher productivity.
Disadvantages: The fast obsolescence of gear has raised issues with electronic waste and the
environment. With the broad collecting and storage of personal data, privacy and security issues
exist. dependence on computers might result in employment losses in several industries.
List of References
Smith, D.A. (2014). The History of Computing in the Twentieth Century. Academic Press.
Campbell-Kelly, M., &Aspray, W.(Eds.). (2004). Computer: A History of the Information Machine.
Basic Books.
Ceruzzi, P.E. (2003). A History of Modern Computing. MIT Press.
