Introduction to Computers and Programming Languages

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions related to computers and programming languages, as discussed in the lecture notes.

Computer

An electronic device that accepts data as input, processes it, and produces output.

Supercomputer

An extremely powerful computer used for complex tasks like weather forecasting and nuclear simulations.

Mainframe

A large computer used by organizations for bulk data processing.

Minicomputer

A medium-sized computer used in universities and small industries.

Microcomputer

The smallest type of computer, used by individuals, also known as Personal Computers (PCs).

Generations of Computers

Stages of evolution in computer technology, marked by fundamental changes in hardware.

First Generation

(1940-1956) Used vacuum tubes, machine language, and were large, slow, and generated heat.

Second Generation

(1956-1963) Utilized transistors and assembly language, resulting in smaller and faster computers.

Third Generation

(1964-1971) Introduced integrated circuits (ICs), enabling multiprogramming.

Fourth Generation

(1971-1980s) Featured microprocessors and personal computers; programming with languages like C and C++.

Fifth Generation

(1980s-Present) Involves ultra-large scale integration and artificial intelligence.

Primary Memory

Volatile memory used for storing data temporarily, including RAM and cache.

Secondary Memory

Non-volatile memory used for permanent data storage, such as hard drives and SSDs.

Access Methods of Memory

Techniques for reading/writing data in memory, including sequential, direct, and random access.

System Software

Software that controls hardware and provides a platform for application software, e.g., operating systems.

Application Software

Programs designed to perform specific tasks for users, such as text editing and web browsing.

Machine Language

The lowest-level programming language consisting of binary code, hardware-dependent.

Assembly Language

A low-level language using mnemonic codes, easier than machine language but still hardware-dependent.

High-Level Languages

Languages with English-like syntax, designed to be easier to read and write, e.g., C, COBOL.

Error Handling

Processes implemented in programming to detect and manage errors in code.

Algorithms

Step-by-step procedures for solving problems, expressed in formats like flowcharts and pseudocode.