Introduction

Store data

A computer is an electronic device that can store, process, and output data

Perform calculations

Computers can perform calculations, solve problems, and provide results

Automatic tasks

Computers can be programmed to perform tasks automatically

Fields

business, education, healthcare, and entertainment

Communication

Computers help people communicate more effectively

Business

increase productivity by storing and managing data, tracking inventory, and making presentations.

Functions

categorized into four main operations:

input, processing, output, and storage.

Input

This involves receiving data or instructions from an external source.

Input Devices

keyboards, mice, scanners, and microphones.

Processing

core function where the computer manipulates the input data according to specific instructions or programs.

Device responsible for pricessing is:

CPU

Output

This function presents the results of the processing to the user or another device

Output devices

monitors, printers, and speakers.

Storage

This function involves saving data and instructions for later use.

Storage can be temporary (RAM) or permanent (hard drives, SSDs, etc.).

Control

The control unit within the CPU manages the overall operations of the computer,

ensuring that instructions are executed in the correct sequence

and that all components work together harmoniously.

10 Functions of a computer

1. Input

2. Process

3. Store

4. Output

5. Control Unit

6. Solve Problems

7. Communicate

8. Connect to Internet

9. Automate tasks

10. Entertainment

Generations

There are 5 generations of computers.

First generation

The technology behind these computers was a fragile glass device, vacuum tube.

Very heavy, too bulky and large, consumed lot of electricity.

These were not very reliable.

Machine and assembly language is developed.

Low level programming

Programming was a tedious task as they used low-level programming language and used no OS.

First-generation computers were used for

calculation, storage, and control purpose.

Second generation

Second-generation computers used the technology of transistors.

Another feature was the core storage.

Transistors were invented in Bell Labs.

The use of transistors made it possible to perform powerfully and with due speed. (slow)

It reduced the dimensions and price and thankfully the warmth too

CPU

Central Processing Unit (CPU), memory, programming language, and input, and output units also came into the force within the second generation.

Third generation

Technology envisaged a shift from huge transistors to integrated circuits, also referred to as IC.

IC was made from silicon and also called silicon chips.

Very fast and reliable.

The value size was reduced and memory space and dealing efficiency were increased.

Operating System

Operating system program was installed, because of which computer could perform multiple tasks at once in the third generation.

High level language

High level programming languages like BASIC were developed in third generation.

Fourth generation

These computers used microprocessors that combined CPU, memory, and other components on a single chip.

This generation provided even smaller size of computers, with larger capacities.

more user-friendly and customary device

Micro computers

Computers using microchips are called micro computers.

Fifth computers

These computers are the latest evolution in computing technology.

They use artificial intelligence to perform tasks that require human-like reasoning.

They are faster, cost-effective, utilize lesser electricity, and are portable.

speed is the highest, size is the smallest

Fifth generation computers examples

Desktops, laptops, tablets, smartphones, etc.

computers can be categorized by their intended use, such as servers, workstations, or embedded systems.

Super Computer

Mainframe computer

Mini Computer

Server Computer

Personal Computer (PC)

Server Computer

Analog Computer

Digital Computer

Hybrid Computer

Tablets and Smartphone

Embedded Computers