The generations in computer terminology describe a change in technology (on which the computer

system is designed) of a computer that is/was being used. The word “generation” was used to
differentiate between various hardware technologies. Nowadays, generation encapsulates both hardware
and software, which in combination makes up an entire computer system.

There exist five computer generations to date. In the following list, approximate dates against each
generation have been mentioned, which are normally accepted. There are five main generations of
computers based on their processing hardware.

First Generation
Period: 1946-1959; Vacuum tube-based.

o This generation of computers worked on Machine Language that is the language of 0s and 1s
and used vacuum tubes as components of memory.
o Examples of First Generation computers are:
o Mark I -The IBM Automatic Sequence Controlled Calculator (ASCC), named Mark I.
o ENIAC – Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer
o UNIVAC- Universal Automatic Computer
o EDSAC – Electronic Delay Storage Automatic Calculator
o EDVAC – Electronic Discrete Variable Automatic Computer
o The first generation computers were large and occupied large spaces almost a room-size area.
o They were slow in processing and very expensive.
o They were not competent for multitasking, and only one task could be executed at a time.
o The electricity consumption was very high and produced lots of heat.

Second Generation
Period: 1959-1965; Transistor based.

o In the second generation computer, the vacuum tube was replaced by transistors.
o The input for these computers was higher-level languages like COBOL (Common Business
Oriented Language), FORTRAN (Formula Translation), etc.
o Examples of second-generation computers include IBM 1620, IBM 7094, CDC 1604, CDC 3600,
etc.
o The processing speed of second-generation computers was faster than first-generation
computers.
o The electricity expenditure decreased with the use of transistors.

Third Generation
Period: 1965-1971; Integrated Circuit based.

o The third generation computers employ IC’s or Integrated Circuits.

o An integrated circuit is a small device that can include thousands of devices like transistors,
resistances, and capacitors, and other circuit elements built on a single thin slice of
silicon elements that make up a computer.
o The invention of IC’s made it possible to fit thousands of circuit elements into a small region,
leading to the reduction in the size of the computers eventually.
o The IC’s or Integrated Circuits had reduced the size of the computer which increased the speed of
the computer.
o Examples of third-generation computers; IBM-360 series, PDP or Personal Data Processor, IBM-
370, ICL 2900, etc.

Fourth Generation
Period: 1971-1980; VLSI microprocessor-based.

o The Fourth Generation of computers employed LSI (Large Scale Integration) and VLSI technology
named the Very Large Scale Integrated (VLSI) circuit’s technology.
o These circuits lead to the development of microprocessors.
o Intel developed the first-ever microprocessor- Intel 4004 chip invented by “Ted Hoff”.
o This led to the introduction of personal computers and the first “personal computer” or PC
developed by IBM.
o VLSI circuits in the fourth generation had improved the speed, memory, and storage in this
generation’s computers.
o These computers were thus very compact and thereby required a small amount of electricity to
run, also becoming capable of performing many high-level tasks and computations.
o Examples of fourth-generation computers are; Apple II, the first IBM computer, STAR 1000, CRAY-
X-MP(Supercomputer), and many more.
o The fourth-generation saw updated versions of computers like that of laptops and tablets.
o The GUI is a Graphical User Interface that was reported during this period.

Fifth Generation
Period: 1980-onwards; ULSI microprocessor-Based on Artificial Intelligence.

o The Fifth Generation computers are the present generation of computers and are the most
advanced ones which have made our lives more manageable and convenient.
o The devices from the fifth generation are faster, cost-effective, utilize lesser electricity, and are
effortlessly portable and convenient to use.
o Artificial intelligence is being applied in devices currently which has allowed millions of tasks to
be accomplished within seconds on a device and employs the devices with the ability to think for
themselves.
o The Fifth Generation computers use ULSI or Ultra-Large Scale Integration chips where millions of
transistors can be placed in a single IC in ULSI chips.
o The input methods include modern high-level languages like Python, Java, R, C# and more.
o Examples of the Fifth Generation computers include Intel P 4, AMD Athlon, i 3 – i10, etc.

Applications of Computers
Because a computer system has a very high calculation speed, diligence, accuracy, reliability, or versatility,
it became an integrated part of all business institutions.

