History of Electronic Computers

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Questions and Answers

What period is considered the First Generation of electronic computers?

1937 – 1953 (correct)

1954 – 1962

1972 – 1984

1963 – 1972

Who is often credited with the creation of the first programmable computing device?

Charles Babbage (correct)

Gottfried Leibnitz

Blaise Pascal

Wilhelm Schickhard

Which generation of computers began in 1954?

Fourth Generation

First Generation

Second Generation (correct)

Third Generation

What was the focus of the Zeroth Generation of computing?

Mechanical computers Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following devices was NOT completed by Charles Babbage?

Difference Engine Signup and view all the answers

What significant technological barrier did Charles Babbage face while working on his computing devices?

Unreliable technology Signup and view all the answers

When did the Fourth Generation of computers occur?

1972 – 1984 Signup and view all the answers

What material are integrated circuits primarily made of?

Silicon Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following mathematicians is NOT associated with making early calculating devices?

Isaac Newton Signup and view all the answers

Who is credited with creating the silicon integrated circuit?

Robert Noyce Signup and view all the answers

How did silicon integrated circuits impact computer design?

Allowed for smaller, faster, and cheaper computers Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a microprocessor?

To execute computations and coordinate operations Signup and view all the answers

What is one benefit of using computers in hospitals during surgeries?

They facilitate faster and less painful procedures. Signup and view all the answers

Which generation of computers introduced microprocessors?

Fourth generation Signup and view all the answers

How do students benefit from computers in libraries?

By helping locate books quickly using OPAC. Signup and view all the answers

In addition to computers, where else can microprocessor technology be applied?

In various devices like digital watches and TVs Signup and view all the answers

What was the key emphasis of scientific computing during the fifth generation of computers?

Dominance of vector processing Signup and view all the answers

What role do computers play in medical transcription?

They help doctors dictate their diagnoses for documentation. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a use of computers in hospitals?

Library management Signup and view all the answers

What was a major characteristic of fourth-generation technology compared to third-generation technology?

Greater power and capabilities in one chip Signup and view all the answers

How do computers assist in diagnosis in a medical setting?

By analyzing patient data and test results. Signup and view all the answers

What is a feature of laser operations in surgeries?

They ensure a more precise cut. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a component of a hospital management system that utilizes computers?

Patient history documentation Signup and view all the answers

What is one purpose of using computers in mathematical calculations?

To complete complex and lengthy calculations. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary educational requirement for systems administrators?

Bachelor’s degree in information or computer science Signup and view all the answers

Which area of technology do systems administrators primarily manage?

Computer systems, hardware, and networks Signup and view all the answers

What type of degree do some employers accept for the role of a systems administrator aside from a bachelor’s degree?

Associate’s degree or certificates with experience Signup and view all the answers

In which field is Computer Aided Instruction (CAI) primarily used?

Education to enhance student learning Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the primary applications of computers in educational settings?

Conducting distance learning and online examinations Signup and view all the answers

Why is computer technology considered vital for businesses?

It is the backbone for operations across all business lines. Signup and view all the answers

What is one reason cartoon animators use computers in their work?

Computers can create realistic visual and sound effects. Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the benefits for students using computers in education?

Helping students solve various problems Signup and view all the answers

How do people in the music industry utilize computers?

To produce better quality sound of music. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following roles is NOT typically associated with systems administrators?

Developing software applications Signup and view all the answers

What significant role do computers play in entertainment?

They enable online games, music, and TV programs. Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary advantage of email as a communication tool?

Emails allow messages to be sent and received almost instantly. Signup and view all the answers

What tool do engineers and architects use for drawing and designing?

Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a use of computers in media and entertainment?

Producing live concerts. Signup and view all the answers

What type of effects do computers help create in animated films?

Realistic visual and sound effects. Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect of communication is enhanced by the use of computers?

Speed of sending and receiving messages. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Generations of Computers

First Generation (1937 – 1953): Characterized by vacuum tubes and large, room-sized machines.
Second Generation (1954 – 1962): Transitioned to transistors, allowing smaller, more reliable computers.
Third Generation (1963 – 1972): Introduced integrated circuits, further reducing size and cost while improving performance.
Fourth Generation (1972 – 1984): Evolved with the microprocessor, enabling significant advancements in computing power and capabilities.
Fifth Generation (1984 – Present): Focuses on artificial intelligence and advanced computing strategies.

Zeroth Generation – Mechanical Computers

Early calculators date back to the 17th century with contributions from mathematicians like Wilhelm Schickhard, Blaise Pascal, and Gottfried Leibnitz.
Charles Babbage's Difference Engine was a pioneering programmable computing device conceptualized in 1823 but never completed.
Babbage's Analytical Engine was a revolutionary concept for its time, but technological limitations prevented its completion.

Integrated Circuits

Silicon Integrated Circuit: Developed by Robert Noyce in 1958, allowed multiple transistors on a single chip.
Resulted in computers being smaller, faster, and more affordable.

Fourth Generation: The Age of Microprocessors

Microprocessors centralized processing power in a single chip, acting as the "brain" of the computer.
Applications of microprocessor technology extend beyond computers to devices like digital watches, calculators, and automotive systems.

Fifth Generation: Information Super Highway

Scientific computing dominated by vector processing techniques.
Bachelor's degree programs in programming are standard, with alternatives like associate's degrees available.

Systems Administrators

Responsible for ensuring the smooth operation of computer systems within organizations.
Tasks include planning, installing, managing hardware and software, and maintaining networks.
Requires a minimum education of a bachelor’s degree in information or computer science.

Applications of Computers in Various Fields

Education: Use of Computer Aided Instruction (CAI) and online learning platforms enhances student engagement and resource access.
Library Systems: Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC) improves book organization and retrieval for students.

Medical Applications

Computers assist in diagnosing illnesses, performing surgeries (like laser operations), and managing patient records.
Medical transcription allows for efficient documentation of diagnoses.

Media and Entertainment

Animation and game development heavily rely on computers for creating visually engaging content.
Enhanced music production quality through digital technology and online streaming platforms expands entertainment access.

Communications

Email serves as a swift communication tool, enabling instant message exchanges globally.

Engineering Design

Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software utilized by engineers and architects to create detailed plans for structures and mechanical components.

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Description

This quiz explores the evolution of electronic computers from the first generation in 1937 to the fifth generation in present times. You will learn about the significant developments that occurred during each generational phase, including the Zeroth generation. Test your knowledge on the advancements and the timeline of computer technology.