INSTITUTO SUPERIOR DE GESTÃO E EMPREENDEDORÍSMO

GWAZA MUTHINI

Management Informatics Course

Research Paper

History and evolution of Computers

Students:
Elias Teodoro Elias

Teacher:
Nhampossa

Maputo, May 2024

Índice
1. Introduction........................................................................................................................3
1.1 General Objective.......................................................................................................4
1.1.1 Specific Objectives...............................................................................................4
1.2 Methodology................................................................................................................5
2. Pre-computing: the history before modern computers...................................................5
2.1 Concept of a Computer...............................................................................................5
2.2 Leibniz's Calculating Machines.................................................................................5
2.3 Charles Babbage and the Analytical Engine............................................................6
3. First Generation Computers Vacuum Tubes from (1940s - 1950s)...............................6
4. Second Generation Computers Transistors (1950s - 1960s)...........................................7
5. Third Generation Computers (ICs) (1960s - 1970s)........................................................8
6. Fourth Generation Computers (Microprocessors from 1970s to 1980s).......................9
7. The Fifth Generation of computers (1980s-Present).....................................................10
Conclusion................................................................................................................................11
Bibliography.............................................................................................................................12

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 1. Introduction
The history of computers is a fascinating journey that dates back thousands of years, from the
early days of the abacus to the era of quantum computing. Over the centuries, humanity has
developed an incredible variety of devices and techniques to perform calculations and process
information, culminating in the modern computers that are essential to nearly every aspect of
our daily lives.

This history is marked by revolutionary innovations, visionary pioneers, and technological

advances that have radically transformed how we live, work, and communicate. From Blaise
Pascal's mechanical calculating machines to today's super powerful computers, each stage of
computer development has been driven by humanity's ongoing quest for knowledge,
efficiency, and processing power.

This work aims to explore this rich history, from the earliest counting devices to the age of
artificial intelligence and cloud computing. In doing so, we hope not only to understand how
we got to where we are today but also to glimpse the exciting and promising future that the
evolution of computers holds.

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 1.1 General Objective
To explore the history and evolution of computers, from their earliest origins to the present
day, highlighting key technological advancements and their impact on society.

1.1.1 Specific Objectives

 To examine the pre-computing era and its influence on the development of modern
computers.
 To analyze the contributions of key figures, such as Charles Babbage and Gottfried
Wilhelm Leibniz, to the early development of computing devices.
 To investigate the technological advancements that led to the first, second, third, and
fourth generations of computers.
 To explore the role of integrated circuits (ICs) and microprocessors in revolutionizing
computer design and functionality.
 To discuss the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) and other recent developments on
the future of computing.

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 1.2 Methodology
The methodology for our group's study on the history of computers involved several steps.
First, we conducted a thorough literature review to understand the topic better. Then, we
gathered information from various sources, such as books, articles, and websites. Next, we
analyzed the information to identify key themes and trends, organizing them in a structured
manner. After that, we drafted the paper, ensuring a logical flow and clear explanation of key
points. We also revised the paper multiple times to improve clarity and accuracy. Finally, we
cited all sources used to avoid plagiarism.

2. Pre-computing: the history before modern computers

2.1 Concept of a Computer

A computer is a programmable electronic device that can store, retrieve, and process data to
perform a variety of tasks. It operates under the control of instructions stored in its memory,
processing input data according to these instructions to produce output information.

Before the emergence of modern computers, humanity relied on rudimentary devices and
techniques to perform calculations and process information. During this pre-computing period,
several inventions and developments paved the way for the computational revolution that
would come centuries later. Let's explore this period of history in more detail

2.2 Leibniz's Calculating Machines

Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz, a German mathematician and philosopher, developed calculating

machines in the late 17th century. These machines were designed to perform multiplication
and division, advancing beyond earlier devices like the abacus. Leibniz's machines used a
system of gears and numbered cylinders to automate arithmetic operations, demonstrating his
innovative approach to computation. While not widely adopted during his lifetime, Leibniz's
calculating machines laid the groundwork for future developments in mechanical computation.