Business

Applications

A computer is very helpful in business institutions in terms of −

o Payroll calculations
o Budgeting
o Sales analysis
o Financial forecasting
o Managing employee database
o Maintenance of stocks etc.

Banking

In the present time, banking is entirely based on computers.

Banks provide the following facilities −

 o Online accounting facility, which includes checking current balance, making deposits and
overdrafts, checking interest charges, shares, and trustee records.
o ATMs that are entirely automated are making this facility simpler for customers to deal with
banks.

Insurance companies are handling all records and keeping them up-to-date using computers. Entities like
Insurance companies, finance houses, stockbroking firms etc., are using computers at a very high scale
for their concerns.

Companies are keeping a database of all customers with information showing −

o Procedure to continue with policies

o Starting date of the policies.
o Next due instalment of a policy.
o Maturity date.
o Interests due.
o Survival benefits.
o Bonus.

Education

o The computer helps in providing a lot of facilities in the education system.

o There is a tool available on the computer for the education system known as CBE (Computer
Based Education).
o CBE has many features that can be used for control, delivery, and evaluation of learning.
o Education-based on computers is transforming the way students study and in turn increasing the
graph of the number of computer students.
o There are a lot of ways in which educational institutions can utilize a computer to educate the
students.
o It helps to create a centralized database that stores the performance of a student and analysis is
carried out on this basis.

Marketing

In advertising − Using computers, professionals working in advertising make art and graphics, write and
revise copy, and print and disseminate ads to sell more products.

Home Shopping − It is possible to shop while sitting at home through the use of computerized
catalogues that facilitate access to product information and allow direct entry of orders to be filled by the
customers

Healthcare

The use of computers has become an integral part of hospitals, labs, and dispensaries. They are being
used in hospitals to keep the record of patients and medicines.

It also aids in scanning and diagnosing various diseases. ECG, EEG, ultrasounds and CT scans, etc. are also
done by computerized machines.

Computers are used in the following major fields of health care:

o Diagnostic Systems − Computers are used to collect data and identify the cause of illness.
o Lab-diagnostic System − All tests can be done and the reports are prepared by the computer.
o Patient Monitoring System − these are used to check the patient’s signs for abnormality such
as in Cardiac Arrest, ECG, etc.
o Pharma Information System − Computer is used to check drug labels, expiry dates, harmful
side effects, etc.
 o Surgery − these days, computers are also used in conducting surgery.

Engineering Design

Computers are widely used for engineering purposes.

CAD (Computer-Aided Design) is one of the major areas that aid in the creation and modification of
images. Some of the field’s are-

o Structural Engineering − Needs digital stress and strain recreation and analysis for designing
ships, budgets, airplanes, buildings, etc.
o Industrial Engineering − Computers deal with the design, implementation, and improvement of
integrated systems of people, materials, and equipment.
o Architectural Engineering − Systems based on computers aid in planning towns, designing
buildings, determination of a range of buildings on the sites with the help of both 2D and 3D
drawings.

Military

Computers are extensively used in defense in designing and controlling modern tanks, missiles, weapons,
etc. They also deploy computerized control systems that are used for communication. Some areas in the
military where a computer has been used are −

o Missile Control
o Military Communication
o Military Operation and Planning
o Smart Weapons

Communication

It is a process to convey a message, an idea, a picture, or speech that is received and understood clearly
and correctly by the person for whom it is meant. Some main areas in this category are −

o E-mail
o Chatting
o Usenet
o FTP
o Telnet
o Video-conferencing

Government

Computers perform a very important role in services related to the government. Some major fields in this
category are −

o Budgets
o Sales tax department
o Income tax department
o Computation of male/female ratio
o Computerization of voters lists
o Computerization of PAN card
o Weather forecasting

Generations of Computer FAQs

1. What was the base technology for the second generation of computers?
 2. What are the applications of computers?
3. In which generation of computers Java can be used?
4. ULSI technology is applied in which generation of computers?
5. What is the technology base for fourth-generation computers?

