Computer Revolution Timeline and Fundamentals

Vocabulary flashcards covering 1970s timeline milestones in computing, the primary functions of a computer, and fundamental computer characteristics.

INTEL 4004 (1971)

The first commercially available microprocessor, developed by Dr. Ted Hoff at Intel Corporation.

Cream Soda Computer (1971)

A computer created by Steve Wozniak (co-founder of Apple Computer) and his colleague Bill Fernandez.

Floppy Disk (Diskette) (1972)

A limited storage device introduced in 1972 that makes it easy to transfer data, programs, or software from one computer to another.

Hard Disk (1973)

A mass storage device introduced by IBM Corporation.

8-bit Microprocessor (1974)

A microprocessor introduced by Intel Corporation and Motorola Inc. featuring 64kb of RAM memory and running at a speed of 2MHz.

Altair (1975)

The first commercially available Personal Computer (PC) introduced in the United States.

Apple I (1976)

The first Apple Computer designed and marketed by Apple Company founders Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak.

Epson MX-80 (1978)

The first dot-matrix printer introduced by the Epson Company.

Input

Data entered into a computer, which can take the form of characters, words, images, sounds, or other formats.

Processing

The computer task of performing arithmetic and logical operations, such as editing or modifying a document, based on given instructions.

Output

The result generated after processing input data, which can take the form of text, sound, images, or printed documents.

Storage (Computer Function)

The process of storing instructions and data permanently using devices like flash drives, disks, or tapes.

Speed (Computer Characteristic)

The capability of a computer to process data so quickly that no human being can compete.

Accuracy

The characteristic of a computer to provide accurate results alongside its high processing speed.

Diligence

The ability of a computer to consistently perform repetitive tasks with the same speed and accuracy without suffering from human traits like boredom or tiredness.

Storage Capability

The characteristic enabling modern computers to store large volumes of data that can be retrieved anytime and never forgotten.

Versatility

The capability of computers to perform any task, even simultaneously.