COMPUTER

What is a Computer?
Computer is an electronic device capable of processing
data to perform various tasks. These tasks can range from
simple calculations to complex simulations and data
analysis. Computers follow instructions provided by users
or programmers to execute tasks efficiently and accurately.
CHARACTERISTICS OF COMPUTERS
 CHARACTERISTICS OF COMPUTERS
Characteristics of Computers:
Computers possess several key characteristics that make them
incredibly powerful tools:

Speed: Computers can process vast amounts of information at

incredible speeds, enabling them to perform tasks in a fraction of the
time it would take a human.
Accuracy: Computers are designed to execute tasks with high
precision, minimizing errors that can occur through human
calculation.
Storage: Computers can store vast amounts of data, ranging from text
and images to videos and software applications.
 CHARACTERISTICS OF COMPUTERS

Diligence: Unlike humans, computers do not get tired or bored.

They can perform repetitive tasks tirelessly without a decrease in
performance.

Versatility: Computers are versatile machines that can handle a

wide range of tasks. They can be programmed to perform different
functions based on the software and instructions they receive.

Automation: Computers have revolutionized industries by

automating various processes, leading to increased efficiency and
reduced human intervention.
EVOLUTION OF COMPUTERS
EVOLUTION OF COMPUTERS
EVOLUTION OF COMPUTERS
EVOLUTION OF COMPUTERS
EVOLUTION OF COMPUTERS
EVOLUTION OF COMPUTERS
 EVOLUTION OF COMPUTERS

Charles Babbage is called “Father of Computer”

 EVOLUTION OF COMPUTERS

CHARLES BABBAGE’S ENGINES .

Charles Babbage (1792-1871) made a

machine called Difference Engine .
Evaluate accurate algebraic expression and
mathematical, This machine is also called as
Babbage's difference engine, Later
modified the device as Analytical Engine .
 EVOLUTION OF COMPUTERS
History of Computers: The evolution of computers spans several stages, each marked by
significant technological advancements:

Pre-Modern Computers: Early tools like the abacus and the slide rule were used for basic
calculations.

Mechanical Computers: In the 17th century, devices like Blaise Pascal's calculator and
Charles Babbage's Analytical Engine laid the groundwork for mechanical computation.

Electromechanical Computers: The mid-20th century saw the development of

electromechanical computers like the Harvard Mark I and ENIAC, which used vacuum tubes
for processing.

Transistors and Integrated Circuits: The invention of transistors and integrated circuits in
the 1950s and 1960s led to the creation of smaller, more reliable computers.

Personal Computers: The 1970s and 1980s witnessed the rise of personal computers, with
machines like the Apple II and IBM PC bringing computing to homes and businesses.

Internet and Modern Computers: The late 20th century saw the birth of the internet,
connecting computers globally and paving the way for the modern digital age.
 GENERATIONS OF COMPUTERS

Generations of Computers: Computer development is categorized into generations based

on technological advancements

First Generation (1940s-1950s): Vacuum tubes were used for processing, resulting in
large and inefficient computers.

Second Generation (1950s-1960s): Transistors replaced vacuum tubes, leading to smaller

and more reliable computers.

Third Generation (1960s-1970s): Integrated circuits allowed for further miniaturization

and improved performance.

Fourth Generation (1970s-1980s): Microprocessors led to the development of personal

computers and a shift towards user-friendly interfaces.

Fifth Generation (1980s-Present): Advancements in parallel processing, artificial

intelligence, and quantum computing are shaping the current generation.
GENERATIONS OF COMPUTERS
Generations Device used Device Characteristics Examples
(Evolving
hardware)

First Vacuum tubes Very expensive ENIAC

1940s-1950s Heavy and large in size EDVAC
Generated lot of heat UNIVAC

Second Transistors less expensive than 1st G IBM 700

1950s-1960s Small in size CDC 160
Generated less amount of
heat

Third Integrated less expensive than 1nd G IBM 360

1960s-1970s circuits Small in size VAX – 750
Generated less amount of
heat

Fourth Micro Smaller in size HP 9000

1970s-1980s processors Cheaper and faster IBM 4300
Very easy to handle

Fifth Artificial Able to think Robotics

1980 to present intelligence Take decisions AI Devices
TYPES OF COMPUTERS
 SUPER COMPUTERS
What are Supercomputers?

Supercomputers are highly advanced and exceptionally powerful

computing machines designed to tackle complex computational tasks
that require immense processing power. These tasks can include
simulations, scientific research, weather forecasting, cryptography,
and more. Supercomputers are capable of performing an incredible
number of calculations per second, far beyond the capabilities of
standard computers.
 SUPER COMPUTERS
Characteristics of Supercomputers:
Processing Power: Supercomputers are built with a vast number of
processors, often organized in parallel, to process information at
extraordinary speeds.

Performance Metrics: The performance of a supercomputer is often

measured in FLOPS (Floating Point Operations Per Second), which
represents the number of mathematical calculations the computer
can perform in a single second.

Massive Data Handling: Supercomputers are equipped with

substantial memory and storage capacities to handle and analyze
massive datasets.
 SUPER COMPUTERS
Parallel Processing: Supercomputers excel at parallel processing,
where multiple tasks are divided among various processors,
allowing for faster execution.

Cooling and Power: Due to the intense processing activities,

supercomputers generate significant heat. Advanced cooling
systems are required to prevent overheating. They also consume
substantial amounts of power.

Specialized Architecture: Supercomputers often employ

specialized hardware and software architectures optimized for
specific types of computations, such as simulations or data analysis.
 SUPER COMPUTERS
Applications of Supercomputers:

Scientific Research: Supercomputers are crucial for scientific

simulations in fields like physics, chemistry, biology, and materials
science. They model complex phenomena, enabling scientists to gain
insights into the behavior of systems that are otherwise difficult to
study.

Weather Forecasting: Supercomputers process vast amounts of

atmospheric data to predict weather patterns and natural disasters
with higher accuracy.

Aerospace and Engineering: Engineers use supercomputers to

simulate aerodynamics, structural mechanics, and other engineering
challenges before physically building prototypes.
 SUPER COMPUTERS
Genomics and Drug Discovery: Supercomputers aid in genomics
research by analyzing DNA sequences and protein structures. They
also accelerate drug discovery by simulating molecular interactions.

Cryptanalysis: Supercomputers are used to crack complex

cryptographic codes and enhance security algorithms.

Financial Modeling: In the financial sector, supercomputers help

with risk assessment, market analysis, and high-frequency trading.
 Notable Supercomputers:
Fugaku: Located in Japan, Fugaku is currently one of the fastest
supercomputers in the world. It is used for a wide range of
applications, including simulations for COVID-19 research.

Summit: Housed in the United States, Summit was the fastest

supercomputer when it debuted. It's used for various scientific
research, including climate modeling and nuclear physics.

Tianhe-2A (MilkyWay-2A): From China, this supercomputer has

consistently been one of the world's most powerful machines.

Piz Daint: Located in Switzerland, Piz Daint is utilized for various

scientific simulations, including materials science and geophysics.

JUWELS: Based in Germany, JUWELS focuses on high-

performance simulations for scientific and industrial research.