A computer is a device that can be programmed to manipulate symbols. It replies to a specific set of
instructions and can perform a pre-recorded list of instructions, say a program. Also, it can instantly store
and recover large amounts of data. Computers are primarily arranged according to purpose, size, and
data handling functionalities.

Through this article, we shall learn about the different types of computers and their uses with some
sample questions in preparation for the approaching government/ banking exams.

Bank, RRB, Insurance, SSC, are amongst the popular exams in which questions based on the types of the
computer are asked. Aspirants can effortlessly obtain marks as these questions are usually
straightforward and provide ample opportunities to score.

Types of Computers
There are different types of computer technology available these days. The functionality and data
processing of each type of computer is distinct and so are the output results.

Though, the methods/techniques, size, capacity, characteristics, and data handling aspects of each
computer may be different as well. Let us understand the different types of computers one by one:

Types of Computers: Size

Micro Computers

The microcomputer is also recognized as a personal computer, these are comparatively economical.
Microcomputers are small computers incorporating a microprocessor, Central Processing Unit (CPU),
memory, storage area, an input unit, and an output unit.

It is a general-purpose computer that is outlined for personal use. Such computers are made with
minimum circuitry mounting over a single circuit board. They are fit for personal work that may be
making an assignment, at the office for office work, watching a movie, etc. Examples include Desktop,
Laptop, tablets, smartphones, etc.

The Mini Frame or Mini Computer

Minicomputers are comparatively smaller than mainframe computers or can say a minicomputer lies
within the mainframe and microcomputer as it is smaller than the mainframe but larger than a
microcomputer.

Minicomputers are digital and multi-user computer systems with the connection of more than one CPU.
Thus, multiple users can work on these computers simultaneously. Mini-frame computers are employed
in institutes and work units for tasks such as billing, accounting, and record management.

Mainframe Computer

Computers utilized by large organisations to manage bulk data are designated as Mainframe computers.
Mainframe computers are multi-programming, high-performance and multi-user computers, which
implies they can manage the workload of more than 100 users at a time on the computer.
The storage capability of the mainframe is enormous, with a high-speed data process as well. The main
purposes of such a type of computer include managing customer statistics, census, and other heavy data
in a single device.

Mainframe computers, therefore, are mainly employed by departmental and commercial organizations
like Banks, Scientific research centres, companies, and governmental departments like railways, paying
employees, ticket booking, maintaining details of purchases by users, keeping detailed tax details, etc.

Supercomputer

Supercomputers come under the biggest, fastest, powerful, and most expensive type of computer for
processing data type; they are designed to process an immense amount of data. A supercomputer can
treat trillions of instructions/directions in a second. It has thousands of interconnected processors.

Supercomputers are especially used in scientific and engineering applications such as weather
forecasting, quantum mechanics, climate research, scientific simulations, nuclear energy research, etc
where a high level of performance is required.

Examples: IBM Roadburner, INTEL ASIC RED. PARAM-1000, BM Blue Gene, and CRAY-XMP-14.

Types of Computers: Working Principle and Data Handling Abilities

Analog Computer

Analog computers are outlined to process analog data. Analog data is continuous data that varies
continuously and cannot have discrete values. Analog computers are utilized primarily to measure
physical units like the voltage, electric current, pressure, temperature and convert them into digits. Such
computers are mostly used for scientific, technology, research, engineering, and industrial applications.

Speedometer, mercury thermometer, thermometer, operational amplifiers, electric integrators, etc. are
examples of analog computers.

Digital Computer

The digital computer is outlined to execute calculations and logical operations at a high pace. Such
computers are proficient in solving problems in discrete formats. It acquires the raw data as input is in
the form of digits/binary numbers (i.e 0 and 1) and processes it with programs stored in its memory to
produce the output.

It can implement arithmetic operations such as addition, occurrence, subtraction, multiplication and
division, and all sorts of logical/mathematical operations as well. All modern computers like laptops,
desktops including smartphones, calculators, tablets, digital watches, accounting machines, workstations,
digital clocks etc that we use at home or office are digital computers.

Hybrid Computer

Hybrid computers as the name signify exhibit features of both Analog and Digital computers. It is fast like
an analog computer and has memory and accuracy like those of digital computers. It can process both
continuous and discrete data. It takes analog signals and transforms them into digital form before
processing them.

