ASSIGNMENT 3

(BMB151)
WHAT IS COMPUTER?
A computer is an electronic device that
processes, stores, and retrieves data. It
performs tasks according to the
instructions provided by a user or a
program. Computers can perform
arithmetic operations, logical operations,
and data manipulation to provide
meaningful results.

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 FEATURES OF COMPUTER
• Executes tasks at high speed, measured in microseconds or
Speed nanoseconds.
• Delivers precise results if the input and instructions are
Accuracy correct.

Automation • Performs tasks automatically once programmed.

Versatility • Can handle a variety of tasks across different fields.

• Stores vast amounts of data in primary and secondary

Storage memory.

Connectivity • Communicates with other devices over networks.

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 LIMITATIONS OF COMPUTER

Dependency on Input Lack of Intelligence Limited Decision-Making

Requires precise instructions; Cannot think, reason, or learn Can only make logical
cannot generate output on its own beyond decisions based on provided
without input. programmed capabilities. data.

High Initial Cost Cybersecurity Risks

Advanced systems can be Susceptible to hacking,
expensive to acquire and set viruses, and other malicious
up. activities.

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 TYPES OF COMPUTERS
Based on data
Based on size Based on purpose handling
Supercomputers Analog
General-Purpose Computers
Mainframe Computers
Computers Digital
Computers
Minicomputers Special-Purpose
Hybrid
Computers
Computers
Microcomputers

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 TYPES OF COMPUTER
1. Based on Size

2.Supercomputers
The most powerful and expensive computers, designed for highly complex computations like climate
modeling, space exploration, and scientific research.
3.Mainframe Computers
Large, powerful systems used by organizations for bulk data processing and critical applications like
banking and airline reservations.
4.Minicomputers
Medium-sized computers used by small businesses for specific tasks such as manufacturing process
control or lab experiments.
5.Microcomputers
Personal computers (PCs) designed for individual use, like desktops, laptops, and tablets. Widely used
for office work, gaming, and learning.
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TYPES OF COMPUTER

2. Based on Purpose

1.General-Purpose Computers
Versatile systems used for a variety of tasks, including word processing, data analysis, and multimedia
creation.

2.Special-Purpose Computers
Built for specific tasks such as ATMs, traffic light control systems, and medical equipment.

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 TYPES OF COMPUTER
3. Based on Data Handling

1.Analog Computers
Process continuous data and are used in fields like engineering and scientific research.

2.Digital Computers
Handle discrete data using binary (0s and 1s). These are the most common types, used for a wide range
of applications.

3.Hybrid Computers
Combine the features of analog and digital computers, often used in specialized fields like medical
monitoring and industrial control.

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Click icon to add picture

FIRST GENERATION OF
COMPUTERS
1. First Generation (1940-1956)
•Technology: Vacuum tubes.
•Characteristics:
• Used vacuum tubes for circuitry and magnetic drums for
memory.
• Very large, expensive, and consumed a lot of power.
• Programming was done in machine language (binary).

•Examples: ENIAC, UNIVAC.

•Limitations: Slow speed, short lifespan, and high heat

generation.
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Click icon to add picture

SECOND GENERATION OF
COMPUTERS
2. Second Generation (1956-1963)
•Technology: Transistors.

•Characteristics:
• Transistors replaced vacuum tubes, making computers
smaller, faster, and more reliable.
• Used magnetic core memory.
• Programming was done using assembly language and
early versions of high-level languages like COBOL and
FORTRAN.
•Examples: IBM 1401, CDC 1604.

PSIT •Limitations: High cost and required proper maintenance. 02/05/2025 10

Click icon to add picture

THIRD GENERATION OF
COMPUTERS
3. Third Generation (1964-1971)
•Technology: Integrated Circuits (ICs).
•Characteristics:
• ICs increased the performance and reduced the size of
computers.
• Supported multitasking and introduced operating systems
for better control.
• High-level programming languages like BASIC and C
were used.
•Examples: IBM 360, Honeywell 6000.
PSIT •Limitations: Still expensive for small businesses. 02/05/2025 11
Click icon to add picture

FOURTH GENERATION OF
COMPUTERS
4. Fourth Generation (1971-Present)
•Technology: Microprocessors.

•Characteristics:
• Entire processing units were placed on a single chip
(microprocessor).
• Personal computers (PCs) became common.
• Introduced graphical user interfaces (GUIs), networking, and
advanced operating systems.
• Portable devices like laptops, tablets, and smartphones
emerged.
•Examples: Intel 4004, Apple II.
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•Limitations: Cybersecurity concerns and electronic waste issues.
Click icon to add picture

FIFTH GENERATION OF
COMPUTERS
5. Fifth Generation (Present and Beyond)
•Technology: Artificial Intelligence (AI), Quantum Computing, and
Nanotechnology.
•Characteristics:
• Focused on AI, machine learning, and natural language
processing.
• Capable of decision-making and self-learning.
• Introduced cloud computing and IoT (Internet of Things).
• Ongoing research in quantum computing for faster data
processing.
•Examples: IBM Watson, Google Quantum AI.
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•Limitations: Complex development and ethical concerns regarding 02/05/2025 13