Basic Computer Concepts

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Questions and Answers

What major technological advancement characterized second-generation computers?

Optical fibers

Integrated circuits

Vacuum tubes

Transistors (correct)

Which computer was the first commercially available electronic computer?

IBM 701

ENIAC

PDP-8

UNIVAC-1 (correct)

What was the primary internal storage technology in second-generation computers?

Optical disks

Punched cards

Magnetic cores (correct)

Magnetic tapes

Which programming language was developed to help teach programming during the second generation of computers?

BASIC Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant disadvantage of first-generation computers?

Large size and heat production Signup and view all the answers

Who developed the first operational electronic digital computer?

Eckert and Mauchly Signup and view all the answers

During which period did computers begin to rely on integrated circuits?

Third generation Signup and view all the answers

What was a critical feature of first-generation computers that often led to breakdowns?

Burned-out vacuum tubes Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the microprocessor in fourth-generation computers?

To enhance computational power within a single chip Signup and view all the answers

Which computer was the first personal computer easily available to the public?

Altair 8080 Signup and view all the answers

What significant feature did the Apple II personal computer introduce?

Plastic casing with color graphics Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following programming languages was developed for the Unix Operating system?

C Signup and view all the answers

What was the focus of the Fifth Generation Computer Systems initiative started in 1982 in Japan?

Creating computers utilizing massively parallel computing Signup and view all the answers

Which program was the first spreadsheet software released for microcomputers?

VisiCalc Signup and view all the answers

What type of memory technology began to replace magnetic core internal memories?

Metal oxide semiconductor (MOS) memory Signup and view all the answers

Who were the creators of the C programming language?

Brian Kernighan and Dennis Ritchie Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of a computer in data handling?

To manipulate and transform data into useful information Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT one of the four basic functions of a computer?

Networking Signup and view all the answers

What does GIGO stand for in computer science?

Garbage In, Garbage Out Signup and view all the answers

In the context of computer functions, what does 'storage' refer to?

The capability to save and retrieve data for future use Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately describes data?

It is raw, unprocessed facts that can become useful information. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key limitation of a computer based on its capabilities?

It must be operated under programmed instructions. Signup and view all the answers

Which of these is considered a capability of a computer?

To provide accurate results based on its programming Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by 'retrieve' in terms of computer functions?

To recover stored data for future use Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Definition of a Computer

A computer is an electronic device that processes, stores, and outputs data quickly based on programmed instructions.
It consists of five basic elements: electronic (powered by electricity), programmable (follows set instructions), storage (stores large amounts of data), retrieval (access stored data), and processing (transforms data into useful information).

Data vs. Information

Data refers to raw, unprocessed facts without meaning; it becomes useful information after manipulation.
Information is processed data, transformed into a context that makes it valuable.

Four Basic Functions of a Computer

Input: Feeding or entering data into a computer.
Process: Manipulating and transforming data into useful information via programs.
Output: The result produced from processing data.
Storage: Saving data and outputs for future use.

Capabilities of Computers

Capable of processing data quickly and accurately.
Can operate tirelessly, performing multiple tasks simultaneously.
Able to store, recall, and verify information.

Limitations of Computers

Require human intervention for operation.
Have a limited lifespan and do not independently formulate information.
Generated information depends on user input and cannot replace the human brain's capabilities.

History of Computers

First Generation (1951-1958): Featured vacuum tubes; large, slow, and expensive.
- ENIAC, developed in 1945, was the first operational electronic digital computer.
- UNIVAC-1 was the first commercially available electronic computer.
Second Generation (1958-1964): Introduced transistors to replace vacuum tubes; enhanced storage with magnetic tapes and disks.
- Grace Hopper developed COBOL, while the PDP-8, the first minicomputer, was released by DEC.
Third Generation (1964-1974): Used integrated circuits, replacing transistors for more compact designs.
- The C programming language and UNIX operating system were developed during this period.
Fourth Generation (1971-Present): Advanced technology to microprocessors, allowing for powerful personal computers.
- Notable releases include the Altair 8080 and Apple II, which featured color graphics and widespread business utility with VisiCalc.
Fifth Generation (1982-Onward): Focuses on connectivity with massively parallel computing and logic programming as hallmarks.
- Initiated by Japan's Ministry of International Trade to enhance computer user connectivity.

Conclusion

Computers have evolved through distinct generations characterized by significant technological advancements, impacting their capabilities and applications across various fields.

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Description

This quiz covers foundational knowledge of basic computer concepts as introduced by Yurie Masuli. It defines what a computer is and explores its essential components. Perfect for beginners looking to understand the core elements of computer operation.