National University OF Modern

Language Rawalpindi

Department of CS

BS(Cs) Section C-Morning 1-Semester

SUBMITTED TO: Miss Nadia Inayat

SUBMITTED BY: Raja Salman Ashfaq

REG# Numl-S25-42707
 Assigement 1
Questions: 1.

Introduction to Generations of Computers

The term Generations of Computers refers to the different

phases in the development of computer technology over time.
Each generation marks a significant advancement in hardware,
software, and overall performance, starting from the first
generation in the 1940s, which used vacuum tubes, to the latest
generation that uses artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum
computing. The main difference between each generation lies in
the technology used for processing and memory, leading to
improvements in speed, size, cost, and efficiency.
Importance of Understanding the Development of Computer
Generations

Understanding the development of computer generations is

crucial because it highlights how computer technology has
evolved to meet the changing needs of society. It helps us
appreciate the progress from large, slow, and expensive
machines to today's fast, compact, and affordable devices. This
knowledge also provides insights into how technological
advancements impact various fields like education, healthcare,
business, and entertainment. Moreover, understanding past
generations allows researchers and developers to predict future
trends and innovate more efficiently.

Question: 2.
First Generation of Computers:
The first generation of computers (1940–1956) used vacuum
tubes for circuitry and magnetic drums for memory. These
computers were large, consumed a lot of electricity, and
generated excessive heat. Key examples include ENIAC
(Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer) and UNIVAC
(Universal Automatic Computer).
Limitations:

 Slow processing speed.

 High operational and maintenance costs.
 Prone to frequent breakdowns due to vacuum tube failures.

Question: 3

Second Generation of Computers:

The second generation of computers (1956–1963) featured
the use of transistors(Transistors are semiconductor devices that
replaced bulky and power-hungry vacuum tubes. They control the
flow of electrical signals in computers.) instead of vacuum tubes,
making computers smaller, faster, more reliable, and energy-
efficient. They used magnetic core memory and magnetic
tapes for storage, and programming became easier with
languages like COBOL and FORTRAN. The introduction of
transistors greatly improved performance by increasing
processing speed, reducing power consumption, and lowering
heat generation. This made computers more durable, cost-
effective, and portable. Notable examples include the IBM
1401, used in businesses for payroll and inventory
management, and the CDC 1604, known for its high
processing power.

Question :4

Third Generation of Computer:

The third generation of computers (1964–1971) marked the
transition from transistors to integrated circuits (ICs). ICs
combined multiple electronic components, such as transistors,
resistors, and capacitors, onto a single chip.Examples are
IBM 360: Versatile system used in both scientific and
commercial applications.
PDP-8: First commercially successful mini-computer, widely
used in education and industry.

1. Speed: Faster data processing due to IC technology.

2. Efficiency: Lower power consumption and minimal heat
generation.
3. Size: Computers became smaller, lighter, and more affordable.
4. Multi-programming Support: Enabled running multiple programs
simultaneously.
5. Operating Systems: Introduced for better management of hardware
and software.

Question :5

Fourth generation of computers:

 The fourth generation of computers (1971–present) is defined by

the introduction of microprocessors, which revolutionized
computing by integrating the central processing unit (CPU),
memory, and input/output controls onto a single chip. This
advancement was made possible through Very Large Scale
Integration (VLSI) technology, which allowed millions of
transistors to be placed on a single microprocessor chip.Examples
are
 Apple Macintosh (1984): Known for its graphical user interface
and user-friendly design.
 IBM PCs (1981): Became the standard for personal and business
computing, popularizing the PC revolution.

1) Very Large Scale Integration (VLSI) technology allowed millions of

transistors on one chip, boosting processing power.
2) Computers became faster, more powerful, compact, and energy-
efficient.
3) Improved reliability and reduced costs, making computers accessible
to a wider audience.
4) The invention of personal computers (PCs) made computers available
for home, business, and educational use.
5) Development of user-friendly operating systems like Microsoft
Windows and Mac OS simplified computing.
6) Rise of graphical user interfaces (GUIs) made interaction with
computers easier.
7) Software advancements supported a wide range of applications, from
word processing to gaming and internet browsing.
Question :6
Fifth generation of computer:
The fifth generation of computers (present and beyond) focuses on the
development of artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum computing. AI
refers to the ability of machines to perform tasks that typically require
human intelligence, such as problem-solving, decision-making, language
processing, and learning. On the other hand, quantum computing uses the
principles of quantum mechanics to process information at unprecedented
speeds, using(qubits) instead of traditional bits. This allows quantum
computers to handle complex calculations and large data sets far more
efficiently than classical computers.Examples are

 IBM Watson: An AI system that answers complex questions and

analyzes large data sets.
 Google’s Quantum Computer: Demonstrates problem-solving
capabilities faster than traditional supercomputers.
 Sophia the Robot: An advanced AI robot capable of human-like
conversations and facial expressions.
 D-Wave Quantum Computers: Designed for specialized quantum
processing tasks.

1) Parallel Processing: Executes multiple tasks simultaneously,

improving speed and efficiency.
2) Machine Learning: Enables systems to learn from data, adapt, and
improve without explicit programming.
3) Natural Language Processing (NLP): Enhances communication
between humans and machines.
4) Expert Systems: Computers designed to make decisions in real-life
scenarios, like in healthcare and finance.