These types of computers are extensively used in specialized applications where both analog and digital
data are processed. For example, a processor is applied in petrol pumps that converts fuel flow
measurements into quantity and price. Furthermore, they are used in aeroplanes, hospitals, and scientific
applications.

Types of Computer: Purpose

General Purpose

General computers are designed to perform various everyday tasks such as;

o Document preparation
o Financial analysis
o Printing documents
o Basic Input/output functions
o Creating databases
o Data Saving on a smaller scale
o Calculations with accuracy and consistency.
o General performing activities

The size, storage capacity, and cost of such computers are essentially less. The capacity of these
computers is limited in completing specialized tasks. These may include basic calculators, laptops,
desktop computers, mobile phones, etc., which can help individuals to meet their basic essential
functions.

Special Purpose

When a computer is outlined specifically to perform a certain function, such type of computer is
identified as a Special Purpose computer. The size, storage capacity, and cost of such computers
principally depend on the nature and size of the work. The function of these computers is consistent with
any particular task that is these computers are designed to perform a particular or specialized task.

These types may include:

o Thermometers to test temperature

o Devices used for examining climate change
o Generators to manage electricity
o Large computers for IT Companies

Examples of special-purpose computers

o Automatic teller machines (ATM)

o Traffic-control computers
o Surveillance equipment
o Weather-forecasting simulators
o Washing machines
o Military planes controlling computers
o Defence-oriented applications
o Oil-exploration systems

Types of Computers FAQs

1. What is the hierarchy of computers in terms of speed?
2. Which is the most powerful type of computer?
3. What are the different types of computers?
4. What are the three classes of computers?
5. What is the classification of computers by size?

A computer device is built up of several elements which assist in its effective functioning and processing.
There are three basic components of the computer which serve in making this processing of data simpler
and convenient. The three basic components are Input Unit, Output Unit, and CPU.

Through this article, we shall learn about the basic components of the computer followed by their
functions.
Components of Computer System
A computer includes some basic elements. These incorporate hardware, software, programs, data, and
connectivity. No computer can operate in the lack of these elements. Apart from these elements, by
definition, components of a computer system are the fundamental elements that make the functioning of
electronic equipment smooth and faster. There are three basic components which include:

1. Input Unit
2. Output Unit
3. CPU(Central processing unit)

While there are additional components as well, these three are primarily accountable for making a
computer function. Hence, these are also called building blocks of a computer system. All types of
computers follow the same basic logical structure as follows:

1. Take Input->This is the method of inserting data and instructions into the computer system.
2. Store Data->Collecting data and instructions so that they are ready for processing as and when
needed.
3. Processing Data->Working on arithmetic, and logical operations on data to transform them into
useful data.
4. Output Information->The means of generating useful information or results for the user, such as
a printed record or visual display.
5. Control the workflow->Manages the method and sequence in which all of the preceding
operations are performed.

Input Unit

This part of the computer encapsulates devices with the help of which the user feeds data to the
computer. It creates an interface between the user and the computer. The input devices transform the
information into a form acceptable by the computer. Data can be in the form of numbers, actions, words,
directions, instructions, etc. Computers then practice their CPU to process this data and deliver output.

For instance, a computer keyboard is an input unit that enters symbols, numbers, and characters.
Likewise, even a mouse works as an input unit for entering commands and directions. Other examples of
input devices include JoyStick, Optical Mark Reader (OMR), Light pen, Magnetic Ink Card Reader (MICR),
Track Ball, Graphic Tablet, Scanner, Microphone, Optical Character Reader (OCR), Barcode Reader, etc.

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

The Central Processing Unit or CPU is also known as the brain of the computer. CPU executes all types of
data processing functions. It saves data/intermediate results/instructions (program) and controls the
operation of all parts of the computer.

Following are the points to remember for Central Processing Unit (CPU):

1. The CPU is taken as the brain of the computer.

2. CPU facilitates all types of data processing operations.
3. It saves data, intermediate results, and instructions (program).
4. It handles the operating of all parts of the computer.

The CPU itself has the following three components.

