Lecture 02

EVOLUTION OF COMPUTERS
Generations of computer

• Generation in computer terminology is a change in technology a computer is/was being used. Initially, the
generation term was used to distinguish between varying hardware technologies. Nowadays, generation
includes both hardware and software, which together make up an entire computer system.
• There are five computer generations known till date. Each generation has been discussed in detail along
with their time period and characteristics. In the following table, approximate dates against each generation
has been mentioned, which are normally accepted.

First Generation(1946-1959)
• The period of first generation was from 1946-1959.
• The computers of this generation used vacuum tubes as the basic components for memory and circuitry for
CPU (Central Processing Unit). These tubes, like electric bulbs, produced a lot of heat and the installations
used to fuse frequently. Therefore, they were very expensive and only large organizations were able to
afford it.
• In this generation, mainly batch processing operating system was used. Punch cards, paper tape, and
magnetic tape was used as input and output devices. The computers in this generation used machine code
as the programming language.
• Batch processing is a technique for automating and processing multiple data jobs, such
as transactions, as a single group. It helps handle tasks like payroll, end-of-month
reconciliation, and settling trades overnight, which can save money and labor time.
• Batch processing is mainly used for large enterprises because designing and
implementing the technique can be costly.
Examples
• Payroll processing system
• Billing and invoicing system
• Data processing for reporting and analysis
• Credit card billing system
• Batch processing operating systems
Features of First Generation computers
• Vacuum tube technology
• Unreliable
• Supported machine language only
• Very costly
• Generated a lot of heat
• Slow input and output devices
• Huge size
• Need of AC
• Non-portable
• Consumed a lot of electricity

Examples of computers in this generation

• ENIAC, EDVAC, UNIVAC, IBM-701 and IBM-650
Second Generation
• The period of second generation was from 1959-1965.
• In this generation, transistors were used that were cheaper, consumed less power, more compact in size,
more reliable and faster than the first generation machines made of vacuum tubes. In this generation,
magnetic cores were used as the primary memory and magnetic tape and magnetic disks as secondary
storage devices.
• In this generation, assembly language and high-level programming languages like FORTRAN, COBOL were
used. The computers used batch processing and multiprogramming operating system.

Main features of second generation computers

• Use of transistors
• Reliable in comparison to first generation computers
• Smaller size as compared to first generation computers
• Generated less heat as compared to first generation computers
• Consumed less electricity as compared to first generation computers
• Faster than first generation computers
• Still very costly
• AC required
• Supported machine and assembly languages
Examples of computers of second generation
• IBM 1620
• IBM 7094
• CDC 1604
• CDC 3600
• UNIVAC 1108
Third Generation (1965-1971)
• The period of third generation was from 1965-1971.
• The computers of third generation used Integrated Circuits (ICs) in place of transistors. A single IC has many
transistors, resistors, and capacitors along with the associated circuitry.
• The IC was invented by Jack Kilby. This development made computers smaller in size, reliable, and efficient.
• In this generation remote processing, time-sharing, multiprogramming operating system were used.
• High-level languages (FORTRAN-II TO IV, COBOL, PASCAL PL/1, BASIC, ALGOL-68 etc.) were used during this
generation.

features of third generation

• IC used
• More reliable in comparison to previous two generations
• Smaller size
• Generated less heat
• Faster
• Lesser maintenance
• Costly
• AC required
• Consumed lesser electricity
• Supported high-level language
Examples of third generation computers
• IBM-360 series
• Honeywell-6000 series
• PDP (Personal Data Processor)
• IBM-370/168
Fourth Generation

• The period of fourth generation was from 1971-1980.

• Computers of fourth generation used Very Large Scale Integrated (VLSI) circuits.
• Fourth generation computers became more powerful, compact, reliable, and affordable. As a result, it gave
rise to Personal Computer (PC) revolution. In this generation, time sharing, real time networks, distributed
operating system were used.
• All the high-level languages like C, C++, DBASE etc., were used in this generation.

Main features of fourth generation

• VLSI technology used
• Very cheap
• Portable and reliable
• Use of PCs
• Very small size
• Pipeline processing
• No AC required
• Concept of internet was introduced
• Great developments in the fields of networks
• Computers became easily available
Examples of computers in fourth generation
• PDP 11
• CRAY-1(Super Computer)
• CRAY-X-MP(Super Computer)
Fifth Generation
• The period of fifth generation is 1980-till date.
• In the fifth generation, VLSI technology became ULSI (Ultra Large Scale Integration) technology, resulting in the
production of microprocessor chips having ten million electronic components.
• This generation is based on parallel processing hardware and AI (Artificial Intelligence) software. AI is an
emerging branch in computer science, which interprets the means and method of making computers think like
human beings.
• All the high-level languages like C and C++, Java, .Net etc., are used in this generation.

main features of fifth generation

• ULSI technology
• Development of true artificial intelligence
• Development of Natural language processing
• Advancement in Parallel Processing
• Advancement in Superconductor technology
• More user-friendly interfaces with multimedia features
• Availability of very powerful and compact computers at cheaper rates

