Introduction to Computers and Their Generations

Study Notes

An electronic device that processes data.
Computers can store, retrieve, and process data.
Used for various tasks: typing documents, sending emails, playing games, browsing the web, creating spreadsheets, presentations, and videos.

First Generation (1940s-1950s):
- Vacuum Tubes: Used for controlling the flow of electricity.
- ENIAC: Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer, built by J. Presper Eckert and John V. Mauchly.
  - General-purpose computer.
  - Cumbersome and large, contained 18,000 vacuum tubes.
- UNIVAC: Universal Automatic Computer, the world's first commercially electronic computing device.
  - Created by Eckert and Mauchly in 1947.
Second Generation (1950s-1960s):
- Transistors: Used for controlling the flow of electricity in devices as amplifiers or switches.
- IBM 1401: Changed perceptions of computers in businesses.
  - Smaller, more affordable, and accessible to medium-sized companies and labs.
Third Generation (1960s-1970s):
- Integrated Circuits (ICs): Silicon chips containing transistors, resistors, etc.
- IBM System/360: Launched in 1964, designed for all types of users with one unified software-compatible architecture.
Fourth Generation (1970s-1980s):
- Microprocessors: One chip containing all circuits for arithmetic, logic, and control functions.
- IBM PC: Connected to televisions, allowing users to process text and play games.
Fifth Generation (1980s-Present):
- Artificial Intelligence (AI): Focuses on creating intelligent machines and behaviors.
- IBM Watson: Sparked interest in "machines that could think" and the potential applications of AI in business.

Input: Data or information entered into a computer for processing using input devices.
Output: Processed information displayed through output devices.
Memory Devices: Store data for future use.

Software: Computer programs that provide instructions for the computer.
System Software: Programs used by the computer hardware.
- Operating systems, device drivers, and utilities manage internal computer resources.
- Examples: Windows XP, Windows Vista.
Application Software: Programs used by end-users to process data.
- Examples:
  - Word Processing: MS Word
  - Spreadsheet: MS Excel
  - Presentation Graphics: MS PowerPoint
  - Organizer: MS Outlook
  - Database Management: Microsoft Access
  - Desktop Publishing, Graphics, Video, Multimedia, Animation
Connectivity Applications: Microsoft Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator used for connecting to and browsing the internet.