1. Memory or Storage Unit

2. Control Unit
3. ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit)
Memory or Storage Unit

This part of the computer system works to store instructions, data, and intermediate results. This unit
passes data to other parts of the computer when required. It is also referred to as an internal storage unit
or most commonly, the main memory or the primary storage or Random Access Memory (RAM).

It comes in various speeds, power, and capability. Primary memory and secondary memory are two
important types of memories used in the computer system. Responsibilities of the memory unit are:

1. Works to store all the data and the instructions required for processing.
2. Works to store intermediate results of processing.
3. Works to store the final results of processing before these results are forwarded to an output
device.
4. All inputs and outputs are supplied through the main memory.

Control Unit

This unit manages the operations of all parts of the computer but does not carry out any calculations or
comparisons or actual data processing operations.

Responsibilities of this unit are :

1. For facilitating the transfer of data and instructions among other units of a system.
2. It manages and correlates all the units of the system.
3. It receives the instructions from the memory, interprets them, and directs the operation of the
system.
4. It interacts with Input/output units to transfer data/results from storage.
5. It does not perform processes or store data.

Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)

This unit consists of two subsections namely,

1. Arithmetic Section: The responsibility of the arithmetic unit is to execute arithmetic operations
like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. A complete set of complex operations are
executed by making iterative use of the above operations.
2. Logic Section: The responsibility of the logic unit is to execute logic operations like comparing,
selecting, matching, and merging data.

Output Unit

This part of the computer encapsulates devices with the help of which the user receives the information
from the computer. Output devices transform the output from the computer into a form understandable
by the users. Thus, output units generate the data formatted by the computer as per users’ interests.

Some of the output devices are; Monitor, Printer, projector, speakers, headphones, etc.

Components of Computer FAQs

1. A computer involves how many types of memory?
2. What are the three major parts of the CPU?
3. The Mathematical and logical functions are carried out by which unit of CPU?
4. What are the operations performed by the ALU?
5. What are the 3 fundamental components of a computer?
List of Input Devices
Given below is the list of the most common input devices along with brief information about
each of them.

1. Keyboard

 A simple device comprising keys and each key denotes either an alphabet, number or number
commands which can be given to a computer for various actions to be performed
 It has a modified version of typewriter keys
 The keyboard is an essential input device and computer and laptops both use keyboards to give
commands to the computer

2. Mouse

 It is also known as a pointing device

 Using mouse we can directly click on the various icons present on the system and open up
various files and programs
 A mouse comprises 3 buttons on the top and one trackball at the bottom which helps in selecting
and moving the mouse around, respectively
 In case of laptops, the touchpad is given as a replacement of the mouse which helps in the
movement of the mouse pointer

3. Joy Stick

 It is a device which comprises a stick which is attached at an angle to the base so that it can be
moved and controlled
 Mostly used to control the movement in video games
 Apart from a computer system, a joystick is also used in the cockpit of an aeroplane,
wheelchairs, cranes, trucks, etc. to operate them well

4. Light Pen

 It is a wand-like looking device which can directly be moved over the device’s screen
 It is light-sensitive
 Used in conjunction with computer’s cathode ray tube

5. Microphone

 Using a microphone, sound can be stored in a device in its digital form

 It converts sound into an electrical signal
 To record or reproduce a sound created using a microphone, it needs to be connected with an
amplifier

6. Scanner

 This device can scan images or text and convert it into a digital signal
 When we place any piece of a document on a scanner, it converts it into a digital signal and
displays it on the computer screen

7. Barcode Reader

 It is a kind of an optical scanner

 It can read bar codes
 A source of light is passed through a bar code, and its aspects and details are displayed on the
screen
 All the devices mentioned above are the most commonly used input devices. Several other
such types of equipment are used in different fields which can be counted as an input
device.

List of Output Device

The commonly used output devices have been listed below with a brief summary of what
their function is and how they can be used.

