Introduction to Computers

Introduction to Computers

• A computer is an electronic device that processes data through software stored in its memory, performing input, manipulation, and output tasks.
• The term encompasses a variety of interconnected devices functioning together as a system.

Historical Development of Computers

• Abacus: Used in Europe before the 1500s for basic calculations, enhancing the operator's memory rather than possessing inherent computation capabilities.
• Pascaline: Invented by Blaise Pascal in 1642, it was a mechanical calculator for addition and subtraction.
• Leibniz's Enhancements: In 1671, Gottfried von Leibniz modified Pascal’s design enabling multiplication and division.

Pioneers of the Computer

• Charles Babbage: Known as the "father of computing," he developed the Difference Engine in 1822 to automate polynomial function calculations and later designed the Analytical Engine, which was constructed posthumously.

Generations of Computers

• Generation 0: Mechanical Calculators.
• Generation 1: Vacuum Tube Computers (1946-1959).
• Generation 2: Transistor Computers (1957-1964).
• Generation 3: Integrated Circuits (1965-1970).
• Generation 4: Microprocessors (1970-1990).
• Generation 5: Emerging technologies focused on artificial intelligence (1990-present).

Important Computers in History

• ENIAC: Launched in 1946, recognized as the first all-electronic general-purpose digital computer.

Computing Concepts

• Binary and Boolean Logic: Claude Shannon advocated using binary arithmetic in electronic circuits, fundamental for modern computing.
• Von-Neumann Architecture: Comprised of three main components: CPU, Memory, and I/O System.

Evolution of Technology

• Cray-1: Designed by Seymour Cray, achieving 160 million instructions per second and featuring 8 MB of memory, a significant advancement in computing speed.

Advancements in Integration Technology

• Integrated Circuit (IC) Classifications:
  • SSI: Small Scale Integration (10-100 transistors).
  • MSI: Medium Scale Integration (100-1,000 transistors).
  • LSI: Large Scale Integration (1,000-10,000 transistors).
  • VLSI: Very Large Scale Integration (>10,000 transistors).

Current and Future Directions

• Generation 5 Computers: Focused on advancements in artificial intelligence, including voice recognition, quantum computing, bio computing, nano technology, and natural language processing.

Computer System Components

• Input Devices: Keyboard.
• Output Devices: Monitor, speakers, and printers.
• System Unit: Houses the processor and memory.
• Storage Devices: Examples include CD-RW and floppy disks.