Basic Computer Concepts – Different generations of computer hardware, Modern taxonomy of

computers; Hardware and software; Programming languages, Overview of computer systems and
their components, Evolution of computers and their impact on society, Classification of computers
(mainframes, personal computers, mobile devices), General idea of information and communication
technologies, Information system development process.

Different generations of computer hardware

The Generation of Computer Evolution is Generally Divided Into 5

Categories.
S.no Time-period Generations of Computer Evolving Hardware
1 1940-1950 First-generation Vacuum-Tube Based
2 1950-1960 Second generation Transistor Based
3 1960-1970 Third generation Integrated-Circuit Based
4 1970-Present Fourth Generation Microprocessor-Based
5 Present-Future Fifth Generation Artificial Intelligence Based

The First Generation of Computers- (the 1940s-1950s)

1. The main electronic component used in the computers of the 1940s to 1950s
era were vacuum tubes.
2. The main memory storing units were magnetic tapes and magnetic drums.
3. The machine language was used as the programming language.
4. The sizes used to be very large which could take up entire rooms and the speed
was very slow.
5. The only input/output devices were paper tape and punched cards.
6. Around 100 different vacuum tubes were used in order to produce the
computers.
7. Examples are UNIVAC1, ENIAC, IBM 701 and IBM 650, etc.

The Second Generation of Computers- (the 1950s-1960s)

1. The main electronic component used in the computers of the 1950s to 1960s
era were transistors.
 2. The main memory storing units were magnetic tape or disk and magnetic core.
3. The assembly language was used as the programming language.
4. The sizes were smaller as compared to those of the first generation and they
used to consume low power and generate less heat.
5. There was an improvement in speed.
6. The input/output devices were magnetic tape and punched cards.
7. Examples are IBM 1401, IBM 7094 AND IBM 7090, UNIVAC 1107, and so
on.

The Third Generation of Computers- (the 1960s-1970s)

1. The main electronic components used in the computers of the era 1060s to
1970s were integrated circuits ICs.
2. The memory storing units were the magnetic disk or take and a large magnetic
core.
3. High-level languages such as BASIC, COBOL, Pascal were used as the
programming language.
4. The sizes were smaller and efficient and the computers were called
minicomputers.
5. There was an improvement in reliability and speed as compared to the second
generation of computers.
6. The input/output devices were keyboards, magnetic tape monitor, printer, etc.
7. Examples are IBM 370, IBM 360, UNIVAC 1108 and so on.

The Fourth Generation of Computers- (1970s-present)

1. The main electronic components used in the fourth generation of computers are
microprocessors and very large scale integration (VLSI).
2. When thousands of transistors are attached to a single microchip, it is known as
VLSI.
3. Semiconductor memory storage units such as RAM, ROM, etc were
introduced.
4. RAM (random-access memory)- Temporarily stores the programs and data and
the contents are lost when the computer is shut down.
 5. ROM (read-only memory)- Permanently stores the data and programs and the
contents are retained even after shutting down the computer.
6. High-level languages such as C#, JAVA, Python, JavaScript are used as
programming languages.
7. The sizes are smaller and the speed has improved.
8. The input/output devices are a monitor, mouse, keyboard, printer, and so on.
9. Examples are STAR 1000, APPLE II, IBM PC, and so on.

The Fifth Generation of Computers- (present and the future)

1. The main electronic components that are used in the present generation of
computers is Artificial Intelligence which uses the parallel processing method
and the Ultra-Large Scale Integration (ULSI).
2. The fifth generation of computers understands the natural human language.
3. The speeds are really fast and the sizes are also small.
4. The fifth-generation computers are portable and have a huge storage capacity.
5. The input/output devices are keyboards, monitors, touchscreen pens, printers,
light scanners, and so on.
6. Examples are laptops, desktops, tablets, smartphones, etc.