Examples of computers in fifth generation

• Desktop, Laptop, NoteBook, UltraBook, UltraBook, ChromeBook
Classification Of Computers
We can classify the computers into the following 3 categories:

Classifications of Computers System:-

 On the Basis of Size and Capacity, [Supercomputer, Mainframe, Mini, and Micro Computer].
 On the Basis of Purposes, [General and Special Purpose].
 On the Basis of Hardware Design and Type [Analog, Digital, and Hybrid Computer].
1. On the Basis of Size and Capacity, [Supercomputer, Mainframe, Mini, and Micro
Computer].

i. SuperComputer
• A Supercomputer is the very fastest and powerful, and expensive type of computer for processing data.
Supercomputers’ size and storage capacity are also huge (can occupy huge premises) designed to process
vast amounts of data in a short time with high productivity.
• These are specially made to perform multi-specific tasks. Therefore, many CPUs work in parallel order on
these supercomputers. This function of a Supercomputer is called Multiprocessing or Parallel Processing.
• A supercomputer’s design is complicated, like it can be heterogeneous, combining computers of different
architectures, is significantly surpassed most existing personal computers. This made this machine
an ultra-high-performance supercomputer.
• Each part of a supercomputer is responsible for its own specific task, such as structuring and solving the
most complex problems requiring an incredible amount of calculations.
Application of supercomputers
• Climate research and Weather Forecasting and Prediction of Natural Disasters.
• Spaceship and Satellite Launching.
• Used in scientific research laboratories.
• Used in Chemical and Biological research and for highly calculation complex tasks.
i. Mainframe Computer
• Mainframe computers are multi-programming, high-performance computers, and multi-user, which
means they can handle the workload of more than 100 users at a time on the computer.
• The storage capacity of the mainframe is enormous, with a high-speed data process as well. As well as
handling hundreds of input and output devices at a time.
• Somehow mainframes can be more powerful than supercomputers because the mainframe supports many
processes simultaneously. On the other hand, supercomputers can run a single program but faster than a
mainframe. In the past, Mainframes requires entire rooms or even floors of whole buildings for set up.

Application of mainframe computers

• Mainframe computers are mainly used by departmental and commercial organizations like Banks,
Companies, Scientific research centers, and governmental departments like railways. These computers can
work for 24 hours. Hundreds of users can work on these computations simultaneously.
• Using the mainframe completes the tasks, Such as keeping details of payments, research centres, advertising,
sending bills and notices, paying employees, ticket booking, maintaining details of purchases by users, keeping
detailed tax details, etc.

i. Mini Computer
• Minicomputer is a digital and multi-user computer system with the connection of more than one CPU. Thus,
many people can work on these computers simultaneously instead of a single person. Also, it can process with
other accessories like a printer, plotter, etc.
• Minicomputers are the medium type of computers that have more functionality power and are expensive than
microcomputers. On the other hand, the size, storage, and speed of minicomputers are large but less than the
mainframe and supercomputers.
• Minicomputers are made for performing multiple computing tasks at a single point of time, instead of assigning
many microcomputers for a single task, which will be time-consuming and expensive.
• In general, a minicomputer is a multi-threaded system (several processes at a time) capable of supporting from
one to up to 200 users simultaneously: these computers are currently used to store large databases, multi-user
applications, and the automation industry.

Applications of Minicomputers
• The minicomputers are used as real-time applications in Industries, bookings, and Research Centres. Banks also
use minicomputers for preparing payroll for employees’ salaries, records, tracking of financial accounts, etc. As
well as in the field of Higher Education and Engineering.
i. Micro Computer
• Today we are using many computers at home is also the most common microcomputer. With this invention
of the microprocessors in the year 1970, it became possible to use computers for people personally at a
low cost and reasonable price known as Digital Personal Computer.
• The design of microcomputers is minimal in size and storage capacity. These computers consist of many
parts like Input and Output devices, Software, operating systems, networks, and Servers all these need to
connect to form a complete Personal Digital Computer.
• There is not only a PC or laptop are examples of microcomputers. Other examples of the microcomputer
are smartphone, Tablet, PDA, server, palmtop, and workstation.
• This can be installed in any work area or even at home for personal use.

• The primary purpose of microcomputers is to keep and process the everyday tasks and needs of the
people. Only one person can work on a single PC at a time, but its operating system is multitasking. The PC
can be connected to the Internet to take benefits and enhance the user experience.
• The development of multimedia, small equipment, optimized energy consumption, and the

LAN made the microcomputers increase in demand for every field.

• The increase in the demand and need for microcomputers between the people leads to

the tremendous development of each part related to the microcomputers.

Applications of MicroComputer

• PC is being widely used in many fields like home, office, data collection, business, education,

entertainment, publishing, etc.

• It keeps the details and prepares letters for correspondence in small businesses, creating bills,

accounting, word processing, and operation of the filing systems in a large company.