1. Monitor

 The device which displays all the icons, text, images, etc. over a screen is called the Monitor
 When we ask the computer to perform an action, the result of that action is displayed on the
monitor
 Various types of monitors have also been developed over the years

2. Printer

 A device which makes a copy of the pictorial or textual content, usually over a paper is called a
printer
 For example, an author types the entire book on his/her computer and later gets a print out of it,
which is in the form of paper and is later published
 Multiple types of printers are also available in the market, which can serve different purposes

3. Speakers

 A device through which we can listen to a sound as an outcome of what we command a

computer to do is called a speaker
 Speakers are attached with a computer system and also are a hardware device which can be
attached separately
 With the advancement in technology, speakers are now available which are wireless and can be
connected using BlueTooth or other applications

4. Projector

 An optical device which presents an image or moving images onto a projection screen is called a
projector
 Most commonly these projectors are used in auditoriums and movie theatres for the display of
the videos or lighting
 If a projector is connected to a computer, then the image/video displayed on the screen is the
same as the one displayed on the computer screen

5. Headphones

 They perform the same function as a speaker, the only difference is the frequency of sound
 Using speakers, the sound can be heard over a larger area and using headphones, the sound is
only audible to the person using them
 Also known as earphones or headset

Difference between Impact and Non-Impact Printers


Printers are equipment mainly used in homes and offices to produce hard copies of
documents stored on, for instance, computers. They can be broadly categorized into two
types: or by the types of the printers which are impact and non-impact printers. It is
important to distinguish between these two types of printers to choose the right one
according to the requirements like speed, quality, and price. This article will go through
into details the differences between the impact and non-impact printers and some features
that are associated with each and then enable one to make the right decision.
Impact Printers
It is a type of printer that works by direct contact of an ink ribbon with paper. These printers
are typically loud but remain in use today because of their unique ability to function with
multipart forms. An impact printer has mechanisms resembling those of a typewriter.
Example of Impact Printers, Dot-matrix printers, Daisy-wheel printers, and line printers.
Advantages of Impact Printers
 Durability: Impact printers offer durability and long ago; this kind of printer works
efficiently for large scale jobs.
 Cost-Effective: They are more often cheaper to run, particularly where many copies
of the same document are to be produced.
 Multi-part Forms: They can print on multi-part forms they are ideal for use in a place
where use of carbon copies is essential.
Disadvantages of Impact Printers
 Noise: These printers are usually loud owing to the physical strikes of the printer.
 Limited Print Quality: Non-impact printers are comparatively poor in quality as far
as the quality of print is concerned and thus is not much suitable for getting high
quality images or graphics printed.
 Slower Speed: As much as impact printers are widespread, they are relatively slow
when compared to non-impact printers.
Non-Impact Printers
It is a type of printer that does not hit or impact a ribbon to print. They used laser,
xerographic, electrostatic, chemical and inkjet technologies. Non-impact printers are
generally much quieter. They are less likely to need maintenance or repairs than earlier
impact printers.
Example of Non-Impact Printers is Inkjet printers and Laser printers.
Advantages of Non-Impact Printers
 Quiet Operation: Non-impact printers have low noise producing capability; thus they
can be used where noise is prohibited.
 High-Quality Output: These printers are also capable of printing with a very fine and
clear detail or image and clear text or photo which is suitable for professional use or
photos.
 Faster Printing: Non-impact printers are normally faster in the way they output their
print especially for laser printers.
Disadvantages of Non-Impact Printers
 Higher Cost: There is a possibility for non-impact printers and their components; ink
or toner to be costly as compared to impact printers.
 Sensitive to Media: Some of the non-impact printers are very sensitive to the type of
paper used and hence may not produce good prints as well as being less reliable.
Difference between Impact and Non-Impact Printers
Impact Printer Non-Impact Printer

Produces characters and graphics on a piece A type of printer that produces characters
of paper by striking it is called impact and graphics on a piece of paper without
printer. striking.

It prints by hammering a set of metal pin or Printing is done by depositing ink in any
character set. form.

Electromechanical devices are used No electromechanical device is used.

Faster speeds around 250 words per Slower speeds around 1 page per 30
second. seconds.

Have banging noise of needle on paper Works silently

Dot-matrix printer, Daisy wheel printers, Inkjet printers, photo printers, laser printers
line printer are examples. are examples.

It generally cost less. It cost more than impact printers.

They are not suited for printing photograph They are best suited for printing photograph
or any high quality media. or any high quality media.