Modern taxonomy of computers

Classification of Computer

Computers can be classified into various categories based on different criteria, such as their size,
functionality, usage, architecture, and more. Here are some common classifications of computers:

Based on Size and Portability:

Mainframe Computers: Large and powerful computers designed to handle complex and critical tasks
for organizations.

Supercomputers: Extremely powerful computers used for scientific and engineering simulations that
require massive processing power.

Minicomputers: Mid-sized computers that are more powerful than microcomputers but less
powerful than mainframes.
Microcomputers: Personal computers or small workstations, including desktops, laptops, and
tablets.

Based on Functionality and Usage:

Personal Computers (PCs): Used for general-purpose tasks such as word processing, browsing, and
entertainment.

Workstations: Specialized computers used for tasks like graphic design, video editing, and scientific
simulations.

Servers: Computers designed to provide services, data, or resources to other computers (clients)
over a network.

Embedded Computers: Computers integrated into other devices and systems, such as cars,
appliances, and industrial equipment.

Gaming Consoles: Computers optimized for gaming and multimedia entertainment.

Based on Architecture:

Von Neumann Architecture: Computers that use a single memory space for both data and
instructions. Most modern computers follow this architecture.

Harvard Architecture: Computers that have separate memory spaces for data and instructions,
which can improve performance in certain applications.

Based on Operating System:

Windows PCs: Computers running the Microsoft Windows operating system.

macOS Computers: Computers manufactured by Apple and running the macOS operating system.

Linux Computers: Computers running various distributions of the Linux operating system.

Unix Systems: Computers using Unix-like operating systems, commonly found in servers and
workstations.

Based on Performance:

General-Purpose Computers: Regular computers used for a wide range of tasks.

Special-Purpose Computers: Designed to perform specific tasks, such as weather forecasting or

cryptography.

Based on Architecture:

CISC (Complex Instruction Set Computer): Processors with a wide variety of instructions, allowing
complex operations to be performed in a single instruction.

RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computer): Processors with a simplified instruction set, focusing on
executing simple instructions quickly.
Based on Usage Environment:

Home Computers: PCs and laptops used for personal tasks and entertainment.

Office Computers: Used in workplaces for tasks like document processing, communication, and data
management.

Industrial Computers: Embedded computers used in industrial automation and control systems.

Scientific Computers: Supercomputers and high-performance computers used for scientific research
and simulations.

These classifications are not exhaustive, and computers can often fit into multiple categories
simultaneously. The field of computing is dynamic and constantly evolving, leading to new types of
computers and classifications as technology advances.... Read more at:
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Hardware and software

Hardware
The term hardware refers to mechanical device that makes up computer. Computer
hardware consists of interconnected electronic devices that we can use to control
computer’s operation, input and output. Examples of hardware are CPU, keyboard,
mouse, hard disk, etc.
Software
A set of instructions that drives computer to do stipulated tasks is called a program.
Software instructions are programmed in a computer language, translated into
machine language, and executed by computer. Software can be categorized into two
types −

 System software
 Application software
System Software
System software operates directly on hardware devices of computer. It provides a
platform to run an application. It provides and supports user functionality. Examples
of system software include operating systems such as Windows, Linux, Unix, etc.
Application Software
An application software is designed for benefit of users to perform one or more
tasks. Examples of application software include Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint,
Oracle, etc
.
Programming languages

A programming language is a system of notation for writing computer programs.[1] Most

programming languages are text-based formal languages, but they may also be graphical. They
are a kind of computer language.
The description of a programming language is usually split into the two components
of syntax (form) and semantics (meaning), which are usually defined by a formal language.
Some languages are defined by a specification document (for example, the C programming
language is specified by an ISO Standard) while other languages (such as Perl) have a
dominant implementation that is treated as a reference. Some languages have both, with the
basic language defined by a standard and extensions taken from the dominant implementation
being common.

Overview of computer systems and their components

Hardware Components
Computer hardware is a collection of several components working together. Some
parts are essential and others are added advantages. Computer hardware is made
up of CPU and peripherals as shown in image below.

