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Unit 1

The document outlines the evolution of computer systems from early devices like the Abacus to modern computers, highlighting key inventions and their significance in computing history. It details the contributions of figures such as John Napier, Blaise Pascal, and Charles Babbage, as well as the generational advancements in computer technology from vacuum tubes to artificial intelligence. Each generation is characterized by improvements in size, speed, efficiency, and functionality.

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PISD Doha
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3 views

Unit 1

The document outlines the evolution of computer systems from early devices like the Abacus to modern computers, highlighting key inventions and their significance in computing history. It details the contributions of figures such as John Napier, Blaise Pascal, and Charles Babbage, as well as the generational advancements in computer technology from vacuum tubes to artificial intelligence. Each generation is characterized by improvements in size, speed, efficiency, and functionality.

Uploaded by

PISD Doha
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Unit 1: Computer System

1. What is a computer systems and how it has transformed modern life?


• Computer systems consist of hardware (physical components) and software (programs).
• They process and manage information efficiently.
• They have transformed modern life by improving Communication, Education and Entertainment industry.

2. Describe the Abacus and its significance in early computing history.


• Invented by the Chinese about 4000 years ago.
• A wooden frame with rods and beads used for basic arithmetic.
• It is one of the earliest known computing devices.

3. How did John Napier contribute to the field of computing?


• Invented Napier’s Bones in the 1600s.
• A tool that used strips of numbers for multiplication and division.
• Introduced the concept of the “decimal point”.

4. Explain the function of Blaise Pascal's Pascaline.


• Invented by Blaise Pascal in 1642.
• A mechanical calculator using gears and wheels.
• Performed basic arithmetic operations (addition and subtraction).

5. What improvement did Wilhelm Leibniz make to Blaise Pascal’s calculator?


• Improved Pascal’s calculator in 1673 by creating the Stepped Reckoner.
• A digital mechanical calculator that used grooved wheels.
• Could perform more complex calculations, like multiplication and division.

6. What was the purpose of Charles Babbage’s Difference Engine?


• Invented in the early 1820s by Charles Babbage.
• A steam powered machine designed for basic arithmetic calculations.
• Could automate mathematical processes, reducing human error.
7. How did the Analytical Engine differ from the Difference Engine?

The Analytical Engine (1830) was more advanced than the Difference Engine.

It could:

• Solve complex mathematical problems.


• Store data using punch cards.
• Be programmed for various calculations
8. What is the significance of Herman Hollerith’s Tabulating Machine?
• Invented in 1890 by Herman Hollerith.
• Used punch cards to record and compute data.
• Played a role in the development of IBM, founded in 1924.

9. Describe the function of the Differential Analyzer invented by Vannevar Bush.


• Introduced in 1930.
• The first electrical computer.
• Used vacuum tubes for calculations, processing about 25 operations per minute.
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10. What were the main features of Howard Aiken’s Mark I computer?
• Built in 1944 by Howard Aiken.
• A digital computer capable of:
➢ Performing arithmetic with eight digit numbers.
➢ Printing results using punched cards.
➢ It was 50 feet long and weighed 5 tons.
11. Discuss different Generations of computers?

First Generation Computers (1940s-1950s):

✓ Vacuum tubes were used in first-generation computers.


✓ The processing speed was slow.
✓ Memory capacity was limited.
✓ These computers were Large, slow, consumed a lot of power.
✓ First-generation computers were both costly and unreliable
✓ Output was obtained through printouts.

Second Generation Computers (1956-1963):

✓ Transistors replaced vacuum tubes in Second Generation Computers.


✓ These computers were Smaller, faster, more reliable, and consuming less power.
✓ Made computers cheaper and accessible.
✓ Assembly language was employed for programming purposes.
✓ This generation introduced high level languages like COBOL and FORTRAN

Third Generation Computers (1963-1971):

✓ Integrated circuits (ICs) were introduced in third generation.


✓ IC makes computers smaller, faster, more efficient, and reliable.
✓ Introduced user friendly interfaces like keyboards and monitors.
✓ Featured operating systems that allowed multitasking

Fourth Generation Computers (1971-Present):

✓ Microprocessors were introduced in this generation.


✓ These computers are faster, smaller, and more powerful than earlier generations.
✓ A number of advanced input/output devices are introduced in this generation.
✓ They multimedia software, enabling the integration of text, image, sound, and video.

Fifth Generation Computers (Present and Future):

✓ Fifth-generation computers are the most advanced type of computers we use today.
✓ They focus on making computers smart using technologies like artificial intelligence (AI).
✓ E.g. Robots, Virtual assistants like Siri, Alexa, self-driving cars and Natural language processing.

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