FACULTY OF SCIENCE

Department of Industrial Chemistry

NAME: AKINSOLA OLUWATOSIN JAMES

JAMB REG: 202441947893BF
COURSE CODE: CSC 101
COUSE TITLE: INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER
CONDUCT IN-DEPTH RESEARCH AND WRITE ON THE HISTORY OF COMPUTERS
The history of computers is a fascinating journey that spans several centuries,
marked by significant innovations and technological advancements. The history of
computers is a rich tapestry that weaves together the evolution of technology,
mathematics, and human ingenuity. It begins long before the electronic computers
we know today, with early mechanical devices and theoretical concepts that laid the
groundwork for modern computing. Let's dive into the key milestones:
1. Early Mechanical Devices (17th - 19th Century):
- Abacus: One of the earliest computing devices, used for basic arithmetic
operations, dates to ancient times.
- Pascaline (1642): Invented by Blaise Pascal, this mechanical calculator could
perform addition and subtraction.
- Difference Engine (1822): Designed by Charles Babbage, it was an automatic
mechanical calculator intended to compute polynomial functions. Although never
completed in his lifetime, it laid the groundwork for future computers.
2. The Concept of a Programmable Computer (19th Century):
- Analytical Engine (1837): Also conceptualized by Charles Babbage, this was the first
design for a general-purpose computer. It included an arithmetic logic unit, control
flow via loops and conditionals, and integrated memory.
- Ada Lovelace: Often considered the first computer programmer, she wrote
algorithms for the Analytical Engine and foresaw its potential beyond mere
calculation.
3. Early 20th Century Developments:
- Tabulating Machines (1890s): Herman Hollerith developed a punched card system
to assist in processing data for the U.S. Census, leading to the formation of IBM.
- Turing Machine (1936): Alan Turing introduced the concept of a theoretical
machine that could simulate any computer algorithm, forming the foundation of
computer science.
4. The Advent of Electronic Computers (1940s):
- ENIAC (1945): The Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer was one of the
first general-purpose electronic digital computers, developed by John Presper Eckert
and John Mauchly.
- Colossus (1943): Used by British codebreakers during World War II, it was the first
programmable digital electronic computer.
5. The Rise of Stored-Program Computers (1940s - 1950s):
- EDVAC (1949): Proposed by John von Neumann, it introduced the stored-program
concept, where instructions and data are stored in the same memory.
- UNIVAC I (1951): The first commercially produced computer in the United States,
used for business and administrative purposes.
6. The Era of Transistors and Integrated Circuits (1950s - 1960s):
- Transistor (1947): Invented by John Bardeen, Walter Brattain, and William Shockley,
transistors replaced vacuum tubes, making computers smaller, faster, and more
reliable.
- Integrated Circuits (1958): Jack Kilby and Robert Noyce independently developed
the first integrated circuits, further miniaturizing and enhancing computer
performance.
7. The Personal Computer Revolution (1970s - 1980s):
- Altair 8800 (1975): Often considered the first personal computer, it sparked the
home computing revolution.
- Apple II (1977): One of the first successful mass-produced microcomputers,
designed by Steve Wozniak and marketed by Apple Computer.
- IBM PC (1981): Its open architecture set the standard for personal computers,
leading to widespread adoption in homes and businesses.
8. The Internet and Modern Computing (1990s - Present):
- World Wide Web (1991): Developed by Tim Berners-Lee, it revolutionized
information sharing and accessibility.
- Smartphones and Mobile Computing: The introduction of devices like the iPhone
in 2007 transformed computing into a ubiquitous, portable experience.
- Cloud Computing and AI: Recent advancements have shifted computing resources
to the cloud, enabling powerful AI applications and data processing capabilities.
Throughout its history, the evolution of computers has been driven by the quest for
greater speed, efficiency, and accessibility. From mechanical calculators to quantum
computing, each innovation has paved the way for the next, shaping the digital
world we live in today.

EXTENSIVE EXPLANATION OF THE FOLLOWING COMPUTER DEVICES

Punch Cards
Punch cards were an early method of data storage and processing, first used in the
18th century by Joseph Marie Jacquard to control looms. In the 19th century,
Herman Hollerith adapted punch cards for use in data processing, revolutionizing
the U.S. Census of 1890. These cards became a staple in computing for decades,
used in early computers like the IBM 1401. They allowed for the input, output, and
storage of data, with each card holding a fixed amount of information. The use of
punch cards declined with the advent of more advanced storage solutions in the late
20th century.

Keyboard
The keyboard has its roots in the typewriter, invented in the 19th century. The
QWERTY layout, designed by Christopher Latham Sholes in 1873, became the
standard. With the advent of computers, keyboards evolved to include function keys,
control keys, and other features. The first computer keyboards were adaptations of
teletype machines, but they quickly evolved into the electronic keyboards we use
today. Modern keyboards come in various forms, including mechanical, membrane,
and virtual keyboards on touchscreens.

