Lecture 1
Lecture 1
BY P E T E R N O RT O N 7 T H E D I T I O N
COMPUTER DEFINED
• A computer is a machine that can store and process information. Most
computers rely on a binary system, which uses two variables, 0 and 1, to
complete tasks such as storing data, calculating algorithms, and displaying
information.
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GENERATIONS OF
COMPUTERS
• Based on the improvements in Computer Systems over time, the
Computers are divided into six generations
– First Generation Electronic Computers (1937-1953)
– Second-Generation (1954-1962)
– Third-Generation (1963-1972)
– Fourth-Generation (1972-1984)
– Fifth-Generation (1984-present)
FIRST GENERATION
COMPUTERS
• The era of first generation is from 1937 to 1953.
• Vacuum tubes used as basic electronic components.Large in size, consumed
a lot of electricity, and generated a significant amount of heat.
Example: ENIAC (Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer).
• Some of the inventions of the time are
– Electron microscope
– Photocopier
– Microwave oven
– Optic fiber
SECOND GENERATION
COMPUTER
• The era of second generation is from 1954 to 1962.
• Transistors replaced vacuum tubes, making computers smaller, faster, and
more reliable. Assembly language and high-level programming languages
(like Fortran and COBOL) emerged. Example: IBM 1401, IBM 7094.
• Inventions of this era include
– Audio Cassette
– Microchips
– Video disk.
THIRD GENERATION
COMPUTER
• The era of third generation is from 1963 to 1971.
• Integrated Circuits (ICs) introduced, allowing more components to be placed on a single
silicon chip.Computers became smaller, more powerful, and more energy-
efficient.Operating systems developed, facilitating easier use and management.
Example: IBM System/360, DEC PDP-11.
• Inventions of this time period include
– Calculator
– Computer Mouse
– RAM
– Barcode Reader
– LCD
FOURTH GENERATION
COMPUTER
• The era of fourth generation is from 1972 to 1984
• Microprocessors enabled entire CPUs to fit on a single chip, leading to
personal computers (PCs) and workstations.Introduction of GUIs (Graphical
User Interfaces) and networking capabilities.Example: Apple II, IBM PC,
Macintosh.
• Popular inventions of the time include
– Word processor
– Video game
– Laser printer
FIFTH GENERATION COMPUTER
– The era of fifth generation was from 1984-present
– Characterized by advances in parallel processing, artificial intelligence (AI), and
quantum computing.Focus on natural language processing, machine learning,
and advanced computational capabilities.Examples: Supercomputers, quantum
computers (still in experimental stages).
– Inventions of the time are
• CD-ROM
• Windows Program
• High definition television
• 3-D video game