• Some of the major PC manufacturers are IBM, Lenovo, Apple, HCL, HP, etc.
• Examples: Desktops, tablets, smartphones, and Laptops.
1. On the Basis of Purposes, [General and Special Purpose]

i. General Purpose
• General computers can do various everyday tasks such as writing a word processing letter, Document
preparation, recording, financial analysis, Printing documents, creating databases, and calculations with
accuracy and consistency.
• The size, storage capacity, and cost of such computers are mainly less. The ability of these computers is
limited in performing specialized tasks. Still, it has versatility and useful for serving people’s basic needs at
home or in the workplace in the environment.
Examples:
Desktops, laptops, smartphones, and tablets are used on daily basis for general purposes.
i. Special Purpose
• These computers are designed to perform a particular or specialized task. The size, storage capacity, and cost of such
computers mainly depend on the nature and size of the work. The function of these computers is consistent with any
particular task.
• The special computer needs specific and input and devices as well as a compatible motherboard with the processor to
conduct work efficiently.
• These computers are used for special purposes in weather forecasting, space research, agriculture, engineering,
meteorology, satellite operation, traffic control, and research in chemical sciences.

Examples:
 Automatic teller machines (ATM),
 Washing machines,
 Surveillance equipment,
 Weather-forecasting simulators,
 Traffic-control computers,
 Defense-oriented applications,
 Oil-exploration systems,
 Military planes controlling computers.
1. On the Basis of Hardware Design and Data handling [Analog, Digital, and Hybrid Computer].

Analog Computer
• An analog computer performs tasks using continuous data (the physical amount that changes
continuously). Analog computers are used primarily to measure physical units like the voltage, pressure,
electric current, temperature, and convert them into digits.
• It is also used to measure and perform arithmetic calculations of numbers, the length of an object, or the
amount of voltage that passes through a point in an electrical circuit. Analog computers obtain all their
data from some measurement way.
• Analog computers are mainly used in the fields of science and engineering. Analog computers are slow and
equipped to measure things rather than countable or check.
• The efficiency of this computer increases when we get the result of the data in graphs, etc. Analog
Computers cannot store statistics.
• They are used in the fields of technology, science, research, engineering, etc. Because quantities
like voltage, pressure, electric current, temperature are used more in these areas, these types of
computers give only approximate estimates.

Examples:
• An analog computer installed on a petrol pump measures the amount of petrol coming out of the pump
and appears in liters. And calculates its value. These quantities vary continuously while measuring the
amount, such as the temperature of a human body changes consistently.
• A simple clock, the vehicle’s speedometer, Voltmeter, etc. are examples of analog computing.
i. Digital Computer
• As its name suggests, a digital computer represents the digital computer’s letters, numerical values, or any
other special symbols. This computer is the computer that calculates the number for processing the data.
• They run on electronic signs, and the binary numeral method Binary System 0 or 1 is used for calculation.
Their speed is fast.
• It can perform arithmetic operations such as addition, occurrence, subtraction, multiplication, or division
and all types of logical(mathematical) operations. Today, most of the computers available in the market
are digital computers.
Examples of Digital Computers
 Personal Desktop Computers,
 Calculators,
 Laptops, Smartphones, and Tablets,
 Digital watch,
 Accounting machines,
 Workstations,
 Digital clock, etc.
Hybrid Computer
• A hybrid computer is a combined complex computer unit built using both analog and digital properties
and united by a single control system. The purpose of designing hybrid computers is to provide functions
and features that can be found on both analog and digital devices.
• The aim behind creating a hybrid computer is to create a kind of work unit that offers the best of both
types of computers. Hybrid computers are extremely fast when driving equations, even when those
calculations are incredibly complex.
• Incorporating the properties of both(analog and digital) computers into hybrid computers makes it
possible to resolve more difficult equations immediately.
• The analog computer systems solve the equation process immediately. But it is not necessary that those
solutions would be completely accurate.
• Here, the digital computer system gives 100 % correct solutions, but it takes a bit of time in the calculation.
Therefore, Hybrid computers are made to overcome the flaws of both these analog and digital systems.
Applications of hybrid Computer:
• Hybrid computers are most commonly used in vast industries, research centres, organizations, and
manufacturing firms (where many equations need to be solved).
• Also, the solutions and uses of hybrid computers have proved to be much more detailed, accurate, and
useful. Hybrid computers are used in scientific calculations, for nations’ defence and radar systems as well.
Examples:
• Auto Gasoline pump is the example of a hybrid computer, this device is installed on a petrol pump do not
only to measure the amount of petrol but also to calculates its value, in this way It is capable of both
functions i.e hybrid function.
Components of a computer system
There are two main components of a computer system. These are:
• Hardware
• Software

Hardware
• This represents the physical and tangible components of a computer, i.e. the components
that can be seen and touched.
• Hardware is comprised of input devices, output devices, storage devices and peripheral
devices.
E.g
• Input devices − keyboard, mouse, etc.
• Output devices − printer, monitor, etc.
• Memory/storage devices − Hard disk, CD, DVD, etc.
• Peripheral devices- scanner etc
Charcteristics of hardware
• It includes physical components of computer system.
• Hardware design is based on architectural decisions to make it work over a range of
environmental conditions and time.
• It is mostly constructed for all types of computer systems.
• The hardware can understand only low-level language or machine language.
• The hardware consists of input devices, output devices, memory, etc.
The End