Floppy Disk
The floppy disk was introduced by IBM in 1971 as a portable storage medium. The
original 8-inch floppy disk was followed by the more popular 5.25-inch and 3.5-inch
versions. Floppy disks were widely used for data storage and transfer in personal
computers throughout the 1980s and 1990s. They were eventually supplanted by
more advanced storage technologies like CDs, DVDs, and USB flash drives due to
their limited storage capacity and durability.

Flash Drive
The USB flash drive, also known as a thumb drive, was introduced in the late 1990s.
It revolutionized data storage with its portability, durability, and increased storage
capacity compared to floppy disks. Flash drives use flash memory, a type of non-
volatile memory that retains data without power. They quickly became popular for
personal and professional use, offering storage capacities ranging from a few
megabytes to several terabytes.

Joystick
The joystick was initially developed for aviation and military applications in the early
20th century. It became a popular input device for video games in the 1970s and
1980s, with the Atari 2600 joystick being one of the most iconic. Joysticks are used
for controlling movement in games and simulations, offering precise control with
their analog sticks. Modern joysticks are used in various applications, including
gaming, robotics, and assistive technology.

Touch Screen
Touch screen technology dates back to the 1960s, with the first touch-sensitive
device developed by E.A. Johnson. The technology gained popularity in the 1980s
with devices like the HP-150, one of the first touch screen computers. Touch screens
became ubiquitous with the rise of smartphones and tablets in the 2000s, offering
intuitive and direct interaction with devices. They are now used in a wide range of
applications, from ATMs to interactive kiosks.

Voice Assistant
Voice assistants, powered by artificial intelligence, have their roots in early speech
recognition systems developed in the mid-20th century. The first significant
breakthrough was IBM's Shoebox in the 1960s. Modern voice assistants like Apple's
Siri, Amazon's Alexa, and Google Assistant emerged in the 2010s, leveraging
advancements in natural language processing and machine learning. They offer
hands-free interaction with devices, providing information, controlling smart home
devices, and more.

Projector
The history of projectors dates back to the 17th century with the magic lantern, an
early image projector. Modern projectors evolved in the 20th century, with the
development of film projectors and later digital projectors. Digital Light Processing
(DLP) and Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) technologies revolutionized projectors,
making them more compact and versatile. Today, projectors are used in various
settings, from classrooms to home theaters.

Printer
The printer's history began with the invention of the printing press by Johannes
Gutenberg in the 15th century. The first computer printer was developed by Charles
Babbage for his Difference Engine in the 19th century. Modern printers evolved from
dot matrix to inkjet and laser technologies, offering high-quality and fast printing.
Printers are now multifunctional, capable of scanning, copying, and faxing, and are
used in homes and offices worldwide.

Biometric Scanner
Biometric scanners use unique biological traits for identification and security. The
concept dates to the 19th century with the use of fingerprints for identification.
Modern biometric systems include fingerprint, facial recognition, iris, and voice
recognition technologies. They are used in various applications, from unlocking
 smartphones to secure access in high-security areas. Biometric scanners offer
enhanced security and convenience, becoming increasingly integrated into everyday
technology.
Each of these devices has played a significant role in the evolution of technology,
shaping how we interact with computers and digital information today.

THE COMPUTER IS DIVIDED INTO SOME BASIC COMPONENTS. EXTENSIVE

DESCRIPTION THESE COMPONENTS
Certainly! Computers are complex machines composed of several fundamental
components, each playing a crucial role in their operation. Let's explore these
components in detail:
1. Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The CPU, often referred to as the "brain" of the computer, is responsible for
executing instructions from programs. It performs basic arithmetic, logic, control,
and input/output operations specified by the instructions. The CPU consists of two
main parts: the Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU), which handles arithmetic and logical
operations, and the Control Unit (CU), which directs the operation of the processor
and its interaction with other components.

2. Memory
Memory in a computer is used to store data and instructions temporarily or
permanently. It is divided into several types:
- Random Access Memory (RAM): This is a volatile memory used to store data and
instructions that the CPU needs while performing tasks. It loses its content when the
computer is turned off.
- Read-Only Memory (ROM): This non-volatile memory stores critical boot-up
instructions and system firmware. It retains its content even when the computer is
powered down.
- Cache Memory: A smaller, faster type of volatile memory that provides high-speed
data access to the CPU, improving overall processing speed.

3. Storage
Storage devices are used to save data and programs permanently. They come in
various forms:
- Hard Disk Drives (HDD): Traditional magnetic storage devices that offer large
storage capacities at a lower cost.
- Solid State Drives (SSD): Faster and more reliable than HDDs, SSDs use flash
memory to store data, providing quicker access times and better performance.
- Optical Drives: Devices like CD, DVD, and Blu-ray drives that use laser technology
to read and write data.