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 2.3 Charles Babbage and the Analytical Engine

Charles Babbage, an English mathematician and inventor, conceived the idea for the
Analytical Engine in the 1830s. Considered the first mechanical general-purpose computer
design, the Analytical Engine was envisioned to be programmable and capable of performing
any calculation or mathematical operation. It featured an arithmetic logic unit, memory, and a
control flow that included conditional branching and loops, similar to modern computers.
Although the Analytical Engine was never completed during Babbage's lifetime, his work laid
the foundation for future developments in computing.

3. First Generation Computers Vacuum Tubes from (1940s - 1950s)

The First Generation of computers, spanning from the late 1940s to the early 1950s, was
characterized by the use of vacuum tubes as the primary components for processing. These
computers, like the ENIAC (Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer) and UNIVAC I
(Universal Automatic Computer), were massive in size, often filling entire rooms, and were
incredibly expensive to build and maintain.

One of the key features of First Generation computers was their reliance on punched cards and
paper tape for input and output of data. These computers were mainly used for numerical
calculations and scientific applications, such as calculations for the military, atomic energy,
and other scientific research.

Despite their innovations, First Generation computers had several drawbacks. They were
prone to frequent hardware failures due to the fragile nature of vacuum tubes, which also
generated a significant amount of heat, requiring extensive cooling systems. Additionally,
programming these computers was a complex and labor-intensive process, often requiring
users to manually set switches and wires to execute instructions.

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 4. Second Generation Computers Transistors (1950s - 1960s)
The Second Generation of computers, which emerged in the late 1950s and lasted through the
1960s, was a significant advancement over the First Generation, primarily due to the
introduction of transistors. Transistors replaced the bulky and unreliable vacuum tubes used in
First Generation computers, making computers smaller, faster, more reliable, and more
energy-efficient.

Transistors were a game-changer in computer technology for several reasons:

 Size and Reliability: Transistors were much smaller than vacuum tubes, allowing for
the creation of smaller and more compact computers. They were also more reliable, as
they had no moving parts and were less prone to failure.
 Energy Efficiency: Transistors consumed much less power than vacuum tubes, making
computers more energy-efficient and reducing the need for extensive cooling systems.
 Cost-Effectiveness: Although initially expensive to produce, transistors quickly
became more cost-effective than vacuum tubes, making computers more affordable
and accessible.
 Speed and Performance: Transistors enabled computers to process information much
faster than before, leading to significant improvements in performance.

Additionally, the Second Generation of computers saw the development of magnetic core
memory, which replaced the earlier drum memory used in First Generation computers.
Magnetic core memory was faster, more reliable, and more compact than drum memory,
further improving the efficiency and performance of computers.

Magnetic core memory - magnetic core memory stores information by magnetizing tiny
ferrite cores (small rings of magnetic material) to represent binary data (0s and 1s)

Drum memory - drum memory works by storing data as magnetized spots on the surface of a
rotating metal drum. Each spot represents a binary digit (0 or 1). The drum is divided into
multiple tracks, and each track can store a certain number of bits.

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 5. Third Generation Computers (ICs) (1960s - 1970s)
The Third Generation of computers, which emerged in the 1960s and lasted through the 1970s,
was defined by the use of integrated circuits (ICs).

Integrated circuits - are tiny semiconductor chips that contain thousands or millions of
electronic components, such as transistors, resistors, and capacitors, fabricated onto a single
piece of silicon. These components are interconnected to perform specific functions, such as
processing and storing data.

To better explain the impact of ICs in the third generation of computers we have the following
points:

Miniaturization: ICs allowed for the miniaturization of computer components. Instead of

using bulky individual transistors and other components, entire circuits could now be
integrated onto a single chip, reducing the size of computers significantly.

Reliability: ICs were more reliable than the discrete components used in earlier computers.
The manufacturing process for ICs was highly controlled, resulting in fewer defects and
failures.

Performance: ICs enabled computers to perform calculations and operations much faster than
before. The integration of multiple components onto a single chip reduced the distance that
signals needed to travel, leading to faster processing speeds.

Cost-Effectiveness: While the initial development of ICs was expensive, mass production
quickly made them more affordable than the discrete components they replaced. This made
computers more accessible to a wider range of users.