Evolution of computers and their impact on society

Computers have come a long way from their early beginnings in the form of
mechanical calculators to the state-of-the-art systems we have today. The rapid
advancements in computer technology have revolutionized the way we live, work,
and communicate. In this article, we will delve into the brief history of computer
evolution, future advancements in computer technology, and the impact of
computers on society.
Brief History of Computer Evolution
The evolution of computers can be traced back to the invention of mechanical
calculators in the early 1600s. Over the centuries, computers have undergone
significant transformations, with each new development leading to a new era in
computing. In the 1940s and 1950s, electronic computers were introduced, leading
to the development of mainframe computers that dominated the computing industry
for several decades. The 1970s saw the introduction of personal computers, which
marked the beginning of the personal computing era. The 1980s and 1990s saw the
development of graphical user interfaces, the Internet, and the World Wide Web,
which paved the way for the modern computing era.

With the advent of the 21st century, we have seen an explosion of new technologies,
including smartphones, cloud computing, and social media, which have transformed
the way we live, work, and communicate. Today, computers are an integral part of
our lives and are shaping the future of society in ways that were once unimaginable.

Future Advancements in Computer Technology

As computer technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see many exciting
advancements in the future. Emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI),
quantum computing, and the Internet of Things (IoT) are expected to shape the
future of computers in profound ways.

Artificial Intelligence is a rapidly growing field that has the potential to transform the
way we live and work. AI is already being used in a wide range of applications,
including natural language processing, image recognition, and self-driving cars. As AI
continues to advance, we can expect to see even more widespread adoption of this
technology in the future.

Quantum computing is another exciting field that has the potential to revolutionize
the computing industry. Unlike traditional computers, which use bits to represent
information, quantum computers use quantum bits, or qubits, which can be in
multiple states at the same time. This allows quantum computers to perform
complex calculations much faster than traditional computers.

The Internet of Things is a network of devices that are connected to the Internet and
can communicate with each other. IoT has the potential to transform a wide range of
industries, from healthcare and transportation to manufacturing and energy. By
enabling devices to communicate and exchange data in real-time, IoT can increase
efficiency and improve decision-making processes.

Impact of Computers on Society

Computers have had a profound impact on society, transforming the way we live,
work, and communicate. The integration of computer technology in fields such as
finance, education, and healthcare has revolutionized the way decisions are made
and tasks are performed. In 2020, there were over 4.6 billion internet users
worldwide, and it is estimated to reach 5.2 billion by 2025. (Source: Statista)

However, computers have also brought about new challenges and ethical
considerations. The increasing reliance on computers has raised concerns about data
privacy and security, algorithmic bias, and job displacement. As computers become
even more integrated into our lives, it is important that we address these challenges
in a responsible and ethical manner.

Societal Benefits and Challenges

Computer technology has brought about numerous benefits to society, including
increased productivity and efficiency, improved communication, and access to
information. These benefits have changed the way we live and work, allowing us to
accomplish tasks faster and more efficiently. For example, the integration of artificial
intelligence in finance has revolutionized the way decisions are made and tasks are
performed, increasing efficiency and accuracy.

However, computers have also brought about new challenges, such as the digital
divide and job displacement. The digital divide refers to the unequal distribution of
technology and access to the internet, which can result in unequal access to
information and opportunities. This can lead to a divide between those who have
access to technology and those who do not, perpetuating socio-economic inequality.

In addition, the increased reliance on computers and automation in the workplace

has led to job displacement, as machines and algorithms replace human workers in
certain industries. While this has led to increased efficiency and cost savings, it has
also led to concerns about unemployment and the future of work.

Government and Industry Efforts

Governments and industries are working to address the challenges posed by
computer technology and ensure its continued development and implementation in
a responsible and ethical manner. Governments are investing in initiatives to bridge
the digital divide, such as providing access to technology and the internet in
underserved communities.

