Scribd
Upload
19 views3 pages

C

Uploaded by

k16861978
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
19 views3 pages

C

Uploaded by

k16861978
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 3

Computer Fundamentals: History & Evolution of Computers

1. History of Computers
● First Generation (1940-1956): Vacuum tubes were used for circuitry and magnetic drums
for memory. Examples include ENIAC and UNIVAC.
● Second Generation (1956-1963): Transistors replaced vacuum tubes, leading to
smaller, faster, and more reliable computers. Examples include IBM 1401.
● Third Generation (1964-1971): Integrated Circuits (ICs) replaced transistors, further
reducing size and cost. Examples include IBM System/360.
● Fourth Generation (1971-Present): Microprocessors were introduced, leading to
personal computers. Examples include IBM PC and Apple Macintosh.
● Fifth Generation (Present and Beyond): Focus on artificial intelligence and quantum
computing.

2. Characteristics of Computers:
● Speed: Computers can process data at incredible speeds.
● Accuracy: High precision in calculations and data processing.
● Automation: Ability to perform tasks automatically without human intervention.
● Storage: Large amounts of data can be stored and retrieved easily.
● Versatility: Can perform a wide variety of tasks.
● Diligence: Consistent performance without fatigue.

3. Types of Computers:
● Microcomputers: Personal computers for individual use (e.g., desktops, laptops).
● Minicomputers: Mid-sized computers for small to medium-sized businesses.
● Mainframe Computers: Powerful systems used by large organizations for bulk data
processing.
● Supercomputers: Extremely fast computers used for complex scientific calculations.

System Logical Organization: Von Neumann Concept of Computer


The Von Neumann architecture is a model that describes a computer's structure, consisting of:
● Central Processing Unit (CPU): Executes instructions and processes data.
● Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): Performs arithmetic and logical operations.
● Control Unit (CU): Directs the operation of the processor and coordinates the activities of
all components.
● Main Memory: Stores data and instructions for the CPU.
● Input Devices: Allow users to enter data (e.g., keyboard, mouse).
● Output Devices: Display results (e.g., monitor, printer).

Block Diagram of Von Neumann Architecture


Components of Computer and Their Functions

1. Input Devices:
● Function: Accept data from the outside world and convert it into a format that the
computer can process.
Examples: Keyboard, mouse, scanner, microphone.
2. Output Devices:
● Function: Display or output the results of the computer's processing in a human-readable
form.
Examples: Monitor, printer, speakers.
3. Storage Devices:
● Function: Store data and programs for long-term use.
Examples: Hard drives, SSDs, USB flash drives.
4. Processor (CPU):
● Function: Executes instructions and processes data.
● Components
● ALU: Performs arithmetic and logical operations.
● CU: Manages the execution of instructions and coordinates the activities of the
computer.
5. Main Memory:
● Function: Temporarily stores data and instructions that the CPU needs while executing
programs.

Architecture of Processor and Main Memory


● Processor Registers: Small, fast storage locations within the CPU that hold data
temporarily during processing.
● Main Memory Organization: Divided into addressable units (bytes), where each unit has
a unique address.
● Main Memory Capacity: Refers to the total amount of data that can be stored in the main
memory, typically measured in bytes (KB, MB, GB).

Types of Memory
1. RAM (Random Access Memory): Volatile memory used for temporary storage while a
computer is running.
2. ROM (Read-Only Memory): Non-volatile memory that contains permanent data and
instructions.
3. PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory): Can be programmed once after manufacturing.
4. EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory): Can be erased and reprogrammed
using UV light.
5. EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory): Can be erased and
reprogrammed electrically.
6. Cache Memory: A small-sized type of volatile memory that provides high-speed data access
to the CPU, storing frequently accessed data and instructions.

Computer Software
1. Types of Software:
● System Software: Manages hardware and provides a platform for application software
(e.g., operating systems).
● Application Software: Designed to perform specific tasks for users (e.g., word
processors, spreadsheets).
2. Translators:
● Compiler: Translates high-level programming code into machine code before execution.
● Interpreter: Translates high-level code into machine code line-by-line during execution.
● Linker: Combines multiple object files into a single executable program.
● Loader: Loads the executable program into memory for execution.
● Editor: A tool for writing and editing source code.

Computer Languages
1. Machine Level:
● Description: The lowest level of programming language, consisting of binary code.
● Merits: Fast execution, direct hardware control.
● Demerits: Difficult to program and understand.

2. Assembly Level:
● Description: A low-level language that uses symbolic representations of machine code.
● Merits: Easier to understand than machine code, allows for hardware control.
● Demerits: Still complex and not portable across different hardware.

3. High Level:
● Description: Programming languages that are closer to human languages (e.g., Python,
Java).
● Merits: Easier to write, read, and maintain; portable across different systems.
● Demerits: Slower execution compared to low-level languages.

Planning a Computer Program

1. Algorithm: A step-by-step procedure for solving a problem or performing a task.


2. Flowchart: A visual representation of the sequence of steps in an algorithm, using symbols to
denote different types of actions.
3. Pseudo Code: A high-level description of an algorithm that uses the structure of programming
languages but is written in plain language.

You might also like