10 Questions
What was the hallmark of the third generation of computers?
Development of integrated circuits
What technology did the first computers of the third generation use to store instructions?
Magnetic core technology
How did the microprocessor advance the fourth generation of computers?
Integration of thousands of circuits onto a single chip
What distinguished the fourth generation of computers from the third generation?
Use of microprocessors
How did third-generation computers differ from second-generation computers in terms of size and cost?
Third-generation computers were smaller and cheaper
What led to the accessibility of computers to a mass audience for the first time?
Smaller and cheaper devices
Which generation of computers is characterized by the development of the Internet?
Fourth generation
How did computers in the fourth generation interact with users?
Using GUIs and handheld devices
What was a significant feature of the fifth generation of computers?
Based on Artificial Intelligence
What technology drastically increased the speed and efficiency of computers in the third generation?
Silicon chips
Study Notes
Classification of Computers
- Classified on the basis of size, functionality, and data handling
- Classified into supercomputer, mainframe, mini computer, micro computer, and workstation based on size and capacity
Types of Computers
- Supercomputer: one of the fastest computers, very expensive, and employed for specialized applications that require immense mathematical calculations
- Mainframe: very large in size, expensive, and capable of supporting hundreds or thousands of users simultaneously
- Minicomputer: multi-user computer system, capable of supporting hundreds of users simultaneously
- Workstation: single-user computer system, similar to personal computer, but with a more powerful microprocessor
- Personal Computer (PC) or Micro-Computer: single-user computer system, having a moderately powerful microprocessor, and equipped with a microprocessor as its CPU
Generations of Computers
- First Generation (1946 - 1958): used vacuum tubes for circuitry, magnetic drums for memory, and were often enormous, taking up entire rooms
- Second Generation (1959 - 1964): transistors replaced vacuum tubes, allowing computers to become smaller, faster, cheaper, and more reliable
- Third Generation (1965 - 1970): development of integrated circuits, transistors miniaturized and placed on silicon chips, and computers became smaller and cheaper
- Fourth Generation (1971 - Today): microprocessor brought the fourth generation, with thousands of integrated circuits built onto a single silicon chip, and led to the development of the Internet and GUIs
- Fifth Generation (Today to Future): based on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and still in development
This quiz covers the classification of computers based on size, functionality, and data handling, as well as the classification of a computer system based on size, capacity, and purpose. Learn about supercomputers, mainframes, mini computers, micro computers, and more.
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