4. Motherboard
The motherboard is the main circuit board that connects all the components of a
computer. It houses the CPU, memory, and other essential components, providing
connectors for additional peripherals. It also contains the chipset, which manages
data transfers between the CPU, memory, and other devices.

5. Power Supply Unit (PSU)

The PSU converts electrical power from an outlet into usable power for the
computer's components. It supplies power to the motherboard, drives, and other
peripherals, ensuring that each component receives the correct voltage and current.

6. Input/Output (I/O) Devices

These devices allow users to interact with the computer and perform various tasks:
- Input Devices: Include keyboards, mice, scanners, and microphones, which allow
users to input data and commands.
- Output Devices: Include monitors, printers, and speakers, which present data and
information to the user.

7. Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)

The GPU is responsible for rendering images, videos, and animations. It is
particularly important for tasks that require high-quality graphics, such as gaming,
video editing, and 3D rendering. Modern GPUs can also perform parallel processing
tasks, aiding in complex computations.

8. Network Interface Card (NIC)

The NIC enables a computer to connect to a network, allowing it to communicate
with other computers and devices. It can be wired (Ethernet) or wireless (Wi-Fi),
facilitating internet access and data exchange.

9. Cooling System
Computers generate heat during operation, which can affect performance and
longevity. Cooling systems, including fans, heat sinks, and liquid cooling solutions,
help dissipate heat and maintain optimal operating temperatures.
Each of these components plays a vital role in the functionality and performance of a
computer, working together to process data, execute programs, and provide a
seamless user experience.

COMPUTER AND ITS BASIC FUNCTIONALITIES

A computer is an electronic device designed to process, store, and retrieve data. It
performs a wide range of tasks by executing programmed instructions, making it a
versatile tool for various applications. At its core, a computer consists of several key
components that work together to perform its basic functionalities:
1. Input: Computers receive data and instructions through input devices such as
keyboards, mice, touchscreens, and microphones. These devices allow users to
interact with the computer and provide the necessary information for processing.

2. Processing: The central processing unit (CPU) is the brain of the computer,
responsible for executing instructions and performing calculations. It processes the
input data according to the program's instructions, transforming it into meaningful
output.

3. Storage: Computers store data and instructions in memory. There are two main
types of storage: volatile memory (RAM), which temporarily holds data for quick
access while a computer is running, and non-volatile memory (hard drives, SSDs),
which retains data even when the computer is turned off.

4. Output: After processing, computers deliver results through output devices such
as monitors, printers, and speakers. These devices present the processed data in a
human-readable or usable form.

5. Control: The control unit within the CPU manages and coordinates the activities of
the computer's components, ensuring that instructions are executed in the correct
sequence and that data flows smoothly between different parts of the system.
Overall, computers are designed to perform a wide array of tasks, from simple
calculations to complex simulations, by leveraging their ability to process and store
vast amounts of data efficiently.

ONE KEY COMPONENT OF ANY COMPUTING DEVICE IS ITS ABILITY TO

PROCESS DATA INTO INFORMATION. THEN WHAT IS DATA AND
INFORMATION? WHAT ARE THE KEY DIFFERENCES BETWEEN DATA AND
INFORMATION.
Data and information are fundamental concepts in computing and information
science, and understanding the distinction between them is crucial for grasping how
computers process and utilize data.

Data
Data refers to raw, unprocessed facts and figures that are collected from various
sources. These can be numbers, characters, symbols, or even sounds and images.
Data on its own doesn't have any inherent meaning until it is processed and
interpreted. For example, a list of numbers like "23, 45, 67" is data. It could represent
anything from temperatures to ages, but without context, it remains just a collection
of numbers.

Information
Information, on the other hand, is data that has been processed, organized, or
structured in a way that adds meaning or context, making it useful for decision-
making or understanding. When data is analyzed and interpreted, it becomes
information. For instance, if the data "23, 45, 67" is processed and contextualized as
"temperatures in degrees Celsius recorded over three days," it becomes information.

Key Differences
1. Meaning: Data is raw and lacks meaning, while information is meaningful and
provides context.
2. Processing: Data is the input that needs to be processed, whereas information is
the output of this processing.
3. Utility: Data is not directly useful for decision-making, but information is valuable
and can be used to make informed decisions.
4. Structure: Data is often unstructured or semi-structured, while information is
structured and organized.
5. Example: A spreadsheet full of numbers is data; a report summarizing trends and
insights from that spreadsheet is information.

In summary, data is the raw material that, when processed and interpreted, becomes
information, which is then used to gain insights and make decisions. This
transformation from data to information is a key function of computing devices.