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Questions and Answers
When was the first commercially available computer introduced?
Which generation of computers was marked by the introduction of the integrated circuit etched onto silicon chips?
What type of circuitry is used in the 5th generation computers?
Which component represented input and output media in the 1st generation computers?
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What was a major feature of the 4th generation computers?
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What modern feature involves using many processors to operate on data simultaneously?
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What is the purpose of minicomputers?
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What is the primary difference between multiprocessing and multitasking?
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What is the main characteristic of microcomputers?
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What processing method involves running two or more processors simultaneously?
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In the context of computer classification, what is a characteristic of minicomputers?
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What distinguishes pipelining as a method of instruction fetching and decoding?
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Which historical figure developed an arithmetic machine in 1642?
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Which of the following programming languages is NOT listed as a software development tool in the text?
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Who invented the Difference Engine in 1822 to calculate mathematical tables?
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What type of computer system software coordinates the activities of all hardware components?
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Which generation of computers introduced parallel processing for improved performance?
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What was the purpose of the calculating machine developed by Leibniz in 1694?
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Study Notes
Computer Generations and Historical Development
- The first commercially available computer was introduced in 1951.
- The introduction of integrated circuits etched onto silicon chips marked the 3rd generation of computers.
- The 5th generation computers utilize artificial intelligence for processing, specifically employing parallel processing and advanced circuitry.
- Input and output media for the 1st generation computers consisted of punch cards and magnetic tape.
Key Features of Computer Generations
- A major feature of 4th generation computers is the use of microprocessors that enhance performance and reduce size.
- Modern computing often involves parallel processing, where multiple processors operate on data simultaneously to increase efficiency.
- Minicomputers serve the purpose of providing mid-range computing power, bridging the gap between mainframes and microcomputers.
Processing Concepts
- The primary difference between multiprocessing and multitasking lies in multiprocessing using multiple CPUs for processing tasks simultaneously, whereas multitasking involves a single CPU managing multiple tasks.
- Microcomputers are characterized by their compact size and affordability, primarily designed for individual users.
Processing Methods and Techniques
- Running two or more processors simultaneously is known as multiprocessing, improving overall computing speed.
- Minicomputers are recognized for their ability to support multiple users and provide essential services in a smaller form factor.
- Pipelining distinguishes itself as a method of instruction fetching and decoding by allowing the next instruction to be fetched before the current instruction is completed.
Historical Figures in Computing
- Blaise Pascal developed an arithmetic machine in 1642, contributing to the early foundations of computing.
- Charles Babbage invented the Difference Engine in 1822 to facilitate the computation of mathematical tables.
Software and Systems
- System software coordinates the activities of all hardware components in a computer, ensuring efficient operation.
- The 4th generation of computers introduced parallel processing to enhance performance and speed in data handling.
- The calculating machine developed by Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz in 1694 aimed to automate calculations and improve efficiency in mathematical computations.
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Description
Learn about the characteristics of mainframe computers, mini computers, and microcomputers. Understand how each type of computer handles complex computations, input-output operations, and network connectivity.