Computer Architecture: The use of ICs led to changes in computer architecture. Computers
could now be designed with more powerful processors, larger memory capacities, and faster
data transfer speeds, leading to improved overall performance.

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 6. Fourth Generation Computers (Microprocessors from 1970s to 1980s)
The 1970s and 1980s saw the introduction of microprocessors, which revolutionized
computing by integrating all the components of a computer on a single chip, leading to the rise
of personal computers (PCs).

To better understand the fourth generation of computers we need to understand the

microprocessors

Microprocessors - are a type of integrated circuit (IC) that integrates the functionality of
multiple discrete components onto a single chip. This integration allows the microprocessor to
perform complex functions, such as executing instructions, performing arithmetic and logical
operations, and managing data flow, all within a single chip. Therefore, a microprocessor can
be considered a conjunction of ICs because it combines the functionality of multiple ICs into a
single chip.

But the difference between an IC and a microprocessor is present in the integration of

functions into a single chip (that being the microprocessor) is one of the key features that
distinguish microprocessors from other types of ICs.

The same microprocessors revolutionized computing and contributed to the popularity of

personal computers in the following ways:

 Integration of Components: Microprocessors integrated all the major components of

a computer, such as the central processing unit (CPU), memory, and input/output
interfaces, onto a single chip. This made computers more compact, affordable, and
easier to manufacture.

 Cost-Effectiveness: Microprocessors were more cost-effective than previous computer

systems, which required separate chips for each component. This affordability made
computers more accessible to individuals and small businesses, leading to the
widespread adoption of PCs.

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  Increased Performance: Microprocessors were faster and more efficient than earlier
computer systems, allowing for improved performance in tasks such as data
processing, graphics rendering, and multitasking. This enhanced performance made
PCs more versatile and capable of handling a wide range of applications.

 Versatility: The integration of all computer components onto a single chip made PCs
more versatile. Users could easily customize their systems by adding expansion cards
and peripherals, such as printers, modems, and disk drives, to meet their specific needs.

 User-Friendly Interfaces: Microprocessors enabled the development of user-friendly

interfaces, such as graphical user interfaces (GUIs), which made PCs easier to use for
non-technical users. This made PCs more appealing to a broader audience and
contributed to their widespread adoption.

7. The Fifth Generation of computers (1980s-Present)

The Fifth Generation of computers, which began in the 1980s and continues to the present
day, is characterized by advancement in a key area Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Artificial Intelligence (AI): One of the defining features of Fifth Generation computers is the
focus on artificial intelligence. AI technologies, such as machine learning and natural language
processing, have become increasingly important in computing. These technologies enable
computers to perform tasks that traditionally required human intelligence, such as recognizing
speech, understanding language, and making decisions.

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Conclusion
The evolution of computers has been a remarkable journey, from the rudimentary devices of
ancient civilizations to the powerful and versatile machines of today. Through centuries of
innovation and discovery, humanity has continually pushed the boundaries of what is possible
with computing technology. From the abacus to the Analytical Engine, from vacuum tubes to
integrated circuits, each advancement has paved the way for the next, leading to increasingly
sophisticated and capable computers.

The development of computers has not only transformed how we work, communicate, and live
but has also revolutionized entire industries and fields of study. The rise of artificial
intelligence, quantum computing, and big data analytics represents the latest chapter in this
ongoing story, promising even greater advancements in the years to come.

As we look to the future, it is clear that the evolution of computers will continue to shape our
world in ways we can only imagine. By understanding and appreciating the history of
computers, we can better prepare ourselves for the technological challenges and opportunities
that lie ahead.

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Bibliography
Campbell-Kelly, Martin, and William Aspray. "Computer: A History of the Information
Machine." Basic Books, 2013.

Ceruzzi, Paul E. "A History of Modern Computing." MIT Press, 2003.

Hally, Mike. "Electronic Brains: Stories from the Dawn of the Computer Age." Joseph Henry
Press, 2005.

Metropolis, N., Howlett, J., and Rota, Gian-Carlo. "A History of Computing in the Twentieth
Century." Academic Press, 1980.

Tedre, Matti. "The Science of Computing: Shaping a Discipline." CRC Press, 2014.

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