Fifth generation computers and programs allow multiple programs (and computers) to work on the same problem at the same time in parallel. Fifth generation computers respond to natural language input, solve highly complex problems, make decisions through logical (human-like) reasoning and use quantum computing and Nanotechnology (molecular manufacturing). 2010 and beyondįifth generation computers are based on AI (artificial intelligence), use large scale integrated chips and more than one CPU (processor). Examples of fourth generation computers include Apple's Macintosh and IBM's PC. The creation and expansion of the World Wide Web and cloud computing (the ability to deliver hosted services using the Internet) significantly enhanced computing capabilities during this period. 1972 to 2010įourth generation computers used integrated circuits and microprocessors with VLSI (very large scale integration), RAM (random access memory), ROM (read-only memory), and high-level programming languages including C and C++. Examples of third generation computers include the IBM 360 and IBM 370 series. Smaller, cheaper and faster than their predecessors, these computers used keyboards for input, monitors for output, and employed programming languages such as FORTRAN (Formula Translation), COBOL (Common Business Oriented Language) and C-Language. Third generation computers used ICs (integrated circuits) with several transistors and MOS (metal oxide semiconductor) memory. Examples of second-generation computers include the IBM 7090, IBM 7094, IBM 1400, and the UNIVAC (Universal Automatic Computer). Transistors drew less power and generated less heat than vacuum tubes. Second generation computers replaced vacuum tubes with transistors, used magnetic tape storage for increased storage capacity, used BAL (basic assembler language) and continued to use punched cards for input. Examples of first generation computers include the ABC (Atanasoff Berry Computer), Colossus, IBM 650 and the EDVAC (Electronic Discrete Variable Computer). These machines used punched cards for data input and a binary machine code (language). 1940 to 1956įirst generation computers were room-sized machines that used vacuum tubes for circuitry and magnetic drums for limited internal storage. While the year span for each generation varies depending on the reference source, the most recognized generational timeline is below. Essentially, the program is read by the computer one instruction at a time, an operation is performed, and the computer then reads the next instruction.įrom the mid-1900s to the present, the advancement of computers is divided into five generations. Modern computers inherently follow the ideas of the stored program laid out by John von Neumann in 1945. Apart from mechanical calculators, the first really useable computers began with the vacuum tube, accelerated with the invention of the transistor, which then became embedded in large numbers in integrated circuits, ultimately making possible the relatively low-cost personal computer. Babbage's assistant and collaborator, Ada Lovelace, is said to have introduced the ideas of program loops and subroutines and is sometimes considered the first programmer. Most histories of the modern computer begin with the Analytical Engine envisioned by Charles Babbage following the mathematical ideas of George Boole, the mathematician who first stated the principles of logic inherent in today's digital computer. Workstation - equipment designed for a single user to complete a specialized technical/scientific task History of the modern computer Tablet computer (tablet PC) - a wireless personal computer with a touch screen Supercomputer - a high performing computer that operates at extremely high speeds Smartphone - a cellular telephone designed with an integrated computer Personal computer (PC) - a digital computer designed to be used by one person at a time Netbook - a smaller and less powerful version of a laptop Minicomputer - an antiquated term for a computer that is smaller than a mainframe and larger than a microcomputer Uses a single integrated semiconductor chip microprocessor. Microcomputer - generally referred to as a PC (personal computer). Mainframe (big iron) computer - a centralized computer used for large scale computing Laptop (notebook) - an easily transported computer that is smaller than a briefcase Hybrid computer - combines features of both analog and digital computers Analog computer - represents data by measurable quantitiesĭesktop computer - a personal computer that fits on a desk and is often used for business or gamingĭigital computer - operates with numbers expressed as digits
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