Industries are also taking steps to address the issue of job displacement by retraining
workers for new roles in technology and promoting ethical and responsible uses of
technology in the workplace. For example, technology companies are implementing
measures to ensure algorithmic bias is minimized and data privacy and security are
protected.
Expert Opinions and Predictions
Experts in the field of computer technology have a wealth of insight and predictions
for the future of computers and their impact on society. Bill Gates, co-founder of
Microsoft, has stated, “The computer was born to solve problems that did not exist
before.” This statement highlights the potential for computers to continue to
revolutionize the way we live and work.

Many experts predict that emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence,

quantum computing, and the Internet of Things will continue to shape the future of
computers and bring about new opportunities and challenges. For example, the
integration of the Internet of Things in industries such as healthcare and
manufacturing has increased efficiency and improved decision-making processes,
but has also raised concerns about data privacy and security.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the evolution of computer technology has brought about numerous

benefits and challenges to society. While the benefits include increased productivity
and efficiency, improved communication, and access to information, the challenges
include the digital divide, job displacement, and ethical considerations. Governments
and industries are working to address these challenges and ensure the continued
development and implementation of computer technology in a responsible and
ethical manner. The future of computers holds exciting possibilities, and it will be
important for society to remain vigilant in addressing the challenges posed by this
rapidly evolving technology.

Classification of computers (mainframes, personal computers, mobile devices)

Microcomputers, sometimes known as personal computers, became the most popular type of
computer in the late twentieth century, and the word “microcomputer” was coined with the
introduction of single-chip microprocessor systems.

Minicomputers, also known as mid-range computers or Superminis, are a type of multi-user

computer that falls somewhere in the middle of the computing spectrum. The term “supermini
computer,” or simply “supermini,” was coined to describe more powerful minicomputers that were
capable of competing with mainframes.

Then is Mainframe computers. The term mainframe computer was used to distinguish the typical,
huge, institutional computer designed to serve multiple users from smaller, single-user machines
capable of handling and processing massive amounts of data quickly. Large organizations employ
mainframe computers, which can handle hundreds of millions of people at once.
A supercomputer is a computer that is at the cutting edge of current processing power and is
focused on doing tasks demanding heavy numerical calculations. The word “supercomputer” is a bit
of a misnomer. Today’s supercomputers have a tendency to become indicative of tomorrow’s
average computer. The calculation of mathematical equations in real numbers is an example of a
floating-point operation, which is measured in floating-point operations per second, or FLOPS. These
computers were developed in the 1970s and are the fastest and most powerful computers
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A personal computer (PC) is a multi-purpose microcomputer whose size, capabilities, and price
make it feasible for individual use.[1] Personal computers are intended to be operated directly by
an end user, rather than by a computer expert or technician. Unlike large,
costly minicomputers and mainframes, time-sharing by many people at the same time is not used
with personal computers. Primarily in the late 1970s and 1980s, the term home computer was
also used.

A mobile device (or handheld computer) is a computer, small enough to hold and operate in
the hand. Mobile devices typically have a flat LCD or OLED screen, a touchscreen interface, and
digital or physical buttons. They may also have a physical keyboard. Many such devices can
connect to the Internet and connect with other devices such as car entertainment systems
or headsets via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular networks or near field communication. Integrated
cameras, the ability to place and receive voice and video telephone calls, video games,
and Global Positioning System (GPS) capabilities are common. Power is typically provided by
a lithium-ion battery. Mobile devices may run mobile operating systems that allow third-party
applications to be installed and run.

General idea of information and communication technologies

Information and communications technology (ICT) is an umbrella

term that includes any communication device or application
encompassing mobile phones, computer and network hardware,
software, the Internet, satellite systems, and so on.

Information system development process.

The SDLC concept applies to a range of hardware and software configurations, as a system
can be composed of hardware only, software only, or a combination of both. There are
usually six stages in this cycle: requirement analysis, design, development and testing,
implementation, documentation, and evaluation.